California Realtors Form Insurance Task Force to Tackle Homeowner Coverage Crisis

The California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) has established a statewide Insurance Task Force to address the escalating homeowner insurance challenges in California, particularly in fire-prone regions like the San Bernardino Mountain communities. The task force includes industry leaders such as local Realtors Steve Keefe and Brenda Meyer, who bring expertise on the specific insurance issues affecting rural and resort areas with elevated fire risk. Their mission is to evaluate the barriers to insurance availability and affordability, including the effects of state mandates and coverage limitations.

The group will analyze strategies that have been effective in other states to formulate informed policy and industry recommendations. These solutions aim to assist lawmakers and regulatory bodies in crafting responses that alleviate insurance market stress and improve housing affordability. The continued withdrawal of insurers or premium increases in high-risk areas has heightened concerns among homeowners and real estate professionals, underscoring the urgency of this initiative.

The task force will operate through 2025, with findings to be presented to C.A.R. leadership and state policymakers focused on insurance and housing. This effort represents C.A.R.'s proactive engagement in a significant market and regulatory issue impacting homeowners and the real estate sector in California.