Understanding Insurance in North Carolina
Moving to a new state comes with plenty of adjustments, and insurance is no exception. North Carolina has specific regulations and coverage requirements that may differ from your previous state. Whether you're buying a home, registering your car, or renting an apartment, it’s essential to understand how insurance works in North Carolina to ensure you’re properly covered.
At Sizemore Insurance, we specialize in helping new residents navigate the insurance landscape with ease. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Homeowners Insurance in North Carolina
If you're purchasing a home in North Carolina, securing the right homeowners insurance is crucial. The state's location makes it prone to hurricanes, strong storms, and flooding—factors that can significantly impact your coverage options.
Key Coverage Considerations:
- Wind & Hail Insurance – Standard homeowners policies may not fully cover wind and hail damage, especially in coastal regions. Many homeowners need a separate wind & hail policy.
- Flood Insurance – Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. If you’re moving to an area prone to flooding, you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private carriers.
- Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value – North Carolina policies vary in how they pay for damages. Replacement cost coverage pays to rebuild your home at today’s prices, while actual cash value factors in depreciation.
Ways to Save on Homeowners Insurance:
- Bundle your home and auto insurance for discounts.
- Install storm-resistant features like hurricane shutters and impact-resistant roofs.
- Maintain a good credit score, as insurers in North Carolina consider it when determining premiums.
Auto Insurance Requirements in North Carolina
North Carolina law requires all drivers to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance, and the state's regulations are stricter than those in many other states.
State Minimum Requirements:
- Liability Coverage:
- $30,000 for bodily injury per person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $25,000 for property damage per accident
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Required to protect you if another driver doesn’t have adequate insurance.
- Registration & Insurance Connection: In North Carolina, you must have active auto insurance to register your vehicle. Lapses in coverage can result in penalties and fees.
How to Save on Auto Insurance in North Carolina:
- Maintain a clean driving record to qualify for lower rates.
- Take advantage of good student and safe driver discounts.
- Compare rates with multiple carriers—we do the shopping for you to find the best option.
Renters Insurance for New Residents
If you’re renting in North Carolina, having renters insurance is highly recommended—and in many cases, required by landlords. Renters insurance protects your personal belongings and provides liability coverage if someone is injured in your rental home.
What Renters Insurance Covers:
- Personal Property Protection: Covers your belongings in case of fire, theft, or water damage.
- Liability Coverage: Protects you if someone gets injured at your rental.
- Loss of Use Coverage: Pays for temporary housing if your rental becomes unlivable due to a covered event.
Renters insurance is affordable, usually costing between $15-$30 per month, and bundling it with your auto policy can help you save even more.
Get the Right Coverage for Your Move
Relocating to North Carolina is an exciting step, and making sure you have the right insurance coverage will give you peace of mind as you settle in. Whether you need homeowners, auto, renters, or flood insurance, we’re here to make the process simple and stress-free.
Start your quote today and let us help you find the best coverage at the best price.
Start your quote today: sizemoreinsurance.com/get-quote or call us at 910-791-1011. We’re here to help make your transition smooth and secure.
We’re here to help make your transition smooth and secure.