Best & Cheapest Homeowners Insurance In Summerville, SC For 2024

In my professional opinion, Allstate is the best cheap homeowners insurance option in Summerville.

min read
Updated: 04 May 2024
Written by
Bob Phillips
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If you own a home in Summerville, you probably know that home insurance in this area can be expensive compared to cities further inland. At Insuranceopedia, we understand that finding affordable home insurance in Summerville can take up a lot of your time. To help you save time, we’ve done the research and found the companies that we believe are the best fit for your needs.

Here’s what we discovered: Allstate offers the cheapest homeowners insurance, followed closely by State Farm. For military families, USAA is the top choice for affordability. But don’t stop reading just yet! We may have found another insurer that perfectly matches your specific requirements, like providing excellent coverage for high-value or new homes.

As a licensed property insurance agent in the Southeast, I know all too well how expensive home insurance can be in states prone to hurricanes, such as South Carolina. Together with the rest of the Insuranceopedia team, I’m confident that exploring this page will save you both time and money.

Best Cheap Home Insurance In Summerville, SC 2024

Cheapest Home Insurance, Summerville 2024

Compare the cheapest home insurance in Summerville, SC

Overall Rating A.M. Best Rating J.D. Power Rating Average Cost Cheapest/Best For Online Experience Rating Get A Quote
USAA
4.9

A++

884

$1,446

Military Families

8/10

Instant Quote
Travelers
4.6

A++

754

$3,718

Customizable Coverage

8/10

Instant Quote
Chubb
4.6

A++

809

$4,311

High Value Homes

7/10

Instant Quote
Allstate
4.9

A+

815

$989

Cheapest

9/10

Instant Quote
State Farm
4.8

A++

829

$1,247

Cheapest Runner-Up

9/10

Instant Quote
Amica
4.7

A+

849

$1,178

Customer Service

8/10

Instant Quote
Scroll to see comparisons

Our Methodology

To determine the best home insurance companies in Summerville, we used reliable information from A.M. Best (evaluating financial strength) and J.D. Power (measuring customer satisfaction). We also took into account feedback from various consumer websites and the personal experience of our writer. This thorough process ensured that our findings were unbiased and based on real-world perspectives.

51

Quotes Analyzed

15

Brands Reviewed

15+

Years Of Experience

26

Research Hours

Cheapest Home Insurance Companies in Summerville, SC


Cheapest Overall

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

10/10 Affordability
7/10 Customer Reviews
8/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Allstate shines as the most budget-friendly home insurance company in Summerville. While its competitiveness may vary in other places, Allstate has gained its leading position in our list thanks to its extensive range of home insurance discounts designed specifically for Summerville residents.

With a total of 11 homeowners insurance discounts, Allstate offers an impressive selection that includes seven unique offerings, as evaluated by home insurance analysts like myself. This surpasses the industry average of seven discounts.
Let’s take a look at some of the notable home insurance discounts provided by Allstate:

  • Claims forgiveness: This additional coverage ensures that your rate remains unaffected even after filing a claim.
  • Claims-free: Customers can enjoy a 5% renewal discount every year as long as they remain claim-free.
  • Deductible reward: Receive a $100 deduction from your deductible upon signing up.
  • Bundle: Save up to 25% by bundling your home and car insurance policies.
  • Automatic payment: Set up automatic payments and save up to 5%.
  • Loyalty: Earn up to a 10% discount for renewing your policy with Allstate.
  • Home buyer: Exclusive discount for recent homebuyers.
  • New home: Discount for insuring a newly constructed home.
  • Responsible payment: Additional discount for maintaining a good payment history.
  • Early payment: Receive up to 10% off for purchasing a new policy at least seven days before your current policy expires.
  • Protective device: Discount for installing theft and fire protection devices.

For homeowners in Summerville, dealing with the increasing home insurance rates due to frequent hurricanes and violent storms, Allstate’s affordability is a crucial factor. Being the most cost-effective option overall, it provides much-needed relief for Summerville residents.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Many local agents and claims adjusters available in South Carolina
  • Competitive rates in Summerville
  • Offers a wide range of discounts
Drawbacks
  • Lower-than-average rating for claim satisfaction from J.D. Power
  • Receives more complaints than the national average

Cheapest Overall

Company Annual Rate
Allstate $989
State Farm $1,247
Auto-Owners $1,439
USAA $1,732
Travelers $2,736

Best for High-Value Homes

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

7/10 Affordability
9/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

If you’re a homeowner with a valuable property seeking extra protection, Chubb presents an excellent option. However, it’s important to note that their rates in Summerville are higher than the average, so budget-conscious individuals should keep that in mind.

Chubb offers additional coverage options specifically tailored for high-value homes. This includes extended replacement cost coverage, which ensures comprehensive rebuilding after accidents. They also provide a risk consulting program that assesses fire and security risks within your home.

Their Masterpiece insurance policy caters to wealthy clients and offers additional services such as property management and data restoration after computer viruses.

Chubb’s claims agents are known for their quick approval process, but any claim denials require manager approval to ensure a smooth and efficient experience.

When it comes to high-value homes in Summerville, Chubb is the standout choice. With the abundance of beautiful coastal properties in the area, Chubb’s strong performance in this market makes it the top pick.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Offers a cash settlement option for those who choose not to rebuild after a complete loss
  • Conducts home assessments to ensure accurate coverage during emergencies
  • Masterpiece-level customers can choose their preferred contractors and artisans for claim repairs
Drawbacks
  • No online quoting available
  • Premiums are generally higher than most competitors due to the emphasis on high-value properties
  • Policies can only be purchased through an agent

Best For High-Value Homes

Company Annual Rate
Chubb $4,252
State Farm $4,346
Allstate $6,838
Auto-Owners $6,659
Travelers $8,453
Nationwide $10,667

Best for Cheapest Runner-Up

Overall Rating
4.8

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
7/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

State Farm has earned its place as the second-ranked choice for several standout reasons. Not only does it offer affordable rates that suit Summerville residents, but its local agents provide a significant advantage. This local presence proves invaluable not just for post-storm assistance but also due to the extensive network of claims adjusters and offices in Summerville and nearby areas.

With State Farm, you can choose their standard homeowners policy and add extra coverages to match your specific needs. These additional coverages include protection against ordinance and law, identity theft, and coverage for valuable items like jewelry. State Farm boasts the highest AM Best financial strength rating of A++, ensuring policyholders of their stability.

Moreover, State Farm offers optional replacement cost coverage for your home, other structures, and personal belongings. This coverage replaces damaged items at their current market value, without considering depreciation. Without this endorsement, the replacement cost is calculated based on the actual cash value of the items.

When it comes to the realm of home insurance costs in Summerville, State Farm has consistently held a strong second position. This is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing upward trend in home insurance rates in this coastal region of South Carolina.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Features the largest number of local agents in South Florida
  • Provides highly competitive premiums
  • Achieves the highest possible financial strength rating
Drawbacks
  • Policies cannot be obtained through independent agents

Cheapest Overall Runner-Up

Company Annual Rate
State Farm $1,209
Nationwide $1,367
AAA $1,462
Progressive $2,137
Heritage $3,307

Best for Customer Service

Overall Rating
4.7

Key Statistics

8/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

With its origins dating back to 1907 as an auto insurance company in Rhode Island, Amica has grown into one of the largest insurance companies nationwide. Now operating in 48 states, they offer a wide array of coverages, including homeowners insurance.

Amica distinguishes itself by achieving the highest customer service ratings among standard insurance companies, as recognized by J.D. Power. They provide three distinct homeowners policies designed to cater to various needs:

The Standard Choice policy presents a range of coverage options, such as replacement cost coverage for your home and personal belongings, protection against water backup, and extended coverage for devices like computers, tablets, and phones. It’s important to note that there may be additional premiums for these options.

The Platinum Choice policy offers enhanced coverage and greater choices for valuable items and collectibles. Referred to as HO-5, this policy covers your personal property against all perils, except for those specifically excluded in the policy.

Policyholders also have the opportunity to opt for a dividend homeowners policy, which returns 20% of the premiums paid each year. However, it’s worth noting that these policies are available only in select states, and the dividend rates may vary.Amica has built a strong reputation and gained loyal customers by prioritizing exceptional customer service.

That’s why they stand out in this category. When hurricanes or tropical storms hit Summerville, homeowners can find comfort in knowing that Amica is there to support them during these difficult times.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Offers three different policy types
  • Ranked as top-rated for customer service by J.D. Power
Drawbacks
  • Not available in all states for insureds relocating from Summerville
  • Only accessible through independent agents

Best for Military Families

Overall Rating
4.9

Key Statistics

9/10 Affordability
10/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims
9/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

In 1922, a group of 25 Army officers founded USAA to insure their cars. Nowadays, USAA exclusively offers insurance and financial services to members of the U.S. armed forces, Reserve, veterans, and their families.

Based in San Antonio, USAA has satellite offices across the United States and in London, Frankfurt, and Luxembourg.

If you’re a USAA member, you can protect your home with their standard insurance policy, which covers the replacement cost of your personal belongings. This policy also includes coverage for the uniforms of active-duty and deployed service members. You can add extra coverage like earthquake and home-sharing insurance if you want.

As an eligible member, you can easily purchase USAA insurance products online using your active membership ID, over the phone, or at a local branch. USAA has an automated agent chatbot on their website that helps you access your online account. Through your account, you can manage your policy, make payments, and file a claim.

It’s worth mentioning that USAA has an impressive A++ rating from AM Best, which means they have the highest level of financial strength an insurance company can receive.

Choosing the best insurance for military families in Summerville is really important. With five military bases in South Carolina and many military families living there, USAA consistently stands out as the top choice. They truly prioritize their commitment to the U.S. Armed Forces and provide excellent customer support. While their rates may not always be the lowest, USAA’s dedication makes them the best option for military families.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • Offers coverage for uniforms and equipment of active duty and deployed service members
  • Includes standard contents replacement cost coverage
Drawbacks
  • No physical locations in Summerville for in-person service
  • Limited eligibility to current and past military members and their immediate families
  • Fewer discounts offered compared to competitors

Best for Military Families

Company Annual Rate
Allstate $989
State Farm $1,247
Auto-Owners $1,439
Heritage $3,307
USAA $1,434

Best for Customizable Coverage

Overall Rating
4.6

Key Statistics

8/10 Affordability
7/10 Customer Reviews
9/10 Claims
10/10 Coverage Level

Why We Like Them

Travelers, known for its famous red umbrella logo, is a highly respected and well-established company that offers reliable homeowners insurance for Summerville residents. With strong financial ratings and flexible policy options to fit different budgets and types of homes, Travelers is a trusted choice for home insurance coverage.

If you’re a homeowner who has let your previous insurance policy lapse, Travelers can be a great option. Unlike other providers, they don’t require prior coverage on your home for eligibility, which is a rare feature in the industry.
To enhance your protection, Travelers allows you to customize your homeowners insurance policy with the following optional coverages:

  • Extended replacement cost: Increases your coverage limit for rebuilding or repairing your home if the cost exceeds your policy limit.
  • Special personal property: Provides coverage for items that are not typically included in a standard policy, such as lost or misplaced belongings.
  • Replacement cost of personal property: Covers the cost of replacing stolen or damaged personal belongings without accounting for depreciation.
  • Scheduled personal property: Increases coverage limits for valuable items like jewelry, electronics, or antiques.
  • Jewelry and valuable items: Offers broader protection and higher coverage limits for valuable categories of items.
  • Water backup: Covers repair expenses if your home experiences damage due to water backing up from drains or sewers.
  • Identity fraud: Provides coverage for legal expenses and costs associated with restoring your identity if it’s fraudulently used.
  • Green home: Helps cover additional expenses for repairing or rebuilding your home with eco-friendly materials.
  • Umbrella Insurance: Offers liability coverage beyond your existing limits, particularly beneficial for individuals with significant assets.
  • Flood Insurance: Travelers provides flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the primary provider of flood insurance in the U.S.

Being able to customize their coverage using these Travelers options is vital for homeowners in protecting their properties from potential damages caused by hurricanes and other storms. This feature is highly significant as it offers additional protection to homeowners in such situations.

Benefits & Drawbacks

Benefits
  • No prior insurance on the home required
  • Includes green home coverage and discounts
  • Provides short-term rental coverage
Drawbacks
  • Limited number of available discounts
  • Higher than average rates
  • Below average customer service ratings from J.D. Power

Best for Customizable Coverage

Company Annual Rate
Allstate $989
State Farm $1,247
Auto-Owners $1,439
Heritage $3,307
Travelers $8,453

The Cheapest Home Insurance in Summerville

Cheapest Overall In Summerville

Company Annual Rate
Allstate $989
State Farm $1,247
Auto-Owners $1,439
Heritage $3,307
USAA $1,732

The Cheapest Home Insurance for New Homes In Summerville

Company Annual Rate
State Farm $543
Nationwide $664
Allstate $882
Universal North American $1,007
Auto-Owners $1,238

Cheapest For Extra Personal Property Coverage In Summerville

Company Annual Rate
Allstate $1,204
Travelers $1,454
Auto-Owners $1,628
Heritage $1,699
State Farm $2,141

How to find the best home insurance company for you

Are you on the hunt for the top-notch home insurance company in Summerville? Ensuring the protection of your valuable investment and cherished belongings is of utmost importance for the financial security of your family. Here are some straightforward steps to help you discover the ideal policy for your needs:

  • Kick off your search by exploring home insurance providers in Summerville online. Choose three companies that resonate with you and instill confidence.
  • Determine the coverage limits that align with your specific requirements. If needed, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from an agent to make an informed decision.
  • Request quotes for coverage from the three selected insurers. This will give you a clear picture of the cost and coverage options available to you.
  • Evaluate the coverage details, customer reviews, financial stability, and rates of each insurer. This comprehensive evaluation will equip you to make the best choice for your situation.

Once you’ve made your decision, go ahead and complete the application for coverage. Some insurers offer convenient online applications, while others may prefer a conversation with an agent to guide you through the process.

Largest home insurance companies in South Carolina

The home insurance companies with the largest market share in South Carolina are:

Rank Company Market Share %
1 State Farm 22.54
2 Berkshire Hathaway 13.73
3 Allstate 11.25
4 Progressive 10.04
5 USAA 9.63

How to get an online home insurance quote in Summerville

Looking to get an online quote for home insurance? Here’s a unique and straightforward guide to help you through the process:
Explore insurance company websites: Start your search by visiting the websites of different insurance providers. They usually have tools that let you request a quote online.

  1. Fill in your details: Locate the section where you can request a home insurance quote and provide the necessary information. This includes personal details like your name, address, and contact info. You’ll also need to share some specifics about your home, such as its size, construction, and security features.
  2. Customize your coverage: Choose a deductible amount that suits your preferences. This is the amount you’ll pay before your insurance coverage kicks in. Additionally, decide on coverage limits, which determine the maximum amount the insurance company will pay for various types of claims.
  3. Compare and review quotes: After submitting your information, the website will generate a quote based on your details.
  4. Take your time to carefully review and compare the quotes, ensuring they align with your coverage needs.
  5. Get in touch with the provider: If you’re satisfied with a specific quote and insurance provider, reach out to them directly for more information or to proceed with purchasing the policy.

Remember, online quotes provide estimates based on the information you provide. The final premium may vary after a thorough evaluation by the insurance company.

Factors that impact the cost of your home insurance in Summerville

When it comes to home insurance rates in Summerville, a few factors can influence what you pay. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

  • Where you live: Summerville’s location exposes it to risks like hurricanes and flooding. Insurance companies consider factors such as how close your home is to the coast, its elevation, and its flood zone classification.
  • Home details: The construction type, age, and condition of your home matter. Older homes may have outdated features that impact rates, while newer homes with safety measures like fire alarms and strong roofs could qualify for discounts.
  • Claims history: Your past claims and their frequency can affect your rates. Multiple claims suggest a higher risk, which may lead to higher premiums.
  • Home value and coverage: The value of your home and the coverage limits you choose play a role. Higher-value homes typically require more coverage, resulting in higher premiums.
  • Deductible choice: The deductible is what you pay before your coverage kicks in. Opting for a higher deductible can lower your premiums, but it means paying more if you file a claim.
  • Credit score: Some insurance companies consider your credit score when determining rates. Lower scores can sometimes result in higher premiums.

Remember, insurance rates can vary, so it’s wise to shop around, compare quotes, and consider these factors before making a decision.

South Carolina home insurance laws to know

Let’s explore some important details about home insurance laws in South Carolina:

  • No legal requirement: Homeowners in South Carolina are not legally required to have home insurance. However, if you have a mortgage, your lender may mandate coverage until the mortgage is paid off.
  • Consumer guide: South Carolina ensures homeowners receive a consumer guide on homeowner’s insurance. This helpful guide, provided by the South Carolina Department of Insurance, offers valuable information on coverage, deductibles, claims handling, and more.
  • Hurricane and windstorm deductibles: Given the state’s coastal location and the risk of hurricanes and windstorms, South Carolina permits insurance companies to offer separate deductibles for these specific perils. Instead of a fixed dollar amount, the deductible for hurricane or windstorm damage is typically a percentage of the home’s insured value.

Remember, it’s always wise to seek advice from a local insurance professional or consult the South Carolina Department of Insurance to fully grasp your rights and obligations concerning home insurance in the state.

Home insurance discounts in Summerville

Here are five handy tips to help you save on home insurance in Summerville:

  1. Package deal: Consider bundling your home insurance with other policies, like auto insurance, to snag a discount from the same provider.
  2. Secure your space: Boost your home’s security by installing alarms and cameras. Insurance companies often reward this effort with lower premiums.
  3. Hurricane-proof perks: If your home has features that can withstand hurricanes, such as reinforced windows or a sturdy roof, you may qualify for a discount due to the reduced risk.
  4. Claim-free benefits: If you’ve gone without filing any claims for a while, you might be eligible for a discount. It shows that you’re a lower-risk homeowner.
  5. New house advantages: Insurers sometimes offer savings for newer homes with updated systems like electrical and plumbing. These upgrades can minimize potential claims. 

Remember, each insurance company and policy may have its own discounts and requirements, so it’s always a good idea to shop around and compare options.

In the news

According to a recent report by Island Packet News on May 18th, 2023, the price of homeowner insurance in Hilton Head has surged significantly. This adds to the already expensive cost of living in the area and poses a financial challenge for potential homebuyers. Local insurance experts, such as Meg O’Toole Herman from Goosehead Insurance and William Voelkel from Hilton Head Insurance and Brokerage, have noticed substantial rate increases ranging from 20% to 70%. They also highlight that insurance costs tend to be higher along the coastline but become more favorable as you move inland.

Information about Summerville

Nestled in South Carolina’s heart, Summerville is a special city known for its natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and mouthwatering cuisine. With stunning landscapes, historic charm, and friendly locals, Summerville invites you to explore and create unforgettable memories. From peaceful parks to captivating architecture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Treat your taste buds to a delightful culinary journey, savoring the flavors that make Summerville unique. Get ready to immerse yourself in the warmth and charm of Summerville, where every moment is a new adventure waiting to be discovered.

FAQs

How much is homeowners insurance in Summerville?

After extensive research, we’ve discovered that the monthly cost of new homeowners insurance can range from $631 to $2,707, depending on the insurance company you choose. This emphasizes the incredible savings you can unlock by turning to InsuranceWise for your home insurance requirements. With us, you’re in good hands!

Who is the largest home insurer in Summerville?

State Farm dominates the home insurance market in Summerville, capturing a significant 22.54% share among insurance providers. Count on State Farm for reliable and comprehensive coverage for your home in Summerville.

Why is homeowners insurance so expensive in Summerville?

Due to its proximity to the Atlantic Coast, Summerville faces higher home insurance rates. The increased risk of hurricanes and severe storms in the area contributes to this.

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