By Jon Merwin, Founder and CEO
Keene homeowners deal with a mix that is different from the Seacoast: river flooding along the Ashuelot, long Monadnock winters, wood and pellet stoves, and a large stock of older houses and student rentals near Keene State College. Each of those shows up in how a homeowners policy is written and priced.
Portsmouth Atlantic Insurance is a family-owned independent agency founded in 2005 and licensed in 10 states. We compare home coverage from 40+ carriers and serve Keene by phone and email from our Portsmouth, NH office, and we charge no agency fees. Driving in Keene? See our page on car insurance in Keene.
Homeowners insurance issues we see in Keene
The Ashuelot River and the October 2005 flood
Heavy rain in October 2005 caused serious flooding in Keene and across Cheshire County. Homes on low ground near the Ashuelot River and its tributaries remain the most exposed. Homeowners policies exclude flood, so check your address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center and ask us about a separate flood policy. Basement water from a backed-up drain is a different coverage, called water backup, that we can usually add.
Wood stoves, pellet stoves and chimneys
Supplemental wood and pellet heat is common in the Monadnock region. Carriers usually ask how the stove was installed, whether it meets code, and when the chimney was last cleaned. Have that information ready and the quote goes faster.
Older houses and winter
Many Keene homes date to the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Older wiring, heating systems and roofs come up in underwriting, and ice dams and frozen pipes are the classic winter claims. Updates you have made, such as a newer roof or electrical service, are worth listing when we quote.
Renting near Keene State College
If you rent a house or apartment to students, a standard homeowners policy is usually the wrong form. You need landlord insurance, and your tenants should carry renters insurance for their own belongings.
Nearby and related pages
We also insure homes elsewhere in western New Hampshire, including Hanover. For lake houses and cabins, see seasonal home insurance, and add a personal umbrella for extra liability protection.
Get your quote
Tell us about the house and we will follow up with options. Prefer to talk? Call (603) 431-4020 or use our quote page.
Frequently asked questions
Is flooding from the Ashuelot River covered by homeowners insurance?
No. Homeowners policies exclude flood. Homes near the Ashuelot River or its tributaries should consider a separate flood policy.
Will my wood stove affect my Keene homeowners insurance?
Carriers usually ask about installation, code compliance and chimney cleaning. A properly installed and maintained stove is generally insurable.
I rent my house to Keene State students. What policy do I need?
A landlord or dwelling policy rather than a standard homeowners policy. Tenants should carry their own renters insurance.
Do you have an office in Keene?
No. We serve Keene by phone and email from our Portsmouth, NH office. Call (603) 431-4020 or email insure@portsmouthatlanticins.com.
Do you charge agency fees?
No. We do not charge agency fees on any policy, including home, auto, flood and umbrella.
By Jon Merwin, Founder and CEO
Family-owned since 2005, with 1,000+ Google reviews and over 2,000 testimonials. Meet our team.
Keene is part of our New Hampshire service area. See our New Hampshire insurance agency page for other towns we serve.