When your home insurance won't renew
A notice gives you a deadline. Use all of it.
More homeowners are receiving non-renewal notices, often because of roof age, claims history, wildfire or storm exposure, or an insurer pulling back from an area. It's stressful, but the notice period exists so you can find new coverage before the old policy ends.
Non-renewal and cancellation aren't the same
A non-renewal means the insurer won't offer a new term when the current one ends. A cancellation ends coverage during the term, and insurers can usually only do that for specific reasons, such as non-payment or misrepresentation. Each state sets how much notice is required and what the notice must say.
What to do this week
- Read the reason on the notice. If it's the roof, an inspection finding or a fixable hazard, ask whether fixing it would change the decision.
- Ask for the claims history report the insurer used, and check it for mistakes.
- Start getting quotes straight away. Don't wait until the last few weeks.
- If you have a mortgage, tell your servicer. The lender can place expensive coverage on the home if yours lapses.
If you can't find coverage
Many states run a FAIR plan or similar insurer of last resort for homes the regular market won't cover. These plans often provide more limited coverage, sometimes only for named perils, and may need to be paired with other policies. Your state insurance department can tell you what's available and how to complain if you think the notice broke the rules.
Common questions
Common reasons include roof age or condition, claims history, changes to the insurer's appetite in your area, and inspection findings. The notice should state the reason.
It depends on your state, which sets minimum notice periods. The notice itself should show the date your coverage ends.
Many states have a FAIR plan or similar insurer of last resort. Coverage is often more limited, so ask what it covers and whether you need another policy alongside it.
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This page is general information, not advice about your specific circumstances. A licensed insurance professional can tell you what’s actually available to you.
General information only, not insurance advice. Coverage, availability, and terms vary by insurer and by state, and are subject to underwriting. Quote My Policy LLC connects you with licensed insurance professionals. Nothing here binds coverage.