Ivins Homeowners Struggle with Insurance Amid Wildfire Concerns
IVINS, Utah (KUTV) — Homeowners in the Kayenta community of Ivins, Utah, are facing insurance challenges, including policy non-renewals and escalating rates. The issue stems from insurance companies citing wildfire risk, despite the area’s history of being largely fire-free. Some locals report having their insurance dropped after decades without claims.
One long-time Kayenta resident, who wished to remain anonymous, shared their frustration, stating, “After 40 years and no claims, Allstate dropped me…And no fires, no floods, no wind damage, no claims.” The homeowner also expressed concern about the inspection process, claiming the inspector “had his mind made up in advance.” Another resident reported that they experienced significant rate increases.
Insurance Commissioner John Pike acknowledged that insurers use their own proprietary risk models, often referred to as their “secret sauce,” to determine coverage decisions. He emphasized the competitive nature of the market, suggesting that homeowners who experience non-renewals should be able to find alternative coverage.
However, there are no standard requirements governing how, when, or where insurance companies conduct property inspections. Pike noted that Utah’s insurance regulations provide considerable autonomy to insurance companies, with limited oversight of their internal processes.
While the state has yet to see mass cancellations like California, experts suggest that rising costs could drive homeowners to seek out other insurance providers. Pike advises affected policyholders to “ask questions” of their providers.“From there, you may able to get recommendations or requirements from the insurance company for your policy to be renewed.
Some homeowners in Kayenta are now turning to landscaping services to mitigate perceived risks. Mowefa Eastman, co-owner of Defy It Landscaping, explained, “We come in and clear out any dead foliage. Anything that is close to the house that would be considered a fire hazard…We then replace it with stuff that is not flammable, like gravel, landscape rock, flagstone patios and walkways.”
Pike also pointed out that wildfires in other areas, such as the recent devastating events in Southern California and South Carolina, will influence insurance providers’ behaviors. He noted, “When we have events such as we’ve seen recently in California, those experiences are going to affect what insurers are willing to write. They are going to be looking at maps more carefully and reassessing how much risk they will take on.”
KUTV reached out to Allstate and Farmers Insurance, two companies that reportedly sent non-renewal notices to some Kayenta residents.
Allstate issued the following statement:
“Generally, inspections are done several months before the renewal to allow homeowners plenty of time to address any potential hazards and avoid nonrenewal. Since each policy is unique, we encourage customers to contact their Allstate agent or Allstate customer service to discuss their specific situation and any factors affecting their renewal.”
Farmers Insurance did not respond ahead of publication.
