SoCal Edison Makes First Compensation Payment to Eaton Fire Survivor

SoCal Edison announced Tuesday that it has made its first compensation payment to a survivor of the deadly Eaton Fire, marking a significant step in its efforts to address damages caused by the January wildfire.

Compensation Program Overview

SoCal Edison began offering compensation through the Wildlife Recovery Compensation Program in September, promising expedited payments for various types of damage or destruction caused by the January wildfire. Since then, 1,551 claims have been filed by 3,293 families and households. To date, 27 offers have been extended, and the company has said that “more payments will be made by year-end.” The most common types of loss reported are non‑burn damage such as smoke and water damage, total loss, and partial loss. Claimants who reach an agreement with the company must resolve all claims against the utility, giving up future rights to sue.

Payment Details

Compensation amounts could be between $550 and $750 per square foot. For example, a 1,500‑square‑foot house valued at $1.2 million before the fire and now estimated at $600,000 would receive the $600,000 difference. If a property is intact but suffered damage, the utility offers a flat payment: $50,000 for major damage and $30,000 for minor damage.

Legal Actions

Los Angeles County filed a lawsuit in March against Southern California Edison over the Eaton Fire, alleging that the fire started directly under SCE transmission lines in Eaton Canyon. Edison International said in early February that video, photos and other evidence are being reviewed to determine what started the fire and that it is “exploring every possibility, including the possibility that SCE’s equipment was involved.” The lawsuit names SoCal Edison and Edison International and seeks to recover costs and damages from the second‑most destructive wildfire on record in California. Attorney Douglas Boxer remarked, “I guess the question is — why would you be compensating people if you weren’t responsible for the fire.” In September, the U.S. Justice Department announced a lawsuit against SoCal Edison, alleging negligence caused the Eaton and Fairview fires and seeking $37 million in damages.

Fire Impact

The Eaton Fire, one of several that broke out on Jan. 7 during a Santa Ana windstorm, destroyed 9,400 structures and caused 17 deaths, according to CalFire.

Key Takeaways

• First compensation payment made to an Eaton Fire survivor.
• 1,551 claims filed, 27 offers made, with payments to be completed by year‑end.
• Lawsuits from Los Angeles County and the U.S. Justice Department claim the fire started under SCE lines and seek damages.

SoCal Edison’s first payment marks a milestone in the company’s compensation efforts, while legal challenges continue to scrutinize the utility’s role in the devastating wildfire.