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Consumer Reports: Save money on home insurance

KCRA· July 9, 2026

Homeowners insurance premiums have surged by an average of 24% over the last three years, driven primarily by inflation and an increase in weather-related losses. This trend is forcing consumers to seek mitigation strategies to manage rising costs, which has significant implications for carrier retention and risk assessment in the property insurance sector. Understanding these consumer-facing cost-saving measures is essential for insurers as they navigate a market defined by heightened liability risks and shifting policyholder behaviors.

According to Consumer Reports, the property insurance market is experiencing significant upward pressure, with premiums rising 24% over a three-year period due to the dual impact of inflation and frequent weather-related claims. To combat these rising costs, experts recommend that homeowners utilize independent local insurance agents to compare policies within specific ZIP codes. This approach ensures that policyholders maintain adequate coverage while securing competitive pricing in a volatile market where insurers are increasingly sensitive to regional risk factors.

Financial adjustments such as bundling homeowners and auto insurance can yield substantial savings of up to 30%, while increasing deductibles from $500 to $1,000 can reduce premiums by as much as 25%. However, Consumer Reports notes that higher deductibles require homeowners to have sufficient out-of-pocket funds available for potential claims. Additionally, insurers are increasingly scrutinizing home maintenance and age, with some companies applying surcharges of 10% to 20% or more for older roofs, which are frequently the source of expensive leak and storm damage claims.

Risk mitigation through home upgrades and lifestyle choices also plays a critical role in premium determination. Installing security systems, gas and water-leak detectors, or replacing outdated plumbing can lead to lower rates, whereas owning certain dog breeds, pools, or trampolines can increase liability risks and make coverage harder to obtain. Furthermore, policyholders are advised to think carefully before filing small claims, as even inquiring about a claim can sometimes trigger rate hikes the following year. Credit health remains a vital factor in the property sector, as poor credit scores can lead to premiums that are significantly higher than those offered to consumers with good credit standing.

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Summary generated by RabbitReport AI from public reporting. The full article and original reporting belong to KCRA.

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