Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Discover Mendota Insurance customer reviews, ratings, and coverage details. With a low 1.3/5 overall score from over 1,300 verified reviews, learn about affordable rates for high-risk drivers, common complaints on claims, and better alternatives for auto, home, and renters insurance.
Quick Pick: Skip Mendota's claim issues—upgrade to top-rated coverage today. Best Auto Insurance delivers reliable options with superior service and fair rates.
Mendota Insurance, founded in 1978 and based in Madison, Wisconsin, targets high-risk drivers and property owners with nonstandard policies. Operating through independent agents in 20+ states like California, Illinois, Michigan, and Washington, it provides auto, homeowners, renters, and mobile home coverage. But with an overall customer rating of just 1.3 out of 5 from 1,343 verified reviews, many question its reliability.
Affordable premiums draw in budget-conscious high-risk policyholders, yet frequent reports of claim denials, sudden rate hikes, and policy cancellations raise red flags. In this Review Atlas guide, we'll break down coverage options, analyze real customer feedback, weigh pros and cons, and recommend stronger alternatives. Whether you're shopping for auto or homeowners insurance, get the data-driven insights to decide confidently.
Mendota specializes in nonstandard auto policies for drivers with DUIs, accidents, or poor credit. Key coverages include:
Average annual premiums for full coverage? Around $2,500–$4,000 for high-risk drivers—30–50% below standard insurers.
Home policies cover dwelling (up to $300,000 average), personal property (50–70% of dwelling), loss of use, and liability. Renters plans emphasize contents and liability, starting at $15–$25/month. Mobile home options suit RV owners in eligible states.
Pro Tip: Always compare quotes. Mendota shines on price but lags in customization—limited add-ons like flood or earthquake unless bundled regionally.
Mendota scores low across metrics:
| Category | Rating (out of 5) | Reviews Count |
|---|---|---|
| Claims Handling | 1.1 | 856 |
| Customer Service | 1.4 | 1,023 |
| Value for Money | 1.5 | 1,156 |
| Policy Renewal | 1.0 | 742 |
Customer Spotlight: "Rates were cheap at first, but after a minor fender-bender, they jacked prices 100% and denied repairs," says a Michigan auto policyholder (1/5 stars). Positively, a Georgia renter noted, "Affordable and no hassles for two years—until renewal" (3/5).
Wondering how Mendota stacks up? Here's a data-driven table based on aggregated customer scores and industry benchmarks (2024 data):
| Insurer | Overall Rating | Avg. Auto Premium (High-Risk) | Claims Approval Rate | States Served | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mendota | 1.3/5 | $3,200 | 65% | 21 | Budget high-risk auto |
| Top Auto Pick | 4.5/5 | $2,800 | 92% | 50+ | Reliable service See Best Auto Insurance |
| Top Homeowners | 4.6/5 | $1,200 (annual home) | 95% | 48 | Comprehensive coverage Best Homeowners Insurance |
| Average Market | 3.8/5 | $2,100 | 88% | Varies | Standard risks |
Mendota underperforms on claims (65% approval vs. 90%+ industry avg.), but wins on initial cost for nonstandard needs.
CTA: Tired of risks? Explore Best Auto Insurance for vetted options with A.M. Best ratings above A-.
Choose Mendota if:
Avoid if:
High-Risk Driver Tips:
For homeowners, verify wind/hail deductibles (2–5% of dwelling value in storm-prone areas).
Don't settle for 1.3 stars. Our experts recommend:
Complete Your Setup: Pair with Best Life Insurance for full financial protection.
Yes, premiums average $3,200/year—below market—but expect hikes post-claim.
Common issues: Strict policy interpretations and documentation gaps. Approval rate hovers at 65%.
No, limited to 21 states. Check availability via agents.
Yes, starting at $20/month, covering liability up to $100,000 and contents.
Top-rated carriers via our Best Auto Insurance guide offer better service and value.
Efficiently for high-risk, but monitor for cancellation risks.
Final Verdict: Mendota suits ultra-budget high-risk needs short-term, but switch for reliability. View Best Homeowners Insurance now and secure peace of mind.
