HO3, HO5, E&S, wildfire-inclusive, and replacement cost policies for California homeowners. Independent broker — we compare 350+ carriers to find what actually fits.
Policy Types
Not every California home needs the same coverage. We match you to the right policy type based on your location, home value, and risk profile.
The most widely used homeowners policy in California. Covers your dwelling on an open-perils basis — everything is covered unless specifically excluded. Personal property is covered on a named-perils basis.
Both dwelling and personal property covered on an open-perils basis — fewer exclusions, broader claims experience. The right choice for newer homes, high-value homes, or significant personal property.
For homes that admitted carriers won't cover. Homes in wildfire-prone areas, unusual construction, or properties dropped by standard carriers. E&S carriers have more flexibility to write risks standard markets won't touch.
Standard homeowners policies don't cover earthquakes or floods. California's seismic activity makes earthquake coverage essential. Post-wildfire flood and debris flow coverage is equally critical in fire-affected areas.
Policy Explorer
Select a policy type to see exactly what it covers, who it's right for, and what to watch out for in California's current market.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Coverage Feature | HO3 | HO5 | E&S | ✦ High Net Worth |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dwelling — Open Perils | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Personal Property — Open Perils | Named perils only | ✓ | Varies | ✓ |
| Wildfire Coverage | Check policy carefully | Check policy carefully | ✓ Available | ✓ + Defense service |
| Replacement Cost — Dwelling | Optional add-on | ✓ Standard | Varies | ✓ Guaranteed |
| Extended / Guaranteed Replacement | — | Optional | Optional | ✓ No cap |
| Earthquake Coverage | Separate policy | Separate policy | Separate policy | ✓ Available |
| Flood Coverage | Separate policy | Separate policy | Separate policy | Some programs |
| Personal Liability | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ Up to $10M+ |
| Additional Living Expenses | ✓ Limited | ✓ Limited | ✓ | ✓ Unlimited |
| State-Backed (Admitted / CIGA) | ✓ Admitted | ✓ Admitted | E&S — not CIGA | ✓ Admitted |
| Claims Service | Standard | Standard | Varies by carrier | ✓ Dedicated adjuster |
After the 2025 LA fires, the California homeowners insurance market changed permanently. Many standard carriers left or added exclusions. We help you find coverage that actually works — not just technically satisfies a lender.
Some carriers quietly added wildfire exclusions post-2020. We read every policy line by line before placing coverage so you don't find out at claim time.
California construction costs are up 40%+ since 2020. Most homeowners are dramatically underinsured on their dwelling rebuild limit. We calculate accurate current replacement costs.
After wildfires burn vegetation, storm water becomes debris flow. Standard policies rarely cover post-fire mudslide damage — a specific gap we address in your coverage program.
Not all surplus lines carriers are equal. We only place coverage with financially stable, A-rated E&S markets — not just whoever will write the policy.
Serving All of California
We serve homeowners in every county and city across California — including high-risk wildfire zones where coverage is hardest to find.
Frequently Asked Questions
California homeowners insurance typically covers your home's structure, personal belongings, personal liability if someone is injured on your property, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable. Wildfire, earthquake, and flood coverage varies significantly by policy and often requires separate coverage or endorsements.
HO3 covers your dwelling on an open-perils basis but personal property on named perils only. HO5 covers both on an open-perils basis — meaning fewer exclusions and a broader claims experience. For high-value homes or significant personal property, HO5 is generally the better choice.
E&S (Excess and Surplus Lines) insurance covers homes that standard admitted carriers won't insure — particularly in wildfire-prone zones. E&S carriers have more pricing flexibility and are not backed by CIGA (California Insurance Guarantee Association), but are regulated and placed through licensed surplus lines brokers. In today's California market, E&S is often the only option for homes in WUI zones.
Multiple factors: increasing wildfire losses (especially post-2025 LA fires), major carriers exiting the California market reducing competition, rising construction costs, reinsurance price increases, and litigation trends. Even homeowners who have never filed a claim have seen significant rate increases driven by statewide market conditions.
Yes. Being non-renewed does not mean you can't get coverage. As an independent broker with access to E&S markets, specialty admitted carriers, and surplus lines options, Bollinsure can often find coverage for homeowners who have been dropped — even in high-risk areas. TThe California FAIR Plan is also available as a last resort but provides very limited coverage.
Replacement cost pays what it actually costs today to repair or replace damaged property — no depreciation deductions. Actual cash value deducts depreciation, which can leave you significantly short after a major claim. With California construction costs up 40%+ since 2020, replacement cost coverage is critical.
No. Standard homeowners policies do not cover earthquake damage. Separate earthquake insurance is available through the California Earthquake Authority (CEA) or private carriers. Given California's seismic exposure, we strongly recommend earthquake coverage for most homeowners.
Your dwelling coverage should equal the full cost to rebuild your home at current construction prices — not the market value or purchase price. With California construction costs rising sharply, many homeowners discover at claim time that their limits are far below actual rebuild costs. We help you calculate accurate replacement cost estimates and ensure your coverage reflects today's reality.
Ready to Get Covered?
We review your current coverage, check for gaps, and compare options across 350+ carriers — including E&S markets for wildfire-zone homes. No obligation, ever.