The Fair Access to Insurance Requirements (FAIR) Plan helps people get basic property insurance when they cannot get it from regular insurers. In New York, the FAIR Plan is managed by the New York Property Insurance Underwriting Association (NYPIUA).
What kind of insurance can I get from the FAIR Plan?
You can apply for two basic types of insurance through the New York FAIR Plan:
- Dwelling fire policy (for homes): This is basic insurance that helps protect a house or building you own—especially if it is a rental, vacant, or does not qualify for regular homeowners’ insurance. It usually covers damage from water, fire, wind, hail, or vandalism. This policy protects the building itself, but it may not cover personal belongings or liability unless you add extra coverage.
- Commercial property policy (for businesses): This insurance protects a business building and the things inside it—like furniture, equipment, or inventory. It helps pay for repairs or replacements if there is damage from events like fire, theft, or storms. Some policies also help cover lost income if your business has to close for a short time due to the damage.
Who can get help from this program?
You may qualify for New York FAIR Plan insurance if your home or other property is considered high risk. That could mean:
- It’s located in a place where there is a lot of bad weather, like tornadoes, hurricanes, or earthquakes
- The neighborhood has high crime, including break-ins or vandalism.
- The property is very old and has old wiring or plumbing that can be unsafe.
- You have already been turned down for insurance by two or more companies.
- You have filed multiple insurance claims already (especially big ones).
How do I apply for this program?
To apply for insurance coverage through the New York FAIR Plan, you must complete and submit an application. You must also pay a deposit (part of the yearly policy premium, or cost) when you submit your application.
There are several ways to apply for the FAIR Plan.
Online
To apply online, visit the NYPIUA website and click on the type of insurance you need (Dwelling Fire or Commercial Property). You should have the following information handy:
- The types of coverage you need
- Your credit card or bank account and routing number to pay the deposit
- Your information, plus anyone else who needs to be listed on the policy (like a mortgage company)
Mail, Email, or Fax
To apply by mail, email, or fax, download a Dwelling Fire or Commercial Property application.
When you have finished the application, do one of the following:
- Mail it to:
155 Myers Corners Road
Wappingers Falls, NY, 12590 - Email it to fairplan@nypiua.com.
- Fax it to 1-845-218-3099.
You must pay a deposit along with your application. See the NYPIUA website for more information on deposits.
How do I get help with my application?
If you have any questions about applying for the New York FAIR Plan, call 1-212-208-9700 or send an email to fairplan@nypiua.com.