California SB 63 FAQ — Wildfire Insurance Compliance | WUI Fire Solutions

Question 1

What is California SB 63?

Accepted Answer

Senate Bill 63, signed into law and effective January 1, 2025, requires California homeowner insurance companies to offer a discount to any policyholder who completes a wildfire mitigation inspection and takes the recommended mitigation actions. The law applies to properties in High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Insurers cannot deny the discount if the homeowner has completed the documented steps.

Question 2

Does SB 63 apply to my property in Ventura County?

Accepted Answer

Most likely yes. The majority of Ventura County — including Ojai, Camarillo, Thousand Oaks, Moorpark, Simi Valley, Fillmore, Santa Paula, Ventura, Oxnard, and surrounding areas — is classified as High or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. You can check your property's classification on the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) FHSZ viewer.

Question 3

What kind of inspection qualifies under SB 63?

Accepted Answer

The inspection must be conducted by a state-certified wildfire mitigation inspector. The inspector evaluates your property against California's defensible space requirements and the IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home standard, then produces a written report documenting your current condition and any recommended improvements. That written report is what you submit to your insurer.

Question 4

How much of a discount can I expect?

Accepted Answer

The discount amount varies by insurer. Under AB 2367, insurers are required to publish a mitigation discount schedule — a list of what actions earn what discounts. Request your insurer's schedule before you start work so you know exactly what you're working toward. In our experience, homeowners who complete a full WUI inspection and address the identified deficiencies typically see meaningful premium reductions at renewal.

Question 5

What does a WUI inspection actually cover?

Accepted Answer

A WUI walkthrough covers your entire property: the structure itself (roof, vents, siding, deck, garage), Zone 0 (0–5 feet from the home), Zone 1 (5–30 feet), and Zone 2 (30–100 feet). The inspector looks at ignition pathways — the specific ways embers or direct flame could ignite your home — and documents both what you've done right and what still needs attention. The inspection takes 1–2 hours and produces a written report you keep.

Question 6

My insurer sent me a non-renewal notice. Can SB 63 help?

Accepted Answer

Possibly. If you receive a non-renewal notice, completing a WUI inspection and addressing the identified deficiencies before the renewal date gives you documentation to present to your insurer or a new carrier. While SB 63 does not require insurers to reverse a non-renewal decision, documented mitigation work significantly improves your position when shopping for new coverage — and some insurers will reconsider when presented with a completed inspection report.

Question 7

How is SB 63 different from the existing defensible space law?

Accepted Answer

California's existing defensible space law (PRC 4291) requires homeowners in State Responsibility Areas to maintain 100 feet of clearance around their homes. That law is enforced by CAL FIRE and local fire agencies. SB 63 is separate — it's an insurance law that creates a financial incentive (a required discount) for homeowners who go through a formal inspection process. You can be in compliance with PRC 4291 and still benefit from an SB 63 inspection.

Question 8

How much does a WUI inspection cost?

Accepted Answer

WUI Fire Solutions charges $350 for a full property walkthrough in Ventura County. The inspection includes a written report you can submit to your insurance carrier. Given the potential for premium savings over multiple years, most homeowners find the inspection pays for itself quickly.

Question 9

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Call or text 805-397-9568, or use the contact form on our website. We serve all of Ventura County. Most inspections are scheduled within 1–2 weeks.

California SB 63 — Your Questions Answered

Ready to Get Your SB 63 Inspection Report?