Can my homeowners insurance refuse to renew me in California?

Generally yes, but only with at least 75 days' advance written notice before expiration (Insurance Code section 678), and not during a post-wildfire moratorium under section 675.1. Mid-term cancellation is far more restricted — Insurance Code section 676 limits it to grounds like nonpayment, fraud, or a material increase in hazard.

California draws a sharp line between cancelling a homeowners policy mid-term and declining to renew it. Mid-term cancellation is tightly restricted: Insurance Code section 676 permits it only on listed grounds such as nonpayment of premium, fraud or material misrepresentation, or physical changes that materially increase the hazard. Non-renewal at the end of the policy period is broadly allowed, but the insurer must deliver written notice at least 75 days before expiration (section 678) stating the reason; late or missing notice generally continues the existing coverage. Wildfire seasons added an overlay: after a declared wildfire emergency, section 675.1 imposes a one-year moratorium on cancellation or non-renewal for homes in and adjoining the fire perimeter. A homeowner who is non-renewed can shop the admitted market, seek surplus lines coverage, or fall back on the California FAIR Plan, the state's insurer of last resort for basic fire coverage. Disputes and moratorium questions can be raised with the Department of Insurance.

Authority: Cal. Ins. Code § 678