If you’ve shopped for home insurance in California lately, you already know it’s not what it used to be. Carriers have pulled back, rules change from month to month, and a quote that was available last spring may not be available today. That’s frustrating, especially when you’re in the middle of buying a home.
The good news: there is still a path forward. Here’s what actually helps.
1. Work with a broker who can shop multiple carriers
A captive agent can only offer one company’s policies. If that company isn’t writing in your area, you’re out of luck. As an independent agency, Gold Insurance Solutions works with multiple carriers, including Mercury, Travelers, Liberty Mutual, Nationwide, Stillwater and CIG. We look at every option available for your home, not just one.
2. Start early, before you’re in escrow
Insurance availability can affect a home purchase, so it pays to get a quote as soon as you’re serious about a property. Our quotes are free and come with no strings attached. Realtors, send us your buyers early and we’ll give you a clear picture of what coverage looks like before anyone is under pressure.
3. Wildfire mitigation can work in your favor
Home hardening and property mitigation, like ember-resistant vents, a cleared five-foot zone around the house and well-maintained defensible space, can make your home more fire safe. With many carriers, it can also help you qualify for discounts. The tricky part is knowing which improvements each carrier recognizes and how to document them. That’s where we help.
4. Know all your options, including the FAIR Plan
Sometimes the best available option today is a non-admitted carrier or the California FAIR Plan paired with a companion policy. When that happens, we lay out the pros and cons in plain language so you can make a confident decision.
5. Don’t set it and forget it
The market keeps changing. If you’re placed with the FAIR Plan or a non-admitted carrier, we keep re-shopping your policy at every renewal until a competitive admitted option opens up. Our goal is the same every year: the best available coverage at the best price for your situation.
Let’s find your best option
Navigating California home insurance has never been more challenging, and having an expert in your corner has never mattered more. Request a free quote or book a time to talk with me.
Specialists in California’s wildland-urban interface, where homes meet forest, brush and grassland.
Phil Irwin, President, Gold Insurance Solutions. CA License #6000540.