Comparison shopping
One of the most effective ways to trim home insurance costs is to shop around and compare home insurance quotes. We recommend comparison shopping with at least three different companies because the price for a policy can vary significantly from insurance company to the next. Request quotes for the same coverage levels from each insurer so that you’re comparing apples to apples.
Ask if raising your deductible will lower your rates
You might be able to save money on your home insurance by raising your deductible. The deductible is the amount deducted from an insurance claim check. By lowering a potential claim payout, you may get cheaper home insurance. Ask your home insurance agent or company how much you will save if you increase your deductible.
Ask for discounts
In addition to military discounts, you can qualify for other home insurance discounts related to the features of the home and policy details. An insurance agent can help you review your policy to see what savings opportunities are available to you.
For example, inform your agent if you’ve made any recent changes to your home, such as adding a security system or replacing an old roof. Since agents are not likely aware of household changes, sharing this information can help you ensure you receive all eligible discounts. You can also contact your home insurance company directly and ask what discounts are offered.
Here are some other homeowner discounts your insurer may offer:
Claim-free homeowner insurance discount
Insurance companies may offer a discount if you go without filing a home insurance claim for an extended time. For example, if you are claims-free for five or more years, USAA provides a discount of up to 15%.
Disaster preparedness home insurance discount
If you live in a place where severe weather is typical, insurance companies may offer a discount if you install weather protection features—for example, storm shutters or shatterproof windows—to protect your home from damage.
Loyalty discount
Insurance companies value loyalty. Some award you by offering discounts for keeping your policy with them for an extended time. For instance, you can save up to 5% if you have a USAA home insurance policy for three consecutive years.
Multi-home insurance discount
Owning multiple homes and insuring them with a single insurance company can help you qualify for a discount.
Multi-policy discount or bundling discount
You may cut your insurance costs when purchasing multiple policies from one insurance company. For example, bundling auto and home insurance or home and boat insurance may help you save money on your home insurance cost. USAA customers may save up to 10% on their rate by bundling home and auto policies.
New or renovated home insurance discount
If you insure a newly constructed or renovated house, you can typically snag a price break on your homeowners insurance policy.
Payment discount
You can qualify for a discount if you pay your annual home insurance rate upfront or go paperless.
Protective and safety device discount
If your home has devices such as smoke detectors, security systems, sprinklers, or deadbolts, you may be eligible for a discount.
Proximity to fire hydrant or department discount
Your insurance company may offer a discount if a fire-control resource like a fire hydrant or fire station is close to your home.
Roof age discount
You can qualify for a discount if your home has a newer roof.
