Placer County faces insurance crisis as residents struggle with rising premiums
- Thousands of Placer County residents are struggling with rising fire insurance premiums, making coverage unaffordable.
- After the 2022 Mosquito Fire, a temporary mandate allowed Foresthill residents to obtain insurance, but it expired after one year, leaving many without coverage.
- County leaders are urging state intervention to address the crisis and help homeowners secure affordable insurance.
Placer County is currently experiencing a significant crisis regarding fire insurance, with many residents facing exorbitant premium increases. This situation has left thousands unable to afford necessary coverage, prompting local leaders to seek intervention from California Governor Gavin Newsom. They are advocating for a state of emergency declaration to address the urgent needs of homeowners in fire-prone areas. The crisis escalated following the 2022 Mosquito Fire, which led to a temporary mandate from the state insurance commissioner requiring companies to provide coverage to residents of Foresthill. However, this mandate was short-lived, lasting only one year, and since its expiration, nearly all residents have lost their insurance coverage. As a result, many homeowners have been forced to turn to the state's FAIR Plan, which is often seen as a last resort for those unable to secure traditional insurance. County officials are actively working to raise awareness about the plight of these residents and are calling on state leaders to take decisive action. Supervisor Cindy Gustafson emphasized the importance of amplifying the voices of affected homeowners and recognizing their efforts to maintain insurability. The county's push for solutions aims to ensure that residents can secure affordable insurance in the face of rising premiums and increasing fire risks.