California's insurer of last resort is raising rates this fall, a change that could matter for East County homeowners who have had trouble finding traditional wildfire coverage, according to East County Magazine.

The California Department of Insurance approved a statewide average rate increase of 29.1% for the California FAIR Plan, effective for new and renewing policies starting Oct. 15. The increase is an average, not a flat change for every policyholder, and individual bills will depend on a property's risk profile.

East County Magazine reported that high-risk properties, including many in brush-heavy parts of East County, could see increases above the average, while lower-risk suburban properties may see smaller increases or no increase. The FAIR Plan covers limited perils, so many customers also buy separate Difference in Conditions coverage to fill gaps left by the basic policy.

For Santee and nearby East County residents, the practical step is to check renewal dates now and ask agents about mitigation discounts. Fire-hardening measures such as Class A roofing, ember-resistant vents and defensible space work may reduce the wildfire portion of a premium.

Local resources include the Fire Safe Council of San Diego County in Lakeside and San Diego County Fire's Home Hardening Program for eligible residents. Santee Pulse will watch for additional state insurance guidance as the Oct. 15 effective date gets closer.