Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.
Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga and crocheting.
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Home insurance is crucial to protect your property and assets, so it’s important not to wait until the last minute to secure a policy. It can take anywhere from five minutes to a few days to lock in a homeowners insurance policy and protect your home from a major disaster.
Factors like your location and how you choose to get coverage, whether you need a home inspection, and the risk level of your house all dictate the length of time it takes to finalize a policy.
Additionally, finding the cheapest home insurance rate, choosing your policy levels, and comparing companies also takes time.
Learn about how long it takes to secure homeowners insurance so you know exactly what to expect before you begin the process.
Quick Facts
The fastest way to get home insurance is online.
It’s a good idea to shop for a homeowners insurance policy at least three weeks before closing on your home.
Most insurers allow you to choose a policy effective date, but coverage won’t begin until your closing date.
How long it takes to get a homeowners insurance quote
You have three main ways to get a home insurance quote: in person, by phone, and online. Here’s a look at the amount of time the process usually takes for each method.
In person
Most home insurance companies allow you to get a quote in person from a local agency or branch. This option is ideal for homeowners who like face-to-face customer service and want to familiarize themselves with a local branch. Since independent insurance agents often quote policies for multiple customers and several insurance products, the process typically takes longer. If you go the in-person route, you may receive a quote in between one hour and a few days.
By phone
When you request a home insurance quote by phone, you’ll need to provide the agent with certain information about yourself and your home. Since an agent can help you choose the ideal type of homeowners insurance coverage for your budget and individual needs, the phone method may make sense. It can take between 15 and 30 minutes to get a phone quote.
Online
As long as you already have the general information about yourself and your home on hand, you shouldn’t have to wait long to get a homeowners insurance quote online. But keep in mind that not all homeowners insurance companies offer online quotes. Online quotes often take between five and 15 minutes.
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How to get homeowners insurance fast
Follow these tips if you’d like to lock in home insurance coverage and protect against property damage as soon as possible:
Understand your property information. When you apply for a home insurance quote, you’ll need to provide details about your home. That’s why it’s a good idea to know its specs, such as square footage, style, roof type, and whether the garage is attached or separate from the property.
Determine how much coverage you’ll need. Take the time to familiarize yourself with the different types of home insurance available and insurance policy terms. Figure out the ideal coverage for your home and whether you’d benefit from any optional add-ons, like flood insurance.[1]
Prepare your personal information. Have your Social Security number, property history, and previous insurance claims history on hand, as you’ll likely need this information when you apply for a quote.
Apply online. Compared to in-person and phone quotes, online quotes are quicker. If you want a homeowners policy within minutes rather than days or longer, an online quote process is likely your best bet — especially if you already know what type of coverage you want to purchase.
How soon should you get home insurance before closing?
You should shop for home insurance at least three weeks before your closing date. In most cases, mortgage lenders ask for proof of homeowners insurance at least three days before you’re scheduled to close on your home. You’ll want to ensure you have enough time to shop around and compare your coverage options to find the best coverage for your future home.
Once you choose a homeowners insurance company and finalize an applicable insurance policy, you’ll give their information to your mortgage lender. The real estate agent and title company may request it as well. Unless you decide to cover your premium payment before you close, it’ll be on your settlement form as an item you need to pay for in advance.[2]
Is home insurance required to buy a home?
No state laws require you to have a home insurance policy to buy a home. But if you take out a mortgage, the mortgage company or lender will likely request it. Regardless of your situation, home insurance coverage is a worthwhile investment.
Home insurance can protect your home and personal belongings from unforeseen problems like fire, wind damage, tornadoes, water damage, dog bites, and break-ins. Without a policy, you’ll be on the hook for emergency repairs for extensive damage.[3]
When coverage goes into effect
Most insurance companies will let you choose an effective date, often known as a policy inception date.[4] But keep in mind that your coverage and policy obligations can’t begin until you close on your home.
It’s a good idea to opt for an effective date the same day you plan to close on your home so that you have coverage for it and your items as soon as you take possession of the house.
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How long it takes to finalize a home insurance policy
Once you receive a quote, it can take several minutes to days or weeks to lock in your homeowners insurance policy. If you have a low-risk home and no previous insurance claims on your record, the process will likely be much quicker than someone with a high-risk home and a history of claims.
Information you need to get a home insurance quote
You’ll need to provide the home insurance company with several important pieces of information to get a quote. The more information you gather ahead of time, the quicker you’ll be able to get a quote and secure a homeowner’s policy.
Most home insurers will ask for the following details:
Personal information: Your full name, date of birth, phone number, email address, and Social Security number
Home information: Your home’s square footage, roof material, HVAC type, safety systems, and details about any unique or custom features
Mortgage information: Your mortgage company’s name and address, known as the mortgage clause
Closing date: Your home insurance policy will need to go into effect as soon as the property is legally yours[5]
How long it takes to get home insurance FAQs
Here’s some additional information about home insurance and how long it takes to get it.
Is homeowners insurance effective immediately?
Usually, yes. Home insurance coverage will typically take effect when you close on your home. You’ll work with the home insurer and its insurance professionals to choose an effective policy date.
How long does it take to get a home insurance policy?
Depending on how you apply, you may get homeowner’s insurance from a licensed insurance provider in anywhere between five minutes and a few days. In general, online quotes lead to faster turnaround times than in-person and phone quotes.
How long does underwriting take for homeowners insurance?
The underwriting process usually takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on when you officially decide to move forward with a home but before your closing date.
What happens if you have a mortgage and no homeowners insurance?
If you don’t buy a home insurance policy and personal property coverage but have a mortgage, your lender might buy coverage on your behalf, and you’ll likely have to pay more for the policy. It may also send your mortgage into default.
Do you need home insurance after you pay off your mortgage?
Home insurance and replacement cost coverage aren’t typically required after you pay off your home loan. But they’re a good idea, as they can protect your property and personal belongings from unexpected natural disasters and the high out-of-pocket cost of repairs.
Travelers Insurance. "Information You May Need for a Homeowners Insurance Quote."
Anna BaluchInsurance Writer
Anna Baluch is a Cleveland-based personal finance and insurance expert. With an MBA from Roosevelt University, she enjoys writing educational content that helps people make smart financial decisions. Her work can be seen across the internet on many publications, including Freedom Debt Relief, Credit Karma, RateGenius, and the Balance. Connect with Anna on LinkedIn.
Sara Getman is an Associate Editor at Insurify and has been with the company since 2022. Prior to joining Insurify, Sara completed her undergraduate degree in English Literature at Simmons University in Boston. At Simmons, she was the Editor-in-Chief for Sidelines Magazine (a literary and art publication), and wrote creative non-fiction.
Outside of work, Sara is an avid reader, and loves rock climbing, yoga and crocheting.
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