How to challenge a non-renewal in California
Updated September 28, 2026· Sources verified September 28, 2026· Educational information, not legal advice
Short answer
There is no formal appeal, but California gives you more tools than most states: a written request within 90 business days of the notice obliges the insurer to provide the specific information behind its reasons within 21 business days; you can appeal a wildfire risk score; and the notice must tell you that the Department of Insurance can review the matter.
Have your notice? Check it free1. Request the specific reasons and information
California rule · Requesting the information behind the decision
California's published rule gives a way to ask for more detail: a written request made within 90 business days of the notice asks the insurer to provide, within 21 business days, the specific information that supports its reasons and where that information came from.
Put it in writing, include your policy number and the date of the notice, and ask for the specific items of information supporting the reasons and where they came from (for example, an inspection vendor or claims database).
2. If wildfire risk is the reason, appeal the score
The Department of Insurance says insurers must provide your wildfire risk score before a renewal or non-renewal and that you can appeal it. How the risk score appeal works.
3. Ask the insurer to reconsider
Most useful when the reason is wrong or fixed: the roof was replaced, brush was cleared, or a claim was counted in error. Attach dated proof and ask for a decision by a specific date.
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4. Ask the Department of Insurance to review
California rule · What a non-renewal notice must include
California's published rule says a non-renewal notice must state the specific reason or reasons, give the insurer's phone number for consumer questions, explain that you may have the matter reviewed by the California Department of Insurance, and include information about the California Home Insurance Finder and the FAIR Plan.
California Department of Insurance
Consumer hotline and online help to ask a question or submit a request for assistance. California law requires non-renewal and cancellation notices to tell you that you may have the matter reviewed by the Department.
None of these steps extends your coverage
Official sources
Rules can change. Check the official source before relying on it.
- California Insurance Code § 791.10California Legislature · verified September 26, 2026
- California Insurance Code § 678California Legislature · verified September 26, 2026
- CDI – FAQ: Safer from Wildfires Regulation (September 2026)California Department of Insurance · verified September 28, 2026
- CDI – Consumer help: ask a question or file a complaintCalifornia Department of Insurance · verified September 26, 2026
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MyNonRenewal provides educational information and document summaries. It does not provide legal advice, insurance advice, representation, or recommendations regarding specific insurance products.