Attention California homeowners: Has anyone successfully found new insurance after having multiple claims within the last five years?
I recently received notice from Amica that they will be terminating my policy in June due to two claims I made in 2022 and 2023, both related to pipe bursts that Amica handled.
To prevent future issues, I took the initiative to pay out-of-pocket and completely repiped my house in 2024. Amica was informed about this major update, yet they still chose not to renew my policy. For context, my home is not located in a fire-prone area.
Unfortunately, I’ve encountered refusal from several insurance companies because of my history with water damage claims, even after successfully repiping my home last year.
I’ve been working with two different independent insurance brokers, but neither has had any success. One was able to find a policy priced at $18,000 per year, excluding auto and umbrella coverage, while my previous total was about $4,500.
Has anyone faced a similar situation and managed to find coverage? I’d appreciate any advice or experiences shared, especially if you’ve been able to avoid CFP and DIC. Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about your challenges with finding new insurance. It sounds really frustrating, especially after you’ve taken proactive steps like repiping your home. Unfortunately, many insurers have strict guidelines when it comes to past claims, especially for water damage.
One option you might consider is reaching out to smaller or regional insurers that may be more flexible than larger companies. These insurers sometimes have different underwriting criteria and may take a more personal approach to your situation. Additionally, some companies specialize in high-risk policies, which might come at a higher cost, but could provide the coverage you need.
It might also be beneficial to look into insurance companies that offer policies specifically designed for homes with prior claims. Some companies focus on insuring homes with a history of claims, despite the potential higher premiums.
Additionally, make sure to have documentation of the repairs and improvements you’ve made, like the repiping, as this can help demonstrate that you’ve taken steps to mitigate future risks.
Finally, don’t hesitate to ask brokers if they can appeal to underwriters on your behalf, especially if you can highlight the changes you’ve made since the last claims. It’s a tough process, but perseverance can sometimes lead to a solution. Wishing you the best of luck!