Short answer: Illinois homeowners face a risk few states have: mine subsidence, which Illinois handles through required coverage in designated counties unless you waive it in writing. Storm and hail claims are common, and Illinois regulates public adjusters who solicit after storms. If standard insurers won't cover you, the Illinois FAIR Plan Association is available after at least 3 unsuccessful attempts to buy insurance, or after a standard-market non-renewal of an owner-occupied 1 to 4 family home.
This guide is general information for Illinois homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Check whether you're in a mine subsidence county
Parts of Illinois sit above old coal mines. The Illinois FAIR Plan's producer summary notes that applicants in a mandatory mine subsidence insurance county who waive the coverage must sign a waiver. Ask your agent whether your county is one of them and what the mine subsidence limit is. A standard homeowners policy otherwise excludes earth movement.
Step 2: Prepare for storm and hail claims
After a big storm, contractors and public adjusters may knock on doors. Before you sign anything, read Illinois public adjusters after storms. Report damage promptly and photograph it before temporary repairs. Flood isn't covered by homeowners insurance; see FloodSmart for NFIP coverage.
Step 3: If you're turned down, the Illinois FAIR Plan
Under 215 ILCS 5/524, you're entitled to an inspection and evaluation by the FAIR Plan if you have an insurable interest in Illinois property and, after diligent effort, you couldn't get basic property insurance in the standard market, shown by at least 3 unsuccessful attempts. An owner-resident of a 1 to 4 family home whose policy was non-renewed in the standard market is also entitled to an evaluation. Under the current statute, applications must be submitted by an Illinois-licensed agent registered with the Association. The Illinois Department of Insurance tells canceled homeowners they may be eligible for the FAIR Plan if they can't find coverage elsewhere.
Step 4: Non-renewal notice and hearing rights
Under 215 ILCS 5/143.17, notice is generally 30 days, rising to 60 days for most reasons once a policy has been in force 5 years or more. Illinois also gives you a right to request a hearing, which must be requested at least 20 days before expiration. Details: Illinois homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claim communications
50 Ill. Adm. Code 919.40 requires insurers to respond to pertinent claim communications within 15 working days. The rule doesn't set a fixed decision deadline, but the insurer must explain delays in writing. More: Illinois 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 Illinois insurance claim deadlines.
Frequently asked questions
What is mine subsidence insurance in Illinois?
Coverage for damage when the ground sinks because of old underground mines. In designated mandatory counties it's part of the policy unless you sign a waiver.
How do I qualify for the Illinois FAIR Plan?
Under 215 ILCS 5/524, show at least 3 unsuccessful attempts to buy basic property insurance in the standard market, or, for an owner-occupied 1 to 4 family home, a standard-market non-renewal. Apply through a registered Illinois-licensed agent.
How much notice before an Illinois homeowners non-renewal?
Generally 30 days, or 60 days for most reasons once the policy has been in force 5 years or more, under 215 ILCS 5/143.17.
Can I appeal a non-renewal in Illinois?
Illinois gives a right to request a hearing, which must be requested at least 20 days before the policy expires.
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.