California homeowners are facing a growing wildfire insurance crisis. With rising rates, reduced coverage options, and increased wildfire risk due to climate change and inflation, understanding your insurance options is more important than ever.

In this episode of the All Things Wildfire podcast, host OP Almaraz speaks with Sharon Smith, Outreach Analyst at the California Department of Insurance, to discuss the challenges, solutions, and legislative changes shaping wildfire coverage in California.

Wildfire insurance premiums are increasing due to multiple factors:

• Climate change is driving more frequent and severe wildfires.

• Inflation has pushed up construction and repair costs.

• Outdated regulations under Proposition 103 have made it difficult for insurers to adapt pricing to today’s risks.

Sharon explains why Prop 103 needs modernization to better protect homeowners and keep insurance available in high-risk fire zones.

Proposition 103 is a decades-old regulation that governs how insurance rates are approved in California. While it was designed to protect consumers, many experts argue it hasn’t evolved to address the current wildfire landscape. Modernizing Prop 103 could help stabilize the insurance market while ensuring fair treatment for policyholders.

The Safer from Wildfires program is a state-led initiative to improve home resilience against wildfire damage. By completing specific home-hardening measures, homeowners may:

• Reduce their risk of fire damage.

• Qualify for potential insurance discounts.

• Increase their chances of keeping existing coverage.

For homeowners unable to find traditional coverage, the California Fair Plan acts as a safety net. However, it’s meant as a temporary solution. Modernizing the Fair Plan is essential, especially for high-value homes that require broader protection.

Understanding the difference between admitted insurance carriers (regulated by the state) and non-admitted carriers (not backed by the state’s guarantee fund) is critical when comparing wildfire insurance policies. Sharon provides insights on the pros and cons of each option.

Smoke damage after a wildfire can create serious health hazards. The California Department of Insurance has established a task force to address smoke remediation standards, helping homeowners get better results from their claims and contractors.

Sharon discusses new legislative proposals designed to:

• Ease the recovery process after a wildfire.

• Improve claims handling by insurance companies.

• Provide more resources to homeowners navigating wildfire-related claims.

The California Department of Insurance offers free resources to help property owners understand their rights, find coverage, and take preventive measures.

Join the Conversation:
What challenges are you facing with wildfire insurance in California? Share your experiences in the comments below or reach out to us for support.

In this episode of All Things Wildfire, host OP Almaraz sits down with Brad Sawyer and Robert Clemmons of Marsh & McLennan Agency to unpack the growing urgency of wildfire resilience. Together, they explore practical home hardening strategies, the power of community collaboration, and the often-overlooked complexities of the insurance claims process after a wildfire.

Listeners will gain insight into how homeowners can take proactive steps to reduce risk, better understand their insurance policies, and improve their chances of recovery post-disaster. The discussion wraps with a strong call to action—resilience isn’t optional, it’s essential.

• Wildfires as Wake-Up Calls:
  Recent wildfire events have highlighted the urgent need for communities to act before disaster strikes.

• Home Hardening Musts:
  Learn how features like ember-resistant vents, non-combustible materials, and defensible space can dramatically reduce wildfire risk.

• Insurance Gaps & Misconceptions:
  Many homeowners are unaware of what’s actually covered—understanding your policy is critical.

• The Claims Process:
  Why documentation matters and how being unprepared can delay or reduce your claim.

• The Role of Community:
  Fire resilience goes beyond individual homes—neighborhoods that collaborate are safer.

• Preparedness is Prevention:
  Investing in wildfire prevention today means fewer losses tomorrow.

• Education is Lacking:
  Despite growing threats, awareness and understanding of wildfire preparedness remain low.

• Wildfires should be a trigger for action, not reaction.

• Home hardening and defensible space are foundational to fire resilience.

• Don’t wait until disaster hits—document home contents now.

• Know your policy. Know your risk.

• Community-wide strategies are the future of wildfire prevention.

Innovative Wildfire Detection: How Firebird and Lindsey FireSense Are Changing Fire Prevention

In this episode of All Things Wildfire, we sit down with Tim Dunfee, former deputy fire chief and now fire safety advocate at Lindsey FireSense, to explore a critical innovation in wildfire detection: The Firebird.

With wildfires increasing in frequency and intensity—especially in high-risk areas like California—communities, homeowners, and insurers are searching for smarter, faster ways to detect and prevent fire damage. The Firebird is one such solution. Using thermal fire detection technology, Firebird offers early alerts that can be the difference between a close call and a catastrophic loss.

With decades of firefighting experience behind him, Tim Dunfee brings deep insight into the complexities of fire management. His transition from firefighting to fire safety tech was driven by one mission: to improve how we detect and respond to fire threats. As he says, "Fire has no boundaries." And in today’s environment, wildfire prevention must be just as dynamic as the threats themselves.

The Firebird device adds a crucial layer to fire detection, supplementing traditional alert systems. Positioned on properties, it actively monitors for heat signatures, delivering alerts before smoke or flames reach catastrophic levels. It's a game-changer for:

• Homeowners looking to protect their properties

• Insurance companies seeking to reduce wildfire risk

• Fire departments looking for faster detection tools

Throughout the episode, Tim emphasizes that effective wildfire prevention isn't just about technology—it's about community collaboration. He urges homeowners to take initiative with home hardening measures and stay informed on local risks. Tim also addresses the emotional toll of fire response, reminding listeners that behind every wildfire event are responders who put their lives on the line.

One of the most eye-opening parts of the conversation is the growing role of insurance companies in wildfire prevention. As premiums rise and coverage shrinks, insurers are starting to recognize the value of proactive solutions like Firebird. This shift could reshape how communities approach fire safety, pushing for smarter technology and shared responsibility.

• Firebird enhances fire detection through thermal sensors.

• Community engagement is essential for wildfire prevention.

• Firefighters face emotional challenges and need community support.

• Insurance providers are beginning to incentivize fire safety investments.

• Collaboration among neighbors improves outcomes during fire events.

• Homeowners must take ownership of their fire risk.

In this conversation, OP Almaraz and Steve Severaid discuss the ongoing challenges faced by homeowners in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire. They delve into the complexities of insurance claims, the importance of understanding additional living expenses, and the unique difficulties associated with total losses. The conversation emphasizes the need for thorough documentation and proactive communication with insurance companies to navigate the recovery process effectively. They also highlight the long-term implications of rebuilding in affected areas and the importance of being prepared for the challenges ahead. This conversation delves into the complexities of insurance and the impact of wildfires on communities. It discusses the new legislation regarding insurance replacement policies, the challenges of underinsurance, and the importance of accurate coverage. The speakers emphasize the need for homeowners to conduct annual policy reviews and understand the implications of their insurance decisions. They also explore the financial challenges faced by homeowners post-wildfire and the ongoing need for awareness and preparedness in the face of natural disasters.

Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to the Palisades Fire Impact
03:01 Navigating Insurance Challenges Post-Fire
06:04 Understanding Additional Living Expenses
09:02 Total Losses and Rebuilding Challenges
12:11 The Importance of Documentation and Digital Scans
14:59 The Long Road to Recovery
17:53 The Future of Rebuilding in Affected Areas
29:41 The Impact of Wildfires on Communities
31:58 New Legislation and Insurance Replacement Policies
34:28 Understanding Insurance Limits and Underinsurance
36:39 The Importance of Accurate Insurance Coverage
41:05 Annual Policy Reviews and Homeowner Responsibilities
43:45 Risk Transfer and the Value of Insurance
44:25 Mortgage Implications After a Loss
48:04 Navigating Financial Challenges Post-Wildfire
51:34 The Ongoing Need for Awareness and Preparedness

Takeaways

The Palisades Fire has created a complex recovery situation for homeowners.
Insurance companies respond differently to claims, complicating the process.
Homeowners must advocate for their specific needs during recovery.
Environmental contaminants pose new challenges for cleaning and restoration.
Patience is essential when dealing with insurance claims post-fire.
Additional living expenses can be negotiated with insurance companies.
Total losses present unique challenges in the rebuilding process.
Documentation, including digital scans, is crucial for claims.
Communication with insurance adjusters must be documented to avoid issues later.
Rebuilding in affected areas will take time and may be chaotic. People are selling their homes due to the impact of wildfires.
New legislation allows homeowners to buy new properties without land value deductions.
Many homeowners are underinsured, leading to financial challenges after a loss.
Insurance policies often do not reflect the true cost of rebuilding.
Homeowners should conduct annual reviews of their insurance policies.
Extended replacement costs should not be relied upon for coverage calculations.
Insurance is a risk transfer tool that protects homeowners financially.
Mortgage companies typically hold insurance payouts in trust accounts during rebuilding.
Some homeowners are considering selling their lots after a loss.
Awareness and preparedness are crucial for homeowners in wildfire-prone areas.

California’s Homeowners Insurance is in Crisis

Here’s What You Need to Know In this episode of All Things Wildfire, OP Almaraz sits down with Robert Feldman, CEO of WOWS Insurance, to break down the skyrocketing premiums, shrinking coverage options, and the wildfire-driven shakeup hitting California's insurance market.

Robert Feldman is an insurance professional with nearly 25 years of experience. Robert’s specialty is insurance in fire zones and hard to place risks. As an industry professional, Robert has served as a speaker at the California Association of Realtors. Robert travels the state educating realtors about how to secure insurance for homes that are deemed uninsurable. Robert serves on many task forces and insurance panels, working directly with senior leadership of many insurance carriers to solve the state’s current insurance crisis. To that end, Robert is the founder of WOWS Insurance Services, designed to deliver insurance solutions for large homes that struggle to secure insurance in California.

OP and Robert dive into the WOWS Insurance program, a bold initiative aiming to transform how high-risk homes stay insured.

You’ll learn:

Why fire hardening is no longer optional

The difference between admitted vs. non-admitted insurance

What the California FAIR Plan doesn’t cover

The hidden power of realtors in keeping homes insurable

Why neighbor collaboration and annual mitigation are now essential

Whether you're a homeowner, broker, or real estate pro — this episode is your wake-up call.

Subscribe for more wildfire defense strategies and real estate risk insights.

What if we could detect and suppress wildfires within minutes—not hours? In this episode of All Things Wildfire, we sit down with Carsten Brinkschulte, CEO of Dryad Networks, to explore the cutting-edge technology redefining wildfire defense. From solar-powered IoT sensors that detect fires in their earliest stages to SilverGuard, an autonomous drone system poised to revolutionize fire suppression, this conversation dives deep into the future of wildfire resilience.

We uncover how parametric insurance could reshape wildfire risk models and why collaboration between tech innovators and insurance providers is essential. Carsten shares Dryad’s bold vision: a world where wildfires are extinguished before they can spread—using AI, sound wave suppression, and a fast-reacting web of intelligent systems.

Key Takeaways: Dryad’s SilverNet detects ignition in minutes—before smoke is even visible. 85% of wildfires are caused by human activity, increasing the need for early intervention. Parametric insurance may unlock faster claims and incentivize prevention tech. Autonomous drones and sound wave suppression may be the future of firefighting. A call for industry collaboration to achieve fully integrated wildfire response systems. If you're in wildfire prevention, insurance, or technology—this is a must-listen episode.

In this conversation, OP Almaraz and Paul Brady discuss the complexities of wildfire risk and insurance. Paul shares his unique background in wildfire mitigation and how it informs his work at Green Shield Risk Solutions. They explore the challenges of modeling wildfire risk compared to other perils, the importance of understanding wildfire behavior, and the innovative solutions being developed to assess and mitigate these risks. The discussion emphasizes the need for better communication and understanding between insurance providers and homeowners regarding wildfire risks and safety measures. In this conversation, Paul Brady and OP Almaraz discuss the complexities of insurance coverage in wildfire-prone areas, emphasizing the importance of community efforts, vegetation management, and the role of designations like Firewise. They explore the challenges faced by homeowners with high-value properties, the dynamics of the real estate market, and the future of insurance models in the context of increasing wildfire risks. Innovations in insurance products aimed at high-value homes are also highlighted, along with the need for standardized mitigation practices to restore confidence in the insurance market.

Highlights:

• Paul Brady has a unique background in wildfire mitigation and insurance.
• There is a significant gap in the insurance industry's understanding of wildfire risk.
• Wildfire risk modeling is more complex than modeling for other perils like floods.
• Wildfire behavior is influenced by topography, weather, and fuels.
• The radiant heat from a wildfire can cause significant damage to nearby structures.
• Green Shield Risk Solutions aims to make homes more insurable against wildfires.
• Their technology utilizes updated aerial imagery for risk assessment.
• Homeowners can order wildfire risk reports directly from Green Shield.
• Defensible space around properties is crucial for wildfire safety.
• Community efforts are essential in mitigating wildfire risks. HOAs can benefit from hiring firms to visualize community impact.
• Firewise designation can positively influence insurance coverage.
• Reducing vegetation can lower risk assessment models over time.
• High-value properties face unique insurance challenges post-wildfire.
• The real estate market is affected by insurance availability and risk perception.
• Wildfire risk is becoming a nationwide concern, not just localized.
• Insurance companies are hesitant to insure properties in high-risk areas.
• Standardizing mitigation practices is crucial for restoring insurance confidence.
• Innovative insurance products are being developed for high-value homes.
• Community efforts in wildfire mitigation can lead to better insurance outcomes.

This episode of All Things Wildfire serves as both a wake-up call and a guidepost for navigating wildfire disasters. Remember, preparation and community effort are key to reducing future risks. For more tips and updates, follow us on social media and visit our website.

In this episode of All Things Wildfire, we explore Wildfire Mitigation and Prevention for Community Managers, a crucial topic for those overseeing managed communities. Join Rich Snyder (Retired Fire Captain, Sierra Madre Fire Department) as they discuss best practices for reducing wildfire risks, improving insurability, and implementing effective fire prevention strategies.

This course provides Community Managers with essential knowledge and strategies for wildfire mitigation and prevention in managed communities. Participants will learn best practices, insurance considerations, and practical methods to reduce wildfire risk and protect properties.

Course Modules:

1. Introduction to Wildfire Risk
   • Overview of wildfire threats to managed communities
   • Importance of proactive mitigation strategies
2. Best Practices for Wildfire Prevention
   • Community-wide strategies
   • Resident education and engagement
   • Creating and maintaining defensible spaces
3. Insurance Considerations
   • Dealing with rate increases
   • Strategies to improve insurability
   • Working with insurance providers
4. The Community Manager's Role
   • Coordinating mitigation efforts
   • Communication with residents and board members
   • Implementing and enforcing fire safety policies
5. Wildfire Mitigation Techniques
   • Home hardening strategies
   • Vegetation management in individual properties and common areas
   • Long-term fire retardant applications
6. Understanding Wildfire Damage
   • How most homes are damaged during wildfires
   • Preventing secondary damage (water systems, etc.)

To earn CAMICB continuing education credits for this course:

1. Listen for the 4-digit code announced throughout the podcast.
2. Visit allthingswildfire.com/cecredits.
3. Submit the code in the form to verify completion.

This episode is packed with actionable insights that will help community managers make informed decisions and protect the properties they oversee. Tune in now and take the next step in wildfire preparedness!

This episode of All Things Wildfire serves as both a wake-up call and a guidepost for navigating wildfire disasters. Remember, preparation and