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Why did my homeowners or landlord insurance premium go up?

Several things can affect homeowners and landlord insurance rates.

We understand how frustrating it can be when the premiums increase for your homeowners insurance or landlord insurance, also known as rental property insurance. Some things that raise the cost might be expected, like if you renovate your kitchen or change your coverage. But some things are out of your control, like repair costs.

We never raise rates to make up for past claims. But we do look at several factors before increasing future rates. What's the likelihood you'll have a claim, and how much would it cost to pay for it? What's the frequency, severity and likelihood of future claims where you live? Are economic events causing prices to rise because labor and supplies are limited? Then we use all that data to adjust our rates.

 

A rate change at renewal

When projected claims costs go up, we raise our rates to make sure we can cover you after a covered loss. These costs include:

  • Materials and labor
  • Weather-related events in your area

Who does it affect?

Our rate is spread across policyholders in your area. We also look at your policy. Members can have higher premiums if they file claims, so everyone pays their fair share of the risk.

Other reasons your homeowners or landlord insurance could go up at renewal

Loss of Discounts

Some of our discounts change over time. For example, the roof and home age discounts get smaller, because as these things get older, there’s a higher likelihood of loss. You could also lose your claims-free discount when you file certain types of claims.

Dwelling Value

Your rate could go up because of construction costs, building code changes or home improvements that could increase your rebuild cost. It’s important to make sure you have enough coverage to rebuild your home by regularly reviewing your home details.

Why did my premium increase during my current policy term?

Your premium would only increase during a current policy term if you make changes.

Policy Updates

These could include things like adding a pool or increasing your coverage limits.

Lower Deductibles

Lowering the amount you want to pay out of pocket for a claim will cause your premium to increase.

Missed or Partial Payment

If you miss a payment or only pay a portion, we’ll add the balance to your next bill. Or if your mortgage company hasn’t paid your premium in 60 days, we’ll bill you.

Discounts and savings can help lower your homeowners insurance premium.

Stay Claims Free

You could save up to 15% on your policy if you stay claims free for five years or longer. Take steps to prevent losses by doing things like locking your home and trimming trees away from your roof.

Multi-Product Discount‍ ‍‍ ‍ See note 1

When you add another USAA product like Valuable Personal Property, umbrella or renters insurance, it could save you some money.

Loyalty Discount‍ ‍‍ ‍ See note 2

You could save up to 5% on your premium if you’ve had your USAA property policy for at least three continuous years.

Bundle Home and Auto

Bundle homeowners insurance with your USAA auto insurance and you could save on your premium.

Other ways to save on homeowners and landlord insurance

Protect Your Home‍ ‍‍ ‍ See note 3

Add smart home devices that detect leaks or smoke through our Connected Home program. Or if you have a home security system, you may qualify for a protective device credit.

Raise Your Deductible

If you can afford to pay more for a claim, consider increasing your deductible.

Update Your Home Characteristics

Some changes you make to your home, such as an impact-resistant roof, may lower your premium. Learn more about upgrades like adding an impact-resistant roof at our Advice Center.