In La Jolla, California, a Vault customer faced significant challenges ensuring their coastal home met insurability standards while addressing wildfire risks. Despite the moist coastal environment, proximity to the brush-covered Mount Soledad and the seasonal Santa Ana winds heightened the home's wildfire exposure. These winds are hot and dry, originating in inland desert areas and blowing toward the coast. Driven by high-pressure systems over the Great Basin area, these fast-moving winds can quickly turn embers into devastating fires, making proactive measures crucial.
Identifying Risk and Taking Action
Jim Muttera, a wildfire mitigation specialist on the Vault Risk Services team, shared insights into the inspection process.
"This was one of those cases where we could see the challenges firsthand and work directly with the homeowner to come up with solutions that made the property safer and more insurable."
The home’s wood-shingle roof and siding presented significant fire hazards, compounded by wood decks and bark mulch landscaping that acted as natural kindling. Additionally, the inspection revealed the absence of an automatic seismic shut-off valve, a critical safety measure in earthquake-prone California. Recognizing these vulnerabilities, the homeowner worked closely with Vault to implement transformative changes.
The most critical update was replacing the wood-shingle roof with a Class A-rated composition shingle roof offering superior fire resistance. The homeowner treated the wood siding with a fire retardant, significantly reducing its flammability. Beyond these updates, the home was already equipped with an innovative deluge roof system—a first for the Vault team to encounter during an inspection. Unlike traditional fire sprinklers, this system directs water down the roof’s gables, ensuring effective protection even during high-wind conditions when conventional sprinklers might fail.
The homeowner also took steps to address earthquake-related risks by installing an automatic seismic shut-off valve on the home's main gas line. This essential device significantly reduces the risk of secondary damage from earthquakes, such as fires or explosions caused by gas leaks. By ensuring an immediate shut-off in the event of seismic activity, the homeowner enhanced not only the home's safety but also its overall insurability.
Featured Resource:
Wildfire Risk Mitigation & Safety Guide
Wildfire season typically starts in late spring and lasts through fall, but regional climates and vegetation can cause variations. Learn how to prepare for a wildfire with these essential safety tips and an emergency supply checklist.
Tailored Solutions and Peace of Mind
The collaboration didn’t stop at fire and earthquake prevention. Vault’s inspection uncovered other safety features that enhanced the property’s profile. The home already boasted a backup generator for emergencies and a sophisticated alarm system equipped with monitored smoke detectors and motion sensors. During the visit, Vault also discovered a hidden home safe that qualified the customer for additional policy credits—a testament to the thoroughness of their risk assessment.
Related: Partnering for Protection: Vault's Collaborative Approach to Wildfire Safety in Montana
Another critical area, the landscaping, underwent significant changes. Vault recommended removing bark mulch and ensuring a defensible space around the home. The homeowner complied, replacing high-risk elements with safer alternatives. These measures, coupled with the home’s new fire-resistant features, dramatically improved its risk profile.
Vault’s proactive partnership with the homeowner not only secured renewed coverage but also ensured the family’s peace of mind. Through a combination of detailed inspections, tailored recommendations, and the customer’s commitment to mitigation, this home is now better protected against wildfire risks. This success story highlights Vault’s dedication to safeguarding high-value properties and fostering collaborative solutions that protect what matters most.
Related Products: Vault Custom
Protecting What Matters - Together
Wildfire threats don’t wait, and neither should your coverage. Vault’s hands-on approach helps homeowners turn risk into resilience through personalized guidance and proactive protection.
Connect with your Vault agent to schedule a property review—and discover how the right partnership can make all the difference.
Featured Resource:
Wildfire Risk Mitigation & Safety Guide
Wildfire season typically starts in late spring and lasts through fall, but regional climates and vegetation can cause variations. Learn how to prepare for a wildfire with these essential safety tips and an emergency supply checklist.
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