Question 1

How much does homeowners insurance cost in Burbank on average?

Accepted Answer

Burbank homeowners pay around $1,200 annually on average, but this varies significantly by location. Homes in flatland areas typically pay $1,600 to $2,000 per year, while properties in foothill fire zones can see premiums ranging from $3,000 to $12,000 annually. Your actual cost depends on your home's age, construction type, claims history, and proximity to wildfire risk areas.

Question 2

Do I need earthquake insurance in Burbank?

Accepted Answer

Earthquake coverage isn't required by law, but it's not included in standard homeowners policies and Burbank sits near major fault lines. Adding earthquake insurance typically costs an additional $800 to $2,000+ per year for a $500,000 home, depending on your home's age and construction. Older homes and those with brick or masonry construction pay significantly more due to higher risk of earthquake damage.

Question 3

Why is my home insurance so expensive if I live in the Burbank foothills?

Accepted Answer

Foothill properties face elevated wildfire risk due to proximity to brush-covered hills, limited evacuation routes, and vegetation density. Insurance carriers use sophisticated risk models that flag these areas as high-risk, resulting in premiums 50-150% higher than flatland homes. Some carriers won't write policies in these zones at all, forcing homeowners to use the more expensive California FAIR Plan.

Question 4

What's an HO-8 policy and do I need one for my older Burbank bungalow?

Accepted Answer

An HO-8 policy is a specialty form for homes that don't qualify for standard coverage, typically those over 40-50 years old with outdated systems. It covers your home at actual cash value rather than replacement cost, meaning depreciation is factored into claims. You might need one if your vintage bungalow has original plumbing, electrical, or roofing that standard carriers won't cover, though many older homes can still qualify for regular HO-3 policies with system updates.

Question 5

How can I lower my homeowners insurance premium in Burbank?

Accepted Answer

Bundle your home and auto insurance for 15-25% savings, install fire-resistant improvements like Class A roofing and ember-resistant vents, create defensible space by clearing vegetation, and update outdated systems like electrical and plumbing. In foothill areas, wildfire mitigation efforts can reduce premiums by 10-20% under California's Safer from Wildfires regulations. Shopping multiple carriers through an independent agent also helps find the best available rates.

Question 6

What is the California FAIR Plan and when would I need it?

Accepted Answer

The California FAIR Plan is a state-created basic fire insurance program for homeowners who can't get coverage from traditional insurers, typically due to high wildfire risk. It provides limited coverage (capped at $3 million) and often costs more than standard policies while covering less. You'd need it if multiple carriers have declined to insure your foothill property or if your current insurer non-renewed your policy due to fire risk.

Insurance Agents in Burbank, California (CA)

Insurance agencies serving Burbank

Cascade Insurance Services

Commercial Best Insurance Services

Insurance Agents in Burbank, California (CA)

Insurance agencies serving Burbank

Cascade Insurance Services

Commercial Best Insurance Services

Dickerson Insurance Services, An Alera Group Company

Escueta Insurance Services

Get My Life Insured Insurance Center Inc.

Imminent Insurance Services

Intramark Insurance Services, Inc.

Liberty United Insurance Services, Inc

Life Trails Insurance Agency, Inc.

Onguard Insurance

Insurance Guides for Burbank

Homeowners Insurance Costs in Burbank

Home Insurance in Burbank

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Business Insurance in Burbank

Burbank Insurance Guide

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