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CA Department of Insurance
CA Department of Insurance
CA Department of Insurance

Consumer Alert on Preparing for Winter Storms

041023 - Consumer Alert Orange copy-1 (1)

Consumer Alert on Preparing for Winter Storms

In preparation for the arrival of a series of winter storms it is crucial California residents understand the extent to which their property insurance covers this type of damage.

Many people may not be aware that homeowners’ and commercial insurance policies typically exclude flood, mudslide, debris flow, and other similar disasters. Further, the California FAIR Plan, currently does not cover any storm-related damage unless a consumer has purchased a supplemental “difference in conditions” (DIC) policy from another insurance company. Experts at the Department of Insurance suggest Californians, including those in traditionally low-risk areas, take the time to assess your flood risk today and determine if you need coverage before the next storm.

If you have a question about your insurance or a dispute with your insurance company, please call us at 1-800-927-4357 or use the Consumer Hotline Chat button below. We hope the information listed below can help you understand some of the key flood insurance coverage terms that typically apply, prepare you for the process of making and settling a claim, and help you to avoid some of the pitfalls that can occur along the way.

Below are a number of resources available for your use. Please feel free to share all resources with anyone who may be interested in receiving it, including partners in insurance, public safety, emergency management, media and elsewhere.

Additional resources:


Led by Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, the California Department of Insurance is the consumer protection agency for the nation's largest insurance marketplace and safeguards all of the state’s consumers by fairly regulating the insurance industry. Under the Commissioner’s direction, the Department uses its authority to protect Californians from insurance rates that are excessive, inadequate, or unfairly discriminatory, oversee insurer solvency to pay claims, set standards for agents and broker licensing, perform market conduct reviews of insurance companies, resolve consumer complaints, and investigate and prosecute insurance fraud. Consumers are urged to call 1-800-927-4357 with any questions or contact us at www.insurance.ca.gov via webform or online chat. Non-media inquiries should be directed to the Consumer Hotline at 800-927-4357. Teletypewriter (TTY), please dial 800-482-4833.

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