If you’ve been shopping for homeowners insurance in California, you may have come across a term you’re not familiar with: Excess and Surplus Lines Insurance—also known as E&S insurance. While it’s traditionally been used for high-risk or hard-to-insure properties, a growing number of California homeowners with standard homes are now ending up with E&S policies.
Why? It’s not because their homes necessarily carry a high risk, but because California’s admitted insurance market is volatile with the exit of many traditional insurers. In this blog, we’ll break down what E&S insurance is, why it’s becoming more common in California, and what you need to know as a homeowner navigating today’s evolving insurance market.
What is Excess and Surplus Lines (E&S) Insurance?
Excess and Surplus Lines Insurance is a category of property insurance for homes or risks that admitted insurance companies decline to cover. E&S carriers are considered non-admitted insurers, meaning they operate under specific regulations different from admitted insurers.
Historically, E&S was used to insure unique homes, high-risk properties, or special circumstances—like beachfront mansions, historic homes, or homes in wildfire zones. But now, many homeowners with relatively standard homes are turning to E&S coverage simply because fewer admitted carriers are writing policies in California.
Why Are So Many California Homeowners Being Moved to E&S Insurance?
Over the past few years, California’s home insurance market has been under stress. A combination of rising wildfire risks, climate-related disasters, and insurance regulation challenges has made it difficult for traditional insurance companies (admitted carriers) to offer new homeowners policies.
That’s left thousands of homeowners across the state—many of them with no unusual risks—with no choice but to secure a non-admitted E&S policy.
Common reasons include:
- Limited availability from admitted insurers in certain ZIP codes
- Insurance non-renewals due to wildfire exposure or rising reinsurance costs
- Restricted new business in high-risk or even moderate-risk regions
So even if your home is “standard,” you may still need an E&S policy due to California’s current insurance market conditions.
What’s the Difference Between Admitted and Non-Admitted (E&S) Insurance?
Understanding the difference between admitted vs. non-admitted insurance is key when choosing a policy.
A common misconception is that E&S insurance is “unregulated.” While it’s true that E&S carriers are not subject to the same filing and pricing restrictions, they are still regulated through surplus lines laws and must meet strict financial solvency requirements.
Why Choose an E&S Policy in California?
Given the lack of admitted insurance options, E&S coverage may be your only path to insuring your home—and that’s okay. Today’s E&S policies are often comparable to admitted ones in terms of coverage, especially when arranged by a knowledgeable insurance broker.
Here are some key benefits of E&S homeowners insurance:
- ✅ Access to insurance when admitted carriers are unavailable
- ✅ Customizable coverage for properties with specific needs or higher value
- ✅ Faster policy creation without the delays of state approval requirements
Common Concerns About E&S Home Insurance
If you’re new to the concept of E&S insurance, you might have concerns like:
- “Is E&S insurance safe?”
- Yes. While it’s not backed by a state guaranty fund, reputable E&S carriers must meet financial stability standards and are regulated under state surplus lines laws.
- “What if the E&S insurer goes bankrupt?”
- That’s why it’s important to work with brokers who only partner with financially secure carriers, typically those with strong AM Best ratings.
- “Will my policy be different from a standard one?”
- E&S policies can be very similar to admitted policies in coverage, but they also offer greater flexibility—which can be helpful for homes with unique features or values.
Is E&S Insurance Only for California?
While California is currently facing the most severe challenges in the homeowners insurance market, other states are also beginning to experience similar limitations. For example, Texas is seeing increased demand for E&S options, and future insurance offerings in that state may also be issued on an E&S basis.
That said, this blog is most relevant to California homeowners navigating the shift toward non-admitted coverage.
Need Help Navigating E&S Insurance in California?
Understanding your options can feel overwhelming—especially when you’re trying to protect your home and family. That’s why it’s important to stay informed and work with experts who know the ins and outs of California’s home insurance market. That’s where Bamboo comes in – we’re in California for good with both admitted and non-admitted capacity. Click here to start your California homeowners insurance quote now.
Bamboo Insurance is proud to offer enhanced home safety by providing Whisker Labs’ Ting fire prevention sensors and service for free to eligible customers. Ting helps protect families, pets, and homes from devastating electrical fires by detecting and addressing hidden electrical hazards before they escalate. This year, Bamboo Insurance will provide Ting at no cost to at least 5,000 Bamboo Insurance policyholders, strengthening their commitment to protecting what matters most.
“Providing peace of mind is at the heart of everything we do” said John Chu, Bamboo Insurance CEO. “By offering Ting fire prevention at no cost to our policyholders, we’re taking proactive steps to help prevent home fires before they start. It’s not only a wise business decision, but more importantly, it is an investment the reinforces our commitment to customer safety.”
Ting is an innovative plug-in sensor and fire prevention service that monitors for hidden hazards that lead to electrical fires within a home’s wiring, devices, and utility equipment. If a hazard is detected, Ting alerts the homeowner and leads them through every repair step. Beyond fire prevention, Ting also provides real-time alerts for power outages and even provides assistance for frozen pipe prevention as part of its commitment to helping keep families safe and informed.
Bamboo Insurance is the latest insurer to adopt Ting, joining a fast-growing group embracing this proactive technology to reduce risk and improve customer safety. Ting has a strong track record—preventing 4 out of 5 home fires—and is already protecting over 1 million homes, having helped more than 18,000 customers avoid potentially catastrophic fires.
“We’re thrilled to partner with Bamboo Insurance to bring Ting to even more homes,” shared Bob Marshall, Whisker Labs Co-Founder and CEO. “Our mission is clear: to proactively reduce the risk of home fires and deliver safety alerts that provide real value to homeowners. This partnership not only helps keep families safe but also strengthens the relationship between customers, their insurance providers, and agents by offering a preventative, technology-driven solution.”
To be eligible for this offer, customer must have an active homeowners policy placed through Bamboo Insurance, provided such policy is not for a tenant-occupied property and does not have a Difference in Conditions endorsement. Interested members can check full eligibility requirements and enroll online. Eligible customers will receive a free Ting sensor, the Ting app, 3 years of free fire prevention service, and a $1,000 credit for labor repair costs of Ting-identified hazards.
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About Bamboo Insurance
Bamboo Insurance is a modern, customer-focused insurance provider dedicated to simplifying the insurance experience. With a technology-driven approach, Bamboo Insurance leverages data and innovative solutions to offer personalized coverage that meets the unique needs of each customer. Committed to transparency and exceptional customer service, Bamboo makes it easy to understand, manage, and customize insurance policies. Through efficient processes and a user-friendly digital platform, Bamboo Insurance is transforming the way people think about and interact with their insurance.
For more information, visit www.bambooinsurance.com.
Bamboo Ide8 Insurance Services (Bamboo) is Managing General Agency licensed to sell property-casualty insurance products; NPN 18657046; CA License #0M31082.
About Whisker Labs
Whisker Labs develops cutting-edge sensor technology to protect families, homes, and communities by predicting and helping prevent electrical fires while also monitoring the resiliency and safety of the U.S. electrical grid. Through a single, DIY sensor plugged into a wall outlet, Ting, Whisker Labs’ flagship solution enables intelligent detection, localization, and mitigation of hazards before they can start a fire. As one of the fastest growing grid IoT networks, Ting is proven to prevent 80% of electrical fires, reducing home fire losses and saving lives across the U.S. every day. For more information, please visit www.whiskerlabs.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, X, Instagram and Facebook.
We all know the phrase, “there’s no use in crying over spilled milk”, but what happens when it’s your smartphone that takes a spill? Thanks to our partnership with bolt, you don’t have to worry in the first place. Whether it’s cracks, liquid damage, accidental damage, or mechanical failures, you’re covered. Yep, even you who managed to shatter your screen AND drop your phone into the bottom of the pool… for the second time this year.
Why Purchase Smartphone Protection?
The short answer? The cost to replace a broken smartphone can range from $400 to well over $1,000. A simple cracked screen repair can cost as much as $350. It makes sense to protect them. bolt is an easy, budget-friendly way to protect all the smartphones in your household for just $99 per year. That’s right – every smartphone in your home, covered for cracked screens, accidental drops, liquid damage, and mechanical failures at just $99. Whether you’re juggling kids’ devices or trying to avoid an unexpected repair bill, bolt x Bamboo has you covered.
Does that sound too good to be true? It’s not! The claims process is a breeze – they’re processed and approved by bolt’s state-of-the-art system in under one minute in most cases! Plus, the deductibles are affordable. With up to two claims allowed per year, a $1,000 limit per claim, 9,000+ repair centers, replacement for irreparable devices, and cash reimbursement when a device cannot be repaired or replaced, bolt is a great way to ensure your family’s devices stay in top shape without breaking the bank. No more worrying about costly repair bills or scrambling for money when accidents happen.
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Bamboo Insurance, a trusted customer-focused insurance provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Incline P&C Group, a leading insurance program carrier. This partnership leverages Bamboo’s advanced underwriting platform and Incline’s superior financial strength to bring additional capacity to the California market. Bamboo has established itself as the premier California underwriting franchise since launching in 2018, and will begin underwriting admitted and non-admitted homeowners programs with Incline effective immediately.
Leveraging technology and data, Bamboo has been a solution for thousands of Californians since 2018. With this partnership, Bamboo and Incline are well-positioned to help more customers navigate the complexities of property insurance while delivering on a promise to provide transparent, reliable, and customer-centered solutions.
“The challenges facing the California insurance market are undisputed. The Bamboo team takes great pride in finding solutions that meet the needs of our customers in these difficult times.” said John Chu, CEO of Bamboo Insurance. “This partnership will provide affordable insurance coverage for hundreds of thousands of Californians in the coming years. At Bamboo, we want California to know that we were here before the crisis, have remained open, and are committed to being a solution in future – we are here for good. The Incline partnership is a major step forward in delivering on that commitment.”
“Incline is excited to partner with Bamboo, an industry leader with vast experience in the homeowner’s space.” said Incline President and CEO Chris McClellan. “Such characteristics pair well with our team’s experience, underwriting discipline and premier risk management expertise. We look forward to a long and productive partnership.”
California homeowners can start their quote by visiting bambooinsurance.com or by calling (833) 922-6266. Independent agents can learn more about offering the product by emailing bamboo@bambooinsurance.com.
Accessing your insurance policy documents should be simple, fast, and secure. That’s why we’re excited to announce the launch of our brand-new Online Document Portal, designed to make accessing and managing your insurance policies easier than ever. If you’re tired of sifting through piles of paper or waiting for documents to arrive in the mail, our digital portal is here to streamline the process and give you more control.
If you are ready to sign up for the portal now, just click here to fill out the form or call us at (833) 922-6266
Want to understand why to use the portal? Keep reading and we’ll walk you through the top 6 benefits of signing up for our Online Document Portal.
1. Access Your Documents Anytime, Anywhere
With our new Online Document Portal, you can access digital copies of your insurance policies, billing information, and other essential documents whenever you need them. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, all your important documents are just a click away. No more waiting for paper copies to arrive in the mail—everything is right at your fingertips.
2. Say Goodbye to Paperwork
Why deal with the hassle of paper documents when you can manage everything digitally? By signing up for our portal, you’ll no longer have to worry about losing or misplacing important paperwork. Everything you need will be stored securely ready for you to access or download at any time. It’s a paperless solution that helps reduce clutter and keeps your documents organized.
3. Instant Access in Emergencies
Emergencies don’t give you a heads-up, which is why having quick access to your insurance documents is crucial. Whether you need to provide documentation or need to file a claim, our Online Document Portal allows you to retrieve your policy details in real-time. You can quickly check your coverage, and get the help you need without any delays.
4. Environmental Benefits
By transitioning to an online document portal, you’re helping the environment too! Going paperless reduces waste and eliminates the need for printed materials. No more paper stacks piling up in your home, and no more waiting for documents to be mailed. You’re not only simplifying your life, but you’re also making a positive impact on the planet.
5. Enhanced Security and Privacy
When it comes to your personal information, security is paramount. Our Online Document Portal is equipped with the latest encryption technology to protect your sensitive data. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your documents are stored safely.
6. Simple, User-Friendly Interface
We’ve designed our Online Document Portal with you in mind. It’s intuitive, easy to navigate, and accessible even if you’re not tech-savvy. Whether you’re accessing your documents on your desktop computer or mobile device, you’ll find it simple. No confusing menus, no unnecessary steps—just a straightforward experience that gets you what you need, fast.
Why Sign Up Today?
The launch of our new Online Document Portal is a game-changer in how you manage your insurance documents. By signing up, you’ll gain more control, enjoy greater convenience, and benefit from enhanced security and efficiency. Whether you’re looking to save time, reduce paperwork, or simply make your life easier, this digital solution has something for everyone.
Signing up is quick and easy—just click here or call us at (833) 922-6266 to start enjoying all the benefits of our Online Document Portal . Take the first step toward simplifying your insurance management and unlocking a more efficient, secure way to keep track of your policies.
Choosing the perfect gift can be challenging, but we’ve got you more than covered! Whether it’s for someone new to their property or a long-time resident, the right gift can make a lasting impact by combining thoughtfulness with practicality. This holiday season, let the spirit of “Peace on Earth” translate into peace of mind with gifts that enhance safety, convenience, and comfort at home.
Here are 9 must-have gifts for homeowners that blend function with flair, ensuring a stress-free and secure living environment:
- Smart/Connected Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors ($$)Why we suggest it:
- Instant Notifications: Receive alerts directly to your phone if smoke or carbon monoxide is detected.
- Smart Home Integration: Seamlessly connects with other smart devices.
- Dual Detection: Monitors both smoke and CO2, offering added safety.
- Insurance Benefits: Potential discounts on homeowners insurance.
- Connected Home Security System ($-$$$$)
Why we suggest it:- Crime Deterrence: A visible security system can prevent break-ins.
- Remote Monitoring: Monitor your home from anywhere via your phone or tablet.
- Emergency Assistance: Automatic notifications to medical or police services in case of an emergency.
- Smart Alerts: Receive instant updates on unusual activity.
- Risk Reduction: Early detection of potential threats like fire, break-ins, or even plumbing issues.
- Insurance Benefits: Potential discounts on homeowners insurance.
- Connected Water Sensor with Automatic Water Shut-Off ($$$)
Why we suggest it:- Prevent Property Damage: Detect water leaks early to avoid costly damage.
- Potential Savings: Help reduce water bills by detecting leaks quickly.
- Health Benefits: Prevent mold or mildew growth by stopping leaks at the source.
- Increase Property Value: Smart home features are attractive to potential buyers.
- Insurance Perks: Potential discounts on homeowners insurance.
- Smart/Connected Gas Leak Detector ($-$$)
Why we suggest it:- Instant Notifications: Alerts you to gas leaks, preventing potential danger.
- Precise Leak Location: Identifies the exact spot of the leak.
- Automated Safety: Some models can automatically shut off gas supply in case of a detected leak.
- Smart Home Integration: Works with other devices in your home for comprehensive safety.
- Insurance Perks: Potential discounts on homeowners insurance.
- Smart/Connected Thermostat ($-$$)
Why we suggest it:- Energy Efficiency: Adjusts temperature settings based on occupancy and time of day, helping save on energy costs.
- Remote Control: Manage your home’s temperature from anywhere via your smartphone.
- Risk Reduction: Helps prevent frozen pipes and other temperature-related issues.
- Insurance Perks: Potential discounts on homeowners insurance.
- Surge Protector ($)
Why we suggest it:- Risk Reduction: Protects electronics and appliances from power surges caused by storms or electrical issues.
- Affordable and Effective: A budget-friendly gift with long-term benefits.
- Prevents Damage: Safeguards valuable gadgets and home systems.
- Fireproof Safe ($-$$$$)
Why we suggest it:- Protect Valuables: Keep important documents, jewelry, and other valuable items safe from theft or fire.
- Peace of Mind: Secure storage for everything that matters most, especially in the event of a disaster.
- Variety of Sizes: Choose from small, personal safes or larger options for family heirlooms.
- Connected Video Doorbell ($-$$)
Why we suggest it:- Enhanced Security: View and interact with visitors from anywhere via your smartphone.
- Smart Integration: Pairs with your home security system and other smart devices.
- Remote Monitoring: Receive alerts when someone is at your door, even if you’re not home.
- Insurance Benefits: Potential for discounts on homeowner’s insurance with added security features.
- Smart Door Locks ($-$$)
Why we suggest it:- Increased Security: Keyless entry ensures no one can “pick” your lock.
- Remote Access: Lock or unlock doors from anywhere—great for managing access for guests or service personnel.
- Convenience: Eliminate the need for physical keys, reducing the risk of losing them.
These thoughtful and practical gifts go beyond just making life easier—they enhance the safety and security of a home, reduce risk, and may even lower insurance premiums. Whether you’re gifting to a first-time homeowner or someone who’s been in their home for years, these items are sure to make a lasting impact.
Give the gift of peace of mind this holiday season, and help your loved ones safeguard their homes and everything inside.