I just spoke to my cousin today about homeowners insurance for a friend. Basically almost EVERY major carrier in the US are not writing NEW homeowners policies in the North East, especially in NY/LI and within 5 miles of any water. ( I referred a friend to him and he couldn't write it which is how I found out).

In answer to the question though, Met Life, Encompass (owned by AllState now, used to be CNA), Home, State Farm, and USAA (only open to military and their families) are all good. The premium increases are because of Katrina and the anticipated 100 year storm.

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