Growing wildfire risk changes home insurance eligibility for some

The Pacific Northwest’s ongoing battle against wildfires continues to heat up as communities and wilderness areas feel its growing impact. 

Northwest wildfire records continue to topple every few years. It’s not necessarily that there are more wildfires. It’s that they break out earlier in the spring, last later into the fall and, most importantly, grow to larger proportions that encompass much wider swaths of populated land, creating greater risk of catastrophe.  

Traditional ways to reduce wildfire risk aren’t always enough, especially in newer developments that border forests and grasslands. According to National Interagency Fire Center, in 2021 Washington and Oregon were in the top five states for acres burned and the top 10 states for number of fires. 

 Our approach to homes we insure in wildfire risk areas 

Many insurance companies are reducing the number of properties they insure that are highly vulnerable to wildfires due to a variety of factors (climate change, cost inflation, and the increasing number of homes in wildfire areas). After significant consideration, we’ve decided to reduce our higher risk wildfire exposures. This is not a decision we’ve made quickly or taken lightly. 

By having customers work now with companies that are already set up to address higher wildfire risk, they’re less likely to find themselves with a property that’s nearly impossible or prohibitively expensive to insure in the future.  

 How can I find wildfire coverage for my home? 

While PEMCO isn’t alone in making this shift, there are still providers in Washington and Oregon that insure homes in wildfire risk areas.

If you work with a local PEMCO agent, expect them to contact you for next steps. They’re aware of the changes and can discuss coverage options with quality insurance companies serving your area. If you don’t have a relationship with an agent, call PEMCO Agency at 1‑800‑467‑3626, ext. 9311. Our in-house agency can help you find coverage. 

Another option is to contact an independent insurance agent in your area. Independent agents work with multiple insurers and can help you find options.