Most people stay with the same home insurer for years. But in recent years and in some areas of the United States, including Washington, homeowners are having to switch to a new insurance company whose name may be unfamiliar. This is happening in part as insurers strategically react to climate change and extreme weather events and large catastrophes. Consumers still have many choices in most areas, with competing insurers vying for business. An insurer that wants to end its relationship with you can either “non renew” you or cancel your policy. Non-renewal means your insurer won’t be issuing a new insurance policy contract when your current one expires. A cancellation is less common and it is when your insurer cancels your coverage during the policy period.

If you get a non-renewal notice from your current insurer, your first step is to contact that insurer and request reconsideration. But if the insurer complied with the law and just does not want you as a customer anymore, start shopping right away for a replacement policy and avoid panicking. Switching to a new insurer has advantages. By comparison shopping, using the Internet and getting help, you may end up with better coverage at the same or even a better price. Lesser-known insurers can be financially healthy and offer good products.

But you do need to research their financial rating and do your best to compare the quality of the coverage, limits, exclusions and deductibles. If you live in the burn area from a prior wildfire, your options may be more limited, and you may end up with less coverage at a higher price. All you can do is look around, find the best option, lock in a policy then continue to check in from time to time on new options. Remember that the home insurance market is dynamic, and new options become available over time.

Under Washington state law (RCW 48.18.2901) an insurance company can non-renew your insurance if you are given 60 days notice and a statement of the actual reasons for the non-renewal. An insurance company is also allowed to non renew your policy when you fail to pay the renewal premium. If you believe you were unfairly or illegally cancelled or non-renewed, you can seek help by contacting the Washington Department of Insurance at 1-800-562-6900 or online at http://www.insurance.wa.gov.

A cancellation ends your insurance coverage before your policy expires. Unlike a nonrenewal, which takes effect at the end of a policy term, a cancellation occurs during the policy period. Washington law generally requires insurers to provide advance written notice and explain the reason for the cancellation. For a fire insurance policy, Washington state law (RCW 48.53.040) sets out specific rules and conditions that must be met for an insurer to cancel a policy, including a description of the specific facts justifying the cancellation. If you receive a cancellation notice, review it carefully and contact your insurer promptly if you believe the stated reason is inaccurate or can be addressed.

If you do not succeed in getting your current insurer to reinstate or renew your policy, use UP’s buying tips at www.uphelp.org to find a financially healthy company. Make sure to compare “apples to apples” as much as possible by comparing the features that matter. You may find one that’s cheaper and even better than your current policy. Here are some of the key features that matter:

• What is the Coverage A (dwelling limit)? Can it be extended and if so, by how much?
• Are Building Code upgrades covered? Is debris removal included?
• Does the policy pay Replacement value or Actual Cash Value?
• Does the policy limit payment for mold and water damage, and if so, how?
• How long will ALE/Loss of Use benefits be payable and for how much?

The Washington Fair Plan is the state’s “insurer-of-last-resort.” They provide a basic fire insurance policy if you have trouble securing coverage through traditional channels.

United Policyholders (”UP) is a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving insurance consumers since 1991.UP helps solve insurance problems and advocates for fairness in insurance transactions. The organization is funded by foundation grants and donations. Our work is divided into 3 program areas: Roadmap to Recovery™, Roadmap to Preparedness, and Advocacy and Action. We offer free tips, information and resources in print and online at www.uphelp.org. The information presented in this publication is for general informational purposes and should not be taken as legal advice. If you have a specific legal issue or problem, United Policyholders recommends that you consult with an attorney. Guidance on hiring professional help can be found in the “Find Help” section of www.uphelp.org. United Policyholders does not sell insurance or certify, endorse or warrant any of the insurance products, vendors or professionals identified at our website.

Updated August 2026