Homeowner Policies Need Realistic Rates

“Insurance Rates for Homeowner Groups Soaring” (Nov. 4), one hopes, will move the state insurance commissioner, and the state legislators, to take action to bring rates back to some realistic figure.

The astronomical rate increase that one of our associations received--from $7,900 to $62,000, with limited insurance coverage--is unbelievable, and merits investigation.

There is, however, another consideration that will take legislative action, at all governmental levels, to protect homeowners who build in brush country, or too close to oceans.

No building permit should be granted unless there is a “safety belt” area around the homes one builds.

For example, as we are in the Santa Monica mountains, all our homes (including condos) should have protective “green belts” that add a greater margin of safety if a fire threatens the community.

And the adjoining park, or natural environment, usually owned by a government entity, needs to be patrolled and cleared of dead trees, brush and other fire dangers.

We trust the story in The Times will stimulate action.

HYMAN H. HAVES

Chairperson

Palisades Highlands Homeowners Assns.

Pacific Palisades