Austin Klar breaks down three insurance red flags for California home buyers: knob-and-tube wiring that insurers won't cover, roofs over 20-25 years old that trigger denial or higher premiums, and fire risks like being in a fire zone or having overhanging branches, especially in Marin County.
3 things to look out for in a home when trying to figure out if there are any homeowners insurance risks. First up, has the electrical been updated? Homeowners insurers hate knob and tube wiring. If any of it is present, chances are you're not gonna be able to get a homeowners insurance policy on that house. Or if you do get one, they're gonna make you replace it after the close of escrow. Second thing they're on the lookout for, has the roof been replaced in the last 20, 25 years? If not, insurers are either gonna charge more for the policy or not offer a policy at all. And number 3, and this one's more applicable in parts of Marin, are there any fire risks associated associated with the home. Whether that means the home is in a fire zone or there are defensible space issues like branches hanging over a roof, or if there are certain types of plants on the property, is going to impact the insurability of the home. So be on the lookout for those things when you're doing your diligence before making an offer on a property. Follow me for more Bay Area real estate.
