South Bay Homeowners: How to Protect Your Home and Insurance Amid Wildfire Risks

Dear Friends and Family of Scherb Homes Group,

The recent fires in the Los Angeles area, including the Palisades Fire and the Eaton Fire, have brought devastation to many families and communities. With over 12,000 structures burned and countless individuals displaced, these events are a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared and informed about home insurance.

As the fires continue to burn, our thoughts are with everyone affected. For homeowners, this is also a critical time to reassess your insurance policies and ensure your home is adequately protected.

The Rising Costs of Home Insurance

In recent years, natural disasters like wildfires have led to significant changes in the home insurance landscape:

• Higher premiums: Insurance carriers have raised prices substantially due to increased wildfire risk.

• Carrier withdrawals: Some insurance companies are pulling out of California altogether, making it harder to find coverage.

• Limited options: Many policies now come with restrictions or exclusions that could leave homeowners underinsured.

What Homeowners Should Do Right Now

1. Review Your Fire Insurance Coverage

• Ensure your policy reflects the current value of your home, especially with recent home price inflation.

• Check if your policy covers replacement cost (the cost to rebuild) rather than just the market value.

2. Confirm Your Policy is Active and Paid

• Always keep your policy paid in full and ensure timely renewals. Missing a payment could result in losing your coverage.

3. Explore Additional Insurance Options

• For those struggling to find coverage, consider the California FAIR Plan, a last-resort insurance program offering basic fire protection for homeowners in high-risk areas.

4. Inspect Your Home for Fire Risks

• Homes with older roofs or wood shingle roofs are at higher risk and may face higher premiums. Consider upgrading to fire-resistant materials.

• Schedule a visit from your local fire department for personalized advice on fireproofing your home.

5. Contact Trusted Professionals

• At Scherb Homes Group, we work with an inner circle of brokers and insurance agents who can help you navigate this challenging landscape. If you have questions or need recommendations, reach out to us anytime.

Observations from Scherb Homes Group

We’ve noticed dramatic differences in insurance quotes depending on:

• Location

• Age and condition of the home

• Roofing materials and other fireproofing measures

Proactively addressing these factors can save you money and ensure your home is better protected.

Stay Informed, Stay Protected

Insurance costs are likely to continue rising in California. By staying proactive, you can secure peace of mind for your family and your property. If you’d like more personalized advice or connections to trusted insurance providers, we’re here to help please contact us.

The Scherb Homes Group is committed to supporting our clients, friends, and family through challenging times. Together, we can ensure that you’re prepared for whatever comes next.

Stay safe,

Cliff

(310)-696-6648

Scherb Homes Group