Is my home uninsurable if it is located in a wildfire prone area in California?

There is a common law doctrine that says “volenti non fit injuria”, which means that a person who voluntarily assumes risk cannot complain about it later. This is the principle behind insurance companies refusing to insure your home if it is located in a high fire risk zone, or a high brush area. Most insurance companies refuse to assume the increased risk of covering areas prone to fires. Homeowners in these areas are finding it increasingly difficult to renew their insurance policies or to buy adequate coverage for their homes. Homes that fall under this “high fire risk” category are usually located in wildfire areas, within 2500 feet to brush, high fire risk zones, on a canyon, or in high brush areas.

There are some things you should keep in mind while insuring your home if it is located in a fire prone area: