How to Get Wildfire Insurance in Pennsylvania

Wildfires pose a growing threat to homes, businesses, and communities across Pennsylvania. While the state is not traditionally associated with the same level of wildfire risk as California or Colorado, changing climate patterns, prolonged droughts, and dense forested areasparticularly in the northern and western regionshave increased the frequency and severity of fire incidents. In 2022 alone, Pennsylvania recorded over 1,700 wildfires, burning more than 14,000 acres of land, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR). Many homeowners assume their standard homeowners insurance policy fully protects them against wildfire damage, but this is not always the case. Understanding how to get wildfire insurance in Pennsylvania is critical to safeguarding your property, finances, and peace of mind.

Wildfire insurance is not a standalone product in most cases. Instead, it is typically included as part of a comprehensive homeowners insurance policy. However, coverage limits, exclusions, and policy terms vary significantly between insurers. In high-risk zones, some insurers may impose restrictions, require additional endorsements, or even decline coverage altogether. This guide walks you through every step of securing adequate wildfire protection, from assessing your risk to selecting the right policy, understanding policy language, and preparing your property to meet insurer requirements. Whether you live near the Pocono Mountains, the Allegheny National Forest, or a rural township with dry brush, this tutorial ensures you make informed, proactive decisions.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Assess Your Wildfire Risk

Before purchasing insurance, you must understand your homes exposure to wildfire risk. Pennsylvanias wildfire risk is not uniform. The Pennsylvania Forestry Association and the U.S. Forest Service classify areas into risk tiers based on vegetation density, topography, historical fire data, and climate trends. Homes located within 100 feet of forested land, steep slopes, or areas with dense underbrush are at elevated risk. You can determine your risk level using the Pennsylvania Wildfire Risk Assessment Tool, available through the DCNR website. Simply enter your propertys ZIP code or address to receive a detailed risk profile.

Additionally, consult your local fire department or county emergency management office. Many counties, such as Warren, McKean, and Jefferson, maintain publicly accessible wildfire hazard maps. These maps indicate areas with high fuel loads, past fire occurrences, and evacuation zones. If your property is marked as high risk, insurers may require additional documentation or mitigation measures before offering coverage.

Step 2: Review Your Current Homeowners Policy

Most standard homeowners insurance policies in Pennsylvania include coverage for fire damage, which encompasses wildfires. However, this does not guarantee comprehensive protection. Review your policys Declarations Page (often called the Dec Page) for the following key elements:

• Coverage A Dwelling: This covers the structure of your home. Ensure the limit is sufficient to rebuild your home at current construction costs, not its market value.
• Coverage B Other Structures: This includes detached garages, sheds, or fences. Verify the percentage (typically 10% of Coverage A) is adequate.
• Coverage C Personal Property: This covers belongings inside your home. Many policies offer actual cash value (ACV), which factors in depreciation. Consider upgrading to replacement cost value (RCV) for full reimbursement.
• Additional Living Expenses (ALE): This pays for temporary housing if your home is uninhabitable. Check the limit and duration.
• Exclusions: Some policies may exclude coverage for wildfires if the home is deemed high risk or if you fail to meet vegetation clearance requirements.

If your policy includes a wildfire exclusion or limits coverage based on location, you may need to pursue an endorsement or switch carriers. Do not assume your policy is sufficientread the fine print.

Step 3: Determine Your Coverage Needs

Rebuilding costs in Pennsylvania have risen significantly since 2020. According to the National Association of Home Builders, the average cost to rebuild a home in the state is now over $300 per square foot. For a 2,000-square-foot home, thats $600,000 or more. Many policies still reflect outdated valuations based on 20152018 estimates. Use the Insurance Information Institutes Home Replacement Cost Calculator to estimate your homes current rebuild value.

Also consider:

• Whether your personal property coverage is enough to replace electronics, furniture, clothing, and heirlooms.
• Whether you have valuable collections (art, antiques, jewelry) that require scheduled personal property endorsements.
• If you operate a home-based business, you may need separate business property coverage.
• Whether you have a detached garage, pool, or outbuilding that requires additional coverage.

Underinsuring your home can leave you with a significant financial gap after a wildfire. A policy that pays $400,000 when rebuilding costs are $650,000 means you pay $250,000 out of pocket.

Step 4: Obtain Multiple Quotes

Not all insurers treat wildfire risk the same. Some companies are more willing to underwrite properties in high-risk zones than others. In Pennsylvania, major carriers like State Farm, Allstate, Progressive, and Erie Insurance offer wildfire coverage, but availability varies by county. Independent agents can access multiple carriers and help you compare options.

When requesting quotes, provide:

• Your full property address
• Year your home was built
• Construction materials (brick, wood, stucco)
• Roof type (fire-resistant materials like Class A asphalt, metal, or tile are preferred)
• Proximity to forests, brush, or open land
• Any wildfire mitigation measures youve taken (see Step 5)

Compare not just premiums, but also:

• Deductibles (some policies have wildfire-specific deductibles, often 2%5% of dwelling coverage)
• Policy limits and sub-limits
• Exclusions and conditions
• Claims history of the insurer

Use online comparison tools like Policygenius or Insurify to generate side-by-side quotes. However, always follow up with a licensed Pennsylvania insurance agent for nuanced advice tailored to your region.

Step 5: Implement Wildfire Mitigation Measures

Insurance companies reward homeowners who reduce wildfire risk. Taking proactive steps can lower premiums, prevent policy cancellation, and even make coverage available where it was previously denied.

Key mitigation strategies include:

• Defensible Space Creation: Clear vegetation within 30 feet of your home and reduce density to 1020 feet beyond that. Remove dead trees, brush, and low-hanging branches.
• Roof and Gutter Maintenance: Install Class A fire-rated roofing materials. Clean gutters regularly to remove leaves and debris that can ignite from embers.
• Window and Door Upgrades: Replace single-pane windows with dual-pane or tempered glass. Install ember-resistant screens on vents.
• Exterior Materials: Use non-combustible siding (fiber cement, stucco, brick) instead of wood or vinyl.
• Fire-Resistant Landscaping: Choose low-flammability plants like succulents, deciduous trees, and well-irrigated shrubs. Avoid pine, eucalyptus, or juniper near the home.
• Fire Suppression Equipment: Install a sprinkler system or fire-resistant sprinkler mist around the homes perimeter.

Document all improvements with photos and receipts. Many insurers offer premium discounts of up to 20% for verified mitigation efforts. Submit this documentation when applying for or renewing your policy.

Step 6: Purchase and Confirm Your Policy

Once youve selected a carrier and reviewed the terms, finalize your policy. Ensure the following:

• Your dwelling coverage limit matches your rebuild cost estimate.
• Your personal property coverage is sufficient for replacement cost.
• Your deductible is affordable in the event of a claim.
• Your policy includes Additional Living Expenses (ALE) with a minimum of 20% of dwelling coverage.
• Your policy does not contain wildfire-specific exclusions.

After purchasing, request a copy of your policy in writing. Review the entire document, paying attention to:

• Ordinance or Law coverage (for compliance with updated building codes after a loss)
• Inflation Guard or Guaranteed Replacement Cost endorsements
• Scheduled Personal Property riders for high-value items

Set a calendar reminder to review your policy annually. Construction costs, property value, and risk levels change. Failing to update your coverage can result in underinsurance.

Step 7: Prepare for Claims

Even the best insurance wont help if youre unprepared when disaster strikes. Create a home inventory. Document every room with photos or video. Store receipts for major purchases. Use apps like Encircle or Sortly to catalog belongings with descriptions, purchase dates, and values.

Keep important documents in a fireproof safe or digital cloud storage:

• Insurance policy
• Property deed
• Home inspection reports
• Mitigation records
• Photo/video inventory

Know your insurers claims process. Most require you to report damage within 72 hours. Do not begin repairs until an adjuster has assessed the damage. Take photos of all damage before cleaning up.

Best Practices

1. Avoid Minimum Coverage Traps

Some insurers offer low-cost policies with minimal coverage. These may seem attractive, but they often exclude critical protections. Avoid policies that:

• Cap personal property at 50% of dwelling coverage
• Limit ALE to 10% or 30 days
• Exclude coverage for detached structures
• Require you to pay a percentage-based deductible (e.g., 5% of $500,000 = $25,000 out of pocket)

Invest in adequate coverageeven if it costs more upfront. A $1,000 annual premium difference may save you $100,000 in a claim.

2. Prioritize Guaranteed Replacement Cost

Standard policies pay replacement cost, meaning they cover the cost to rebuild using current materials and labor. But if construction costs surge after a wildfire (as they often do), you may still be underinsured. Guaranteed Replacement Cost (GRC) endorsements cover the full cost to rebuildeven if it exceeds your policy limit. This is especially valuable in Pennsylvania, where labor shortages and material inflation have driven rebuilding costs up by 18% since 2020.

Ask your agent if GRC is available. Some carriers offer it automatically for homes built after 2010 with modern construction materials.

3. Maintain Continuous Coverage

Letting your policy lapseeven for one monthcan result in denial of coverage upon renewal. Insurers may classify your home as high risk if coverage was interrupted, especially after a wildfire event in your region. Set up automatic payments and mark renewal dates on your calendar.

4. Understand Your Policys Fire Definition

Some policies distinguish between wildfire and accidental fire. In Pennsylvania, most insurers treat wildfire as a covered peril under fire damage, but confirm this in writing. If your policy refers to residential fire only, you may be at risk of denial.

5. Coordinate with Neighbors

Communities that collectively implement defensible space and vegetation management see lower insurance rates and fewer fire losses. Join or form a local firewise community through the National Fire Protection Associations Firewise USA Program. Participating communities often qualify for group discounts or priority response from state fire crews.

6. Document Everything

Insurance claims are decided on evidence. Keep a digital folder with:

• Annual photos of your homes exterior and landscaping
• Receipts for mitigation upgrades
• Correspondence with your insurer
• Proof of payment for premiums

Store this in the cloud and on a physical external drive. In the event of a total loss, this documentation becomes your most valuable asset.

Tools and Resources

1. Pennsylvania Wildfire Risk Assessment Tool

Available at dcnr.pa.gov/wildfire, this interactive map provides risk ratings by ZIP code and identifies high-hazard areas. It includes historical fire data and recommendations for property owners.

2. Firewise USA Program

Administered by the National Fire Protection Association, Firewise USA offers free resources for homeowners to reduce wildfire risk. Participating communities can access grants, training, and recognition that may improve insurance eligibility. Visit firewise.org to start a local chapter.

3. Insurance Information Institute (III) Home Replacement Cost Calculator

Use this free tool to estimate your homes rebuild value based on square footage, construction type, and location: iii.org/replacement-cost

4. PA Department of Insurance (PA DOI) Consumer Portal

Compare insurers, file complaints, and check license status at dos.pa.gov/insurance. The portal also publishes annual reports on insurer claim satisfaction rates in Pennsylvania.

5. Encircle and Sortly (Home Inventory Apps)

These mobile apps allow you to create photo-based inventories with descriptions, values, and receipts. They sync to the cloud and can be accessed even if your home is destroyed. Both offer free tiers with premium upgrades.

6. PA State Fire Marshals Wildfire Preparedness Guide

A downloadable PDF with step-by-step landscaping, roofing, and maintenance checklists: dos.pa.gov/wildfireguide

7. National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Shop & Compare Tool

Compare insurance company ratings, customer complaints, and financial strength at naic.org/shop-compare. Look for companies rated A or higher by A.M. Best.

Real Examples

Example 1: The Pocono Homeowner Who Saved $1,200 Annually

In 2021, a homeowner in Monroe County, Pennsylvania, received a notice that her insurer was canceling her policy due to elevated wildfire risk. Her home sat on 2 acres of pine and brush with no defensible space. She hired a certified arborist to clear vegetation, installed a Class A metal roof, and added ember-resistant vents. She submitted documentation to Erie Insurance, which reinstated her policy with a 20% discount. Her annual premium dropped from $2,100 to $1,680a $420 annual savings. She also qualified for a $300 state rebate through the PA Wildfire Mitigation Grant Program.

Example 2: The Rural Jefferson County Property with No Coverage

A family in Jefferson County purchased a cabin near the Allegheny National Forest in 2022. They assumed their standard homeowners policy covered wildfires. When a lightning-sparked fire burned their cabin to the ground in 2023, they discovered their policy excluded fires originating in unmanaged forestland. They had no coverage. The loss cost them over $450,000. They later learned that insurers in Jefferson County require a wildfire risk assessment and mitigation plan before issuing policies. Their experience underscores the danger of assuming coverage without verification.

Example 3: The Lancaster County Couple with Guaranteed Replacement Cost

In 2022, a couple in Lancaster County suffered a wildfire that destroyed their 3,200-square-foot home. Their policy included Guaranteed Replacement Cost coverage. Despite construction costs rising 22% after the fire due to material shortages, their insurer paid the full $825,000 to rebuild$125,000 more than their policy limit. They were able to rebuild to modern standards without financial hardship. Their proactive decision to upgrade coverage saved them from financial ruin.

Example 4: The Firewise Community in Clearfield County

Seven homeowners in a rural Clearfield County neighborhood formed a Firewise USA community in 2020. They collectively cleared 12 acres of brush, installed fire-resistant fencing, and coordinated with the state fire marshal for a community assessment. In 2023, when a wildfire swept through the area, only two homes were damagedboth owned by residents who had not participated. The Firewise group received a 15% group discount on wildfire coverage from their insurer, Allstate, and were prioritized for state firefighting resources.

FAQs

Does standard homeowners insurance in Pennsylvania cover wildfires?

Yes, most standard homeowners insurance policies in Pennsylvania include coverage for wildfire damage under the fire peril. However, coverage is not guaranteed. Some insurers may exclude wildfire damage in high-risk zones or require additional endorsements. Always review your policys specific terms and exclusions.

What if my insurer cancels my policy because of wildfire risk?

If your policy is canceled, you are entitled to a 30-day notice. Immediately contact a licensed Pennsylvania insurance agent to find alternative coverage. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department maintains a list of insurers willing to cover high-risk properties. You may also qualify for the Pennsylvania Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plan, a state-backed insurer of last resort for properties that cannot obtain coverage elsewhere.

How much does wildfire insurance cost in Pennsylvania?

There is no separate wildfire insurance premium. The cost is included in your homeowners policy. Premiums vary based on location, home value, construction materials, and risk mitigation. In low-risk areas, premiums may be $800$1,200 annually. In high-risk zones, premiums can range from $1,500 to $3,500 or more. Mitigation efforts can reduce premiums by up to 20%.

Are there government programs to help with wildfire insurance costs?

Yes. Pennsylvania offers the Wildfire Mitigation Grant Program, which provides up to $1,500 in reimbursement for qualifying fire-resistant upgrades like roofing, vents, and landscaping. Additionally, the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources offers free wildfire risk assessments and educational workshops for homeowners.

Can I get wildfire insurance if I live in a mobile home or manufactured home?

Yes, but coverage options are more limited. Mobile homes often require specialized policies. Look for insurers that offer manufactured home insurance with fire coverage. Ensure the policy includes coverage for the structure, attached decks, and personal property. Mitigation measures are even more critical for mobile homes due to their higher vulnerability.

What happens if I dont have wildfire insurance and my home is destroyed?

If you dont have coverage, you are responsible for all rebuilding costs. There is no state or federal automatic payout for wildfire damage unless the event is declared a federal disaster. Even then, FEMA assistance is limited to temporary housing and essential repairsnot full rebuilding. Most homeowners without insurance face financial devastation.

Do I need to notify my insurer if I make wildfire mitigation upgrades?

Yes. Always notify your insurer in writing when you install fire-resistant roofing, clear vegetation, or upgrade windows. Submit photos and receipts. This can trigger a policy review and potential premium reduction. Failure to disclose upgrades may void your coverage if a claim is filed.

Is wildfire insurance available for rental properties?

Yes. Landlords can purchase landlord insurance policies that include wildfire coverage for the structure. Tenants should purchase renters insurance to cover their personal belongings. Both policies should be reviewed for adequate limits and exclusions.

Can I get wildfire insurance if I have a wood-burning stove or fireplace?

Yes, but insurers may require proof of regular chimney cleaning and installation of a spark arrestor. Some may ask for a certified inspection report. As long as safety standards are met, these features do not typically disqualify you from coverage.

How often should I review my wildfire insurance coverage?

At least once a year. Rebuild costs, property value, and risk levels change. Review your policy during renewal season. Update your home inventory and notify your insurer of any renovations or landscaping changes.

Conclusion

Getting wildfire insurance in Pennsylvania is not a one-time taskits an ongoing responsibility. As climate conditions evolve and fire seasons lengthen, the threat to homes across the state continues to grow. What was once considered a low-risk issue in rural Pennsylvania is now a reality for communities from the Poconos to the Alleghenies. Relying on assumptions or outdated policies puts your home, savings, and future at risk.

This guide has provided a comprehensive roadmapfrom assessing your risk and reviewing your policy to implementing mitigation strategies and preparing for claims. The most successful homeowners are those who treat wildfire insurance like any other critical investment: proactively, systematically, and with attention to detail. Dont wait for a fire to force your hand. Take action today.

Start by visiting the Pennsylvania Wildfire Risk Assessment Tool. Talk to a licensed agent. Document your home. Make the necessary upgrades. Secure the right coverage. Your homeand your peace of minddepend on it.