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Does my roof matter for insurance?
Yes. A Class A roof is on the state discount list and the FAIR Plan list, and IBHS Essential requires it. The state draft does not set a roof material.
The state Zone 0 rule is not law yet. Insurers and IBHS already use their own lists.
What to check
Find out what your roof covering is. Your roofer or home records will say.
If it is wood shake or wood shingle, IBHS does not accept it.
Keep leaves and needles off the roof.
Ask your insurer if it wants a Class A rating proven in writing.
What each list says
The lists do not always agree. Here is what each one says about this.
- IBHS Essential
A roof covering with a Class A rating (ASTM E108 or UL 790). Wood shake, wood shingle and other wood roof coverings are not allowed, whatever their test rating. The roof is kept clear of leaves and needles (section 2.1.1).
- State discount list
Class A fire-rated roof.
- FAIR Plan
Class A fire-rated roof: asphalt fiberglass composition shingles, stone, concrete or clay tile, or metal.
- State draft
Leaves, needles and other debris that burns cannot build up on roofs. It does not set a roof material.
Sources
- IBHS Wildfire Prepared Home Technical Standard (2025 edition)
- Safer from Wildfires regulation: frequently asked questions, California Department of Insurance, September 2026
- Discounts for dwelling fire and commercial policies, California FAIR Plan, November 15, 2025
- Notice of proposed emergency action: Zone 0 defensible space, Board of Forestry, August 20, 2026