Steve Poizner, the commissioner of the California Department of Insurance, joined Fireman's Fund Insurance Company and the U.S. Green Building Council to announce his approval of the first green homeowners insurance policy in California. Poizner applauded Fireman's Fund for being the first company to offer a green homeowners policy in California, and encouraged other insurers to explore environmentally-friendly options for consumers.

"I am very pleased today to announce that Californians will soon have another option for homeowners insurance – and an opportunity to make environmentally-friendly choices at the same time," Poizner said. "I encourage all insurance companies to expand options for consumers. Innovative products like these are a win-win for consumers and the environment, lowering energy bills and cutting consumption."

The landmark coverage will be available August 1, and will enable California homeowners with conventional homes to rebuild to the latest environmental standards after a loss. The newly-approved policy will provide coverage for costs typically not covered in traditional homeowners policies, like green recertification fees and other additional expenses environmentally-conscious homeowners may incur when rebuilding.

Under the type of coverage approved by Poizner, California homeowners can, for the first time, rebuild covered homes, under Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design (LEED) standards set by the U.S. Green Building Council.  The first-of-its-kind policy provides up to $25,000 for a LEED-certified architect to oversee the rebuilding of the home, and the LEED application process.

The newly-approved policy will allow a policyholder whose home has been partially damaged or completely destroyed to repair it with environmentally preferable materials such as Energy Star-rated appliances, lighting, electronic equipment and roofing and insulation materials; an Energy Star upgrade of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems; Forest Stewardship Council-certified wood for millwork, ceilings, siding and framing, including bamboo flooring; and non-toxic, low odor paints and carpeting.

Poizner has and will continue to pursue policies that benefit the environment. Currently, he is sponsoring legislation that will allow insurance companies to submit paperless filings to his department, significantly reducing the amount of trees cut down by the numerous paper filings the Department receives annually. Poizner also is working to develop regulations that will create a green auto insurance option for California drivers.