In this packed episode, host Karl Susman dives into a full session of listener-submitted insurance questions—covering everything from soaring homeowner premiums to confusing deductible structures, rental exposures, wildfire smoke damage, teen driver rate shock, condo coverage misconceptions, and what really happens when a tree drops onto your roof.

Karl breaks down today's turbulent California insurance market in plain language, explaining why the landscape has shifted so dramatically and what smart policyholders can do to protect themselves. Whether you're buying your first home, renting out a room on Airbnb, dealing with an aging roof, or trying to understand why your renewal jumped 40%, this episode is full of practical guidance, humor, and clarity.

Listeners will learn:

• Why shopping for home insurance is so difficult right now

• How to understand replacement cost vs. market value

• What percentage deductibles actually mean

• How smoke and ash claims really work

• Why short-term rentals require special insurance

• What your HOA covers (and what it absolutely does NOT)

• How subrogation works behind the scenes

• The best ways to manage new-driver auto insurance costs

Supported by the Insurance Consumer Guidance Society (ICGS), this episode empowers Californians to make confident insurance decisions in an increasingly unpredictable market.

Have a question for Karl?
Email questions@insurancehour.com or call/text 559-656-0317.