Why did homeowners insurance prices go up?
Short answer. Homeowners premiums have risen mainly because claims cost more: severe storm losses have been high, rebuilding materials and labor got more expensive, and insurers pay more for their own reinsurance. Roofs sit at the center of this, since wind and hail are consistently among the leading causes of homeowners claims.
The main drivers
- Storm losses. Hail, tornadoes and straight-line winds hit the Southeast often, and one storm can damage thousands of roofs in a few minutes.
- Cost to rebuild. Shingles, lumber and labor all cost more, so insurers raise dwelling limits at renewal, and premiums follow.
- Reinsurance. Insurers buy their own catastrophe coverage, and that cost has climbed.
- Your own profile. Roof age, prior claims, deductible choice and location all feed the rate.
Roof-related ways to push back
- Check the dwelling limit. It should reflect real rebuilding cost, not market value. Too high wastes premium; too low risks being underinsured.
- Ask about roof credits. A newer roof or impact-resistant shingles may lower the rate with some carriers.
- Look at the deductible. A higher wind and hail deductible lowers premium, but know the dollar amount you would owe. See percentage wind and hail deductibles.
- Skip small claims. Claims near the deductible can cost more in future premium than they pay. See does a roof claim raise premiums in Georgia.
- Shop. An independent agent can quote several carriers at once.
If something looks wrong
If an increase came with a reduction in coverage you were never clearly told about, call your agent first. The Georgia Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner also takes consumer complaints.