Fireman’s Fund Insures Green Reconstruction

We are becoming accustomed to hearing about going green when it comes to the cars we drive, the fuel we put in them, and the source of electricity for our homes, but now Californians can have green insurance, if they�re customers of Fireman�s Fund.

In a statement made on August 4th, Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner encouraged other insurance companies to consider green options as well, saying, “Innovative products like these are a win-win for consumers and the environment, lowering energy bills and cutting consumption.”

Specifically, the Poizner-approved coverage will allow homeowners in California to rebuild to the latest environmental standards after a loss, even if their homes were originally conventional construction. As well, the new program will include coverage for costs not usually included in homeowners policies, such as recertification fees.

Homes covered by the new policies can be rebuilt according to the U.S. Green Building Council�s LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) standards, and the policy comes with an allowance of up to $25,000 to pay a LEED-certified architect to oversee the rebuilding process. Homes only partially damaged are also covered, and can be repaired or rebuilt with environmentally-friendly materials including Energy Star appliances, lighting, roofing, and HVAC systems, and wood that has been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

The Fireman�s Fund program became available on Friday, August 1.