Nationwide Homeowners Insurance Review
Nationwide is one of the largest homeowners insurers in the United States, protecting millions of American homes through its national agent network and direct underwriting. The company offers comprehensive home insurance with several distinctive features including the Brand New Belongings replacement cost coverage, Better Roof Replacement, and the unique On Your Side Review for annual coverage assessment. Whether Nationwide is the right choice for your home depends on the value of these features for your situation and how the company prices coverage in your specific market.
This guide reviews Nationwide homeowners insurance in detail including coverage options, pricing, claims experience, customer satisfaction, available discounts, and how the company compares to other major homeowners insurers.
Nationwide Homeowners Insurance Overview
Nationwide offers comprehensive homeowners insurance through its agent network combined with strong digital tools. The company writes coverage in nearly every state and serves homes ranging from modest properties to high-value luxury homes through its main brand and Crestbrook Insurance subsidiary for higher-value properties.
Nationwide’s homeowners insurance is generally well-regarded for its comprehensive coverage features, strong claims service, and integration with auto insurance for bundling. The company has historically maintained competitive market share through this combination of solid coverage and customer-friendly programs.
Coverage Options Available
HO-3 Special Form Policy
Nationwide’s standard homeowners policy is the HO-3, which provides open-perils coverage for the dwelling structure and named-perils coverage for personal property. This is the most common homeowners policy type for owner-occupied homes.
HO-5 Comprehensive Form
Nationwide offers HO-5 coverage in many markets, providing open-perils coverage for both the dwelling and personal property. This is broader than HO-3 and is often appropriate for higher-value homes.
HO-6 Condominium Insurance
Condo-specific coverage that addresses the split between unit owner responsibility and condo association master policy coverage.
HO-4 Renters Insurance
Renters insurance for tenants, providing personal property and liability coverage without dwelling coverage.
HO-8 Older Home Coverage
Designed for older homes where replacement cost would significantly exceed market value.
Standard Coverage Components
Dwelling Coverage
Nationwide dwelling coverage protects the physical structure of your home including walls, roof, foundation, and built-in systems. The company offers replacement cost coverage with options for extended replacement cost coverage that adds protection if rebuild costs exceed expectations.
Personal Property Coverage
Nationwide personal property coverage typically defaults to a percentage of dwelling coverage. Replacement cost coverage on personal property is available through Brand New Belongings.
Other Structures
Coverage for detached garages, sheds, fences, and similar structures, typically set at 10% of dwelling coverage.
Loss of Use
Coverage for temporary living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable, typically set at 20% to 30% of dwelling coverage.
Personal Liability
Coverage against lawsuits arising from incidents at your home. Standard limits start at $100,000, with higher limits up to $1 million typically available.
Medical Payments
Small no-fault coverage for guest injuries, typically $1,000 to $5,000 per person.
Nationwide Unique Features
Brand New Belongings
Nationwide’s signature personal property feature pays the full replacement cost to replace damaged personal property with similar new items, rather than depreciated actual cash value. This is one of the most valuable optional coverages available.
Better Roof Replacement
Optional coverage that pays to replace damaged roof sections with stronger, safer materials than your existing roof. This provides upgraded protection during reconstruction.
On Your Side Review
The annual policy review with your agent specifically focuses on coverage optimization, identifying gaps, and applying any new discounts you may qualify for.
Identity Theft Protection
Nationwide offers identity theft protection coverage as an endorsement to homeowners policies, including monitoring services and reimbursement for identity restoration costs.
Water Backup Coverage
Optional coverage for damage from sewer or drain backups, which is excluded from standard homeowners coverage. This addresses a common gap in many homeowners policies.
Equipment Breakdown Coverage
Optional coverage for damage to home systems and appliances from electrical or mechanical breakdown.
Personal Umbrella Coverage
Available as an add-on for additional liability protection beyond standard homeowners limits.
Nationwide Homeowners Insurance Cost
Nationwide homeowners insurance averages $1,600 to $2,200 per year nationally, with significant variation by location, home value, and coverage levels.
| Dwelling Coverage | Nationwide Average Annual Premium | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| $200,000 | $1,050 to $1,500 | $1,000 to $1,500 |
| $300,000 | $1,400 to $2,000 | $1,300 to $2,000 |
| $400,000 | $1,800 to $2,500 | $1,700 to $2,700 |
| $500,000 | $2,200 to $3,200 | $2,100 to $3,400 |
| $750,000+ | $3,000 to $4,800+ | $3,200 to $5,000+ |
Nationwide’s pricing tends to be at or slightly below the national average for many homeowner profiles, making it a competitive choice when paired with strong coverage features.
Available Discounts
Multi-Line Discount
Bundling homeowners with Nationwide auto insurance produces some of the largest discounts available, typically up to 20% on both policies.
Claim-Free Discount
Customers without recent claims receive premium reductions reflecting their lower risk profile.
Newly Purchased Home Discount
Recently-purchased homes (typically within the last year) often qualify for premium discounts.
New Home Discount
Newly constructed homes (typically built within the last 10 to 15 years) qualify for substantial discounts.
Hail Resistant Roof Discount
Homes with impact-resistant roofing materials in hail-prone areas may qualify for substantial discounts.
Protective Device Discount
Homes with smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, deadbolt locks, security systems, and similar safety features qualify for premium discounts.
Smart Home Discount
Homes with connected smart devices like water leak detectors, smart thermostats, and security systems may qualify for additional discounts.
Easy Pay Plan Discount
Setting up automatic premium payments may produce premium savings.
Higher Deductible Discount
Choosing a higher deductible reduces your premium. Standard deductible options typically range from $500 to $5,000 or higher.
Group Member Discount
Members of certain organizations, employer groups, or alumni associations may qualify for affinity-based discounts.
Claims Experience
Nationwide consistently scores at or above industry average in homeowners claims satisfaction. Several factors contribute to this performance.
On Your Side Service
Nationwide’s claims philosophy emphasizes personalized advocacy and clear communication throughout the claims process.
24/7 Claims Filing
Claims can be filed any time through the mobile app, website, phone, or your local agent at 1-800-421-3535.
Direct Pay Options
For larger claims, Nationwide can pay contractors directly, simplifying the repair process for homeowners.
Local Agent Advocacy
Your local agent serves as your advocate during claims, helping coordinate with adjusters and intervening if issues arise.
Pros and Cons of Nationwide Homeowners Insurance
Pros
- Strong financial position (A+ from A.M. Best)
- Comprehensive bundling with auto and other insurance
- Unique features like Brand New Belongings and Better Roof Replacement
- Above-average customer satisfaction rankings
- Strong claims handling reputation
- Comprehensive coverage options and endorsements
- Mobile app and digital tools for self-service
- Personal liability coverage up to $1 million available
- Replacement cost coverage standard on most policies
- Pet insurance available through subsidiary for additional household coverage
Cons
- Pricing can be higher than direct insurers in some markets
- Limited local agent network compared to State Farm or Allstate
- Some specific coverage areas have limited availability
- Some policy features more competitive at other carriers
How Nationwide Compares to Other Major Insurers
| Insurer | Average Annual Premium ($300K Coverage) | Strengths |
|---|---|---|
| State Farm | $1,500 | Bundling, local agents |
| USAA (military families) | $1,300 | Military focus, ratings |
| Travelers | $1,650 | Strong coverage breadth |
| Nationwide | $1,600 | Brand New Belongings, member benefits |
| Farmers | $1,700 | Coverage options |
| Allstate | $1,750 | Unique features, claims service |
| Liberty Mutual | $1,800 | Customization options |
Who Should Choose Nationwide Homeowners Insurance?
- Households bundling auto and home insurance
- Customers wanting Brand New Belongings replacement cost coverage
- Long-term customers benefiting from On Your Side Review
- People who value local agent relationships
- Pet owners wanting integrated household insurance
- Homeowners interested in Better Roof Replacement upgrade
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
- Customers seeking absolutely lowest standalone homeowners pricing
- Homeowners in high-risk areas where Nationwide has limited availability
- Military families who qualify for USAA
- Customers needing specialty coverage Nationwide does not offer well
How to Get the Best Nationwide Homeowners Quote
Bundle Auto and Home
This is the single largest discount available. Combining auto and home with Nationwide typically saves 15% to 20% on both policies.
Add Brand New Belongings
This optional coverage provides significantly larger settlements after losses. The additional premium is typically modest but can produce thousands of dollars in additional claims payments.
Consider Better Roof Replacement
For homes in weather-vulnerable areas, this coverage provides upgraded roof protection during reconstruction.
Set Appropriate Deductibles
Higher deductibles reduce premiums. The right deductible reflects your ability to absorb out-of-pocket costs.
Apply All Available Discounts
Ask Nationwide specifically about every available discount.
Compare Against Other Carriers
Even if you stay with Nationwide, comparing rates from other insurers ensures you are getting competitive pricing. The team at Matrix Insurance can help compare Nationwide against other top carriers.
Our broader guide on what homeowners insurance covers and what it does not provides additional context for evaluating any homeowners policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nationwide good for homeowners insurance?
Nationwide is generally a solid choice for most homeowners. The company offers comprehensive coverage, unique features like Brand New Belongings and Better Roof Replacement, and strong claims handling. Pricing tends to be competitive with the national average.
Does Nationwide offer flood insurance?
Nationwide sells flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in most areas. Some private flood insurance options may also be available depending on your location.
How much does Nationwide homeowners insurance cost per month?
Monthly costs typically range from $90 to $275 for most homeowners depending on home value, location, and coverage levels.
Does Nationwide cover roof replacement?
Nationwide covers roof replacement when damage results from covered perils like wind, hail, fallen trees, or fire. The Better Roof Replacement coverage upgrades this further by paying for stronger materials than your existing roof.
Can I cancel Nationwide homeowners insurance?
Yes, you can cancel Nationwide homeowners insurance at any time. Contact your local agent or call 1-877-669-6877. You typically receive a refund for unearned premium for the remainder of the policy term.
Does Nationwide offer earthquake insurance?
Nationwide offers earthquake coverage as an endorsement in earthquake-prone states. The coverage is separate from standard homeowners and has its own deductible structure.
What is Nationwide’s homeowners insurance phone number?
For general customer service: 1-877-669-6877. For claims: 1-800-421-3535, available 24/7. For policy questions, contacting your local agent is often the fastest route to specific answers.
The Bottom Line
Nationwide offers solid homeowners insurance with distinctive features like Brand New Belongings, Better Roof Replacement, and the On Your Side Review approach. The company combines comprehensive coverage with above-average customer service and reliable claims handling.
For most homeowners, Nationwide is worth serious consideration during the insurance shopping process. The combination of bundling opportunities, unique features, and competitive pricing makes it a strong choice for homeowners who value those benefits.
The team at Matrix Insurance can help you compare Nationwide homeowners insurance against other top carriers to find the best combination of coverage, service, and price for your home. Use our Home Insurance Calculator for a starting estimate, or reach out to our team directly for a personalized quote comparison.
Post Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.