How to Get Homeowners Insurance in High Wildfire Risk Areas (2025 Guide)

If your insurer has non-renewed your homeowners policy because you live in a wildfire-prone ZIP code, you’re not alone. Over 1.6 million California homes face moderate or higher wildfire risk – and many owners are struggling to find affordable, comprehensive coverage.
This guide explains why coverage is getting harder to secure, what your real options are, and how Quotsy helps you compare wildfire insurance without the headache.

Why So Many California Homeowners Are Losing Coverage

Data Insight: Between 2015 and 2024, the number of California FAIR Plan policies quadrupled, showing how private markets have pulled back from high-risk zones (Source: JCHS Harvard 2025).
[Insert Infographic: Line chart – FAIR Plan policy growth 2015-2025 vs Private Market decline]

Key reasons:

• Catastrophic wildfire losses (> $12 billion paid since 2018)

• Rising reinsurance costs and climate volatility

• Regulatory rate caps that make risk pricing unprofitable

What Coverage Options Exist in 2025

1. California FAIR Plan (Last Resort)
Basic fire-only policy that requires a companion “Differences in Conditions” (DIC) policy for liability and water damage. Often expensive and limited.

2. “Light E&S” Carriers (Quotsy's Specialty)
Select E&S markets offer broader coverage than FAIR Plan at mid-range pricing – ideal for homes with defensible space or newer construction.

3. Full Private Markets (Preferred Risk)
Still available in some ZIPs with low to moderate scores on the California Fire Hazard Severity map.

[Insert Map: California Fire Hazard Severity Zones highlighting Northern & Southern CA hotspots]

Practical Steps to Improve Eligibility

• Create a defensible space (100 ft vegetation clearance)

• Install Class A roof and ember-resistant vents

• Harden windows and siding with non-combustible materials

• Provide documentation of fire mitigation for underwriting

[Insert Photo: Homeowner installing metal roof in mountain community]

How Quotsy Makes It Easier

Quotsy partners with trusted admitted and E&S carriers to bridge the gap between FAIR Plan and full coverage.
Our platform lets you compare quotes quickly and get human-verified review before binding.

Every policy bound through Quotsy donates $10 to the Housing Stability Fund, helping families displaced by wildfires and floods rebuild their lives.

Internal link: → Learn more about wildfire homeowners coverage in California
External link: → CAL FIRE Wildfire Preparedness Data

Ready to protect your home and help others stay housed?
Get a fast, human-verified quote today. → Quotsy.io
$10 per policy supports families recovering from wildfires and other disasters.