Area Agency On Aging Of Western Arkansas, Inc.
3600 Wheeler Ave, Suite 2, Fort Smith, AR 72901
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3600 Wheeler Ave, Suite 2, Fort Smith, AR 72901
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2120 S Waldron Rd, Ste 8A, Fort Smith, AR 72903
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3104 S 70th St, Ste 104, Fort Smith, AR 72903
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Learn about insurance coverage options specific to Fort Smith residents.
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General Insurance EducationComplete insurance guide for Fort Smith, Arkansas. Learn about auto, home, flood, and life insurance in Sebastian County with rates, requirements, and tips.
Yes, especially if you're near the Arkansas River or in areas prone to flash flooding. Fort Smith experienced major flooding in 2025 with over 30 cars stranded and entire streets underwater. Standard home insurance doesn't cover flood damage—you need a separate flood policy through NFIP or a private insurer. Even if you're not in a designated flood zone, the relatively low cost (often under $500/year outside high-risk areas) makes it worth considering given the city's flood history.
Arkansas ranks among the highest in the nation for home insurance costs because of severe weather. The state sits in tornado alley and experiences frequent hail, damaging winds, and flooding. Fort Smith specifically faces tornado risk and river flooding, which drive up claims. Insurers price policies based on risk, and Arkansas's weather patterns create higher risk than states with milder climates. The statewide average of $4,023 annually is nearly double the national average.
At minimum, you need enough dwelling coverage to completely rebuild your home at current construction costs—not just the purchase price. For a median-priced Fort Smith home around $191,000, you'd typically need $200,000-$250,000 in dwelling coverage depending on the home's features. Add at least $100,000 in liability coverage, personal property coverage for your belongings, and strongly consider separate flood insurance given the area's flooding risks.
Bundle your home and auto policies with the same insurer for 15-20% discounts. Install a monitored security system (saves 5-10%), upgrade to impact-resistant roofing for hail discounts, and maintain good credit. Raising your deductible from $500 to $1,000 or higher can significantly reduce premiums, just ensure you can afford the higher out-of-pocket cost if you file a claim. Shop around every 2-3 years since rates and company risk appetites change.
Yes, historic homes often cost more to insure because they require specialized materials and craftsmanship to repair or rebuild. Victorian-era details, original woodwork, and period-appropriate materials are expensive to replace. Make sure your policy includes enough dwelling coverage for authentic restoration, not just standard construction. Some insurers offer special historic home policies with higher replacement cost coverage to account for these realities.
Yes, standard homeowners insurance policies cover tornado damage to your home and belongings. This includes wind damage to your roof, walls, and windows, as well as destruction from debris. However, make sure your dwelling coverage is high enough to rebuild completely—tornadoes can total a home. Also verify you have adequate additional living expenses coverage to pay for temporary housing while your home is being repaired or rebuilt after a tornado.
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