The California Department of Insurance has approved new FAIR Plan rates for dwelling fire policies. The FAIR Plan has announced an overall average premium increase of approximately 29.1%. Individual premium changes will vary based on factors such as location, protection class, property characteristics, and underwriting considerations. Some policyholders may see increases that differ from the average, while others may experience little change.
While rising insurance costs continue to present challenges for California property owners, there are opportunities that may help offset a portion of the increase.
Wildfire Mitigation Can Lower Your Premium
The FAIR Plan continues to offer discounts for qualifying wildfire mitigation improvements. Property owners who have taken steps to better protect their homes from wildfire may be eligible for discounts on the wildfire portion of their premium.
Depending on the improvements completed, these discounts may reduce premiums by approximately 14% or more.
Examples of qualifying improvements include:
- Class A fire-rated roofing
- Enclosed eaves
- Ember-resistant vents
- Multi-pane windows
- A five-foot noncombustible zone around the home
- Removal of combustible vegetation and debris
- Compliance with California defensible space requirements
Have You Completed Wildfire Mitigation Improvements?
If you've completed any of these improvements, you may qualify for available California FAIR Plan wildfire hardening discounts.
To help us review your eligibility, please complete our Home Protection Discount Review Form. Our team can review the information provided, determine whether your property may qualify, and identify any documentation that may be needed to pursue available discounts.
Check My Wildfire Discount Eligibility
If you have questions about the form or your eligibility, please contact our office. We're happy to help.
We're Continuing to Explore Market Alternatives
As your insurance advisor, we continually monitor the insurance marketplace for opportunities that may help meet your coverage needs and budget. While the FAIR Plan remains an important option for many California property owners, we also monitor market changes and engage with insurance companies as additional options become available.
As market conditions evolve, we will continue evaluating alternatives that may provide broader coverage options, competitive pricing, or additional value for eligible properties. Our goal is to help clients make informed decisions and take advantage of new opportunities as they become available.
Expanded Coverage Options for Manufactured and Mobile Homes
Beginning October 15, 2026, the FAIR Plan will also make dwelling replacement cost coverage available for eligible manufactured and mobile homes. This change may provide enhanced protection and additional coverage options for qualifying properties.
How We Can Help
We understand that insurance costs remain a concern for many California property owners. Our team is committed to helping clients:
- Identify potential wildfire hardening discounts
- Review available coverage options
- Monitor emerging insurance markets
- Evaluate opportunities to improve coverage and value
If you have completed wildfire mitigation improvements or would like to discuss your upcoming renewal, please contact our office. We're here to help you navigate these changes and make informed decisions about your property insurance.
Premium changes vary by property. Eligibility for wildfire hardening discounts is subject to FAIR Plan guidelines, documentation requirements, verification, and underwriting approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How much are California FAIR Plan dwelling fire rates increasing?
The California Department of Insurance has approved new FAIR Plan rates effective October 15, 2026. The FAIR Plan has announced an overall average increase of approximately 29.1% for dwelling Fire policies. Individual premium changes will vary based on property characteristics, location, protection class, and underwriting factors.
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How do I find out if my property may qualify?
Complete the Home Protection Discount Review Form. Our team can review the information provided, discuss potential eligibility, and help identify any additional documentation that may be needed.
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Can I receive a wildfire hardening discount through the FAIR Plan?
Property owners who have completed qualifying wildfire mitigation improvements may be eligible for discounts on the wildfire portion of their premium. Eligibility is subject to FAIR Plan guidelines, verification, documentation requirements, and underwriting approval.
