Shopping for insurance at the right time can help homeowners and drivers across Missouri and Arkansas save money while making sure coverage still fits their needs. Many people only review their insurance after a rate increase — but being proactive can lead to better pricing, stronger coverage, and fewer surprises.
Understanding when to shop for homeowners or auto insurance can give you a strategic advantage.
1. At Your Homeowners Insurance Renewal
One of the best times to shop for homeowners insurance is before your renewal date.
Home insurance policies typically renew annually. Reviewing coverage 30–60 days before renewal allows you to:
- Compare rates from multiple carriers
- Adjust dwelling coverage limits
- Update roof or property information
- Review wind and hail deductibles
- Add endorsements or remove unnecessary coverage
If you’ve made upgrades — such as a new roof, HVAC system, or renovations — renewal season is the perfect time to ensure your coverage reflects those improvements.
Waiting until after renewal may limit options or result in missed savings opportunities.
2. Before Your Auto Insurance Renewal
Auto insurance policies typically renew every six or twelve months. Reviewing your policy before renewal can uncover:
- New discounts
- Better bundling options
- Improved liability limits
- Changes in household drivers
- Updated driving habits
Life changes — such as adding or removing drivers, purchasing a vehicle, or changes in commute distance — can affect eligibility and pricing.
Shopping auto insurance strategically before renewal may lead to better long-term savings.
3. When a Claim Is More Than Three Years Old
Insurance companies evaluate claim history carefully. However, many carriers place less weight on claims that are more than three years old.
If you’ve had a prior:
- Homeowners claim
- At-fault auto accident
- Water damage claim
Waiting until the claim ages beyond the three-year mark can significantly improve pricing and eligibility with certain carriers.
Timing matters. Shopping too soon after a claim may limit options, while waiting may open new opportunities.
4. After Major Life or Property Changes
Other ideal times to review your insurance include:
- Buying or refinancing a home
- Installing a new roof
- Starting or expanding a business
- Adding youthful drivers
- Improving credit
- Increasing assets
As your financial picture evolves, your insurance should evolve too.
Why Timing Your Insurance Review Matters
Shopping at the right moment can result in:
- Lower premiums
- Better coverage limits
- Improved deductibles
- Stronger liability protection
- Access to more carriers
Rather than reacting to rate increases, proactive reviews give you control over your insurance strategy.
The Advantage of Working With an Independent Agency
An independent insurance agency can compare multiple carriers at once and identify the best time to shop based on:
- Renewal dates
- Claim history
- Underwriting trends
- Market conditions
At Millennium Brokers, we help homeowners and drivers across Missouri and Arkansas evaluate insurance options at the right time — not just when premiums increase.
Final Thoughts
The best time to shop for insurance isn’t random — it’s strategic. Reviewing your policy at homeowners renewal, before auto renewal, or once a prior claim is more than three years old can improve pricing and coverage options.
A proactive insurance review helps ensure you’re not overpaying and that your coverage continues to protect what matters most.