A lower premium is not evidence that one quote is better. Quotes are comparable only when the insured details, limits, deductibles, valuation method, exclusions, and endorsements match. This worksheet treats an unmatched field as missing evidence rather than silently assuming equivalence.
Normalize before comparing price
- Use the same drivers, vehicles, property address, business activity, and effective date.
- Match every liability and property limit, including per-person, per-accident, aggregate, and sublimits.
- Match deductibles by coverage. A wind percentage deductible is not equivalent to a flat all-peril deductible.
- Match valuation language such as actual cash value, replacement cost, or stated amount.
- List endorsements and exclusions by form number. Similar marketing names do not prove identical wording.
- Apply discounts only after the underlying coverage fields match.
Quote comparison record
| Field | Evidence to copy | Mismatch action |
|---|---|---|
| Premium | Term, installment fees, taxes, discount conditions | Convert to the same policy term |
| Limits | Every limit and sublimit | Request a revised quote |
| Deductibles | Amount and triggering coverage | Do not compare total price yet |
| Valuation | ACV, replacement cost, agreed or stated value | Ask for the controlling form |
| Exclusions | Form number and material exclusion | Record the uncovered scenario |
| Insurer identity | Legal company name and NAIC number | Check the state regulator record |
Illustrative mismatch
Quote A is $1,200 with a $500 collision deductible. Quote B is $1,050 with a $1,000 collision deductible and no rental reimbursement. The $150 premium difference is not a clean saving because two contract fields differ. The next step is to request matched versions, not to predict which policy will cost less after a future claim.
Verify the company, not just the brand
Record the underwriting company's legal name and NAIC company number from the quote. Use the relevant state department of insurance to confirm licensing and complaint information. Financial-strength ratings can be one input, but a rating is not a guarantee of claim outcome and this page does not set a minimum rating.
Save the decision packet
Keep the matched quotes, applications, forms, discount conditions, and written answers together. If a material statement is made by phone, send a short written confirmation request. The completed worksheet is useful even when no purchase is made because it documents why two prices were not equivalent.