Specialist for higher-value homes, sold through agents. Extended replacement cost, water backup protection, HomeScan inspections and a free risk consultation. Rated A++ (Superior) by AM Best.
Mutual insurer selling home insurance directly in DC and every state except Alaska and Hawaii. The Platinum Choice package adds extended replacement cost and water backup. Rated A+ (Superior) by AM Best.
The fourth-largest US home insurer, available online, by phone and through agents. Optional extended replacement cost, replacement cost for belongings and water backup. Rated A (Excellent) by AM Best.
Provider of the AARP Homeowners Insurance Program, with New for Old protection for belongings and a deductible that shrinks when you stay claim-free. Rated A+ (Superior) by AM Best.
The largest US home insurer with 18.7% of the market, sold through local agents and online. Replacement cost for belongings and up to 20% extra dwelling cover. No new policies in CA, MA or RI.
Home insurance in all 50 states and DC for military members, veterans and their families. Replacement cost for belongings is standard. Rated A++ (Superior) by AM Best.
Home insurance online, by phone and through independent agents. Extended replacement cost, water backup and a green home rider with LEED discount. Rated A++ (Superior) by AM Best.
Homeowners insurance in 43 states and DC, online, by phone or through agents. Optional Brand New Belongings and Better Roof Replacement coverage. Rated A (Excellent) by AM Best.
Home insurance online, by phone and through agents, from Progressive Home or partner insurers such as Homesite. Bundle discounts with Progressive auto. Not available in Alaska or Hawaii.
Our Top Picks for 2026
Rating Verdict
AM Best A++ and strong claims satisfaction, with extended replacement cost, water backup protection and HomeScan inspections. You buy through an agent, and it is aimed at more expensive homes.
Rating Verdict
A top-5 US home insurer with extended replacement cost and water backup options, dozens of combinable discounts and local agents. Not sold in about ten states, so check availability first.
Rating Verdict
The largest US home insurer, with local agents, replacement cost for belongings and an automatic dwelling extension of up to 20%, but no new homeowners policies in California, Massachusetts or Rhode Island.
FAQ - Everything you need to know about home insurance
What does homeowners insurance cover?
A standard policy typically covers the structure of your home, other structures such as a detached garage, your personal belongings, additional living expenses if a covered loss makes the home uninhabitable, and personal liability if you injure someone or damage their property.
Is homeowners insurance required?
Homeowners insurance is generally not required by state or federal law, but if you have a mortgage, your lender will almost always require it and may collect the premium through escrow.
Does homeowners insurance cover floods and earthquakes?
Usually not. Standard policies exclude flood and earth movement. Flood insurance is available through FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program and private insurers, and earthquake coverage is bought separately or as an add-on where offered.
How much dwelling coverage do I need?
Enough to rebuild your home, which can differ from its market price or mortgage balance. Insurers recommend a limit; extended replacement cost endorsements can pay an extra 5% to 25% above the limit after a disaster, and an inflation guard adjusts the limit at renewal.
What is the difference between replacement cost and actual cash value?
Actual cash value pays what your belongings were worth after depreciation, while replacement cost pays to buy new items of similar kind and quality. Replacement cost coverage costs more but pays out more after a loss.
How can I lower my home insurance premium?
Common options include bundling home and auto with one insurer, installing protective devices such as alarms or leak sensors, staying claim-free, choosing a higher deductible and comparing quotes from several insurers for the same coverage.
