At Rich & Cartmill Insurance, we hear from Oklahoma families every day who are surprised to find their auto and home premiums rising even when nothing about their coverage has changed. You’re not imagining it — rates are increasing across the entire industry.

And while it feels frustrating, these shifts aren’t random. They’re tied to real economic changes, repair trends, rebuilding costs, and weather patterns that affect every insurer nationwide.

Once you understand what’s driving these rising costs, you’ll be better equipped to make smart decisions that protect your home, your vehicle, and your peace of mind.

Severe Weather Is Hitting Insurance Harder Than Ever

Weather has always been a challenge in Oklahoma, but the storms we’re seeing today are more destructive and far more expensive.

According to data available from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration at noaa.gov, the U.S. is experiencing more high-cost storms than any time in recorded history.

In Oklahoma, even a single hailstorm can trigger thousands of claims at once. Combine that with the rising cost of roofing materials, siding, windows, and skilled labor, and the price of repairing storm damage has skyrocketed.

These compounding pressures are a major reason for homeowners insurance rate increases. Insurers aren’t simply adjusting prices based on individual households — they’re responding to the dramatically higher cost of repairing homes after severe weather.

And when storms hit entire neighborhoods, insurance companies must spread the financial risk across all policyholders to remain stable and ready for future claims.

Auto Repairs Cost More — Even for Small Accidents

Auto premiums are also rising, and a major factor is the technology inside modern vehicles.

Even a minor collision today can require recalibrating sensors, cameras, parking systems, and advanced safety features. These repairs are far more complex than the bumper swaps of the past.

The Insurance Information Institute at iii.org highlights how advanced vehicle technology has pushed repair costs — and therefore claims — much higher.

Add in rising medical expenses and an uptick in accident frequency fueled by distracted driving, and insurers are dealing with more claims that cost significantly more to settle.

Even drivers with clean records are affected because insurers pool risk across their entire customer base.

National Trends Influence Local Oklahoma Rates

You might assume Oklahoma’s rates are based solely on Oklahoma’s weather, repairs, and claim patterns — but that’s not how insurance works.

Carriers spread risk across multiple states, so major disasters in other regions can affect premiums here at home.

If a hurricane on the coast or a wildfire in another part of the country causes widespread losses, insurers may adjust their pricing across all states to stay financially prepared for future events.

This national ripple effect is one reason many households are noticing homeowners insurance rate increases even if they haven’t filed a claim.

The Rising Cost of Rebuilding Homes

Rebuilding a home today is dramatically more expensive than it was even five years ago. Lumber, drywall, electrical components, roofing materials, and skilled labor are all in high demand — and short supply.

Insurance policies are based on replacement cost, which is the cost to rebuild your home today, not what you originally paid for it. As building expenses rise, insurers must update replacement cost values to ensure homes stay fully protected.

This recalculation is another major contributor to homeowners insurance rate increases, but it’s also one of the most important protections for policyholders. Without accurate replacement cost coverage, a total loss could leave you financially exposed.

Local Claim Patterns Still Matter

While national trends shape the broader insurance climate, Oklahoma’s local risk profile still plays a role. Wind and hail remain two of the most common causes of home insurance claims across the state.

Even moderate storms can lead to widespread roof and siding damage. Roofing materials — especially impact-resistant options — continue to rise in cost.

This combination of high claim frequency and high repair cost contributes to the ongoing need for premium adjustments.

Inflation and Supply Chain Issues Are Driving Costs Up

Inflation affects more than groceries — it impacts everything from building materials and auto parts to rental cars, medical care, and skilled labor.

Supply chain delays add another layer of expense. If a repair takes weeks longer because necessary parts are back-ordered, insurers may end up paying for additional temporary housing or extended rental car periods.

This means a single claim today often costs significantly more than the same type of claim just a few years ago.

What You Can Do to Manage Rising Premiums

While you can’t control industry-wide trends, you can take meaningful steps to help reduce your rates or slow future increases.

For homeowners:

• Keep your home well maintained to reduce storm-related risks.
• Consider upgrades like impact-resistant roofing or better drainage.
• Review your policy annually to ensure your coverage is still appropriate.

For drivers:

• Maintain a clean driving record.
• Explore telematics or usage-based insurance programs.
• Bundle home and auto coverage for potential discounts.

At Rich & Cartmill Insurance, we work with multiple carriers, giving us the flexibility to shop competitive options even when the market is challenging.

How Rich & Cartmill Insurance Helps You Stay Ahead

Rising premiums can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone.

At Rich & Cartmill Insurance, we explain changes clearly, offer personalized policy reviews, and help you make informed adjustments based on your needs and budget.

We evaluate available discounts, compare carriers, and make sure you understand both the “why” behind the changes and the “how” behind managing your coverage smartly.

Whether you’re dealing with homeowners insurance rate increases or auto insurance adjustments, our team works to protect your financial stability while keeping your coverage strong.

Your Protection Still Comes First

The insurance market is shifting quickly, and many families are feeling the impact. But with the right information — and the right partner — you can make decisions that safeguard your home, your vehicles, and your peace of mind.

Reach out to Rich & Cartmill Insurance today to review your policies and take the next step toward stronger, more resilient protection for your family.

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