How to Lower your Homeowner’s Insurance Costs

Let’s be honest—homeowner’s insurance isn’t cheap. And with everything else getting more expensive these days, finding ways to cut down on your insurance bill can be a real relief.

The good news? There are ways to lower your premium without sacrificing coverage. Here are some smart tips that could help you save a bit more every year.

1. Shop Around and Compare Quotes

This sounds obvious, but a lot of people just go with the first quote they get—or stick with the same insurer for years without checking if there’s a better deal out there. Prices (and coverage) can vary a lot between companies, so getting a few quotes can really pay off.

💡 Tip: Try to compare apples to apples—make sure the coverage levels are the same across quotes.

2. Bundle Your Policies

If you have auto insurance or life insurance, see if your provider offers a discount for bundling them together. Most companies give a multi-policy discount when you combine your home and auto insurance with them.

It’s one of the easiest ways to save 10–20% without doing much.

3. Raise Your Deductible

If you can afford to pay a little more out-of-pocket in the event of a claim, consider raising your deductible. A higher deductible usually means a lower monthly or annual premium.

For example, going from a $500 deductible to $1,000 could save you a decent chunk every year.

4. Improve Your Home’s Security

Insurance companies love it when your home is less risky to insure. Installing things like:

• A monitored security system

• Deadbolt locks

• Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

• Smart home systems (like water leak sensors or motion detectors)

...can all help reduce your premium. Some providers even offer discounts just for having these in place.

5. Make Your Home Disaster-Ready

If you live in an area prone to hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods, making upgrades that reduce the risk of damage can sometimes qualify you for a discount.

Think storm shutters, reinforced roofing, or updating older electrical and plumbing systems. Bonus: these upgrades also help you feel more secure at home.

6. Don’t Over-Insure

Make sure your policy covers what you actually need. You want enough coverage to rebuild your home and replace your stuff—not necessarily what you paid for the property (which includes land value).

Also, regularly review your policy. If you’ve downsized or sold off valuables you once insured, you might be paying more than you need to.

7. Keep a Good Credit Score

Yep, your credit score can affect your insurance rate in many states. A higher score often means you’re considered “lower risk,” which can lead to lower premiums. So it pays (literally) to keep that number up.

8. Ask About Discounts

Many insurers offer discounts for things you might not even realize, like:

• Being claims-free for a few years

• Being a non-smoker

• Working from home (less burglary risk!)

• Being part of a homeowner’s association or alumni group

Always ask what’s available—you’d be surprised what qualifies.

Final Thoughts

Homeowner’s insurance is one of those things you have to pay for—but that doesn’t mean you should overpay. A little bit of research and a few smart upgrades can go a long way toward bringing your costs down.

Even checking in with your insurance company once a year to review your policy can make a big difference.