Unique circumstances that influence homeowners’ insurance decisions happen in California.
Forest fires
According to the California Department of Insurance, insurance companies will be obligated to provide discounts to California homeowners who take measures to mitigate the risk of conflagration on their property under the new 2025 regulations. Such endeavors may involve the replacement of your roof with fire-resistant materials and the restriction of vegetation in the vicinity of your residence.
This website, which is maintained by the U.S. Forest Service, can be employed to determine the extent of the fire risk in your community and to generate suggestions for fortifying your residence.
Learn how to safeguard your residence from the effects of climate change, which include wildfires.
Seismic activity
California residents should contemplate the addition of a distinct earthquake insurance policy, as earthquake damage is not covered by a standard home insurance policy. Private insurers or the California Earthquake Authority are viable options for homeowners seeking coverage. Consult our earthquake insurance guide.
Inundation
Flooding is a frequent occurrence in California, and homeowners insurance does not provide coverage for flood damage. Homeowners may acquire flood insurance from either the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer to mitigate flooding-related expenses. The following is a guide to selecting the most suitable flood insurance provider.
Begin by consulting the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s flood maps to determine your flood risk. Nevertheless, FEMA’s maps may be outdated and may not always accurately represent all forms of flood risk. First Street, a private corporation that simulates climate hazards, is an additional source to investigate. To determine the flood risk assessment of your residence on a scale of 1 to 10, please provide your address at the top of the page.