Nationwide report shows agent role shifting
Homeowners face pressure from expensive premiums, climate threats and inflation that are changing the insurance market, a Nationwide study shows. About 63 percent of policyholders trust their coverage, while more than half remain unclear about protection details. Agents report clients worry most about premium increases, weather damage and repair bills.
Insurance representatives now push smart home devices as prevention tools, with 85 percent suggesting smoke detectors, locks and water monitors. Adoption reached 48 percent among all homeowners and 71 percent for younger buyers who install safety equipment to lower costs. Michael Tripp at Nationwide said agents must turn data into practical advice for customers.
Nearly half of homeowners met with agents over the past year to examine policies as affordability concerns grow. About 78 percent of agents said clients want cheaper premiums, while others boost coverage for rising rebuild expenses. Insurers depend on advisory services and prevention programs to control risk and maintain customer confidence in a difficult property sector.
