Daily P&C Insurance News

California Edition

California Headlines

Wildfire Safety & Consumer Protections
January 2026
New California Insurance Laws on the Books in 2026

A new suite of California laws aimed at improving property insurance took effect January 1, 2026, focusing on wildfire safety and consumer protections. The legislation increases transparency, oversight, and customer convenience amid rising climate-driven disasters.[1]

Home Insurance Grants
January 2026
New California Insurance Laws Taking Effect in 2026

The California Safe Homes Act (AB 888) provides state grants for fire-hardening homes, including Zone Zero mitigation like ember-resistant materials. Residential policies renewed after July 1, 2026, must include at least 10% additional building code upgrade coverage.[4]

Disaster Recovery Reform
January 7, 2026
California Bill Would Require Insurer Claims Handling Plans

Senate Bill 876, the Disaster Recovery Reform Act, requires insurers to submit disaster recovery plans for claims handling during emergencies. It doubles penalties for fair claims violations and responds to calls for faster payments after wildfires.[5]

Home Insurance Rates
January 2026
2026 Home Insurance Rates: Will SoCal’s Record-Wet Months Push Premiums Higher?

California home insurance premiums are projected to rise 20% or more by end of 2025 due to regulatory changes allowing catastrophe models and reinsurance pass-through. High-risk Southern California areas face scrutiny, non-renewals, and stricter terms.[6]

Insurance Commissioner Election
January 2026
CCAH Looks Ahead to the 2026 California Insurance Commissioner Election

The 2026 Insurance Commissioner race will impact property/casualty rates, market activity, and FAIR Plan reliance amid wildfire risks and insurer exits. Escalating premiums and nonrenewals have hit affordable housing developers hardest.[8]