Exclusive | My condo insurance was suddenly canceled in California now Im completely exposed

I never thought I’d be writing this as a proud Los Angeles homeowner.Last week, I received notice from Liberty Mutual that my condo insurance policy is being canceled effective October 3.No explanation tied to my claims history or property condition — just a blanket decision as part of the insurer’s widespread pullback from California.My building is well-maintained and has been seismically retrofitted against earthquake damage.

I’ve done everything right.Yet I’m still caught in the crosshairs of an insurance crisis that’s hitting Angelinos (and tax-paying, law-abiding transplants like me) the hardest.As a single woman, and lawful permanent resident, who worked hard to buy this place (including 70-hour weeks) and who has never missed a mortgage payment or HOA due, this feels like a real kick in the teeth.I moved to California a little over 10 years ago chasing the dream so many of us have: success, stability, homeownership, upward mobility, and building something for myself in an energetic, lively town that promised endless opportunity with a dollop of glamor.

In my home country and other places I’ve lived, I saved diligently for years while living in share houses, rented rooms and even in squats.I bought the condo, my first home, in 2016 in the West LA neighborhood Mar Vista because it felt like a community I could lay root, in an amazing location close to Venice Beach.I officially moved in on Halloween, and have had my insurance policy since before closing.

I’ve been paying more than $1,300 annually to protect my greatest asset.I’ve poured so much cash and sweat into maintaining this home: Going without vacations to renovate my kitchen and bathrooms; retiling the fireplace; laying new baseboards; ripping out carpet to lay hardwood floors; new light fixtures; and painting walls, cabinets, ceilings and surfaces to further bolster the biggest financial stake I’ve ever committed to in my life.I was blessed that in my decade of homeownership, Mar ...