If your insurance company recently sent you a non-renewal notice because of claims, you’re not alone.
Across California, many homeowners are seeing their policies non-renewed after filing one or more claims—even if those claims weren’t their fault.
The good news is that a non-renewal doesn’t mean you’re uninsurable. There are still options, and an experienced independent insurance broker can help you find the right coverage.
At Starwest Insurance Services, we help homeowners throughout California compare multiple insurance companies after a non-renewal.
Can an Insurance Company Non-Renew Your Policy Because of Claims?
Yes.
In California, insurance companies generally have the right to non-renew a homeowners policy at the end of the policy term if they provide the required notice and comply with state regulations.
Common reasons include:
- Multiple water damage claims
- Fire claims
- Liability claims
- Frequent small claims
- Mold claims
- Theft claims
- High claim severity
- Claims combined with property condition concerns
A single large claim doesn’t always result in a non-renewal, but multiple claims within three to five years often increase the likelihood.
Which Claims Raise the Biggest Red Flags?
Not all claims affect your insurability equally.
Water Damage Claims
Water losses are among the biggest concerns for insurance companies because they often lead to:
- Mold
- Rot
- Hidden structural damage
- Repeat losses
Two water claims in a few years can significantly reduce your insurance options.
Fire Claims
Fire losses can lead to underwriting scrutiny, especially if:
- The fire caused major structural damage.
- Repairs were incomplete.
- The home is located in a wildfire-prone area.
Liability Claims
Large dog bite or personal liability claims may affect eligibility with some insurers.
Frequent Small Claims
Filing several smaller claims can sometimes hurt your insurability more than one large claim.
Insurance companies may view repeated claims as an indication of ongoing risk.
How Long Do Claims Stay on Your Insurance Record?
Most insurance companies review three to five years of claims history when underwriting a new policy.
As claims age, they generally have less impact on your eligibility, provided you maintain your property and avoid additional losses.
Can I Still Get Home Insurance After Being Non-Renewed?
Yes.
Many homeowners successfully obtain new coverage after a non-renewal.
Depending on your situation, you may qualify for:
- Standard admitted homeowners insurance
- Specialty homeowners insurance
- Surplus lines coverage
- California FAIR Plan with a Difference in Conditions (DIC) policy if no standard market is available
The best option depends on factors such as your claims history, property condition, location, and overall risk profile.
What Can Improve Your Chances?
1. Repair the Cause of the Loss
Insurance companies want to see that the underlying issue has been corrected.
Examples include:
- Replacing old plumbing
- Installing a new roof
- Repairing leaks
- Updating electrical systems
Documentation of repairs can strengthen your application.
2. Avoid Filing Small Claims
Insurance is intended for significant, unexpected losses.
Paying smaller repairs out of pocket may help preserve your claims history.
3. Increase Your Deductible
A higher deductible may improve eligibility with some insurers and lower your premium.
4. Improve Home Maintenance
Well-maintained homes are generally more attractive to insurance companies.
Consider:
- Roof replacement
- Plumbing upgrades
- Electrical modernization
- Wildfire mitigation
- Tree trimming
- Gutter cleaning
5. Work With an Independent Insurance Broker
Not every insurance company has the same underwriting guidelines.
One carrier may decline your application, while another may offer competitive coverage.
Independent agencies can compare multiple insurance companies on your behalf.
What If No Insurance Company Will Accept Me?
If standard homeowners insurance isn’t available, the California FAIR Plan combined with a Difference in Conditions (DIC) policy may provide temporary protection while you work toward qualifying for broader coverage.
Many homeowners eventually return to the standard market after making improvements or allowing older claims to age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will one claim get me non-renewed?
Not necessarily. Many homeowners file a single claim without experiencing a non-renewal. The number, type, severity, and timing of claims all play a role.
Can I switch insurance companies after a non-renewal?
Yes. A non-renewal from one insurer does not automatically prevent another insurer from offering coverage.
Will my premium increase?
Possibly. Premiums depend on your claims history, home characteristics, location, and the insurer’s underwriting guidelines.
Should I file every claim?
Not always. Before filing a claim, compare the estimated repair cost to your deductible and consider the potential impact on your future insurance options.
Don’t Wait Until Your Policy Expires
If you’ve received a non-renewal notice, start shopping as soon as possible. Waiting until the last minute may reduce your available options.
At Starwest Insurance Services, we compare multiple homeowners insurance companies throughout California to help clients who have been:
- Non-renewed after claims
- Declined by other insurance companies
- Moved to the California FAIR Plan
- Looking for better coverage at competitive rates
Our goal is to help you protect your home with the right coverage—not just the cheapest policy.
Contact Starwest Insurance Services
If your homeowners insurance has been non-renewed because of claims, we’ll review your situation and help you explore the best available options.
🌐 Website: https://starwestinsurance.com
📞 Phone: CALL 714-893-7271 TEXT(714) 231-0897
📍 Office: 13752 Goldenwest St., Westminster, CA 92683
Serving homeowners throughout Orange County and all of California.