Home Insurance in Dover, Delaware: A Complete Overview
As Delaware’s capital city, Dover offers a suburban lifestyle with a rich historical background. The mix of newer and older homes, along with proximity to open land, impacts home insurance rates.
National vs. Dover Home Insurance Costs
The national average cost for home insurance is $1,400 per year, while Dover homeowners pay an average of $1,450 per year. Dover’s relatively low risk for natural disasters and crime keeps premiums slightly below the state’s urban areas like Wilmington.
Home Insurance Rates by Home Age in Dover
Home Age
Average Annual Premium
0-10 years
$1,400
10-20 years
$1,450
20-30 years
$1,500
30+ years
$1,600
How Home Age Affects Insurance Rates in Dover
Newer homes tend to have lower insurance rates because they’re built to modern safety standards.
Older homes can have higher premiums, especially if they require significant repairs or have outdated systems.
Home Insurance Rates by Credit Tier in Dover
Here’s how credit scores affect home insurance rates in Dover:
Excellent Credit (750+): $1,400/year
Good Credit (700-749): $1,450/year
Fair Credit (650-699): $1,550/year
Poor Credit (Below 650): $1,700/year
Cheapest Home Insurance Providers in Dover
Below are the cheapest insurance providers for Dover homeowners, along with their average annual premiums:
State Farm: $1,450/year
Allstate: $1,470/year
Liberty Mutual: $1,480/year
Progressive: $1,500/year
USAA: $1,430/year
Home Insurance Rates by Deductible in Dover
$500 Deductible: $1,550/year
$1,000 Deductible: $1,450/year
$2,000 Deductible: $1,350/year
$5,000 Deductible: $1,250/year
Types of Homeowners Insurance in Dover
HO-3 (Special Form): The most common coverage, protecting your home and belongings from most risks.
HO-5 (Comprehensive Form): Provides broader protection for high-value items.
HO-6 (Condo Insurance): Tailored for condo owners.
HO-8 (Older Home Insurance): Designed for older homes with historic value.
Additional Coverage Options in Dover
While Dover doesn’t face as many coastal risks as Wilmington, residents may still consider:
Flood Insurance: Homes near streams or low-lying areas may benefit from flood insurance.
Sewer Backup Coverage: Recommended for older homes with aging plumbing systems.
Comparing Dover to Other Delaware Cities
Wilmington: Wilmington homeowners face higher premiums, averaging $1,550/year due to urban risks. Learn more about Wilmington.
Newark: Newark homeowners pay about $1,500/year, with rates closer to Dover’s due to similar suburban environments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Dover Homeowners
Q: Is flood insurance necessary in Dover?
A: While flood risks are lower in Dover compared to Wilmington, homes near streams or in flood-prone areas may benefit from flood insurance.
Q: Can I lower my home insurance premiums by increasing my deductible?
A: Yes, raising your deductible can lower your annual premium, but make sure you can afford the out-of-pocket cost in the event of a claim.
Autumn Cafiero Giusti is a licensed life and health insurance broker and award-winning journalist with more than 20 years of experience. She writes extensively about flood, Medicare, home, and life insurance for publications like U.S. News and CBS News.