On Sept. 22, California’s Insurance Commissioner urged homeowners to review their coverage before what the Department of Insurance called “likely historic” El Niño storms. If you haven’t opened your policy since you bought the house, this is the weekend.
Here’s the part that surprises people: standard home policies typically exclude damage from flooding, mudslides and debris flows. And flood insurance generally takes effect 30 days after you buy it. Waiting for the forecast to turn means waiting too long.
One more change is on the way. Starting Jan. 1, 2027, a new state law (SB 876) requires insurers to provide regularly updated replacement cost estimates for new policies and renewals. Until then, it’s on you to ask.
Do this weekend
Pull your declarations page. Note your dwelling limit and renewal date, and whether flood or mudslide is excluded.
Price flood coverage now, not in January. It generally takes 30 days to start.
Think your limit is low? Ask your agent or insurer for a comprehensive inspection of your home. Then take a quick phone video of every room for your records.
Shopping, or got a nonrenewal? A nonrenewal notice must arrive at least 75 days before your policy ends. Compare prices with the state’s Homeowner Premium Comparison Tool or call the Department of Insurance at 1-800-927-4357.
Market Pulse
30-year fixed: 7.32%, down from 7.40% the week before (Freddie Mac, Oct. 22, 2026).
| County | Median price | vs. last year |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $994,670 | +1.2% |
| Orange | $1,480,000 | +5.6% |
| Riverside | $620,000 | −0.6% |
| San Bernardino | $531,090 | +6.2% |
Existing single-family homes, Sept. 2026 data (C.A.R.)
Takeaway: Riverside was the only one of the four counties with a median below last year’s, while San Bernardino and Orange posted the biggest gains.
This weekend
- Scarium Family Night
Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach · 6:30–9 p.m. · $30.95 general admission - Halloween Movie in the Park
Wilson Park, Torrance · starts 4 p.m., movie at 6:30 p.m. · free - Halloween Zoo-tacular
OC Zoo, Orange · 10 a.m.–4 p.m. · activities free with $2 zoo admission - Halloween in the Park Fall Festival
Twin Peaks Rotary Centennial Park, Twin Peaks (San Bernardino Mountains) · 3–8 p.m.