California really has its share of natural disasters. From wildfires to earthquakes and even flooding. The interesting thing about California is despite the higher value of homes and the common disasters in the Golden State, home insurance is not that high compared to the national average.
How much is home insurance in California per year? The average cost for homeowners insurance in California is about $1,230 annually. Compared to the national average of $1,590, California homeowners are finding themselves about midway across U.S. states.
When you’re looking to get home insurance in California you will want to consider a few factors that will help the home insurance company determine your rate. The location you live in or zip code will play a large role in what rate you get. As well as your claim history, crime level in the area, size of your home, security feature, special features and more.
California home insurance covered perils
California homeowners face multiple risks but please keep in mind there are some common natural disasters that are excluded from a standard home insurance policy. Common covered perils under a standard policy may be:
- Fire and smoke.
- Lightning strikes.
- Windstorms and hail.
- Explosion.
- Vandalism and malicious mischief.
- Damage from an aircraft, car or vehicle.
- Theft.
- Falling objects.
Standard home insurance exclusions
There are common risks in California that will not be included in your standard homeowners insurance policy. Below are a few examples of what is not included in a standard home insurance policy:
Flooding:
In California flooding can become an issue in certain areas, but flooding is not covered under a standard home insurance policy. If you believe you are at risk of flood damage you will need to look into a separate flood insurance policy.
Earthquakes:
In some areas in California earthquakes have caused catastrophic damage. Although this can be a serious issue most standard home insurance policies will exclude earthquake damage. If you are near a fault line and believe you need protection from earthquake damage you will want to look into a separate earthquake insurance policy.
Wildfires:
Fire and smoke is covered under a standard home insurance policy. Things can get a little tricky if you live in a remote area or high brush area. Zip codes that have been hammered by wildfire damage are finding it difficult to get a homeowners insurance policy. Some homeowners are not even able to renew their home insurance due to the location of their home.
If you are in a high risk area and need homeowners insurance there are alternatives for you. At Eugene C Yates Insurance Agency we have been helping Californians to get coverage for their homes under the California FAIR Plan and Difference in Conditions insurance.
The California FAIR Plan will provide coverage for fire, smoke, lightening and internal explosions damage. The FAIR Plan may be releasing more comprehensive coverage that will more so mirror a standard home insurance policy.
California homeowners insurance discounts
If you’re looking to save money on you home insurance in California it’s a great idea to see what discounts are available in your area. If you have more than one policy you can always look towards bundling your products to save.
Another way to save is to install disaster resistant home features. Items such as accordion shutters and hurricane glass may save you a few dollars on your homeowners insurance.
A few more common discounts may be:
- Installing smoke detectors, or a burglar alarm
- Installing a sprinkler system, or a fire alarm
- Loyalty discounts
Home insurance quote
At Eugene C Yates Insurance Agency our wonderful agents have access to the top home insurance providers in the nation and firsthand knowledge of the best homeowners insurance discounts available. This makes it easy for them to get you the best rate on the best coverage for your situation.
If you have additional question or would like a custom homeowners insurance quote, please feel to contact us at 916 313 6100