Sara, that is a good question - I think it has to do with the climate here in California - but I am not sure if that is the correct answer of why we don't have basements. All of the older homes have what are called California basements. They are usually the size of my kitchen and are for just the furnace and hot water heater.

However, I know that the large (read huge) mansions in Pasadena that are just as old as my home - have full basements.

I have lived here 28 years and my last claim was in 1980 after a home burglary - but with a different insurance company.

This is my first claim with AUTO CLUB - I have been with them for years and have never (thank God) had to put in a claim on my auto or homeowners insurance. I asked "will my premium go up?" and the answer was no - due to my history. However, if I were to put in three more claims the answer is a definite YES and cancelation would follow.