I live in North Carolina and recently had a large claim of $17,000 for a lost wedding ring against my homeowners policy. After the claim was paid, I was informed that General Electric Insurance would not be renewing our policy.

I have checked with several other companies and cannot find anyone to insure us. Our mortgage company, Standard Federal, will insure our home but not any of our personal property. We are dumbfounded.

The first question asked when we called around was whether or not we have had a large claim in the last three years. I get the feeling we will be unable to get personal property coverage until the three-year time period is up. Can you please advise. We are terrified of something happening as it would probably devastate us financially.

Tommi, North Carolina

Dear Tommi,

Jennifer Gullette, a spokesperson for the North Carolina Department of Insurance, says that you should continue to shop around for coverage.

"A homeowners policy is voluntary coverage," says Gullette. "A company is not required by law to write it. Consequently, if a carrier elects to not write the coverage, it can do so by following the cancellation/nonrenewal provisions of the contract, usually by giving 30-day advance notice."

Also, look into getting coverage through North Carolina's FAIR Plan — the "insurer of last resort." Depending on the premiums, you may find it less expensive to insure your home through your mortgage holder while insuring your contents under the FAIR Plan. Any home insurance agent should be able to give you information about the plan and help you apply for a policy.

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