Home insurance premiums have risen sharply in recent years, driven by inflation and extreme weather. The good news: most homeowners leave easy savings on the table. Here is how to claim them without gutting your coverage.
1. Raise your deductible
Going from a $500 to a $2,000 deductible can lower your premium 15% to 25%. You take on more risk for small claims, but you keep protection for the big ones — which is what insurance is really for.
2. Bundle with auto
Insuring your home and car with the same company typically earns a 10% to 25% discount on both policies.
3. Improve home security
- Smoke detectors and a monitored alarm system
- Deadbolts and reinforced doors
- Water leak detectors
- Security cameras
Each reduces risk and can earn a discount. Monitored systems often save the most.
4. Shop around every year
Just like auto insurance, loyalty rarely pays. Compare at least three quotes before each renewal — rates vary widely between insurers for the same home.
5. Don't file small claims
Every claim raises your future premium and can flag you as high-risk. For small repairs near or below your deductible, paying out of pocket is often cheaper long-term than filing.
Filing two small claims in a few years can raise your premium more than the claims paid out. Save insurance for the big losses.
6. Fix the risk factors insurers penalize
- An old roof — replacing it can significantly lower premiums
- Outdated electrical or plumbing
- A trampoline or unfenced pool (liability risk)
- Certain dog breeds insurers consider high-risk
7. Update your home's systems
Modern wiring, plumbing, and HVAC reduce fire and water risk. Insurers reward updated homes with lower rates.
8. Avoid over-insuring the land
You insure the cost to rebuild the structure, not the market value of the property. Land does not burn down. Make sure your dwelling coverage reflects rebuild cost, not the full purchase price.
9. Ask about every discount
- New homebuyer
- Claims-free history
- Retiree or remote worker (home occupied more often)
- Paperless billing and autopay
10. Maintain good credit
In most states, a better credit-based insurance score means a lower premium. Paying down debt helps your home insurance, not just your loans.
The three fastest wins are raising your deductible, bundling with auto, and shopping around at renewal. Together they can cut a typical premium by a third.
Use our home insurance calculator to estimate a fair premium for your home's value and contents before you compare quotes.