Homeowners Can Save on Insurance With Wildfire Mitigation

LOS ANGELES, Sept. 3, 2026, Homeowners who have invested in wildfire mitigation measures can now explore potential savings on their insurance premiums, according to Mercury Insurance. The company is urging property owners to review the improvements they’ve made and discuss their options with their insurance agents.

Mercury Insurance, which operates in multiple states including Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Oklahoma, Texas, and Virginia, offers discounts for qualifying homeowners. However, the availability, eligibility requirements, and savings vary by state, property, and policy.

“Homeowners put significant time, effort, and money into making their properties safer. They should ensure those improvements are recognized by their insurance company,” said Holly Sacks, Director of Portfolio Underwriting and CAT Management at Mercury Insurance.

Sacks emphasized that homeowners should start by addressing the area immediately surrounding their home, known as the “defensible space.” This includes clearing dead vegetation, leaves, and pine needles, and using noncombustible materials such as gravel, pavers, or concrete near the home.

Emphasizing the importance of reducing embers, Sacks advised homeowners to inspect vents and exterior openings for vulnerabilities. Clearing leaves, pine needles, and other combustible debris from roofs and gutters can also help prevent ignition points.

“Wildfire mitigation doesn’t have to involve rebuilding a home,” Sacks noted. “Homeowners can start by addressing the most vulnerable areas. Mitigation is an ongoing process, so it’s important to make improvements over time and document the work completed.”

Community-level mitigation programs, such as Firewise USA, can also benefit homeowners. Participation in these programs may qualify for certain insurance discounts.

Homeowners who have already completed improvements should not assume their insurance company is aware of the changes. Mercury recommends photographing the improvements, keeping receipts, and reviewing them with an insurance agent.

In California, for example, qualifying Mercury customers may receive discounts based on measures such as defensible space, home hardening, IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home certification, and certain types of fire-resistive construction. Discounts may apply to the wildfire-peril portion of the homeowners premium, with a maximum of up to 30% for qualifying property-level mitigation.

For other states, the company’s enhanced homeowners product may provide similar benefits for qualifying property-level and community-level mitigation as well as certain fire-resistive construction. Again, discounts apply to the wildfire-peril portion of the premium.

Homeowners can start by asking their agents about available discounts and the documentation required. Sacks concluded, “Protecting your home should be the first priority, but the work may also have financial benefits. If you’ve taken steps to reduce your wildfire risk, talk with your agent. You may find that making your home safer can also help you save on insurance.”