USAA Home insurance reviews consistently earns top marks for customer satisfaction, claims service, and overall customer experience within the insurance industry. While not always officially ranked in some studies due to its closed membership, when its scores are published, they are often at or near the top.
USAA Home Insurance is an excellent choice for eligible military members and their families, offering comprehensive coverage, competitive rates, and exceptional customer service. However, its availability is limited to those with military affiliations, and there may be restrictions in high-risk areas. Eligibility is the most “special” and restrictive aspect of USAA. You generally must be one of the military personnel, Veterans, Pre-commissioned officers or cadets, Widowers of eligible military personnel or Children and Stepchildren of eligible members to qualify for USAA membership and its insurance products.
USAA (United Services Automobile Association) was established on June 20, 1922, in San Antonio, Texas, by a group of 25 U.S. Army officers. The organization was created to provide mutual self-insurance for military officers who were considered high-risk by traditional insurers due to their frequent relocations. In the 1970s and 1980s, USAA began offering additional financial services, including banking and investment products. Today USAA serves over 13.5 million members and has total assets of $211.6 billion.
What Benefits are Special or Unique about USAA Home Insurance?
- Exceptional Customer Service: USAA is renowned for its member-focused service. Many reviews highlight positive and supportive interactions.
- Military-Specific Benefits: This is a core differentiator.
- Coverage for military uniforms and equipment, often with no deductible if damaged or lost while on active or reserve duty.
- Some policies may offer coverage for personal property lost due to war (up to certain limits, e.g., $10,000).
- Comprehensive Standard Coverage: USAA Home Insurance policies often include coverages as standard that other insurers might offer as add-ons or at an extra cost. This includes:
- Replacement Cost Coverage (RCC) for Personal Property: This means if your belongings are destroyed, USAA typically pays to replace them with new items, rather than their depreciated cash value. Many insurers charge extra for this.
- Identity Theft Coverage: Often included standard (up to a certain limit, e.g., $5,000) to help with expenses related to restoring your identity.
- Strong Claims Satisfaction: USAA generally scores very highly in claims satisfaction surveys (like J.D. Power, even if not officially ranked). Anecdotal evidence often points to USAA being prompt and fair in claims payouts, especially after widespread disasters.
- Financial Stability: USAA consistently receives A++ (Superior) financial strength ratings from A.M. Best, indicating a very strong ability to meet its financial obligations and pay claims.
USAA Ratings
- J.D. Power: While not officially ranked due to eligibility, USAA’s scores in J.D. Power studies are typically among the highest for both overall customer satisfaction and property claims satisfaction. For instance, a 2024 Home Insurance Study mentioned a score of 737 (out of 1,000) for overall satisfaction, and a Property Claims Satisfaction Study indicated a score of 899 (out of 1,000) – both of which would be leading scores if officially ranked.
- NAIC Complaint Index: Consistently shows a very low number of complaints (e.g., an index around 0.33 where 1.00 is the average means far fewer complaints than expected).
- AM Best: A++ (Superior) for financial strength.
- NerdWallet: Often gives USAA a 5 out of 5-star rating.
- Customer Reviews: Customers report very high satisfaction (e.g., 97% overall satisfaction, 96% would recommend).
Pros And Cons
Pros
- Top-Tier Customer Satisfaction: Consistently receives high ratings for overall customer service and claims handling.
- Competitive Rates: While not always the absolute cheapest, USAA’s rates are often very competitive for eligible members.
- Generous Coverage: Standard policies frequently include broader protections than many competitors.
- Low Complaint Levels: The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) data typically shows USAA Home Insurance has far fewer complaints than expected for an insurer of its size.
- Specific Benefits for Military Members: Tailored coverages and understanding of military life.
- Loyalty and Bundling Discounts: Offers discounts for bundling home and auto, and for continuous membership.
Cons
- Strict Eligibility Requirements: This is the biggest hurdle; it’s not available to the general public.
- Limited Physical Locations: USAA primarily operates online and via phone, which might be a drawback for those who prefer in-person service at a local agency.
- Not Always the Cheapest: While competitive, it’s still wise for eligible individuals to compare quotes, as another insurer might occasionally offer a lower rate for similar coverage depending on individual circumstances.
- Some Negative Online Feedback: Despite high official ratings, like any large company, some negative reviews can be found online (e.g., on Trustpilot or Reddit), sometimes citing rate increases (a common industry-wide issue) or occasional communication problems during claims.
USAA Home Insurance Rates
Home insurance rates are not one-size-fits-all. They vary significantly based on numerous factors, including your home’s location (state, ZIP code), age, construction type, size, the coverage limits and deductibles you select, your claims history, and in some states, your credit score. USAA also has specific eligibility requirements (military members, veterans, and their families). While USAA Home Insurance offers standard coverages, the specific limits you choose (e.g., for your dwelling, personal property, liability) will depend on your individual needs and your home’s characteristics.
Therefore, any rates shown below are illustrative examples based on averages found in reviews and are not a quote or guarantee of your actual premium. You must get a personalized quote from USAA for accurate figures.
Average increase in homeowners insurance 2025, Types of home insurance
| Coverage Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Dwelling | Covers the structure of your home against covered events like fire, theft, etc. |
| Other Structures | Covers detached structures like garages, fences, etc. |
| Personal Property | Covers personal belongings like furniture, electronics, etc. |
| Loss of Use | Covers additional living expenses if home is uninhabitable |
| Personal Liability | Covers legal costs if you’re responsible for injury or property damage |
| Medical Payments to Others | Covers medical expenses for injuries on your property |
| Identity Theft | Covers costs related to identity theft recovery |
| Valuable Personal Property | Additional coverage for high-value items |
| Coverage Type | Typical Limits | Rates (Approximate) |
|---|---|---|
| Dwelling | Up to the replacement cost of the home | Varies based on home value and location(table 3) |
| Other Structures | 10% of Dwelling coverage | Included in premium |
| Personal Property | 50-70% of Dwelling coverage | Included in premium |
| Loss of Use | 20% of Dwelling coverage | Included in premium |
| Personal Liability | $100,000 – $500,000 | Included in premium |
| Medical Payments to Others | $1,000 – $5,000 | Included in premium |
| Identity Theft | Up to $5,000 | Included in premium |
| Valuable Personal Property | Varies based on item value | Starting at $2 per month |
| Home Price | Average Annual Premium | Average Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| $200,000 | $1,000 | $83 |
| $300,000 | $1,270 | $106 |
| $400,000 | $1,540 | $128 |
| $500,000 | $1,810 | $151 |
| $750,000 | $2,270 | $189 |
| $1,000,000 | $3,300 | $275 |
Factors Influencing Your Specific USAA Home Insurance Rate:
- Location of Your Home: State, city, ZIP code, proximity to coastlines, local crime rates, and risk of natural disasters (hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, hail).
- Home Characteristics: Age of home, construction materials (brick vs. frame), roof age and type, square footage, number of stories, foundation type.
- Coverage Choices:
- Dwelling Coverage Amount: Higher limit = higher premium.
- Deductible Amount: Higher deductible = lower premium (common deductibles range from $500 to $2,500 or more; some policies may have percentage-based deductibles for specific perils like wind/hail).
- Liability Limits Chosen: Higher limits = higher premium.
- Optional Endorsements Added: Each added coverage increases the premium.
- Claims History: A history of frequent or large claims can increase your rates.
- Credit-Based Insurance Score: In many states, insurers use a credit-based insurance score as a rating factor.
- Protective Devices: Discounts may be available for security systems, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, deadbolts, etc.
- Bundling Policies: USAA Home Insurance offers a discount (e.g., up to 10%) for bundling home and auto insurance.
- Loyalty and Claims-Free Discounts: Discounts for being a long-term member or remaining claims-free for a certain period (e.g., 5 years).
Claims
USAA consistently ranks at or near the top in independent studies for overall customer satisfaction and, crucially, for property claims satisfaction. This reputation is a significant draw for eligible members.
USAA Home Insurance Claims Review
Positive Reviews
- High Customer Satisfaction: USAA frequently leads or is near the top in J.D. Power Property Claims Satisfaction Studies. Many members report positive experiences.
- Fair and Prompt Payouts: Anecdotal evidence often suggests USAA is fair and relatively quick in paying out claims, especially in widespread disaster situations where some have noted USAA-insured homes were among the first to be repaired.
- Dedicated to Military Members: Features like no deductible for covered losses to military uniforms and equipment while on active or reserve duty are highly valued.
- Ease of Filing: The online and mobile app options for filing and tracking claims are generally well-received.
- Low Complaint Ratio: USAA typically has a very low number of complaints filed with state regulators (NAIC) relative to its size, suggesting a higher level of satisfaction with how issues are resolved.
Negative Reviews and Complaints
- Communication Issues (Occasional): While many have excellent experiences, some BBB reviews and forum discussions mention difficulties reaching adjusters, lack of returned phone calls, or feeling out of the loop during the claims process.
- Rate Increases After Claims: Some members have reported significant premium increases after filing a home insurance claim, which can be a point of frustration (though this is not unique to USAA and is a broader industry trend based on risk assessment).
- Use of Third-Party Adjusters (Catastrophes): In major catastrophe situations, USAA, like many insurers, may use third-party or independent adjusters. Some members have reported less satisfactory experiences with these contracted adjusters compared to USAA’s own staff.
- Initial Underestimation (Rare): In some instances, policyholders have felt initial damage assessments were too low, requiring them to advocate for a more complete estimate, sometimes with the help of their own contractor.
- Process Can Still Be Complex: Despite USAA’s efforts, the insurance claims process itself can be inherently stressful and complex, especially for severe damage. USAA provides resources and FAQs to help navigate this.
Steps to File a Claim
- Report Claim: You can start the process on the USAA Home Insurance website or through the USAA Mobile App.
- Claims can be filed 24/7 online through the USAA website or the USAA Mobile App. This is often cited as the fastest way.
- You can also report a claim by phone.
- Provide Details: Include information about the damage, photos, receipts for temporary repairs, and a list of damaged items.
- Initial Review & Adjuster Assignment: USAA will review the details of your claim and your policy coverage. An adjuster will typically be assigned to your case, often within 48 business hours.
- Evaluation: USAA will review the details and determine the payment based on your coverage, deductible, and the specifics of the incident.
- Depending on the extent of the damage, an onsite inspection may be required.
- The adjuster will evaluate the damage and work on an estimate for covered repairs. USAA Home Insurance may use preferred contractors who can send estimates directly, or you can use your own contractor (though estimate review might take 7-10 business days, potentially longer after major disasters).
- USAA states they use tools like Xactware for estimating rebuild costs, considering local material and labor prices.
- Settlement: If the claim is covered, USAA will make a payment to you or a third party.
- Once the estimate for covered damages is approved, USAA will determine the payout based on your coverage, deductible, and who is responsible.
- Payments can be made by check or electronic funds transfer, potentially to you, your contractor, or jointly (sometimes including your mortgage company).
- For personal property, USAA policies often include Replacement Cost Coverage (RCC) as standard. This means they typically pay to replace items with new ones, rather than their depreciated value. The process might involve an initial payment for the actual cash value (depreciated value) and a second payment (recoverable depreciation) once you’ve actually repaired or replaced the item.
- Repairs: Repairs usually begin after the estimate is approved. If additional covered damage is found during repairs, your adjuster should be notified immediately for approval before work continues.
USAA Home Insurance Claims Commonly Covered Items in
- Home Repairs: Damage to the structure of your home, such as roof, windows, floors, and walls.
- Personal Belongings: Coverage for damaged or stolen items like furniture, jewelry, and electronics.
- Emergency Repairs: Costs for temporary repairs to prevent further damage, like a roof tarp after a storm.
- Additional Living Expenses: Costs for hotel stays and meals if your home is uninhabitable.
- Spoiled Food: Replacement of refrigerated food that goes bad due to a power outage.
Important Considerations
- Deductible: Your deductible is the amount you’ll pay out-of-pocket before the insurance coverage kicks in.
- Impact on Premiums: Filing a claim can affect your premiums, which may change upon renewal.
USAA Home Insurance Reviews
USAA home insurance is highly rated, especially for military members and veterans. It offers low rates, quality customer service, and various discounts. However, it’s only available to active military personnel, veterans, and their families. While industry ratings paint a largely positive picture, direct customer reviews of USAA homeowners insurance are mixed and offer a more varied perspective. Some praise USAA Home Insurance for its efficient claims process and great service, while others mention issues with coverage and claim denials
Positive USAA Reviews
Many USAA members report excellent customer service, smooth claims processes, and overall satisfaction. Policyholders often express loyalty and appreciation for the company’s understanding of military life. Positive anecdotes frequently mention efficient claims handling, particularly after natural disasters.
- Most of the staff are creative and careful about their consumer. A few month ago I contacted with this company and call them. The Person answer all of my question that I asked for. They completed all document and make the process easy.
- USSA covers everything I need as far as insurance, home, auto, life. They also have banking services, credit cards. They honor the veterans with their products. Their children get the same benefits as their parents.
- I have never paid a cent for any repairs to my house. Customer support is spectacular. They are always Johnny on the spot when I need help. Rates and premiums can’t be beat for military. Military friendly.
- We have been with USAA for about 35 years. During that time, we have had several large claims for hail and hurricane damages. They always provided sufficient coverage for “good as new” repair. I couldn’t be a more satisfied customer.
- A couple of years ago, I had a claim for a home invasion and loss of items due to robbery of items both personal and replaceable. The agent handling the claim was very professional and had much empathy for our predicament. The claim was handled in a timely and honest fashion.
- Very responsive & knowledgeable. Go well above and beyond anything that could be expected. They are available 24 /7 and you get a reaction as to their expected actions almost immediately. Their estimates are fair and companies they recommend are excellent.
USAA Negative Reviews and Complints
Conversely, some customers have reported challenges. Common complaints include difficulties during the claims process, such as delays, disagreements over the scope of damage, or lack of communication. Significant premium increases have also been a point of frustration for some members. Platforms like Trustpilot and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) host a range of reviews, with some reflecting these negative experiences and contributing to lower overall scores on those specific platforms compared to industry-wide surveys. Reddit discussions also showcase this duality, with some users praising USAA unequivocally while others share significant frustrations.
- Thanks to USAA Home Insurance, my longtime homeowner/auto insurance carrier! They were absolutely horrible on our water damage claim- took over 2 months and found every way they could to not cover our claim! They had to hire 3 3rd party companies to get there and then took the word of an engineering report done 50 days after the original claim. Bad untruthful adjuster who verbally committed coverage only to be overruled because we complained about the process and continued delays! Beware of USAA!
- Long story short. Don’t use them. 25 years I’ve been using USAA. Like me, you’ll make decades of payments only to find out they don’t cover the serious problems with your house. Cast iron pipe issues, asbestos removal, etc. You’ll be out on your own when you need help. So pissed.
- The worse experience with an insurance company, filed a homeowner’s claim with water damage. They say it’s long term damage but yet the “long term” damage was able to be cleared up in a few days by myself and the wood and the water damage wasn’t long term since it just started. Tried to get a manager to dispute it around 6 times, told they would call within 24 hours and 3 days later no call and the agents claim he called and left a message. No message or call and no results, going on a week and a half and just keep getting the runaround and transfers to other people who can’t get me answers.
Positive USAA Reviews Part 2
- USAA is very easy to set up. They have optional payment plans, which makes it easy for my budget. And, while lowering my overall cost (for home + cars), they gave me more coverage on my homeowners policy. Very friendly people.
- I have never had a problem with a claim with USAA. They have only their own employees. They don’t hire a third party, like Liberty Mutual does, who don’t care about you because they’re not who your policy is with. And they have huge discounts for bundling bank accts and insurance accts.
- USAA has been first rate. Recently, we had our hot water heater blow up and pretty much mess up our entire basement. Once we called USAA, they got right on the case. They had clean started within 24 hours; assessed the damages and provided a first rate recovery company. And, they were very easy to deal with. We love the everything about them.
- USAA is built around me, and the prices are hard to beat. They are flexible and can work with me. They are very quick to handle claims as I recently had a homeowner claim for damage that was settled and I had the funds in less than 72 hours in my account!
- USAA has excellent quality and prompts response plus better pricing than other insurance companies. Since my husband was military, our kids and I can enjoy the benefits and they can be passed down to their kids too.
- Starting with my stepfather, our family has been protected by USAA for over 30 years. We are consistently getting dividends every year, whether we filed a claim or not. When my mom’s roof suffered unseen damage due to high winds, they were there to get us the money we needed to replace the roof and the subsequent water damage.
USAA Negative Reviews and Complaints 2
- USAA is the ABSOLUTE WORST! What is the point of having insurance when you can’t file a claim because THEY decide what it’s filed under! I have FENCE insurance for a reason but they tried to put it under a different category so I would have to pay an $11k deductible first. What a joke of a company!! They don’t care about military or families… they ONLY care about their bottom dollar! I’m ACTIVELY SEEKING another company to change to. I’m DONE with USAA!!!
- I have a major issue in my home that suddenly occurred that requires remediation and potential renovation which could be very costly. It’s been nearly two weeks since I processed my claim and the USAA agent, Andy, hasn’t bothered to call me back in nearly a week. I have no idea what the status of the claim is or what my next steps will be. I’m really sad because USAA is normally so responsive and helpful and they’ve completely dropped the ball on this one. I would never recommend them to any friends or family and hope they find a way to rectify my situation.
- USAA’s outrageous increase in insurance rates, three to four times higher than competitors, shows their greed and disregard for customers. After 23 years with USAA, my homeowner’s insurance skyrocketed from nearly $2,000 to $6,000 per year. Their customer service is unresponsive and bureaucratic, lacking genuine assistance. They show no loyalty to long-term customers, prioritizing profit over veterans. Don’t be emotionally roped in by USAA’s exploitation of military connections. Veterans deserve better. Exercise caution and explore reputable options with fair rates and customer care with companies other than USAA.
- I had reached out to USAA to cover our MA exposure from the Master Policy Changes, from walls in, and they could not even discuss intelligentially how to cover the risk for a policyholder of over 50 years, I was completely at a wits end with USAA.
Conclusion: Is USAA Home Insurance good and worth its cost?
If you are eligible for USAA membership, their home insurance is definitely worth considering due to their strong financial standing, generally competitive rates, comprehensive coverage, and historically high customer satisfaction in industry benchmarks. Their focus on the military community also brings unique advantages. However, prospective and current members should be aware that direct customer feedback is not universally positive, with some reporting issues related to claims and premium costs. As with any insurance decision, it’s advisable to obtain a personalized quote, carefully review policy details, and consider the range of available feedback.
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