TAYLOR LAMBERT May 27, 2025
Just last week, the California Insurance Commissioner approved a 17% rate hike for State Farm homeowners' insurance. Now this week, State Farm is again asking for another 11% increase to get to the 30% total hike they originally targeted. And unfortunately, that’s not the end of it. They’ve also announced plans to raise rates for condo owners, renters, and rental properties sometime soon.
As ridiculous as this all sounds, I’m afraid it’s a sign of where the insurance industry is heading. These types of increases might become the new normal. That’s why it’s important to start thinking ahead now, especially if you don’t want to be caught off guard when it’s time to renew your policy.
Here’s what I suggest:
First, reach out to your local State Farm representative or whatever insurance carrier you might have. Ask them how these rate changes (or potential changes) will impact your policy. If your renewal is coming up, find out exactly how much more you might be paying. It’s better to have that number in front of you than be surprised later.
Second, start looking at what other insurance companies offer in your area. There are plenty of providers out there, and some of them might offer similar or even better coverage for less money. It’s worth the time to shop around and see what your options are.
Third, take the time to actually compare the policies—not just the prices. Look at what’s included, what the deductibles are, and whether the coverage really matches your needs. The cheapest policy isn’t always the best if it leaves you vulnerable in a real emergency.
Fourth, consider bundling. If you have auto insurance or other policies, see if combining them with one provider could save you some money. A lot of insurers offer discounts when you bundle multiple policies together.
Lastly, don’t wait until your renewal is just around the corner. Give yourself a couple of months—ideally two or three—so you have enough time to make informed decisions without feeling rushed. That way, if you do decide to switch providers or negotiate your current policy, you’ll have time to do it right and avoid any gaps in coverage.
Insurance. Ain't it fun?
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