Jun 07, 2025

Consumer correction, Summer shopping for home insurance

Posted Jun 07, 2025 5:00 PM

Kansas Department of Insurance Release

As summer heats up, it may be the time to shop for insurance. There are many considerations to factor when looking to reevaluate or change your home insurance.

“An annual evaluation of your coverage is a good practice,” said Commissioner Vicki Schmidt. “This evaluation allows Kansans to ensure they have the coverage they need for the year, while also checking for new qualifications for discounts.”Some important questions to ask yourself or your agent during your evaluation:

How old is your home?

What is your claim history?

Can you bundle with another form of insurance? (boat, life, auto, etc.)

What is your max deductible?

What are all the discounts offered?

What type of coverage do you need?

Is flood insurance included?

Is there a new roof discount?

Are there any insurance riders or endorsements needed? (Earthquake, windstorm, etc.)

Are claims paid out with actual cash value rather than replacement costs?

Sit down with your agent and make sure specifics of your home are correct. Any improvements to your home need to be relayed to ensure coverage is in place.

It is always good to make sure your personal home inventory is up to date. Taking pictures or a video of each room is a good way to document, or use our personal home inventory.

If you would like more in-depth information on home insurance shopping, view the Home and Renters Shopper’s Guide at insurance.ks.gov/department/publications.php.

If you or someone you know is having trouble with an insurance claim, contact the Kansas Department of Insurance’s Consumer Assistance Division at (785) 296-3071 or email [email protected].