Short answer: Wildfire is the risk the Idaho Department of Insurance warns homeowners about most, and its checklist starts with reviewing your coverage and making a photo or video inventory. A 2026 law changes non-renewals: starting January 1, 2027, Idaho homeowners insurers must give 60 days' written notice with a specific reason. Idaho law doesn't set fixed day counts for property claims, but insurers must act reasonably promptly.
This guide is general information for Idaho homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Work through Idaho's wildfire checklist
The Idaho Department of Insurance's wildfire season consumer alert recommends:
- Review your policy to make sure your coverage is adequate.
- Make a home inventory by photographing or filming valuable possessions.
- Store insurance policies, contact numbers and inventory lists in a secure, accessible place.
- Make and practice an evacuation plan, identify shelters and pack a go-bag.
- Help neighbors who need assistance preparing.
Pair that with defensible space and fire-resistant roofing, and keep records of the work.
Step 2: Flood and finding coverage
Flood isn't covered by homeowners insurance; see FloodSmart. If insurers won't write your home, ask your agent to check surplus lines. See FAIR Plan vs. surplus lines home insurance.
Step 3: The new 60-day notice
Under Idaho Code §41-2401, as amended by HB 562 and explained in DOI Bulletin 26-12, homeowners insurers must give 60 days' written notice of non-renewal, with a specific reason, starting January 1, 2027. Details: Idaho homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 4: Claims
Idaho's unfair claims law (Idaho Code §41-1329) requires reasonably prompt handling without fixed day counts, and §41-1839 addresses attorney fees when an insurer fails to pay a justly due amount. More: Idaho insurance claim deadlines.
See our tables: non-renewal notice rules by state, insurance claim deadlines by state and home insurance claim and lawsuit deadlines by state.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Idaho.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Idaho Department of Insurance recommend before wildfire season?
Review your coverage, make a photo or video home inventory, store documents securely and make an evacuation plan.
When does Idaho's 60-day non-renewal notice start?
January 1, 2027, under Idaho Code §41-2401 as amended by HB 562, per DOI Bulletin 26-12.
Does an Idaho non-renewal notice have to give a reason?
Starting January 1, 2027, the notice must include a specific reason.
Does Idaho set day limits for paying home claims?
No fixed day counts. Insurers must act reasonably promptly.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.