Why Compost and Mulch Should Be Covered by Insurance After a Fire

When homeowners begin the process of rebuilding after a wildfire, they often face unexpected hurdles—one of the most frustrating being insurance company pushback on reimbursement for "dirt." But here’s the truth: compost and wood chips are not dirt. And they absolutely should be covered as they are considered “landscape materials” that were damaged or lost in the fire. 

Understanding the Role of Compost and Mulch in Recovery

Insurance representatives may claim they don’t insure dirt, but in reality, they do—it’s a necessary construction material. When rebuilding a home, the excavated hole beneath the structure must be filled with mineral-based soil (dirt) to ensure stability and prevent organic matter from decomposing under the foundation. This is a standard part of construction and should be covered.

However, compost and wood chips are not part of that mineral fill—they are essential landscape materials. These products are purchased and installed just like irrigation equipment, and they play a critical role in restoring the land after a fire.  Most importantly for prepping the growing conditions for your newly planted trees and shrubs to thrive in.  Plain old dirt will not suffice.

Why Compost and Mulch Matter for Replanting

Homeowners who lost their homes in a fire also lost their landscaping and tree canopy, which added significant value to their property. Insurance should recognize that replacing trees, shrubs, and other greenery is not just aesthetic—it’s an investment in the property’s long-term health and value.

But successful replanting requires healthy soil. You can’t simply plant trees and shrubs in bare dirt and expect them to thrive. Compost and wood chips create the foundation for healthy soil, providing nutrients, moisture retention, and erosion control—especially critical in fire-damaged areas.

Temporary Irrigation Should Be Covered Too

Just like compost and mulch, temporary irrigation systems (hoses, bib installations, sprayers, timers) are landscape supplies that should be covered by insurance. Without proper irrigation, newly planted trees and shrubs won’t survive, making the entire restoration effort ineffective.

Advocating for Fair Coverage

If you’re facing insurance pushback on reimbursement for compost, mulch, or irrigation supplies, push back in return. These materials are not optional—they are necessary components of rebuilding a property’s landscape and ensuring long-term recovery.

Fire survivors deserve full restoration of their homes and their landscapes. The destruction caused by wildfires extends beyond structures—it wipes out the shade cover, erosion control, and natural beauty that made a property feel like home. Insurance companies must recognize that landscape recovery is just as vital as rebuilding walls and roofs.

If you or someone you know is struggling with insurance claims related to landscape restoration, don’t hesitate to advocate for coverage. Compost, mulch, and irrigation are essential—not extras.