Sandy Vignolo faces a massive increase in her insurance premiums, now paying nearly $8,000 for fire insurance alone. Many Californians are struggling with rising costs, with some forced onto the state’s high-cost FAIR plan. State officials promise reforms to provide better private insurance options and reduce prices by next year.

However, Dutch Flat residents like Suzanne Vidal remain skeptical about insurance companies returning with affordable options. Elderly Californians can’t wait for price reductions. Homeowners in high-risk areas should shop around for coverage, contact their insurer for options if non-renewed, and consider bringing their homes up to code for coverage.

California’s Department of Insurance recommends exploring non-admitted/surplus lines markets for coverage and supplementing FAIR plan policies with private coverage. Consider shopping for new plans or adjusting coverage to reduce costs. Utilize the Homeowner Coverage Comparison Tool provided by the state to find the right plan for you.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: California senior dropped by her insurer went from paying $1,100 to nearly $8,000 under ‘last resort’ plan