Wildfire home prep, on one page

Check the address, then get a real quote

The Colorado State Forest Service map is a broad neighborhood screen, not a parcel inspection or an insurance score. Next, get a quote for the exact address before the inspection and insurance deadlines if you are buying. Ask whether the company can bind the policy now, what work it requires, and what the policy would pay after the deductible.

Read the insurer's wildfire score

• New application: the score or class is due within 15 days after a completed application.
• New mitigation: send proof and request a new score; it is due within 30 days.
• Appeal: the insurer must acknowledge it within 10 calendar days and decide it in writing within 30 calendar days.
• Keep: the notice, reasons, photos, receipts, emails, and written decision.

Walk the home ignition zone

• 0 to 5 feet: roof and gutter debris, wood mulch, plants, firewood, fencing, decks, vents, and anything touching the house.
• 5 to 30 feet: trees, brush, grass, sheds, propane, and space between fuels.
• 30 to 100 feet: thicker vegetation and fuel that can carry fire toward the home.

Check access and water

Ask whether a fire truck can reach the house and turn around. Check the driveway, gate, bridge, address sign, hydrants or tanks, winter access, and local fire-district guidance. Mitigation can lower risk, but it does not guarantee a lower price or an offer of coverage.

If the regular market says no

A licensed agent can apply to the Colorado FAIR Plan after three different insurance companies decline the property. Current residential coverage is capped at $750,000 combined for property and contents and pays actual cash value. Base coverage includes fire, lightning, and smoke. Wind and hail may be added through limited extended coverage. Ask what liability, temporary living costs, water damage, building-code costs, and other gaps need separate coverage.