Homeowners across California have faced growing uncertainty about their insurance coverage in recent years. With rising wildfire risks, higher rebuilding costs, and increased claims, many large insurance companies have scaled back or stopped writing new policies in the state. This shift has left many homeowners wondering: who is still selling homeowners insurance in California?
The truth is that while some national insurers have pulled back, there are still reliable companies offering coverage to California homeowners. The insurance market is adjusting, but options remain available if you know where to look.
Why Some Insurers Left California
Several major insurance carriers announced in recent years that they would stop accepting new homeowners policies in California. Wildfires have played a big role in this decision, with billions of dollars in claims after devastating fires. At the same time, the rising cost of construction materials and stricter regulations made it harder for insurers to maintain profitability.
While these companies are not completely leaving California, many are limiting new policies or focusing only on renewing existing customers. This shift has created a tighter market, which is why homeowners may find it more difficult to get quotes from the big names they once trusted.
Who is Still Selling Homeowners Insurance?
Despite the challenges, several companies are still offering homeowners insurance in California. Some of these include:
- State Farm (renewals only in many areas)
- Farmers Insurance
- Allstate (limited new policies)
- USAA (for military families)
- Mercury Insurance
- Smaller regional insurers and brokers
In addition to private insurers, California homeowners can also access coverage through the California FAIR Plan, which provides basic fire insurance for those unable to get coverage on the standard market. While it does not offer full homeowners insurance by itself, it can be combined with supplemental policies to provide broader protection.
For homeowners in Ventura County and surrounding areas, looking into Home Owner Insurance in Oxnard CA can be a good starting point. Local agents and brokers often have access to carriers that may not be available through larger online platforms. This makes working with someone who knows the regional market especially helpful.
The Role of Independent Brokers
One of the best ways to find coverage in California right now is through an independent insurance broker. Unlike captive agents who work with just one company, brokers can shop around with multiple insurers. They understand which carriers are still writing policies, which ones are more competitive in certain regions, and what coverage limits make sense for your property.
Because every home is unique, especially in a state with varied risks like California, having a broker guide the process can save both time and stress. They can also help combine coverage if you need both standard insurance and supplemental plans like the FAIR Plan.
Why Local Expertise Matters
Large insurance carriers often make statewide decisions, but risk levels can differ greatly between regions. For example, a home in an urban part of Los Angeles may face different insurance risks compared to a property in wildfire-prone hillsides. Local brokers know these differences and can match homeowners with insurers willing to write policies in their area.
This personalized guidance often makes a big difference. Instead of being turned away by multiple big insurers, working with a broker may reveal coverage options that you didn’t realize were available.
A Trusted Option in Today’s Market
One name that is often recommended in Southern California is Ruben Gomez Insurance Broker. As an independent broker, they have access to multiple insurance companies and can help homeowners compare rates and coverage in a challenging market. Homeowners who struggle to find policies from big national names often discover that independent brokers like this can provide tailored options that fit their needs.
Tips for Finding Coverage in California
If you are currently shopping for homeowners insurance, here are a few helpful tips:
- Start early – Don’t wait until your current policy is about to expire. Begin searching for new coverage several months in advance.
- Work with a broker – Independent brokers can access more carriers than you may find on your own.
- Consider higher deductibles – This can sometimes make policies more affordable.
- Bundle policies – If possible, combine your auto and home insurance with the same company to access discounts.
- Look into the FAIR Plan – While limited, it can provide a safety net if private insurance options are unavailable.
The Future of California Home Insurance
The state of California is working to address these insurance challenges. Regulators are pushing for reforms that make it easier for insurers to adjust rates in line with actual risk. The hope is that more insurance carriers will re-enter the market as conditions stabilize. Until then, homeowners may need to rely on smaller carriers and brokers who still have access to coverage.
For homeowners in Ventura County and beyond, finding the right Home Owner Insurance in Oxnard CA may take some extra effort, but options are available. With the help of experienced brokers and regional experts, securing reliable protection for your home is still possible despite the challenges.
Conclusion
While many big-name insurers have scaled back in California, homeowners still have choices. Smaller carriers, the FAIR Plan, and independent brokers continue to provide coverage across the state. Working with a local expert can make the process easier and help ensure that you find the right protection for your home.
Finding homeowners insurance in California may feel more complicated today, but with the right guidance, you can still protect your most valuable investment.