The unprecedented heat wave affecting Southern California has led to a spate of wildfires all across Los Angeles County, which have in turn prompted evacuations and scorched homes in communities such as Granada Hills, Pacific Palisades, Burbank, Chatsworth and Glassell Park.

“Wildfires cause major damage and, in some cases, devastating losses. The destruction of homes in particular is having a profound impact on the lives of our friends and neighbors,” said County Assessor Jeff Prang. “Taxpayers whose properties have been destroyed or severely damaged by these fires may be eligible for disaster relief on annual property tax bills, including in some cases refunds of taxes already paid.”

While the fires in Los Angeles County have not been as severe as in other parts of Southern California, and fortunately no lives have been lost, the disaster relief available to property owners through the Office of Assessor Prang seeks to ease the overwhelming hardships that these families face as they struggle to rebuild their homes and their lives.

By filing a claim for Misfortune & Calamity Relief within one year, properties that have sustained a minimum of $10,000 in damage may be eligible for a refund of taxes already paid and lower annual tax bills until the property is repaired or rebuilt.

Prang’s office is working proactively in conjunction with fire department officials from various jurisdictions to determine which properties are affected.

“As fires are extinguished and recovery begins, call the Disaster Relief Hotline at (213) 974-8658, stop by one of our field offices across the county, visit us online or connect with us on social media @LACAssessor,” Prang said.

“My dedicated team is ready to offer assistance at a moment’s notice and has a designated hotline specifically tasked with guiding property owners through the claim submission process.”