Arizona (AZ) home insurance
Protect your home against common risks in the Grand Canyon State.
Arizona has diverse climates — 11 of them, to be exact — within one state. The weather risks for homeowners vary greatly. Some may face wildfire dangers, while others have snowstorms. Monsoons and flooding can be a risk throughout the area. Wherever you call home in the Grand Canyon State, you need a reliable Arizona home insurance policy.
You may live in Flagstaff and experience a range of hot and cold temperatures, or you may have warm weather year-round in Phoenix. About 80% of the state is semi-arid or arid, with a humid climate in the remaining area. Each season has its weather risks to homeowners.
Arizona homeowners face the chance of dust storms. These brief but dangerous events can occur anywhere in the state. However, the central part of the state is more susceptible to these storms, which usually happen at the beginning of monsoon season around early June. The dust and strong winds can damage roofs and buildings. Patio furniture and trash cans may blow around, breaking windows or glass doors.
The southwest part of the state averages about three inches of rain annually. The east-central portion gets around 40 inches of precipitation per year. No matter how much rain your area typically receives, any amount falling suddenly and heavily, as in the monsoon, can cause flash floods. Arizona has between 40 and 100 floods yearly, making them common in the state.
If you live near an area that recently experienced wildfires, you may be at increased risk of flooding. The burnt ground cannot readily absorb water, causing erosion and floods.
The state's higher elevations can experience harsh winter weather, including snowstorms and blizzards. Arizona averages six inches of snow annually. Your home is at risk of roof and siding damage, power outages and burst pipes during a snowstorm or freezing weather.
Wildfires are an unfortunate but common Arizona threat. They happen any time of year and can lead to significant devastation. Aside from a total loss, wildfires can cause:
• Damage to a house's foundation.
• Smoke contamination in outdoor spaces.
• Discolored and odor-filled furniture and appliances.
• Roof and structural damage.
In 2020, 80% of the state's 2,520 wildfires were started by humans. Homeowners can protect their property by cutting and watering lawns and never leaving a burn unattended.
Arizona is the 26th most expensive state for homeowners’ insurance. Homeowners pay about $105 monthly for a policy with $250,000 in Dwelling Coverage. The national average is $120 monthly. However, the median sale price of a home in Arizona is about $406,000, so rates are often higher.
Insurance costs vary by company, but comparing rates can help you determine if you're getting the best price. VIU by HUB can show you quotes from different providers, so you know you're getting the most cost-effective Arizona home insurance coverage.
Aside from company rate differences, many factors influence your home insurance price. Your location is one of them. Most companies use your ZIP code as a determining factor. Your area may have higher or lower premiums depending on variables such as:
• Crime rate.
• Susceptibility to natural disaster.
• Volume of claims filed in the area.
• Home values.
• Proximity to a fire or police station.
Rates can vary by city depending on demographics and insurance risk. Tucson, for example, may have lower rates than Phoenix based on these factors. You may even pay a different rate than a homeowner living a few miles away.
You can make some adjustments that change your price for Arizona home insurance.
Your deductible, which you pay out-of-pocket on an insurance claim for Property Damage, can be a set amount or percentage per claim. Lowering your deductible may increase your monthly premiums because the insurance company will have to pay more for your claim.
If you'd like to lower your premiums and can afford to pay a higher out-of-pocket amount, ask your VIU by HUB Advisor about increasing your deductible.
You can choose the amount and types of homeowners insurance coverages you want. The more coverages you choose, the higher your premiums are because the insurance company will have to pay more in possible claims. As an example, you may choose to add special coverage for household items that are expensive to replace.
A basic policy includes coverage to repair or replace your home and items inside it after damage caused by an insured peril. It covers items like furniture, appliances, heating and air conditioning systems and clothing. It also includes outdoor items such as grills, sheds, patio furniture, fences and retaining walls.
A standard home insurance policy includes Liability Coverage. This insurance pays medical expenses and legal fees for someone injured on your property who does not live there. Your policy also covers temporary living expenses if you must live somewhere else like a hotel temporarily after a disaster or while repairs are being made to your home.
There are items a standard policy does not cover. Flood Insurance is a separate policy that covers damage directly caused by flooding. A standard policy doesn't cover damage resulting from neglect or lack of maintenance. Insect damage, mold and general wear and tear are considered maintenance issues.
You may have items in your home that are rare and expensive to replace or repair. Artwork, jewelry, furs and other high-priced items may need additional coverage beyond your standard policy. Also, if you own one of the half-million swimming pools in Arizona, you may need more Liability Coverage due to the added risk.
This information is intended for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice.
Arizona Emergency Information Network
Arizona Emergency Information Network
