Keep your home insurance

Got a non-renewal notice?

You have time. California requires the notice at least 75 days before your policy ends. It must give the specific reasons and tell you how to get help. (Insurance Code 678)

1. Read the reasons. If they're fixable, like brush, branches or the roof, ask if they'll reconsider once the work is done.
2. Ask for your wildfire risk score. Your insurer has to give it to you and explain how to lower it. You can appeal it. (Department of Insurance)
3. Call an independent broker now. They can check several insurers at once.
4. Know the backstop. If no regular insurer will cover you, the California FAIR Plan covers fire. It costs more and covers less, so many people use it as a bridge while they do the work. (California FAIR Plan)
5. Get free help. The Department of Insurance takes questions and complaints: 800-927-4357.

What insurers give discounts for

California already requires home insurers to offer discounts for wildfire safety work. Some of the state's largest insurers have also committed to covering homes with the IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home designation, which requires a noncombustible 5-foot zone. Source: Department of Insurance, March 2026.

Tap what you have done.

• A 5-foot ember-resistant zone around the houseZone 0
• Plants and debris cleared from under decksZone 0
• Noncombustible bottom 6 inches of the wallsHouse
• Ember- and fire-resistant ventsHouse
• Class A fire-rated roofHouse
• Enclosed eavesHouse
• Double-pane windows or added shuttersHouse
• Sheds and outbuildings at least 30 feet awayYard
• Trees trimmed and brush cleared to defensible space rulesYard

Discounts vary by insurer. Doing the work does not guarantee a discount or coverage. The Zone 0 tags are our reading. Source: California Department of Insurance.

What to ask your insurer

1. "What is my wildfire risk score, and what would lower it?"
2. "Which wildfire safety discounts do you offer, and what proof or inspection do you need?"
3. "I finished some work. Can you give me an updated score?"
4. "How do I appeal my score if I think it is wrong?"

Your insurer has to give you your score when you apply, before it renews or drops your policy, and when you ask after finishing work. It has to explain the score and how to lower it. (Department of Insurance, Safer from Wildfires FAQ) If an appeal is denied, the Department of Insurance can help: 800-927-4357.

Print or save this list