Insuring an older home comes with unique challenges. From outdated wiring to aging roofs and historic details, older properties often carry higher risks—and that can mean higher premiums or limited coverage options. So, what’s the best insurance company for older homes?
In this post, we’ll highlight top insurers that specialize in covering older homes, what to look for in a policy, and how to save money while still protecting your property.
🏠 Why Older Homes Are Harder to Insure
Homes built 40+ years ago can be more difficult (and expensive) to insure due to:
- Outdated plumbing, electrical, and roofing systems
- Increased risk of water or fire damage
- Higher repair/replacement costs for custom or historic materials
- Potential building code issues when repairing or rebuilding
Because of this, not all insurance companies are willing to cover older homes—or they may limit coverage unless certain updates have been made.
🏆 Top Insurance Companies for Older Homes (2025)
Here are some of the best insurers known for offering strong coverage and flexibility for older homes:
✅ State Farm
- Why it’s great: Offers flexible underwriting and often insures homes others won’t touch, provided the structure is sound.
- Highlights:
- Solid reputation for claims service
- Optional replacement cost coverage for older materials
- Discounts for updated systems (roof, plumbing, electrical)
✅ Allstate
- Why it’s great: Strong for customizable policies, particularly if the home has been partially renovated.
- Highlights:
- Useful tools to estimate rebuild costs
- Claims-free and bundling discounts
- Optional “Enhanced Coverage” for aging structures
✅ Nationwide
- Why it’s great: Known for comprehensive coverage and solid replacement cost options.
- Highlights:
- Dwelling replacement cost protection
- Optional water backup coverage (a common issue in older homes)
- Offers insurance for homes up to 100+ years old
✅ Travelers
- Why it’s great: Often willing to work with older properties, especially if they’ve been partially updated.
- Highlights:
- Flexible coverage options
- May cover antique or historic features
- Discounts for proactive maintenance
✅ Hippo (for updated older homes)
- Why it’s great: A tech-forward insurer offering fast online quotes and competitive rates if the home has been updated.
- Highlights:
- Great for homeowners who have invested in renovations
- Includes modern perks like smart home monitoring discounts
- Good value for homes with up-to-date systems
🛠️ What to Look for in a Policy for an Older Home
When insuring an older property, make sure your policy offers:
🔧 Replacement Cost Coverage
Covers the full cost to rebuild with similar materials—not just depreciated value.
🔍 Ordinance or Law Coverage
Covers the cost to bring your home up to current building codes during repairs—important for outdated structures.
💦 Water Backup and Mold Protection
Older homes are more vulnerable to water-related issues. This coverage can be a lifesaver.
🏚️ Historic Home Endorsements (if applicable)
For homes with historical status, look for policies that help preserve original architecture and materials.
💰 How to Save on Insurance for an Older Home
- Update critical systems (roof, plumbing, electrical)
- Install safety features like smoke detectors, leak sensors, and security systems
- Bundle home and auto policies
- Increase your deductible to lower your monthly premium
- Work with an independent agent who can compare rates from multiple insurers
🏠 Final Thoughts
Older homes have character and charm—but they also come with insurance challenges. Fortunately, several top insurance companies offer great coverage options for aging homes, especially if they’ve been well maintained or upgraded.
At Eugene C. Yates Insurance Agency, we specialize in helping homeowners in the Sacramento area find the right coverage at the right price—whether your home is brand new or built in the early 1900s.
Contact us today for a custom quote and let our expert agents compare rates across top insurers to protect your older home with confidence.