Introduction: Why You’re Probably Paying Too Much
Homeowners across the U.S. are paying record-high premiums—and many don’t realize they’re eligible for significant insurance discounts just by making a few upgrades or bundling the right services. Whether you’re a new homeowner or have held the same policy for 10 years, this guide breaks down 20 proven ways to lower your homeowners insurance cost in 2025.
At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we help homeowners every day who’ve suffered unexpected water, fire, or storm damage. And we’ve seen how some policyholders pay thousands more in premiums—simply because they weren’t aware of their savings options.
This national guide gives you actionable tips, real examples, and citable sources to help you get the most out of your policy without compromising coverage.
1. Smoke Detectors, Fire Alarms, and Fire Extinguishers
Discount: 3%–5%
Installing working smoke detectors on every level of your home is one of the easiest ways to qualify for a discount.
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Dual-sensor alarms are preferred
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Monitored alarm systems may offer higher discounts
Source: Insurance Information Institute
Insurance Information Institute – Ways to Lower Your Homeowners Insurance Costs
https://www.iii.org/article/ways-to-lower-your-homeowners-insurance-costs
2. Central Burglar and Fire Alarm Systems
Discount: Up to 10%–15%
Insurance companies reward proactive homeowners who install monitored security systems that alert police or fire departments.
Source: Allstate
Allstate – Home Insurance Discounts
https://www.allstate.com/home-insurance/discounts
3. Deadbolt Locks and Reinforced Doors
Discount: 2%–5%
Reinforcing entry points with deadbolts or impact-resistant doors can reduce burglary risk, earning minor but stackable discounts.
4. Water Leak Detection Systems
Discount: 3%–8%
Leak sensors that shut off your water supply (e.g., Flo by Moen, Phyn) may qualify for substantial discounts, especially if integrated with smart home systems.
Source: Progressive Insurance
Progressive – Homeowners Insurance Discounts
https://www.progressive.com/homeowners/discounts/
5. Storm-Proof Roofing and Window Upgrades
Discount: 10%–25% (especially in hurricane or hail zones)
Installing impact-resistant shingles or hurricane-rated windows lowers claim risk.
Source: FEMA Mitigation Resources
6. Sump Pumps and Backup Generators
Discount: 2%–7%
These systems protect against power outages and basement flooding—two common causes of insurance claims in the Midwest and Northeast.
7. Fire-Resistant Building Materials
Discount: 10% or more in wildfire-prone states
Homes with fire-resistant siding, composite roofs, or metal gutters may qualify for fire mitigation discounts.
Source: National Fire Protection Association
8. New Roof Installation
Discount: 5%–20%
A newer roof made with modern materials reduces risk of water intrusion and hail damage.
Tip: Some insurers reduce discounts after the roof is 10 years old—call to confirm.
9. Plumbing and Electrical Upgrades
Discount: 5%–15%
If your home’s systems are updated (especially knob-and-tube wiring or galvanized plumbing), you may qualify for lower premiums.
10. Claims-Free History
Discount: 10%–20%
No claims over the last 3–5 years? You may be eligible for long-term customer loyalty rewards.
Source: NAIC – Home Insurance Basics
National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) – Homeowners Insurance Basics
https://content.naic.org/consumer/home-insurance
11. Homeowners Association (HOA) Membership
Discount: 5%–10%
Living in an HOA with enforced rules, private security, and shared maintenance responsibilities reduces risk factors.
12. Bundling Home and Auto Insurance
Discount: 15%–30%
One of the biggest savings methods. Bundling policies with the same insurer simplifies claims and reduces administrative overhead.
13. Higher Deductibles
Discount: Varies
Opting for a higher deductible ($2,500+) reduces monthly premiums—just make sure you can cover it if disaster strikes.
14. Green Home Discounts
Discount: 5%–10%
Homes with LEED certification, Energy Star appliances, or solar panels may qualify for eco-friendly discounts.
Source: Energy.gov
15. Senior or Retiree Discounts
Discount: 5%–10%
If you’re 55+, retired, or home more often, insurers see you as a lower risk for theft or unnoticed damage.
16. Loyalty and Renewal Discounts
Discount: 5%–15%
Staying with the same provider for 3+ years without major claims can trigger automatic reductions.
17. Gated Communities and Low-Crime Neighborhoods
Discount: 5%–12%
Living in a low-risk ZIP code or a secured subdivision may translate to lower rates.
18. Paperless Billing and Autopay
Discount: 1%–3%
Some insurers give minor discounts for going green with digital billing and consistent on-time payments.
19. New Home Construction
Discount: 10%–20%
Homes built in the last 10 years may qualify due to better codes, materials, and reduced claim risk.
20. First-Time Homeowner Programs
Discount: Varies by insurer
Some providers offer discounts to buyers with no prior home claims, especially if they’re new to the insurance market.
How to Maximize Your Discounts
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Call your agent once a year to request a policy review
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Document upgrades (photos, receipts, permits)
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Ask about multi-policy bundles
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Shop quotes every 2–3 years, even if you don’t switch
How ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons Helps Homeowners
At ServiceMaster Restoration By Simons, we don’t sell insurance—but we’ve helped thousands of homeowners across Chicago, the North Shore, and Lake County work through claims for fire, water, and storm damage. We understand how coverage, documentation, and preventive maintenance affect your policy—and your premiums.
If you’re planning improvements like leak detection systems, duct cleaning, or post-disaster reconstruction, our IICRC-certified team can help you protect your home and your insurance discounts.
Call us at 773-376-1110 or 847-316-9145, or schedule service online.
Downloadable Checklist: “20 Homeowners Insurance Discounts You Might Be Missing”
✅ Printable, shareable PDF
✅ Includes sources, categories, and eligibility tips
✅ Ideal for new buyers or annual reviews