California: How to File a Property Insurance Complaint and Protect Your Rights

California Department of Insurance (CDI)

Purpose: Investigates complaints related to insurance companies and claim disputes, ensuring they comply with state and federal regulations.

Recognizing Unfair Insurance Practices

Not sure if you should file a complaint? Here are common signs your insurer may not be acting in good faith:

• Claim Denied: Your claim was rejected with no clear explanation.
• Delays: Your payout is taking too long, impacting your ability to repair your home.
• Underpayment: The payout amount is significantly less than your documented losses.
• Poor Communication: Your insurer isn’t responding or is giving unclear answers.
• Unfair Cancellations: Your policy was canceled or not renewed without good reason.
• Pressure to Settle: You’re being pushed to accept a low offer quickly.

Document Everything

Before filing a complaint, gather these:

• Emails, call logs, and letters from your insurer
• Photos and videos of the property damage
• Receipts or estimates for repairs
• A timeline of your claim process
• Witness names, if any

How to File an Insurance Complaint in California

You can submit a complaint to the California Department of Insurance online or by mail. Here’s how:

Hotline

Call: 1-800-927-4357 or 800-927-4357
Available 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Online Submission

Submit via the official form:
https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/101-help/index.cfm

Mail-In Form

Download and print the form: Non-Health (i.e. Auto, Home, Life) – https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/101-help/upload/RFAnonhealth.pdf
Health – https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/101-help/upload/RFAhealth.pdf
Health Care Provider Complaint Form – https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/101-help/upload/HPRFA_Jan2019.pdf
Auto Body Repair Shop Report Form – https://www.insurance.ca.gov/01-consumers/105-type/95-guides/01-auto/upload/CSD005AutoBodyRepairShopReportForm.pdf

• Mail-In PDF
• Mail to:
  California Department of Insurance
  Consumer Services Division
  300 South Spring Street
  Los Angeles, CA 90013

Fax

Send your complaint by fax to: 501-371-2749

Email

You can also send your complaint to: consumer.services@insurance.ca.gov​

Website

Visit: www.insurance.ca.gov

What Happens After You File?

The California Department of Insurance will:

• Review your documentation
• Investigate the insurer’s handling of your claim
• Contact your insurer and request a formal response
• Notify you of the outcome and any next steps

While the department cannot force payment, it can hold insurers accountable for unfair practices.

Types of Complaints They Handle:

• Denied, delayed, or underpaid claims
• Misleading policy information
• Unlawful policy cancellations
• Poor customer service or negligence
• Violations of state insurance regulations

What to Include in Your Complaint

Be prepared with:

• Your full name, contact info, and policy number
• Your insurer’s name and the adjuster’s contact
• A clear explanation of the issue
• Copies of supporting documents (photos, estimates, emails)

Still Having Trouble?

You may also wish to consult an attorney if:

• Your claim was wrongfully denied
• You’ve suffered significant financial harm
• The insurer is stalling with no end in sight

Legal help can support your claim while the department investigates.