When you search for tiny home insurance, you eventually end up at “Lloyd’s of London.” But you can’t call Lloyd’s. You have to go through a Managing General Agent (MGA). The two biggest players are Strategic Insurance Agency (Martin Burlingame) and MAC (used by many brokers). I compared them head-to-head.
Key Takeaways
- Same Underwriter, Different Service: Both often access similar Lloyd’s syndicates, but the policy wording, exclusions, and customer service differ significantly.
- Strategic (TinyHomePolicy.com): Created by Martin Burlingame. He actually knows tiny homes. His policies are tailored for DIYers, rentals, and weird situations.
- MAC (XN Mercantile / Others): Often cheaper, but more rigid. They might require NOAH seals or professional builds where Strategic might accept a DIY with an inspection.
- The “Surplus Lines” Tax: Both are surplus lines. You pay state taxes (3-5%) on top of the premium, and there is no state guaranty fund (if Lloyd’s fails, you are out of luck—though Lloyd’s is very stable).
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “The Broker’s Knowledge.”
A local State Farm agent trying to write a policy through a generic brokerage doesn’t know the difference between a gooseneck and a bumper pull. They might check the wrong box, leaving you uninsured for “Transit.”
Specialist brokers live this niche. They know to ask about wood stoves, roof decks, and composting toilets before you pay, so you don’t get cancelled later.
The Investigation (My Analysis of the Policies)
I requested specimen policies from both channels.
Strategic Insurance Agency
- Pros: Flexible. They accept DIY (Course of Construction). They handle theft well. They offer Liability that extends to the land.
- Cons: Can be slightly more expensive because the coverage is broader.
- Verdict: Best for DIYers and Full-Timers.
MAC / Generic Lloyd’s Brokers
- Pros: Sometimes cheaper premium.
- Cons: often have “Named Peril” policies (Fire only) or high deductibles ($2,500). Customer service is often non-existent (you talk to a call center).
- Verdict: Good for certified, stationary units where price is the only factor.
[IMAGE: Side-by-side comparison of two policy declaration pages, highlighting the “Deductible” and “Exclusions” sections]
Comparison Table
| Feature | Strategic Insurance | Generic MAC / Lloyd’s |
| DIY Acceptance | High | Low |
| Wood Stove | Yes (with photos) | Often No |
| Theft Coverage | Broad | Limited / High Deductible |
| Transit Coverage | Flexible Endorsements | Strict / Excluded |
| Support | Expert (Martin) | Generalist |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Get Quotes from Both: Call Strategic. Then call a broker like MyTinyHomeInsurance (often uses MAC). Compare the “Exclusions” page.
- Ask About “All Peril” vs. “Named Peril”: You want “All Peril” (covers everything except what is excluded). Avoid “Named Peril” (only covers Fire, Wind, etc.).
- Check the Theft Deductible: Lloyd’s policies often have a separate theft deductible of $2,500. Ask to lower it if possible.
- Verify Renewal Terms: Surplus lines policies renew annually, but the rates can jump wildly. Ask the broker about historical rate stability.
FAQ
Is Lloyd’s safe?
Yes. They are the oldest insurance market in the world (300+ years). They are financially solid.
Why is it so expensive?
Because tiny homes are high risk (wood, fire, theft, wind). Standard carriers don’t want them, so Lloyd’s charges a premium for taking the risk.
Can I switch to a standard carrier later?
Yes. If you put the tiny home on a foundation and get a Certificate of Occupancy, you can likely switch to a cheaper Foremost or American Modern policy.