AARP does not sell homeowners insurance directly—it endorses policies underwritten by third-party insurers

AARP partners with insurance companies to offer homeowners coverage under the AARP brand. The actual policy is written and backed by insurers like The Hartford, Homeowners Choice Inc., or others depending on your state. AARP handles marketing and member services, but the underwriting company is the one that sets rates, handles claims, and decides what is and isn't covered.

This matters because when you call with a claim or question about coverage, you may reach AARP's customer service line, but the decision about your claim comes from the underwriting company. The policy document itself will show the insurer's name, not AARP's.

The endorsement model means AARP can negotiate group rates for its members, which is why the policies are often cheaper than buying the same coverage on your own. But it also means the coverage, deductibles, and exclusions are set by the insurance company, not by AARP.

Key Takeaways

  • AARP homeowners insurance is underwritten by third-party companies like The Hartford, not by AARP itself, though AARP markets and services the policies.
  • Rates and coverage vary by state and by the underwriting company, so what is available in one state may not be in another.
  • You can get a quote online or by phone, and the policy can typically be bound the same day if you choose to move forward.
  • The policies include standard homeowners coverage—dwelling, personal property, liability—plus optional add-ons like water backup or identity theft protection.
  • Discounts for bundling home and auto, paying in full, or having safety features can lower your premium, but the base rate depends on your home's age, location, and claims history.

What coverage is included in AARP homeowners policies

AARP homeowners policies include the standard three parts: coverage for the structure of your home (dwelling), your belongings inside it (personal property), and liability if someone is injured on your property and sues. Most policies also cover additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable after a covered loss.

The amount of dwelling coverage you choose is up to you, but the insurer will typically require it to be at least 80 percent of your home's replacement cost. Personal property coverage is usually set at a percentage of your dwelling limit—often 50 to 70 percent. Liability limits commonly start at $100,000 and go up to $500,000 or higher.

Optional add-ons vary by state and underwriter but often include water backup coverage (for sump pump failure or backed-up sewers), identity theft protection, and coverage for high-value items like jewelry or art. Some policies offer replacement cost coverage for personal property, which pays what it costs to replace an item new rather than what it was worth used.

How AARP homeowners insurance rates are set

The underwriting company sets rates based on your home's age, location, construction type, claims history, credit score, and the coverage limits you choose. Older homes and homes in areas with higher theft or weather risk typically cost more to insure. A brick home with a newer roof will usually have a lower rate than a wood-frame home with an older roof in the same neighborhood.

Your personal claims history matters significantly. If you have filed homeowners claims in the past five to seven years, your rate will be higher. Some companies also use credit score as a rating factor, though this varies by state and insurer.

AARP members often receive a discount on the base rate straightforward for being members, but the actual premium you pay depends on all these factors. Getting a quote requires providing your home's details, so you will see your specific rate before committing.

Discounts that can lower your AARP homeowners premium

Common discounts include bundling homeowners and auto insurance (typically 10 to 25 percent off), paying your annual premium in full rather than in installments, and having protective devices like deadbolts, smoke detectors, or a security system. Some insurers offer discounts for homes with updated electrical or plumbing systems or for being claim-free for a set number of years.

Age-based discounts are sometimes available—some companies offer lower rates for homeowners over 55 or 65. Discounts for completing a home safety course or for being retired may also explore, depending on the underwriting company and your state.

The total discount you receive is the sum of all discounts you may have access to for, applied to the base rate. This is why two AARP members in the same neighborhood can have very different premiums—their homes, claims histories, and discount combinations differ.

How to get a quote and what information you will need

You can request a quote online through AARP's website or by calling their insurance line. Either way, you will need basic information about your home: the year it was built, square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, type of construction (wood frame, brick, etc.), and the replacement cost estimate. You will also need your current homeowners policy if you have one, to compare coverage.

The process usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. Once you provide this information, you will receive a quote showing the premium, deductible options, and coverage limits. If you want to move forward, you can often bind the policy the same day by paying the first premium.

Keep in mind that the quote is based on the information you provide. If details about your home are inaccurate, the final rate may differ. The underwriting company may also order a home inspection or review public records before finalizing the policy.

When AARP homeowners insurance may not be available in your state

AARP's insurance partnerships vary by state. Some states have multiple underwriting partners, while others have only one or none. If AARP does not partner with an insurer in your state, you will not be able to purchase an AARP-branded homeowners policy there, though you can still get homeowners insurance from other companies.

Even within states where AARP policies are sold, coverage may not be available for all homes. Insurers may decline to cover homes that are very old, in high-risk areas, or with significant deferred maintenance. If you are declined, AARP's customer service can sometimes suggest alternatives or refer you to your state's insurer of last resort program.

How AARP homeowners insurance compares to buying directly from an insurer

The main difference is the discount you receive for being an AARP member and the convenience of working through AARP's customer service. The actual policy—the coverage, exclusions, and claims process—is identical to what you would get if you bought directly from the underwriting company.

Because AARP negotiates group rates, member premiums are often lower than non-member rates for the same coverage. However, you should still compare quotes from other insurers. Some companies may offer lower rates in your specific situation, or better coverage for your needs, even without the AARP discount.

The endorsement arrangement also means AARP can drop a partner insurer or change partners, which could affect your policy renewal. This is rare but worth knowing—if it happens, AARP typically notifies you well in advance and helps you transition to a new carrier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I buy AARP homeowners insurance if I am not yet 50?

No. AARP membership requires you to be 50 or older, and AARP homeowners insurance is only sold to AARP members. If you are younger, you will need to purchase homeowners insurance from another company. Some insurers offer similar discounts for bundling or safety features, so it is worth comparing quotes.

What happens to my AARP homeowners policy if I move?

You will need a new policy for your new home. Contact AARP's insurance line with your new address and home details to get a quote. Your old policy will end on the date your new one begins, so there should be no gap in coverage. Some states allow you to transfer your policy, but most require a new process.

Does AARP homeowners insurance cover flood damage?

No. Standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage from rising water, heavy rain, or overflowing rivers. If you live in a flood zone or want flood coverage, you will need a separate flood insurance policy, usually through the National Flood Insurance Program. AARP can tell you whether your area is in a flood zone.

Can I cancel my AARP homeowners policy anytime?

Yes, you can cancel at any time, though you may owe a pro-rated premium for the days you were covered. Most policies renew annually, so if you want to switch to another insurer, you can straightforward let your policy lapse at renewal and purchase a new one elsewhere. Check your policy document for any cancellation fees.

What if I have a claim—do I call AARP or the insurance company?

You call AARP's claims line, which is listed on your policy and your ID card. AARP will take your claim information and route it to the underwriting company's claims department. You may speak with AARP representatives throughout the process, but the actual claim decision and payment come from the underwriting company.