If a wildfire sweeps through your home there's not much you can do to minimize the damage. You evacuate with as many of your possessions as possible and hope your home makes it. In Kentucky, where 47% of the state is forest, you don't want to go without wildfire insurance.

Fortunately, a Kentucky independent insurance agent can find you wildfire insurance and help you be as prepared as possible. Starting with your homeowners insurance, your agent can find you a great policy and any add-ons you need to be fully protected. Here's how this coverage can keep you out of financial trouble.

Will My Homeowners Insurance Cover Wildfire Damage?

Yes, your Kentucky homeowners insurance policy includes coverage for any damage from a wildfire. In fact, your policy helps with the following

• Home repairs
• Rebuilding your home
• Replacing belongings
• Temporary housing

These things are covered through several different coverages that are in your policy.

• Dwelling coverage: Covers any physical damage that the structure of your home sustains. This also includes garages and other detached structures that are considered part of your home in your policy.
• Other structures coverage: If you have additional structures on your property, such as a barn or storage unit, they are covered under other structures. The amount is typically based on a percentage of your dwelling coverage policy limits.
• Property coverage: Covers your personal property and possessions, from office equipment to furniture and appliances.
• Additional living expenses coverage: This is also a percentage of your dwelling coverage that is designed specifically to pay for costs associated with temporary housing.
• Landscaping coverage: Trees, shrubs, plants, lawns, and other landscaping are covered by a certain percentage of your dwelling coverage.

It's important to understand your policy limits so you can make sure you have enough coverage. Your Kentucky independent agent can discuss your policy limits with you.

Is Kentucky a High-Risk Wildfire State?

Kentucky experiences hundreds and sometimes more than a thousand wildfires each year. More than 34% of people who live in the state are located areas at high risk of wildfires. While the state doesn't typically make the top ten list of the highest risk states, there's still a chance of experiencing a wildfire if you live there. 

Part of the reason that Kentucky wildfires are so dangerous is that many structures are located in forested areas. This is particularly true in Eastern Kentucky, where the most wildfires occur. In this area homes, churches, and buildings are located throughout forested areas, so if a wildfire strikes, nearly all these structures are threatened.

To help minimize potential intentional wildfires, the state has enacted strict forest protection laws that could result in a fine that could exceed $10,000, or jail time, or both if found guilty of intentionally starting a fire. 

The History of Kentucky Wildfires

Does Living in a High-Risk Wildfire Area Increase My Home Insurance Cost?

The average homeowner in Kentucky pays $1,109 per year for home insurance. Unfortunately, if your home is located in a high-risk wildfire zone, it will impact your insurance rates. 

You'll pay a higher premium because there's a greater risk that you'll need to file a claim. You may also pay higher costs because you choose to increase your policy limits for better protection.

Your agent can help you shop affordable homeowners insurance and set policy limits if you're located in a high-risk wildfire area. 

How Much Coverage Is Enough for Wildfire Insurance in Kentucky?

Policy limits for your dwelling coverage are typically set based on the cost to rebuild your home should it be completely ruined. However, this price can change over time. Whether your home increases in value or the cost of construction materials goes up, you want to make sure your policy limits stay updated with the value of your home.

The easiest way to do this is to work with your agent. Review your policy yearly with your agent to ensure that you have enough coverage to rebuild if you lose everything.

How a Kentucky Independent Insurance Agent Can Help

Whether you're shopping for homeowners insurance or want to check your policy limits and coverage, Kentucky independent insurance agents are your direct path to getting the best coverage against wildfires.

Agents will chat with you, free of charge, to learn about your insurance needs. They shop multiple carriers to provide you with affordable options to choose from. An agent is your insurance support system from beginning to end and even if you have to file a claim.