Commerce Insurance is a regional auto and home insurer operating in multiple states

Commerce Insurance Company is a property and casualty insurer that sells auto insurance, homeowners insurance, and renters insurance primarily in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. The company is owned by Homesite Group Inc., which is itself owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway. Commerce operates under its own brand in some states and under the Homesite brand in others, depending on state regulations and market strategy.

The company has been in business since 1971 and maintains offices in Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and other states. Unlike national carriers like State Farm or Allstate, Commerce focuses on specific geographic markets rather than offering coverage everywhere in the United States. This regional approach means availability, pricing, and product offerings can differ significantly depending on where you live.

Key Takeaways

  • Commerce Insurance operates only in certain states, primarily in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, so you must check whether it serves your address before getting a quote.
  • The company offers auto, homeowners, and renters insurance, with discounts for bundling multiple policies and for safety features like anti-theft devices.
  • Commerce is owned by Berkshire Hathaway through Homesite Group, which means it has substantial financial backing and is rated A+ by A.M. Best for financial strength.
  • You can get quotes online, by phone, or through independent agents, and the company allows you to manage your policy through its website or mobile app.
  • Customer service and claims handling experiences vary, so reading recent reviews specific to your state can help you understand what to expect.

Which states does Commerce Insurance serve

Commerce Insurance operates in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. In some of these states, the company operates under the Commerce brand; in others, it uses the Homesite brand name. The specific products available and the rates charged can vary by state because each state has its own insurance regulations and market conditions.

Before you spend time getting a quote, visit the Commerce Insurance website or call their customer service line to confirm they serve your zip code. Many regional insurers have coverage maps that show exactly which areas they operate in, and some may cover only certain counties within a state rather than the entire state. If Commerce does not serve your address, they cannot issue you a policy, so this step saves you time.

Auto insurance coverage and discounts

Commerce offers standard auto insurance coverage including liability (bodily injury and property damage), collision, comprehensive, uninsured motorist, and underinsured motorist protection. You can also add optional coverages such as roadside information, rental reimbursement, and gap insurance. The specific limits and deductibles you choose affect your premium, and Commerce allows you to customize these based on your needs and budget.

The company advertises discounts for bundling auto with homeowners or renters insurance, maintaining a good driving record, completing a defensive driving course, having anti-theft or safety devices in your vehicle, and paying your premium in full rather than monthly installments. Some states also offer discounts for low mileage or for insuring multiple vehicles. The actual discount amounts and which discounts are available depend on your state and personal circumstances, so ask for a full list when you request a quote.

Homeowners and renters insurance options

Commerce homeowners insurance covers the structure of your home, personal property inside it, liability if someone is injured on your property, and additional living expenses if you need to stay elsewhere while your home is being repaired. You choose your coverage limits and deductible. The company also offers endorsements (add-ons) for items of high value, such as jewelry, art, or collectibles, which may not be fully covered under a standard policy.

Renters insurance through Commerce covers your personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses if you cannot stay in your rental unit. Renters policies are typically less expensive than homeowners policies because they do not cover the building itself—the landlord's insurance covers that. Both homeowners and renters policies can include discounts for safety features like smoke detectors, deadbolts, or security systems.

How to get a quote and purchase a policy

You can obtain a Commerce Insurance quote through three main channels: the company's website, by phone, or through an independent insurance agent who represents Commerce. The online quote tool typically takes 10 to 15 minutes and asks for information about your home or vehicle, driving history, and current coverage. You do not need to provide payment information to receive a quote.

If you prefer to speak with someone, you can call Commerce's customer service number, which is available on their website. Independent agents can also provide quotes and may offer personalized service, though they represent multiple insurers and may suggest alternatives. Once you decide to purchase, you can complete the process online, by phone, or through an agent. Coverage typically begins on the date you specify, as long as you pay the premium before that date.

Financial strength and claims handling

Commerce Insurance is rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best, a major rating agency that assesses insurers' financial stability and ability to pay claims. This rating reflects that the company has the financial resources to handle claims even during periods of high losses. Berkshire Hathaway's ownership provides additional financial backing, which is relevant if you are concerned about whether an insurer will be able to pay a large claim.

Claims can be filed online through your account, by phone, or through a mobile app. The company assigns a claims adjuster to investigate and process your claim. The time it takes to resolve a claim varies depending on the type and complexity—a minor auto claim might be resolved in days, while a major homeowners claim could take weeks or months. Reading recent customer reviews about claims handling in your state can give you a sense of what others have experienced.

Comparing Commerce to other regional and national insurers

Commerce competes primarily with other regional carriers in its service areas, such as Safety Insurance, Plymouth Rock, and Arbella, as well as with national carriers like State Farm, Allstate, and GEICO. Regional insurers often have lower overhead costs and can offer competitive rates in their specific markets, but they do not operate everywhere. National carriers offer broader geographic coverage but may not always be the cheapest option in every location.

The best way to compare is to get quotes from multiple insurers for the same coverage levels and deductibles. Rates vary based on your age, driving record, home characteristics, location, and many other factors, so the cheapest option for your neighbor may not be the cheapest for you. You should also consider customer service reputation, claims handling speed, and the availability of discounts when making your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Commerce Insurance operate in my state?

Commerce serves Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, though not all products may be available in every state. Visit their website or call to confirm coverage for your specific zip code before spending time on a quote.

What discounts does Commerce offer?

Common discounts include bundling multiple policies, maintaining a clean driving record, completing a defensive driving course, having anti-theft or safety devices, and paying your premium in full. The specific discounts available and their amounts vary by state and your personal circumstances.

Can I manage my policy online?

Yes, Commerce allows you to view your policy, make payments, request changes, and file claims through their website and mobile app. You can also contact customer service by phone if you prefer to handle these tasks with an agent.

How long does it take to get a quote from Commerce?

An online quote typically takes 10 to 15 minutes. Phone quotes may take longer depending on how detailed your conversation is with the agent. There is no obligation to purchase after receiving a quote.

What is Commerce Insurance's financial rating?

Commerce is rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best, indicating strong financial stability and the ability to pay claims. The company is owned by Berkshire Hathaway, which provides additional financial backing.