chrisplotz

> when other companies called, you could tell them you have USAA and they're acknowledge they can't match the rates

This is funny, I actually do say this. I co-founded Goodcover, we provide renters insurance and USAA is an inspiration. But we still have a really hard time beating them! I'm also a USAA Member (car insurance) and also can't say enough good things about them.

I have a lot of sympathy for this feeling - I am a USAA member, but through family, nothing I did. I feel fortunate that I qualify. My cofounder and I are trying to build a company a lot like you describe to bring "USAA style" to more people. We just did our launch HN last week (Goodcover). It's renters only right now so won't do exactly what you describe, but just wanted to say I totally get where you're coming from.

Oh bummer, but no problem, thank you for considering us!

Sounds great, let us know if you have any questions! You can send your current policy to compare @ goodcover and we'd be happy to send back and apples-to-apples comparison.

Thanks for your questions! So, the actual cost of the regulatory filing part isn't that high in dollars, it isn't necessarily cost prohibitive. The real issue is building a unique insurance product, the underwriting for it, the pricing model, and all that good stuff - and then finding the reinsurance and primary insurance partners that will go to this new place with you. Knowing people helps, track records are important, the strength of your underlying models (industry vets at those companies will put them through the wringer). And then you need to do that 49 more times...

Thanks for your question. Apart from the structural difference (MGA vs. balance-sheet carrier) the main one is our business model. It allows us to offer better coverage for less money, and a Member Dividend.

Good question - yes. "Home computers" would cover it. Just be sure to check the limit you're buying and that it's adequate for the amount of equipment you have.

Thanks!

I think (correct me if I'm wrong) you're asking about comparison sites - in those cases the law requires them to establish an agency relationship. We're open to it and think we'll compete well, but much like Southwest it would be hard to give better prices anywhere else than our own site.

Thanks for the feedback, that's not my intention. We're definitely not claiming we're the only innovation in 100 years.

However the environment those companies started in is gone. Insurers went in and out of business all the time in the 1920s and 30s, it's the survivors who are left (I think it really is amazing how many of the top insurers started in the 20s and 30s!). It's good there's more regulation and safety for insureds.

It does mean though we have to work in the current framework to get things done - the companies of the 1920s can't be started the same way in the 2020s.

Great question - volume of stuff is proxy for your estimated increased cost of living. More stuff, more likely to have a bigger household, higher everyday living expenses (hence, "additional living expenses" would be even more!) It's not perfect, which is why it's adjustable, but have to start somewhere.

Thanks! And yes, great idea. So far we've been seeing a lot of landlord-provided policies, and we beat them by wide margins. By pitching ease of use and great coverage for the minimum possible tax on their tenants I hope will be a win!

No problem, it's important I think. It is a heavily regulated industry so we always have to be mindful of what is legal, what is going to get regulatory approval, and what we actually want that will serve Members the best.

On voting rights - we haven't worked out how to legally do so, but we're experimenting with ideas over how to give the community more control. Would love to brainstorm ideas! Feel free to reach out, chris @ goodcover com

Thanks!!