submitted by the Prescott Area Association of REALTORS®
As wildfires rage across California year after year, the effects are felt beyond its borders. For homeowners, these fires have significant impact, particularly when it comes to fire insurance coverage.
Arizona homeowners may soon face challenges as insurers and legislators address growing fire risks and coverage issues.
In 2025, lawmakers and real estate professionals alike will play key roles in protecting and educating consumers regarding fire insurance.
Meanwhile, homeowners must prepare by safeguarding their homes in fire-prone areas like northern Arizona. Creating a Firewise home is a key factor in protecting your property and ensuring coverability.
A Firewise home reduces risk through preventative measures and design. Here’s how you can make your home more fire-resistant:
Create defensible space
around your home
Clear dead vegetation, leaves and debris within 30 feet of your home. Trim trees and bushes to prevent fire spread, and space trees apart to reduce fire risk.
Fire-resistant building materials When building or renovating, use fire-resistant materials for roofs, siding and decks. Metal, tile and asphalt shingles are better than wood. Choose siding like stucco, brick or fiber cement. Add metal mesh to vents, chimneys and eaves to block embers.
Fire-smart landscaping
Make wise landscaping choices. Avoid flammable plants like juniper and pine; use low-growing, moist plants instead. Create fire breaks by spacing plantings. Keep grass mowed and irrigated to prevent it from drying out and catching, and use fire-resistant mulches.
Spark arresters and ember protection
Install spark arresters on chimneys to prevent flying embers from escaping, which could ignite nearby trees or bushes. Similarly, ember-resistant vents can be used to stop hot embers from entering your attic or crawl spaces.
Have a fire emergency plan
While prevention is vital, preparation is just as important. Develop an emergency plan that includes evacuation routes and a designated meeting place. Keep firefighting tools such as hoses, buckets and shovels easily accessible.
A REALTOR® can provide resources and guidance not only when you want to purchase a home, but in protecting the one you already own and love.
