Extended droughts and earlier snowmelt have stretched the U.S. fire season from four to eight months, significantly increasing wildfire risks in areas previously unaffected. As of March 2025, the U.S. has already recorded more than 7,100 wildfires, representing a 37% increase over the decade-long average for the same period.
With wildfire threats becoming more common nationwide, it’s crucial for homeowners to understand how wildfire insurance works and whether their policies offer adequate protection.
Does Homeowners Insurance Protect Against Wildfires in the US?
Most homeowners insurance policies cover fire-related damages, including those caused by wildfires. Regardless of your policy type, fire damage is typically included unless explicitly excluded.
However, in wildfire-prone regions, some insurers are restricting or suspending new policy issuance. For example, several of California’s 12 largest home insurance companies have limited or halted new policies due to escalating wildfire risks.
With wildfire-related claims proving costly—like the 2025 Los Angeles fires, which caused between $250 billion and $275 billion in total economic losses and $25 billion to $45 billion in insured losses—some insurers may withdraw from high-risk zones. This makes it difficult for residents in these areas to find affordable coverage through private providers.
What Wildfire Coverage Is Included in Homeowners Insurance?
If your policy does not specifically exclude wildfire damage, it likely covers the following:
- Your home’s structure (dwelling coverage)
- Detached buildings like garages, sheds, or fences
- Personal property, such as furniture and electronics
- Additional living expenses, including hotel stays, laundry, and meals if you’re displaced by fire
Always check your policy’s fine print to confirm coverage levels and limits.
When Wildfire Coverage May Be Excluded
In high-risk wildfire regions, insurance companies may:
- Exclude wildfire protection from standard policies
- Decline to write new policies altogether
If this applies to your location, you may need to explore state-run insurance programs designed for high-risk properties.
How to Reduce Your Home’s Wildfire Risk
While insurance can help you recover financially, wildfire mitigation can reduce the likelihood of damage and may even lead to premium discounts.
Practical Tips:
- Create a defensible space: Clear dry leaves, dead plants, and debris around your home. This reduces fuel that can spread fire to your structure.
- Maintain water access: Position visible hoses at various points on your property to aid firefighters.
- Mark your address clearly: Ensure emergency responders can easily identify your home during a wildfire.
- Use fire-resistant materials: Choose concrete or stone over wood when renovating or landscaping.
These strategies not only enhance safety but can also qualify you for mitigation discounts from some insurers.