Many boards of directors have been asking about the California FAIR Plan (CFP) and wanting quotes. For communities that are experiencing difficulties in obtaining property insurance, it may sound like the perfect solution, but only because details important to community associations are often left out when the media and the CA Department of Insurance talk about the CA FAIR Plan. I’m here to give you some of those details.

What the California Fair Plan IS:
• A property policy that covers the peril of fire – not water damage, not fences that fall down or are run into by cars – fire
• Very, very expensive
• Ridiculously complicated to apply for
• Experiencing platform issues that are preventing policies and renewals from being issued in a timely manner
• Insurance of last resort

What the California Fair Plan is NOT:
• A package policy that includes all the coverages that you may be used to (general liability, Directors & Officers, Crime)
• A less expensive option than the surplus lines market (in fact it may be more expensive and offer less coverage)
• Actuarily sound
• For everyone

The CFP is not a “magic bullet” that will solve all of your community’s insurance problems, despite many government entities telling you otherwise. In fact, many insurance agencies that specialize in common interest developments are refusing to obtain CA FAIR Plan quotes for their clients because they are uncomfortable with the CA FAIR Plan and their ability to provide appropriate coverage and service.

In summary, the California FAIR Plan should only be considered when you literally have no other options.

Terri Guest, CIRMS, CMCA, EBP, is the Northern California Senior Sales & Marketing Representative for Berg Insurance Agency and can be reached at terri@berginsurance.com.