Homeowners insurance is a safeguard that provides crucial financial protection during various disasters, including wildfires. However, the coverage for wildfire damage can vary based on your specific policy and location. Understanding the nuances and requirements of your policy can help you ensure your home has adequate protection, even in the event of a wildfire. In this article, we’ll help you understand the requirements and limitations of wildfire damage coverage and the coverage alternatives available to help you protect your home and assets against various natural disasters and incidents.
How does home insurance cover wildfires?
A standard homeowners insurance policy includes dwelling coverage, which typically covers wildfire damage. This means that a standard policy may help pay for rebuilding or repairing your home if it's damaged or destroyed by a wildfire. Additionally, the personal property coverage included in standard home insurance includes structures on your property, such as detached garages or sheds, if a wildfire damages them. Personal property coverage is crucial, providing financial protection for your belongings, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics, damaged or destroyed in a wildfire.
If your home becomes uninhabitable due to wildfire damage, additional living expenses coverage can help with temporary relocation and living expenses while your house is being repaired or rebuilt. However, the specifics of your coverage and limits might vary based on your policy and location, especially in a high-risk wildfire area.
Can you still get home insurance coverage if you live in a high-risk area?
You can typically still get homeowners insurance if you live in an area at high risk for wildfires. It’s essential for protecting your property and assets. Here are some steps you can take if you’re shopping for home insurance in a high-risk wildfire area:
Research and Compare Insurers: Look for insurance companies that specialize in providing coverage for homes in wildfire-prone areas. These insurers often understand the unique risks associated with wildfires and can offer customized coverage. When you work with an insurance brokerage like SelectQuote, it’s easy to compare your options in one place, so you have the information you need to make an informed decision and find the policy that’s right for you.
Understand Your Coverage Options: Consider specific wildfire-related coverage options when exploring insurance policies. Some insurers may offer additional endorsements or riders designed to enhance protection against wildfire damage.
Take Mitigation Measures: Implementing wildfire mitigation measures on your property, like creating defensible space and using fire-resistant building materials, can show insurers that you’re actively reducing the risk of wildfire damage. This proactive approach may also help you negotiate more affordable insurance terms.
Consider Your State’s FAIR Plan: If you can’t get home insurance coverage from a private company because you live in an area at high risk of wildfires, you may want to look into your state’s FAIR (Fair Access to Insurance Requirements) plan. A FAIR plan is a state-managed plan created to give homeowners with high exposure to events they can’t control, such as wildfires and windstorms, access to insurance when they can’t get protection under a standard homeowners policy.
Let SelectQuote Help You Keep Your Home Protected Against Wildfire Damage
Whether you live in a high-risk area or want to be proactive about your coverage, it’s essential to understand what your policy includes for wildfires. With nearly 40 years of industry experience, our licensed insurance agents can provide the guidance and information you need. In just minutes, they’ll provide you with quotes from several of the nation’s most highly trusted carriers—all in one place.
