Appeal of Wildfire Risk Score Matthew Mazerik asked 1 month ago
Appeal of Wildfire Risk Score

I have a CA Fair Plan Wildfire Risk Level 2 score of 7, while both of my neighbors on the same road have Level 2 scores of 3. Consequently, my calculated premium is nearly twice theirs. Property characteristics are identical to my neighbors’ as far as high surrounding vegetation, high slope, and high neighboring vegetation, as explained in the Impacting Factors box for my Risk Score. What are the recommended steps for filing a successful appeal of my Level 2 score?

1 Answers
Answer for Appeal of Wildfire Risk Score Alexis Ricci Staff answered 4 weeks ago
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Hi Matthew,

We feel your frustration at the potential injustice for the FAIR Plan Risk Score Assessment. We would recommend that you review UP’s WRAP resource center, which you can find here:

https://uphelp.org/preparedness/wrap-resource-center/

You can also try appealing your CA Fair Plan Wildfire Risk Level 2 score by considering the following:

1. Gather Documentation

Obtain detailed property survey/measurements showing distances to vegetation

Take photographs demonstrating identical conditions to your neighbors

Collect your neighbors’ risk assessment details (if they’re willing to share)

Document any recent defensible space improvements or vegetation management

2. Request Data Review

Contact CA Fair Plan directly to request a detailed explanation of how your score was calculated

Ask for the specific data points and measurements used for your property

Request the source of their property information (often from third-party vendors like Verisk or CoreLogic)

3. Identify Discrepancies

Compare your property’s recorded characteristics with actual conditions

Look for outdated aerial imagery, incorrect slope measurements, or vegetation data

Check if recent defensible space work wasn’t captured in their assessment

4. File Formal Appeal

Submit a written appeal to CA Fair Plan within their specified timeframe (typically 30-60 days)

Include all supporting documentation, photos, and neighbor comparisons

Request an on-site inspection if the discrepancy is significant

5. Consider Professional Help

Hire a wildfire risk assessment professional or surveyor to provide an independent evaluation

Consult with an insurance attorney familiar with CA Fair Plan appeals if the stakes are high

6. Alternative Options

-Contact the California Department of Insurance if CA Fair Plan doesn’t respond appropriately

-Consider whether recent property improvements might qualify you for risk reduction credits

The key is demonstrating with concrete evidence that your property’s risk factors are materially the same as your neighbors’ lower-scored properties. And if the stakes are high, you may want to consider consulting with an insurance attorney familiar with CA Fair Plan appeals. You can review UP’s professional help directory here: https://uphelp.org/sponsor-location/california/