CA FAIR Plan Insurance: What Every California Homeowner Needs to Know
Dropped by your insurer? Can’t find affordable home coverage? You’re not alone — and you have options.
Major insurers including State Farm, Allstate, and Farmers have paused or stopped writing new home policies in California. If you’ve received a non-renewal notice — or can’t find coverage — the CA FAIR Plan may be your bridge. Call Starwest at (714) 893-7271 to explore your options today.
What Is the CA FAIR Plan?
The California FAIR Plan (Fair Access to Insurance Requirements) is the state’s insurer of last resort. It was created by the California Legislature to provide basic fire and hazard insurance to homeowners who cannot obtain coverage through the standard private market.
The CA FAIR Plan is not a government agency — it’s a pool of private insurance companies required by law to participate. If you’ve been denied coverage by multiple insurers, the FAIR Plan must accept you.
Key Fact: The FAIR Plan Has Expanded
As of 2025, the CA FAIR Plan now offers a Comprehensive Homeowners Policy — including liability and theft coverage — not just fire. This is a major improvement for California homeowners who previously had very limited options.
Who Qualifies for the CA FAIR Plan?
You may qualify for the CA FAIR Plan if:
- Your current insurer has sent you a non-renewal notice
- You live in a high-risk wildfire zone (most of Southern and Northern California foothill/mountain areas)
- You’ve been denied coverage by two or more standard insurers
- Your home has older construction, unique materials, or other features standard insurers won’t write
- You’re buying a home in a wildfire-prone area and can’t find a carrier to cover it
What Does the CA FAIR Plan Cover?
Basic Policy (Fire & Hazard Only)
- Fire and smoke damage
- Lightning strikes
- Internal explosion (e.g., gas line)
- Windstorm and hail (optional)
- Vandalism and malicious mischief (optional)
Comprehensive Homeowners Policy (Newer Option)
- All of the above, plus theft, personal liability, medical payments to others, and additional living expenses if displaced
⚠️ What the CA FAIR Plan Does NOT Cover
Earthquake damage, flood damage, sewer backup, and mold are not included. You will need separate policies for these. Starwest can help you bundle the right supplemental coverages so you’re fully protected.
How Much Does the CA FAIR Plan Cost?
FAIR Plan rates are generally higher than standard market rates. Costs vary by location, home value, construction type, and proximity to fire hazards.
| Home Value | Est. Annual Premium | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| $400,000 | $2,000 – $3,500 | Moderate fire risk zone |
| $600,000 | $3,200 – $5,500 | High wildfire risk area |
| $800,000 | $4,500 – $8,000 | Very high risk / foothill area |
| $1,000,000+ | $6,000 – $12,000+ | Luxury homes, rural locations |
*Estimates only. Call Starwest for a precise quote for your home.
💡 The FAIR Plan + Difference-in-Conditions (DIC) Strategy
Most experienced agents pair the CA FAIR Plan with a Difference-in-Conditions (DIC) policy — which fills coverage gaps like liability, theft, and water damage. Together they approximate a standard homeowners policy. Starwest specializes in building these bundles.
How to Apply for the CA FAIR Plan
- 1Call an independent agent firstWe’ll confirm you genuinely can’t get standard coverage and apply on your behalf. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
- 2Gather your property informationAddress, year built, square footage, construction type, roof type and age, and any recent upgrades.
- 3Submit the applicationApplications go through licensed agents or at cfpnet.com. Your agent handles the paperwork correctly the first time.
- 4Add supplemental coverageOnce approved, we layer in a DIC policy and any other coverages (earthquake, flood) for complete protection.
- 5Keep shoppingThe FAIR Plan is a bridge, not a destination. We continuously shop the private market to move you to a better policy when carriers return.
CA FAIR Plan vs. Standard Home Insurance
| Feature | Standard Market | CA FAIR Plan |
|---|---|---|
| Fire coverage | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Liability | ✓ Yes | ✓ (Comprehensive policy) |
| Theft | ✓ Yes | ✓ (Comprehensive policy) |
| Water damage | ✓ Yes | ✗ Needs DIC policy |
| Earthquake | ✗ Separate policy | ✗ Separate policy |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Availability | Limited in CA right now | Guaranteed if standard market denies |
Frequently Asked Questions
Need Help With the CA FAIR Plan?
We’re Here for You.
Agency Director: James CQ Banh | Serving Orange County Since 1996 | We Speak Lao · Hablamos Español