FAIR Plan Guide
State FAIR Plans Explained
State FAIR Plans provide basic fire coverage as a last resort for homeowners who cannot find insurance in the standard market. Here is what you need to know about using them effectively.
State FAIR Plans (Fair Access to Insurance Requirements) are state-mandated insurance pools that provide basic fire coverage to property owners who cannot obtain coverage in the standard market. As major insurers have withdrawn from high-risk wildfire areas, FAIR Plan enrollment has surged across the western United States. Understanding what FAIR Plans cover, what they do not cover, and how to use them effectively is essential for homeowners in high-risk areas.
Insure Pacific helps homeowners navigate FAIR Plan applications and find appropriate supplemental coverage to fill the significant gaps that FAIR Plans leave. As an independent agency, we also continue to shop specialty markets on your behalf — because the FAIR Plan should be a bridge to better coverage, not a permanent solution.
If you are considering the FAIR Plan or need help finding coverage, call Insure Pacific at (541) 238-7775 or request a free quote online. Our agents can help you understand your options and find the most comprehensive coverage available for your property.
Which States Have FAIR Plans and What Do They Cover?
California's FAIR Plan is the largest and most well-known state FAIR Plan. It provides basic dwelling coverage for fire, lightning, internal explosion, and smoke damage. It does not include liability coverage, additional living expense coverage, or personal property coverage unless specifically added. California FAIR Plan enrollment has surged to over 400,000 policies as major carriers have withdrawn from high-risk areas.
Oregon's FAIR Plan provides basic fire coverage for Oregon property owners who have been declined by at least one admitted carrier. Like California's plan, it provides only basic dwelling coverage — no liability, no ALE, and no personal property unless added. Oregon homeowners using the FAIR Plan should pair it with a Difference in Conditions (DIC) policy to fill these critical gaps.
Washington, Nevada, Arizona, and Colorado do not have state FAIR Plans. Homeowners in these states who cannot find coverage in the standard market must rely on surplus lines carriers and specialty wildfire insurers. This makes access to an independent agent with specialty market relationships particularly important in these states.
Montana and other western states have varying FAIR Plan availability. The National Association of FAIR Plans maintains a directory of state FAIR Plans and their coverage terms. Insure Pacific can help homeowners in any western state understand their FAIR Plan options and find appropriate supplemental coverage.
Western States and Their FAIR Plan Status
What FAIR Plans Cover — and What They Don't
FAIR Plans provide basic fire coverage but leave significant gaps that require supplemental coverage.
What FAIR Plans Cover
Basic dwelling coverage for fire, lightning, internal explosion, and smoke damage. Some plans allow optional additions for personal property and extended perils.
What FAIR Plans Don't Cover
Liability protection, additional living expense (temporary housing), personal property (unless added), theft, water damage, and other standard homeowners coverages.
Difference in Conditions (DIC) Policy
A supplemental policy that fills FAIR Plan gaps — adding liability, ALE, personal property, and other standard coverages. Essential for FAIR Plan users.
FAIR Plan Cost
FAIR Plans are typically more expensive than standard market coverage on a per-coverage-dollar basis. They should be viewed as a temporary bridge, not a long-term solution.
Dwelling Limit Adequacy
FAIR Plan dwelling limits must be set at full replacement cost — the same requirement as standard policies. Underinsurance is a significant risk for FAIR Plan users.
Application Process
FAIR Plan applications are submitted through licensed insurance agents. Insure Pacific can help you apply correctly and ensure your application is complete.
Why Homeowners Choose Insure Pacific for FAIR Plan Guidance
Expert navigation of FAIR Plan applications, DIC coverage, and ongoing specialty market shopping.
FAIR Plan Application Expertise
We help homeowners apply for FAIR Plan coverage correctly and ensure applications are complete and accurate.
DIC Coverage Sourcing
We find appropriate Difference in Conditions policies to fill the critical gaps that FAIR Plans leave — particularly liability and ALE coverage.
Ongoing Market Shopping
We continue shopping specialty markets on your behalf while you are on the FAIR Plan — because better coverage may become available as your risk profile changes.
Risk Mitigation Guidance
We advise on home hardening and defensible space improvements that can improve your insurability and eventually allow you to leave the FAIR Plan.
Independent Advocacy
We work for you, not for any insurance company — giving us the freedom to find the most comprehensive coverage available at the most competitive price.
50+ Carrier Access
We shop admitted carriers, surplus lines markets, and specialty wildfire insurers — finding alternatives to the FAIR Plan whenever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about state FAIR Plans
More Wildfire Insurance Resources
Explore wildfire insurance options by state and learn more about navigating the market.
Get in Touch
Ready to protect what matters most? Contact us today for a no-obligation insurance review. Our experienced agents are here to help you find the right coverage for your needs.
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