Whether you’re looking for lower rates, trying to secure better coverage, or recently received a nonrenewal or cancellation notice, shopping around and finding a new home insurance company is relatively easy.
Not sure where to start? The steps below can help you determine your coverage needs, shop and compare insurers, and avoid a coverage lapse as you change home insurance companies.
6 steps to change homeowners insurance
Here’s a step-by-step look at how to switch home insurance companies.
1. Review your existing policy and coverage needs
Before purchasing a new policy, review your current one, noting your coverage limits and deductibles, as well as any policy endorsements or discounts.
You can view a snapshot of your policy, including coverage details, by looking at your home insurance declarations page. You can typically locate this document by logging into your insurer’s website or mobile app or contacting your insurer to request a copy.
Keep in mind that your coverage needs can change over time. For instance, your dwelling coverage may no longer be enough to rebuild your home based on today’s material and labor costs, or you may want to increase your personal property coverage to better reflect the value of your belongings.
2. Get and compare home insurance quotes
Once you’ve reviewed your policy and coverage limits, you should shop around and get home insurance quotes from at least three companies.
You can usually get online quotes by visiting an insurer’s website or using an online comparison website or marketplace. You can also work directly with an agent by phone or visit their local office when applicable.
When getting a home insurance quote, you’ll likely need the following:
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Personal information. Your name, date of birth, and contact details. You may also need to include information about other household members.
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Property information. The year your house was built, the structure’s square footage, roof age, construction materials used, existing safety features, number of bedrooms, etc.
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Primary coverage limits. Your preferred limits for each type of coverage included in a standard homeowners insurance policy, such as dwelling insurance, other structures coverage, personal property insurance, and personal liability insurance.
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Optional coverage information. Any additional coverages you may need, such as flood or earthquake insurance. Also, ensure the quote includes any policy enhancements you may want, such as water backup coverage or replacement cost coverage.
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Insurance history. You may need to provide information about your current home insurance company, claims history, and any lapses in coverage.
Tip: When comparing quotes, it’s best to use the same coverage details for each quote so you have an equal comparison. Generally, this means getting quotes for the same home insurance deductible. However, keep in mind that deductible options may vary by insurer, and some insurers may have a separate deductible for certain types of claims, such as those for wind damage.
If you get quotes with different deductibles, factor that into the total policy costs and your final decision.
3. Review insurers and policies
After you get your quotes, it’s time to review the coverage details, rates, and the insurer. While price is important, it shouldn’t be the only factor when choosing a home insurance company. Additional factors to consider include:
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Available endorsements. Policy add-ons, such as extended replacement coverage or water backup insurance, can enhance your overall coverage.
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Insurer’s financial stability. Rating agencies, such as Demotech, Inc. and AM Best, review insurers to determine how likely they are to meet their financial obligations, including claims payouts.
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Discounts. Though your quote may include discounts, consider contacting the insurer directly to determine whether you qualify for any additional rate reductions.
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Insurer reviews. Expert and consumer reviews, such as those on TrustPilot, can help you gain insight into the customer experience. The same can be true of speaking to family and friends about their experience with an insurer.
4. Purchase your policy
Once you choose an insurer, you can purchase your policy and select an effective (start) date. Your new home insurance policy should start on or before the date your existing policy is set to expire. Otherwise, you run the risk of having a lapse in coverage.
A lapse in coverage can put you at financial risk, as your home won’t be covered during the window between when your old policy expires and your new policy begins. Further, insurers often see a lapse in coverage as a red flag for risk, which may lead to higher rates down the line.
5. Cancel your old policy
After your new policy is all set, contact your previous home insurance company to cancel. Make sure that your old policy ends on the day of or after your new policy starts.
When you cancel, you may need to sign authorization forms to officially end the policy. If you cancel before your policy term expires, you may be able to get a prorated refund, minus any cancellation fees. Refund policies vary by insurer and state.
6. Notify your mortgage servicer (if you have a mortgage)
If you have a mortgage, contact your lender to let them know that you are switching insurance companies. You’ll likely be required to send them a copy of the insurance declaration page for the new policy.
If you pay your homeowners insurance through an escrow account, your lender will update the associated payment information and adjust your monthly mortgage to reflect your new policy premium.
Can you change homeowners insurance at any time?
You can typically change home insurance companies whenever you want, even if your policy term has not ended. However, some insurers charge a fee or penalty if you cancel the policy before the term ends.
Cancellation rules can differ by insurer, policy, and state. If you have questions about any cancellation refunds or fees, speak to your insurer directly.
Do you get a refund from your cancelled policy?
If you cancel the policy before the renewal date, you may be eligible for a prorated refund of the prepaid premium.
For specific details, reach out to your insurance company or agent. They can tell if you qualify for a refund. If you pay for home insurance through an escrow account, contact your lender to coordinate the refund.
When should you change your home insurance?
There are circumstances under which you may want to change home insurance companies. Here are a few examples:
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Costs. If your home insurance premiums increased, it may be time to look for a new insurer. You may be able to find a cheaper policy elsewhere.
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Coverage options. If your current insurer doesn’t offer the coverage you want or need, you may want to shop around for a company that can better meet your insurance needs.
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Nonrenewal or cancellation. If you were sent a nonrenewal or cancellation notice, immediately start shopping for a new insurer. A lapse in coverage can leave you with higher rates in the future. Further, a lack of coverage can violate your loan agreement if you have a mortgage.