This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or insurance advice. Bamboo Ide8 Insurance Services (“Bamboo Insurance”) is not affiliated with the administration of this grant program and cannot guarantee approval or fund availability. Grant program details, eligibility requirements, and funding availability are subject to change. Please verify current information and your eligibility through official California state resources and consult with appropriate professionals regarding your specific situation. 

California is stepping up its efforts to help homeowners protect their properties from wildfire risk. The brand-new California Safe Homes grant program is a big part of that push. With the increased frequency and severity of wildfires, state leaders are introducing innovative ways to reduce risk, strengthen resilience, and help residents stay in their homes.

What Is the Safe Homes Grant Program?
The Safe Homes grant program was established by Assembly Bill 888 (AB 888), which was signed into law in October 2025. This program is administered by the California Department of Insurance and is designed to help eligible homeowners make crucial safety upgrades to their properties — particularly in high wildfire-risk areas.

At its core, the program aims to:

  • Reduce local and statewide wildfire losses
  • Improve insurability and resilience for vulnerable communities
  • Support home-hardening measures that protect homes and neighborhoods

While details like exact grant amounts and application dates are still being finalized, the program is expected to begin accepting applications in Spring 2026, with an online application portal becoming available in early months of the year.

Who Can Benefit?
The Safe Homes program focuses on supporting low- and middle-income homeowners in areas at high risk for wildfire damage. To qualify, applicants generally must:

  • Own a home located in a high or very high fire hazard severity zone, as defined by the state’s fire safety maps.
  • Have a current homeowner’s insurance policy from an admitted carrier or through the California FAIR Plan (the insurer of last resort).
  • Meet income eligibility limits set by the California Department of Housing and Community Development based on county median incomes.
  • Be prepared to make eligible safety upgrades such as fire-safe roofing and defensible space improvements.

Cities, counties, and special districts can also apply for funding for community-wide mitigation projects that help protect whole neighborhoods or address wildfire risk on a larger scale.

What Types of Projects Might Be Funded?
Safe Homes funds are intended to support work that directly reduces wildfire risk and enhances property resilience, including:

  • Fire-safe roofs: Grants may help cover new or replacement roofing using fire-resistant materials that meet updated safety standards.
  • Defensible space upgrades: Grants can also help create or enhance the 5-foot non-combustible zone around homes — often called “Zone Zero” — to reduce ember ignition risk.
  • Community mitigation efforts: Local governments and organizations can use funds for broader wildfire mitigation projects that benefit many homes.

Together, these measures can not only protect families and property but also help make homes more insurable and potentially reduce insurance premiums over time as risk decreases.

Why It Matters for California Homeowners
Wildfires continue to be one of California’s most persistent and destructive natural hazards, and homes in high-risk areas can face increasing insurance challenges as a result. The Safe Homes grant program represents a state-level push to support everyday homeowners in making meaningful safety improvements that might otherwise be too costly.

For many residents, these grants won’t just make homes safer, they can also make insurance more accessible and affordable.

Looking Ahead
Implementation is underway, and the insurance department is working to finalize details like eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and application timelines. Homeowners interested in the program should stay tuned to official updates from the California Department of Insurance, and begin preparing documentation (like proof of insurance, property location, and income verification) to be ready once the portal opens.

Should you receive one of these grants, reach out to your insurance agent to ensure your policy reflects changes to your property.

 

 

 

The holidays bring laughter, delicious food, and bustling kitchens, but they also increase the risk of fires. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and injuries in the U.S. (National Fire Protection Association [NFPA], 2024; U.S. Fire Administration [USFA], 2024). By following a few simple precautions, you can keep your celebrations safe and stress-free.

Stay Close While Cooking

Most kitchen fires happen when food is left unattended (NFPA, 2024). Even a few minutes away from the stove can lead to trouble. Staying present while cooking allows you to catch problems before they become emergencies.

Tips to stay safe:

  • Always stay in the kitchen when frying, broiling, or boiling food.
  • If you must step away, turn off the stove and remove anything from hot burners.
  • Keep kids and pets at least three feet away from the cooking area.
  • Use a timer or smart speaker reminder for simmering or baking dishes.

Protect Against Electrical Fires

Extra appliances in the kitchen can make life easier, but they also pose fire risks if not used carefully.  The U.S. Fire Administration recommends unplugging small appliances when not in use (USFA, 2024), and the CPSC notes this simple step as an effective way to avoid accidents (CPSC, 2024).

Electrical safety tips:

  • Unplug small appliances when not in use.
  • Avoid overloading outlets.
  • Keep an extra layer of protection with Ting*.
  • Replace frayed or damaged cords immediately.
  • Keep cords and outlets clean and dry.

*Ting is a smart sensor and fire prevention service. Learn more here. The smart home monitoring system and related support will be provided by Whisker Labs, the maker of Ting. Bamboo is not responsible for and does not warrant the system, installation, or any home monitoring.

Handle Grease Fires Correctly

Grease fires can escalate quickly, and instinctively using water can make things worse. Knowing how to respond can prevent injuries and major damage.

Grease fire tips:

  • Turn off the burner immediately.
  • Cover the pan with a lid to smother flames.
  • Do not use water or flour.
  • Keep the lid in place until the pan has completely cooled.
  • Do not try to move the pan while it’s on fire (NFPA, 2024).

Keep Flammables Away and Check Your Burners

Even small items like towels, paper, or packaging can ignite if too close to heat sources. According to NFPA research, materials too close to burners are a leading cause of kitchen fires (NFPA, 2024).

Tips for prevention:

  • Keep flammables at least three feet from the stove.
  • Turn off all burners and the oven when cooking is finished.
  • Turn pot handles inward to avoid accidental spills.

Smoke Alarms Save Lives

Working smoke alarms significantly improve your safety in the event of a home fire. Testing and maintaining them is quick and easy, and helps protect you and your loved ones (National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 2024).

A helpful bonus: having properly installed, maintained smoke detectors, especially if they’re part of a monitored system, could potentially make you eligible for a discount on your homeowners insurance!

Smoke alarm tips:

  • Test alarms monthly and replace batteries yearly.
  • Install alarms on every level of your home and near sleeping areas.
  • Replace alarms every 10 years.

What to Do If Something Unexpected Happens

Even with precautions, accidents can happen. Having a plan ahead of time helps you stay calm and respond effectively:

  • Ensure everyone, including pets, is safe and outside.
  • Call 911 immediately for emergency assistance.
  • Contact your insurance provider for guidance and support with recovery.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy cooking, sharing meals, and creating holiday memories without worry. Taking a few minutes to practice safety now can make all the difference later.

References

Consumer Product Safety Commission. (2024). A recipe for safer cooking. Retrieved from https://www.cpsc.gov/safety-education/safety-guides/home-fire/recipe-safer-cooking

National Fire Protection Association. (2024). Cooking safety tips. Retrieved from https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/cooking

U.S. Fire Administration. (2024). Prevent home fires: Cooking and electrical safety. Retrieved from https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prevent-fires/cooking/ and https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prevent-fires/appliance-and-electrical/

Disclaimer

This information contains general kitchen safety tips based on publicly available information and is provided on as “as is” basis. Bamboo Ide8 Insurance Services makes no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of the content. The information is for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional training or official safety guidance. The access and use of this information does not create a professional-client relationship between you and Bamboo Ide8 Insurance Services. Always exercise caution, follow safety instructions provided by manufacturers, and consult professionals for specific situations, questions, concerns, or more information and guidance. Bamboo Ide8 Insurance Services is not liable for any harm or loss resulting from actions or inactions taken based on this content.

We’re proud to announce that Bamboo Insurance has been recognized as a Fall 2025 Culture Excellence Top Workplace, earning accolades in not just one—but three key categories that define what it means to be a truly people-first organization:

  • Employee Appreciation
  • Professional Development
  • Employee Well-being

This recognition isn’t just a series of badges – it’s a reflection of our culture, our values, and the everyday experience of the people who make Bamboo Insurance what it is today.

Putting People First 

From day one, our mission at Bamboo has been to redefine the insurance experience—not just for our customers, but for our employees too. Being honored in these three specific categories reinforces our commitment to creating a workplace that invests in its people, values their contributions, and supports them both professionally and personally.

  • Employee Appreciation: We believe great work should never go unnoticed. Whether it’s celebrating individual milestones, recognizing team wins, or creating meaningful ways to say “thank you,” we strive to make appreciation a daily practice – not just a once-a-year event.
  • Professional Development: Growth isn’t optional—it’s essential. We’re proud to offer pathways for continuous learning, mentorship, and advancement. When our team members grow, our company grows right along with them.
  • Employee Well-being: A healthy workplace starts with healthy people. From paid wellness day to mental health support, we’re committed to building an environment where employees can thrive inside and outside of work.
Why This Matters

Culture doesn’t happen by accident – it’s built intentionally, one decision at a time. This recognition as a Top Workplace for Culture Excellence is more than a moment of pride; it’s a signal that we’re on the right track. It motivates us to keep listening, keep improving, and keep showing up for our people in the ways that matter most.

Thank You, Team

To our entire team: thank you for making Bamboo not just a great place to work, but a place where people feel seen, supported, and inspired. This award is yours – and it’s just the beginning.

At Bamboo Insurance, we believe in more than just protecting what matters – we believe in creating meaningful impact. That’s why we were thrilled to partner with Wish for Wheels, a nonprofit dedicated to giving brand-new bikes and helmets to kids in underserved communities, for an unforgettable day of smiles, surprises, and learning in Utah.

50 Bikes. 50 Smiles. One Unforgettable Day.

Our team rolled up their sleeves to assemble 50 brand-new bikes, each paired with a safety-certified helmet. The energy was electric as we prepared to deliver them to a group of second graders. When the moment arrived, the excitement on the kids’ faces – and some delighted squeals – was nothing short of magical. For many of them, it was their very first bike – a symbol of independence and fun.

More Than a Gift: Empowering with Skills and Safety

Beyond the surprise, our team spent time one-on-one with the students, teaching the fundamentals of bike safety and, in some cases, how to ride for the very first time. From balancing to braking, it was all about building confidence and ensuring that every child not only had the joy of a new bike but also the skills to ride safely.

The experience wasn’t just impactful for the kids – it left a lasting impression on all of us at Bamboo Insurance. Seeing the pure joy and pride on their faces reminded us why community engagement is such a vital part of who we are.

“Watching the genuine and unfiltered joy on the faces of the children as they received their bike, rode them, and then interacted with their parents was a memory I’ll never forget. It was like experiencing Christmas morning in the middle of September,” shared Justin Fulkrod, Bamboo’s VP of TX Underwriting.

Brock Christensen, Bamboo’s VP of Operations, described the experience as “very rewarding,” adding, “I’ve always known we have great employees here, but seeing the ‘parental’ side of my coworkers really reaffirmed that.”

Why It Matters

Access to a bicycle can be life-changing for a child. It promotes physical activity, builds confidence, and offers a sense of freedom and mobility. But unfortunately, not every child has access to something as simple as a bike. That’s why organizations like Wish for Wheels are doing such important work – and why we’re so proud to support them.

“We chose Wish for Wheels because we wanted an organization that aligns with our values while also giving back to the community where our headquarters are located,” shared Kara Deschenes, Bamboo’s VP of Human Resources. “Being able to collaborate with our employees, Wish for Wheels, and Copperview Elementary to make over 50 second grade students dream of owning their own bike a reality was an experience that we knew would have a lasting impact on their lives of everyone involved, which is something we aim to do at Bamboo in all of our work. In that way, this partnership was a no-brainer.”

This initiative is just one of many ways Bamboo Insurance is working to give back. Whether it’s through volunteer efforts, partnerships, or community outreach, we’re committed to making a difference – one bike, one smile, one neighborhood at a time.

To learn more about Wish for Wheels and how you can get involved, visit www.wishforwheels.org.

While every home is different, the Ting Fire Safety Team frequently encounters the same handful of devices when responding to fire hazard alerts. Many of these are things families plug in — and leave plugged in — every day.

Ting is designed to help catch these hidden dangers by detecting the early warning signs of an electrical fire: micro-arcing. But no system can eliminate every risk. That’s why it’s just as important to recognize the most common devices with risks, and know how to use them safely.

But I have Ting, why do I need this information? Ting (the sensor and service) is statistically proven to prevent ~80% of electrical fires, significantly reducing electrical fire risk in homes. Ting alone cannot eliminate 100% of electrical fire risks. Trust your senses. If something looks, sounds, or smells off, trust your instincts and please contact us immediately.

Here are five everyday devices Ting often identifies as sources of fire hazards, and what you can do to reduce your risk.

1. Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers are helpful for managing moisture, but are often used in out-of-sight places like basements, attics, or crawlspaces, making it harder to notice any electrical warning signs. Age, dust buildup, poor airflow, and low-quality components can all contribute to internal electrical failures that spark fires, especially in older units or those running nonstop.

What you can do to help stay safe:

  • Check for recalls on your specific model via the CPSC database.
  • Only use Energy Star-certified, UL-listed dehumidifiers.
  • Place the unit away from walls or drapes to allow airflow.
  • Clean the filter and coils regularly based on the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Avoid running continuously without breaks. Instead, use a timer or humidity sensor.
2. Water Heaters

Water heaters are essential for daily comfort and routines, but they’re rarely top of mind when thinking about electrical safety. Both tank and tankless electric water heaters rely on high voltage connections and heating elements that can fail over time, especially if the unit is aging or wasn’t installed correctly.

Because water heaters are typically tucked away in utility closets, garages, or basements, early warning signs like overheating, scorch marks, or unusual cycling can easily go unnoticed. If corrosion or moisture reaches internal wiring, it can also trigger arcing and increase fire risk.

What you can do to help stay safe:

  • Have your water heater inspected regularly by a qualified plumber or electrician.
  • Ensure the unit is properly grounded and connected to a dedicated circuit.
  • Keep the area around it clear of clutter and flammable items.
  • If your heater is over 10–15 years old, watch for signs of wear, including flickering power, breaker trips, or inconsistent water temps.
  • Never ignore the smell of burning or buzzing sounds coming from the unit.
3. Air Conditioning Units

Air conditioners draw high power and often run for extended periods during peak heat, which can strain wiring, overload circuits, or reveal aging components. Improper installation, damaged power cords, blocked ventilation, or use with power strips and extension cords can all increase the chance of overheating or electrical arcing.

What you can do to help stay safe:

  • Plug window units directly into a grounded wall outlet—never a power strip or extension cord.
  • Inspect cords and plugs for damage before each season.
  • Make sure central A/C systems are professionally serviced yearly.
  • Keep filters clean and vents unobstructed to reduce strain on the system.
  • If your unit trips the breaker or emits a burning smell, turn it off and have it inspected immediately.
4. Heating Pads and Electric Blankets

These cozy comfort items can be surprisingly dangerous. Ting regularly detects unsafe electrical arcing from heating pads, electric blankets, and even heated pet beds. Arcing can result from poor manufacturing, aging wires, or damage to the cord, putting loved ones and pets at serious risk.

What you can do to help stay safe:

  • Use UL-certified products from trusted brands.
  • Always unplug after use, and never leave one of these devices plugged in overnight or unattended.
  • Inspect cords frequently for fraying or heat damage.
  • Don’t fold, bunch, or place these items under heavy objects.
  • Replace every 10 years, even if it still works!
5. Space Heaters

They may be small, but space heaters pack a lot of power. These high-powered devices draw significant electricity and generate intense heat, which can quickly become hazardous if they’re used improperly or show signs of wear.

Many space heater-related fires result from overheating cords, loose plugs, poor-quality components, or placement near flammable materials. Older units are especially risky, and even modern ones with safety features can become dangerous if damaged or misused.

What you can do to help stay safe:

  • Plug directly into a wall outlet, never a power strip or extension cord.
  • Keep at least 3 feet of space around the heater.
  • Never leave it running unattended: always turn it off and unplug it when not in use.
  • Choose models with tip-over shutoff and overheat protection.
  • Check cords and plugs for damage before each use.
Bonus Tip: What You Plug Into Matters

Even the safest device can become a hazard if it’s plugged into an unsafe outlet or setup.

  • Avoid using power strips or extension cords for high-powered appliances like space heaters or dehumidifiers.
  • Always make sure the plug fits snugly and securely.
  • If a plug is loose, wobbly, or pulling downward due to tension from the cord, it could lead to arcing or overheating (both serious fire risks).
  • Replace any outlets that feel loose, warm, or show signs of wear.
  • When in doubt, plug directly into the wall and check periodically for damage.

Even everyday devices can pose serious risks when they’re damaged, aging, or used improperly. A little awareness goes a long way in preventing electrical fires. Ting is here to help detect what you can’t see, but staying informed and keeping a close eye on high-risk appliances adds an extra layer of protection for your home and family.

 

Read Ting’s full blog post here.

Eligible Bamboo policyholders can enroll for their Ting here.*

 

*This offer is currently only available to eligible policyholders with an active homeowners policy in California placed through Bamboo Insurance, provided the policy is not for a tenant-occupied property and does not have a Difference in Conditions endorsement, while supplies last. This three-year monitoring service is being offered at no charge. Customers will receive one (1) Ting sensor.  After the initial three-year service period, Bamboo will communicate any potential updates to the program and the policyholder can choose to pay for additional monitoring services. The smart home monitoring system and related support will be provided by Whisker Labs, the maker of Ting. Bamboo is not responsible for and does not warrant the system, installation, or any home monitoring.

We are incredibly proud to share that Bamboo Insurance has been recognized as a 2025 Utah Top Workplace by The Salt Lake Tribune, an honor grounded entirely in anonymous feedback from our employees. This award reflects the real voices of our team – highlighting how Bamboo’s culture empowers, supports, and values every individual.

Being named a Top Workplace is more than an accolade – it’s a testament to the inclusive, collaborative environment our people shape every day. We extend heartfelt thanks to our team for sharing their experiences and helping us build a workplace that truly listens and evolves based on what matters most.

See the full list here.

We’re proud to share that Bamboo Insurance has once again been named to the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing private companies in America – for the third year in a row! This year, Bamboo Insurance ranked #455, a testament to our continued growth, innovation, and commitment to reshaping the insurance experience.

Since our founding, Bamboo has focused on making insurance simple, transparent, and customer-first. Earning a spot on the Inc. 5000 list three years running underscores our team’s hard work and the trust our customers and partners place in us every day.

Being recognized by Inc. isn’t just about numbers – it’s about momentum. It’s about building something that endures, adapts, and continues to bring value. Our consistent ranking reflects not only our business performance but also our unwavering mission to bring clarity and confidence to the homeowners we serve. This achievement wouldn’t be possible without our incredible team. From sales to underwriting, from customer service to claims – every department plays a vital role in our success. We’re also grateful for our partners who believe in our vision and help us bring it to life every day.

As we celebrate this exciting milestone, we’re also looking forward – to new markets, new products, and new opportunities to deliver on our mission to make insurance better. Our journey is just beginning, and we’re more motivated than ever to keep pushing boundaries.

To everyone who has been part of our story so far – thank you.

We’re excited to be among so many reputable companies – see the full list here.

View the full press release here.

We’re proud to announce that Bamboo Insurance has been recognized as a Top Workplace in the Financial Services Industry for 2025!

This national recognition, awarded by Energage, celebrates companies that prioritize a people-first culture, strong leadership, and an environment where employees feel valued and empowered. What makes this honor especially meaningful? It’s based entirely on employee feedback.

As we continue to grow and challenge the norms of traditional insurance, we remain committed to fostering a workplace that’s inclusive, supportive, and driven by purpose.

See the full list of Top Workplaces in the Financial Services Industry here.

Better technology means better decision making, and investors rewarded Bamboo’s data-driven underwriting platform.

When most people think of home and auto insurance companies, they think of boring decades-old businesses— and they wouldn’t be wrong. So, when John Chu, an insurance industry veteran, started considering what he wanted to do before he retired, he decided to try to disrupt the industry he had spent three decades working in.

In 2018, Chu launched Bamboo Insurance, a company that, unlike others in the space, uses sophisticated technology to underwrite and price more accurately. While most home insurers collect five or six pieces of basic data, Bamboo ingests significantly more, including the condition of the roof, the life of the heating system, the quality of the cabinetry, and much more. “We’re better at matching the risk to the price,” he says.

This is key to Bamboo’s success: Many insurers get in trouble when rates are inadequate, and losses paid are greater than premiums earned. With more detailed information and greater pricing sophistication, Bamboo looks to ensure all policies are priced adequately for the risk taken over the long term. “I just knew that the homeowners space was ripe for change,” Chu says.

Strategic partnerships

By 2023, Bamboo had $250 million of premium in force—a figure he expects to double by the end of 2024. The bulk of Bamboo’s business stems from homeowners policies in California, but it also offers auto and renters insurance through its internal agency and aims to expand into other states in 2025.

The company also has found success partnering with other insurance providers, leveraging innovative technology and an easy-to-use platform Chu developed. Some of the largest name-brand insurers—businesses Chu had developed relationships with during his many years in the insurance sector—all jumped at the chance to work with him. They sell Bamboo’s policies through their own agents, using the company’s technology to determine pricing.

Long-term focus

Chu has always taken a long-term attitude toward Bamboo. While he could have sold policies for cheap and grown the company even faster, he wanted to create a profitable business with a solid foundation. In 2023 White Mountains Insurance Group invested $297 million for a 73 percent stake.

The deal opened doors to new markets and customers, he says, but also proved that Chu’s strategy of long-term growth versus short-term gains was the right one. “That validated that taking the long run was the right decision for us,” he says. “We want to continue growing profitably and doing the right thing for the company.”

Check out Inc.’s original article here!

Source: Inc.com

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.