Question 1

Does homeowners insurance in Simi Valley cover wildfire damage?

Accepted Answer

Yes, standard homeowners insurance policies in California, including Simi Valley, cover wildfire damage to your home and belongings. However, many insurers have reduced coverage or stopped writing new policies in high-risk areas. If you can't find traditional coverage, the California FAIR Plan provides basic fire insurance that you can pair with a supplemental policy for comprehensive protection.

Question 2

Do I need earthquake insurance in Simi Valley?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, earthquake insurance is strongly recommended for Simi Valley homeowners. The area is within 30 miles of active earthquake faults, and the 1994 Northridge earthquake demonstrated the region's vulnerability. Standard homeowners policies exclude earthquake damage, so without separate coverage, you'd pay all repair costs out of pocket. The California Earthquake Authority offers policies averaging around $850 per year.

Question 3

What is the California FAIR Plan and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

The California FAIR Plan is a state-created insurance program that provides basic fire coverage when you can't find a policy in the private market. It covers fire damage but not other perils like theft, liability, or wind damage. Most homeowners pair a FAIR Plan policy with a "wrap" or "difference in conditions" policy to get comprehensive coverage. While more expensive than traditional insurance, it's often the only option for properties in high-risk wildfire zones.

Question 4

How much does home insurance cost in Simi Valley?

Accepted Answer

The average home insurance cost in Simi Valley is approximately $1,385 annually, though this varies significantly based on your home's location, age, construction type, and wildfire risk score. Homes closer to the Santa Susana Mountains or Simi Hills typically face higher premiums. If you're on the FAIR Plan plus a wrap policy, combined costs are usually higher than traditional coverage but provide necessary protection when private insurers won't offer policies.

Question 5

Can I lower my home insurance premium in a high-risk area?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can reduce your premium by hardening your home against wildfire. Create defensible space by clearing brush and vegetation within 100 feet of your home, replace wood roofs with fire-resistant materials, install dual-pane windows, and screen vents to prevent ember entry. The FAIR Plan offers discounts for these mitigation efforts, and they genuinely improve your home's survival chances during a wildfire. Earthquake retrofitting may also qualify for CEA premium discounts.

Question 6

What should I do if my insurance company non-renews my policy?

Accepted Answer

First, don't panic—you have options. Immediately contact an independent insurance agent who can shop multiple carriers on your behalf. Some smaller regional insurers still write policies where major companies have pulled out. If you can't find private coverage, apply for the California FAIR Plan and pair it with a wrap policy for comprehensive protection. While you're on the FAIR Plan, continue shopping the private market annually, as new regulations may bring more insurers back to high-risk areas.

Insurance Agents in Simi Valley, California (CA)

Insurance agencies serving Simi Valley

401 Plans

Blue Sky Insurance Agency, Inc.

Insurance Agents in Simi Valley, California (CA)

Insurance agencies serving Simi Valley

401 Plans

Blue Sky Insurance Agency, Inc.

Chun & Reynolds Insurance Services

Fiscus Commercial Insurance Services

Jackson Insurance Services

Life & Annuity Masters

Monarch E & S Insurance Services

Payton Insurance Agency

Payton Insurance Agency

Rancho Simi Insurance Agency

Insurance Guides for Simi Valley

Home Insurance in Simi Valley

Auto Insurance in Simi Valley

Car Insurance Costs in Simi Valley

Insurance Guide for Simi Valley

Frequently asked questions