Is There Any Value in Changing Auto or Homeowners Insurance on a Frequent Basis?

March 2, 2021

Well, that depends on what "value" means to you.

How frequently one should change auto or homeowners insurance to another provider is going to be determined by what is valued.

Auto and Home insurance can be broken down into three main value buckets:

Coverage - this not only includes what limits of coverage you might have, but also the extra features and benefits your program might come with.
Service - a subjective measurement of how well a company provides service from billing issues to claims fairness.
Price - what one is paying for the above.

In the US, some direct-writing insurance companies have spent billions projecting the message that insurance is all about price. The other two values are often forgotten.

So how frequently should one change auto or homeowners insurance?

If one values Coverage and Service above price, you may never wish to switch. Keep in mind, that insurance is a foundational financial planning product that transfers the risk of loss of your largest assets.Those companies that offer superior service and coverage tend to hold the distinction over long periods of time.
If one values Price over the other values, then you may wish to obtain quotes every three years or so. Or, following significant life events such as:
A move to a new location.
Youthful operators coming into or out of a household.
Significant improvements in credit score.
Significant changes in the type of cars owned or driving habits.

This answer comes from someone who could (re)write his own policy with any one of ten (10) reputable companies.

Yet… I have had the same carrier for 23 years.

Reason? I know that every insurance company’s coverage and service is not the same.

I also have witnessed the unexpected tragedy of those who only chase price.

What do you value?

If it’s more than just about the premium you pay, call our office at (607)324-7500 and ask us to review your program. We’re glad to find a solution that balances what you value!

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Auto Rates and Finger Prints: Both are Unique to You!

By Jeff Ryan • April 7, 2026

Factors You Can’t Easily Control These factors are built into your profile, but still play a major role: Your location: Claim trends, traffic, and weather patterns where you principally drive. Your age and driving experience: Especially for younger drivers. Other drivers in your household: Their age and driving history. The vehicle you own: Unique to the Year, Make, Model, and Sub-model’s damageability and cost of parts/labor. These factors significantly influence price differences, but they don’t tell the whole story. Factors You Can Control This is where habits and wise decisions can make a real difference: Your driving habits: Minimizing tickets and accidents can have a direct impact. Your coverage choices: Liability limits, deductibles, and optional coverages can vary widely. Your insurance consistency: Avoiding lapses in coverage. Your annual mileage: How much and how often you drive. Discount opportunities: Bundling, pay-in-full, NYS defensive driving course. Your Insurance Score (Yes—You Can Influence It) Insurance companies use a credit-based insurance score as part of their rating process. While it’s based on financial behaviors, it is not permanent—and it can be improved over time. Simple habits like: Paying bills on time Reducing outstanding debt Avoiding excessive credit inquiries… can positively impact your score—and in turn, your insurance rates. Your insurance score is under your control and a worthy mid to long-term project in and of itself. For more information on what you can do to positively influence your score, see: Great 8 Tip #8 - What's Credit Got to Do with Insurance? How Can I Improve My Auto Insurance Score Why Comparing Rates Doesn’t Work When someone says, “I only pay…” , the uniqueness of their fingerprint is missing. What are their: Deductibles Driving history Insurance score Household profile Coverage limits: what they may be giving up in terms of protection. Price without context can be misleading and discouraging.