FAIR Plan Plus DIC: A Coverage Comparison Worksheet for California Homes
Quick answer: A FAIR Plan policy and a companion difference-in-conditions policy should be compared line by line. The California Department of Insurance describes DIC as a way to obtain protection for exposures outside the FAIR Plan policy, but two policies do not automatically equal every feature of a traditional homeowners policy. Read their actual forms and exclusions together.
Build one combined coverage worksheet
| Exposure | What to record |
|---|---|
| Dwelling and other structures | Policy providing coverage, valuation, limits and deductible |
| Contents | Covered causes, settlement basis and special limits |
| Water damage and theft | Applicable form and exclusions |
| Personal liability | Insured persons, locations and limit |
| Temporary living costs | Trigger, time period and dollar limit |
Check the same property facts in both applications
Confirm ownership, occupancy, rental use, construction details and insured address. Tell the broker about trusts or LLCs rather than assuming one named-insured arrangement suits every owner. A mismatch can complicate claim handling or lender review.
Review limitations explicitly
Ask about earthquake, flood, ordinance or law, roof settlement and any vacancy or renovation conditions relevant to the home. Identify what remains uninsured or only partly insured. Avoid relying on phrases such as “full coverage” without a precise comparison.
Keep the two policies coordinated
Record both effective dates, premiums, payment responsibilities and claim contacts. Review the pair when either policy renews or changes. Ask which insurer to notify for a particular event; more than one notice may be appropriate.
The worksheet is a discussion tool, not a coverage determination. Have the broker explain unresolved items using the proposed forms before you bind.