A dwelling policy for the homes that don't fit.
DP-1 and DP-3 dwelling fire policies for rental homes, older homes, manufactured homes and properties a standard homeowners policy won't write.
By Sam Alishahi · CA Insurance License #4348151 · Reviewed October 2026 · How this page is researched
DP-1 and DP-3, explained
A dwelling fire policy insures the building, and optionally liability and loss of rent, without the personal-property package of a homeowners policy. It's the standard form for a home you rent to tenants.
A DP-1 is the basic form: named perils such as fire and lightning, usually paid at actual cash value. A DP-3 covers the dwelling against any cause of loss not excluded, usually at replacement cost. I'll show you both when the property qualifies for each.
- DP-1Basic named perils, often actual cash value.
- DP-3Open perils on the dwelling, usually replacement cost.
- Loss of rentLost rental income after a covered loss.
- LiabilityPremises liability can be added to most forms.
What underwriters will ask
Having these ready means I can go to market on the first call. The quote form asks for the same things, and anything you don’t know yet can wait.
- Address: the property and how it's used.
- Building: year built, square feet and construction.
- Updates: roof, electrical, plumbing and heating years.
- Tenants: lease terms and monthly rent.
- Ownership: personal, trust or LLC, and any lender.
- Current policy: declarations page and loss history.
Dwelling fire insurance, answered
What's the difference between a DP-1 and a DP-3?
A DP-1 covers only the causes of loss it names, usually at actual cash value. A DP-3 covers the dwelling against any cause not excluded, usually at replacement cost, and is the more complete choice when a property qualifies.
Does a dwelling policy cover my tenant's belongings?
No. Tenants need their own renters insurance for their belongings and liability.
Can I use a dwelling policy on a home I live in?
Some carriers write owner-occupied dwelling forms, often for older or harder-to-place homes. A homeowners policy is usually broader when you qualify.
Does it include liability?
Premises liability can usually be added. Landlords should carry it.
Do you offer dwelling fire insurance outside California?
Yes. Clients across the country send the same quote form. California policies are placed directly; outside California the request is handled together with a partner agency in your state, and the shopping across carriers works the same way. Rules, minimums and markets differ by state — see insurance requirements by state or high-value home insurance by state.
Send the address. I'll shop it.
The address, year built and how the home is used are enough to start.
Alishahi Insurance · Saman Alishahi, independent insurance broker, California License #4348151. General information, not a quote or a promise of coverage; coverage depends on underwriting and the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy actually issued.
Tell me how to reach you. I’ll take it from there.
Takes about 30 seconds. I review every request personally and call you back, usually the same day.
(424) 552-4545Answered 24/7 · CA License #4348151
Get a reminder before your renewal.
Tell me when your policy renews and I’ll email you about six weeks before, when it’s worth comparing. One email, no calls.