When Sarah opened her home insurance paperwork, she expected the usual: policy limits, deductibles, maybe a few disclosures. But halfway through the stack, she saw it: “Consent to Rate”, And a blank line for her signature. “Wait—why am I consenting to a higher rate?” she thought. No one had explained it. She almost didn’t sign.
And if she hadn’t, her coverage might have been canceled before it ever began.
What Is a Consent to Rate (CTR) Form?
In North Carolina, insurance rates are partially regulated by a group called the Rate Bureau, overseen by the Department of Insurance. They set a baseline rate that helps companies charge for home insurance. But if a carrier wants to charge more than the baseline, they need your permission. That’s where the Consent to Rate form comes in.
Why Would You Be Asked to Sign One?
There are a few common reasons:
– You’re seeking enhanced or broader coverage
– Your home has higher risk factors (like age, location, prior claims, or construction type)
– Your insurer uses risk-based pricing models that go above the “standard” rate
Does Signing It Mean You’re Overpaying?
Not necessarily. Signing a CTR doesn’t mean you’re being taken advantage of—it means your carrier has priced your risk higher than the state minimum.
You may still be getting great value if:
– You’re getting coverage that’s not available elsewhere
– You have unique or high-value property features
– Your policy includes protections beyond the norm
Don’t Be Surprised—Be Informed
At Connor Insurance, we try not to slide forms across the table. We try to explain what you’re signing—and why.
If you see a form and you’re not sure what it means, just ask. We’ll do our best to walk you through it!