Kingstone Partners with ZestyAI to Enhance Wildfire Risk Assessment in California

Kingstone Companies, Inc., a property and casualty insurance holding company, has announced its partnership with ZestyAI to utilize the Z-FIRE™ wildfire risk model. This move comes as the New York-based company prepares to enter the California homeowners market on an excess and surplus lines (E&S) basis, starting the second quarter of 2026. Kingstone plans to implement a data-driven approach in its California operations, reflecting strategies that have previously delivered positive financial outcomes in its existing markets.

Integral to this approach is ZestyAI’s Z-FIRE model, which offers granular wildfire risk assessment by examining specific property characteristics such as defensible space, building materials, topography, and vegetation. This detailed analysis enables Kingstone to manage risk assessment with high precision, particularly in wildfire-prone regions, thereby enhancing both their underwriting precision and rating processes.

"Entering California extends our disciplined, data-driven practices proven in New York," stated Sarah (Minlei) Chen, Senior Vice President, Chief Actuary, and Head of Product Management at Kingstone. "The Z-FIRE model equips us with essential wildfire intelligence for precise rating and underwriting in this complex market."

Attila Toth, Founder and CEO of ZestyAI, highlighted the significance of advanced analytics in the industry. He noted, "Wildfire risk necessitates the adoption of advanced analytics and AI-driven decision making, offering insurers the confidence to strategically grow and manage exposure."

Z-FIRE is not new to the industry; it has been successfully incorporated into rate filings by carriers in California. For Kingstone, this venture into the California market aligns with recent operational and underwriting enhancements, benefiting from the flexibility the E&S market provides. This includes using advanced models to set rates that meet margin goals and enforce strict underwriting protocols, while initially employing a 30% quota share to limit exposure.

Kingstone operates primarily through Kingstone Insurance Company (KICO) and holds licenses in several states, including New York and New Jersey. The expansion strategy is supported by sophisticated underwriting platforms designed to capture new market opportunities. ZestyAI, recognized for its machine learning and comprehensive data analysis, supports risk assessment and decision-making across the insurance sector, enhancing underwriting processes and pricing accuracy.

This strategic initiative reflects Kingstone’s commitment to leveraging technology for intelligent risk management as it navigates the complexities of new market entry.