Protect Your Monterey County Home—Get Reliable Home & Fire Insurance Today
Wildfires and carrier withdrawals have made it harder than ever to find dependable home and fire insurance in Monterey County. Whether living in the heart of Salinas, Carmel Valley, or Castroville, Swyft understands the unique risks facing every part of our region
Why Swyft Insurance?
Monterey Credit Union collaboration and member benefit
We work with vetted and trusted carriers who will compete to get the best rate for you
You don’t pay unless we can help you save
Live US-based operators and licensed agents to help you and answer your questions
Want Even More Savings and Better Protection?
Many people don’t realize they may be missing out on additional savings or are carrying gaps in their coverage. With a comprehensive policy review, we’ll look at all your insurance—from car and home to life—and make sure every part of your protection is up to date and as cost-effective as possible. Our experts will help identify coverage gaps, update your policies for recent life changes, and find possible discounts across all lines of insurance
We work with multiple trusted insurance providers like these to get you the best rate.
Home and Fire Insurance Frequently Asked Questions
Most standard homeowners insurance policies do cover damage from fire and wildfires. However, in high-risk areas—such as many parts of California—some major carriers have reduced, excluded, or limited wildfire coverage. Always review your specific policy documents and speak to your agent to confirm coverage.
he California FAIR Plan is the insurer of last resort for homeowners who cannot get coverage elsewhere. It offers basic fire insurance, but often at higher premiums and with less comprehensive coverage than traditional homeowners policies. If you’re denied fire and home insurance in the private market, the FAIR Plan may be your only option.
Ongoing wildfire risk and recent large losses have caused major insurance companies to raise premiums or restrict new policies in high-risk areas. Costs to rebuild homes have also increased, further driving up insurance prices, especially in wildfire-prone zones like Monterey County and much of California.
Start shopping immediately for other private coverage. If you’re unable to secure a private policy, apply for the California FAIR Plan. You may also contact the state insurance commissioner for guidance or to file a complaint. Avoid letting your policy lapse, as securing a new one may be more difficult.
Maintain defensible space around your home by removing dry brush/fuel, use fire-resistant building materials, and stay informed of your fire hazard severity zone. Taking these steps may make you more insurable or qualify you for reduced premiums if you’re in a high-risk area.
Dwelling coverage pays to rebuild or repair your home and attached structures (decks, garages) after fire damage. Ensure your policy limit is high enough to cover local rebuild costs, which have risen sharply in recent years.
Yes, standard policies usually provide personal property coverage for belongings, and additional living expenses (ALE) coverage, which pays for temporary accommodation, food, and expenses if your home is unlivable after a fire.
Condo policies usually cover the inside of your unit; the building exterior is covered by the HOA’s policy. Renters insurance covers your personal belongings but not the building structure[5].
Homes in areas mapped as “high fire hazard” often face higher premiums or are excluded from traditional coverage. Check your home’s current designation and work with your insurer or agent to identify possible mitigation actions[3].
If the FAIR Plan is your only option, you may purchase a separate Difference in Conditions (DIC) policy to fill gaps in coverage, such as liability and theft protection that the FAIR Plan doesn’t provide[5].