Short answer: Virginia homeowners policies exclude flood and earthquake, among other things, so coastal and river-area owners need a separate flood policy. If the regular market declines you, the Virginia Property Insurance Association (VPIA) covers fire, lightning, hail, smoke, vandalism and similar perils, with broader coverage, liability and theft available for eligible properties. Virginia gives owner-occupants 30 days' notice of non-renewal and 10 days to ask the Commissioner to review it, and the policy stays in force during the review.
This guide is general information for Virginia homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Know what standard Virginia policies exclude
The State Corporation Commission's Bureau of Insurance Virginia Homeowners Insurance Guide lists common exclusions, including flood, earthquake, neglect, freezing of an unoccupied building, ordinance enforcement, and windstorm or hail damage to fences, seawalls, greenhouses and wharves under some forms. If you're near the coast or a river, get a flood quote at FloodSmart.
Step 2: Compare price and service
The Bureau publishes a consumer guide comparing sample homeowners premiums in Virginia and reminds buyers that price shouldn't be the only factor. Ask about replacement cost on both the dwelling and contents.
Step 3: The Virginia FAIR Plan (VPIA)
According to the Bureau of Insurance guide, the Virginia Property Insurance Association provides coverage for fire, lightning, removal, hail, explosion, riots, smoke, vandalism and malicious mischief; glass breakage isn't included in the basic policy. A broader policy is available for eligible properties, and liability and theft can be added only if the property is eligible. The Bureau calls VPIA a last resort because premiums are generally higher and coverage more limited.
Step 4: Non-renewal and your review right
Under Va. Code §38.2-2114, insurers must give 30 days' notice before non-renewing an owner-occupied dwelling policy. You have 10 days to ask the Commissioner of Insurance to review the non-renewal, and the policy stays in force during the review. Details: Virginia non-renewal and review rights.
Step 5: Claim deadlines
Under 14VAC5-400-50, insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 calendar days and accept or deny within 15 calendar days after a properly executed proof of loss, or explain why they need more time. More: Virginia 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 Virginia.
Frequently asked questions
What does the Virginia FAIR Plan cover?
VPIA's basic policy covers fire, lightning, removal, hail, explosion, riots, smoke and vandalism, but not glass breakage. A broader policy, liability and theft are available only for eligible properties.
Can I appeal a Virginia homeowners non-renewal?
Yes. You have 10 days to ask the Commissioner of Insurance to review it, and the policy stays in force during the review.
How much notice before a Virginia homeowners non-renewal?
30 days for owner-occupied dwellings, under Va. Code §38.2-2114.
Does Virginia homeowners insurance cover flood or earthquake?
No. The Bureau of Insurance lists both as common exclusions.
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.