On July 26, 2023, I attended an insurance briefing presented by the California Department of Insurance (DOI).

Julia Juarez, a California Insurance Executive Team member, facilitated the meeting. The briefing included important information about the insurance industry and ways consumers can protect themselves and find the proper insurance coverage in today’s volatile insurance market. I learned much from Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara and Amy Bach, a United Policy Holders organization member. The United Policy Holders is an advocacy organization that takes action on behalf of consumers. And I was also happy to hear from the California Association of REALTOR® president, Jennifer Branchini, who shared information about how REALTORS can reach out to clients and help them navigate the complex process of maintaining or obtaining insurance.

Insurance Companies Leaving California

Because of the large number of fires in California, many insurance companies are canceling policies, and some are even leaving California, no longer writing any policies in this state. But, there are still other, lesser-known companies that are still writing policies. We need to know where to find them. To help you locate these insurance companies, contact the Department of Insurance. I have placed the phone number and website address below.

Contesting Your Insurance Renewal Denial

When your policy renewal is denied, did you know you have a right to contest the insurance company’s decision? Yes. You can! You can ask them why. If they used a scoring system, you can ask them how that scoring system works. They can’t just say, “I don’t know!” They are required to tell you. Then, you can correct any conditions that may be the reason for the denial and then ask them to reassess their decision.

You Must Receive a Notice

Did you know the insurance company must give you a 75-day notice before canceling your policy? Yes. They must notify you at least 75 days before canceling your policy, giving you time to assess your situation and plan how to keep your house covered by insurance.

Get a Fire Safe Home Designation

The Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) is an independent non-profit organization that has studied the science of wildfires and what it takes to prevent them. They are also committed to helping homeowners understand what they can do to keep their homes safe from the effects of wildfires. Did you know you can get your home designated as a fire-safe home? Yes, you can. Having this designation can help when insurance companies decide whether or not they will insure your home. Visit the IBHS website to learn more about getting your house designated as a fire-safe house. I have placed the IBHS website information below.

Get Help

The Department of Insurance is your ally in helping you keep your home covered by insurance. If you are without coverage due to cancellation or want to find another insurance company, the DOI can help you. I have placed their contact information below. Please reach out to them for all your insurance needs.

RESOURCES:

Department of Insurance
Read about the wildfire safety regulations and if you have questions about your home, auto, business, life, or other insurance, contact the Department of Insurance at 800-927-4357 or visit them online at http://www.insurance.ca.gov

The Department of Insurance has two designated resources geared specifically for seniors.

Seniors Information Center
https://www.insurance.ca.gov/0150-seniors/

Senior Gateway
https://seniors.insurance.ca.gov/

United Policy Holders (UP)
At United Policy Holders, you can get information to help you understand the different types of insurance companies, agents, and broker information. You can also get buying tips. Visit the UP website for more details.www.uphelp.org

Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS)
IBHS launches the first wildfire mitigation designation program in California. Visit their website to learn more.
http://WildfirePrepared.org

© Marlene Bertrand 7-26-2023