Homeowners Insurance Estimator

Wildfire Risk & Insurance Availability

By Editorial Team · Last updated 2025-08-29

WUI exposure can increase rates or limit availability.

Last updated 2025-08-29

What is the WUI?

The Wildland‑Urban Interface (WUI) is where homes meet or intermingle with wildland vegetation. Concentrated fuel plus difficult access increases catastrophe risk.

Pricing & availability

In higher‑risk zones, some carriers tighten underwriting or reduce new writings. Others price via surcharges and larger deductibles. Availability changes by state and over time.

Mitigation & home hardening

  • Create defensible space (clear brush, limb trees, clean roofs/gutters).
  • Use ember‑resistant vents, Class A roofs, and non‑combustible fencing near structures.
  • Work with local programs offering inspections or grants.

Shopping tips

  • Ask independent agents who place business with multiple carriers in your area.
  • Bundle home + auto; some carriers expand availability for bundled accounts.
  • Document mitigation work; some insurers provide credits.

Adjust the Location risk control in the estimator to see directional impact.

FAQs

Is wildfire damage covered by homeowners insurance?

Generally yes for fire, but availability and pricing vary. Always review your policy for exclusions and conditions.

Can I be non‑renewed for wildfire exposure?

In some states and conditions, yes. Regulators may also offer FAIR plans or residual markets as backstops.

What insurers look for in wildfire zones

Carriers model slope, vegetation density, historical fire lines, and distance to fire services. Defensible space and fire‑hardening can be the difference between eligibility and decline.

Mitigation that matters

  • 5–30 feet of cleared defensible space around structures.
  • Class‑A fire‑rated roof, ember‑resistant vents, and non‑combustible fencing near the home.
  • Gutter guards and regular debris removal.

Availability and state programs

In some states, FAIR plans or last‑resort markets fill gaps when private carriers pause new business. Pair them with a difference‑in‑conditions policy when possible.

Shopping strategy

  1. Document mitigation with photos and invoices.
  2. Ask carriers about verified mitigation credits or inspections.
  3. Work with brokers who place business in high‑risk zones.