How to Save on Insurance for a Manufactured Home?
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Insurance Basics
Manufactured homes often come with higher insurance premiums, but there are effective ways to reduce costs while still protecting your property. Here’s a detailed guide to help you save.
Why Insurance Costs More for Manufactured Homes
Higher Risk Factors
- Manufactured homes are more susceptible to wind, hail, fire, theft, and vandalism.
- Placement in areas prone to extreme weather increases risk.
Limited Competition
- Fewer insurers cover manufactured homes, often limiting options to companies like Allstate, Farmers/Foremost, Assurant, and American Modern.
Historical Bias
- Outdated perceptions link manufactured homes with higher-risk areas or low-income demographics, which can influence pricing.
Steps to Save on Manufactured Home Insurance
1. Maintain a High Credit Score
- Insurers often use credit scores to determine premiums.
- Tip: Check your credit report for free at AnnualCreditReport.com and correct any errors.
2. Bundle Policies
- Combine home and auto insurance for discounts up to 10–23%.
- Example: American Family offers a 23% discount for bundled policies.
3. Raise Your Deductible
- Increasing your deductible from $500 to $1,000 can reduce premiums significantly.
4. Pay Annually
- Paying your premium in full may save 5–15%, and using electronic funds transfer (EFT) might add another 3% savings.
Questions to Ask for Lower Premiums
Discounts for Security Features?
- Alarms, fencing, or smart home devices like fire and CO2 detectors may qualify for discounts.
Extreme Weather Safety Measures?
- Installing storm shutters, fire extinguishers, or heat tape for pipes can lower rates.
Wind-Resistant Additions?
- Features like hurricane-resistant doors or shingles may lead to savings.
Located in a Managed Community?
- Living in a manufactured home park with on-site management may result in a 5% discount.
Age-Related Discounts?
- Original owners or those over 55 may receive up to 10% off with insurers like Allstate.
Newer Home Discounts?
- Homes less than 4 years old often qualify for reduced rates.
Claim-Free Discounts?
- Long periods without filing claims can lead to additional savings.
Veteran Discounts
- Membership with USAA offers exclusive coverage and benefits for veterans and their families.
Pro Tips to Maximize Savings
- Shop Locally: Work with independent agents to explore multiple insurers and policies.
- Check for Recurring Discounts: Ask about benefits for loyalty or safe living practices.
- Be Honest: Previous claims are tracked in centralized databases, so provide accurate information to avoid disqualification.
Protect Your Investment and Save
By taking proactive measures—such as maintaining your home, installing safety features, and working with the right insurers—you can significantly lower your premiums while ensuring robust coverage.
