Save Money on Homeowners’ Insurance
In today’s economy, homeowners are looking to save money wherever they can … even on something as important as their homeowners’ insurance. But buyer beware: lowering your coverage and/or raising your deductibles could result in higher bills if you become the victim of weather-related damage, says Larry Flick, CEO of Prudential Fox & Roach.
“These days, it’s understandable that many homeowners would want to shift to higher deductibles and want to pay less for their homeowners’ insurance,” says Flick. “However, if disaster strikes, they could very well be in a worse position than if they’d been paying a higher premium all along. To prepare before a situation occurs, homeowners should really look at their options – from price to coverage – and see what is available to them.”
Save Money on Homeowners’ Insurance
For starters, Flick suggests shopping your homeowners’ policy around — “By doing this, you may be able to save hundreds of dollars a year.”
Flick also recommends looking into some additional money-saving ideas from the Federal Citizen Information Center:
Ask your insurance agent about discounts. You may be able to get a lower premium if your home has safety features, such as dead-bolt locks, smoke detectors, an alarm system, storm shutters or fire-retardant roofing material. Long-term customers and those over age 55 may also be offered discounts.
Insure your house, not the land under it. After all, your land will still be there even if your home is damaged. If you don’t subtract the value of the land when deciding how much homeowner’s insurance to buy, you will pay more than you should.
Don’t wait until you have a loss to find out if you have the right type and amount of insurance. Discuss with your insurance agent exactly what types of damage are covered, including natural “acts of God.” Many homeowners are caught off-guard by this loophole.
Purchase enough coverage to replace what is insured. “Replacement” coverage gives you the money to rebuild your home and replace its contents. An “Actual Cash Value” policy is cheaper but pays only what your property is worth at the time of loss – your cost, minus depreciation for age and wear.
Consider any special coverage you may need for valuable and/or unique items. These might include such as computers, cameras, jewelry, art, antiques, musical instruments, stamp collections, etc.
Remember that flood damage may not be covered by a standard homeowners’ policy. If you live in an area prone to flooding, take advantage of the National Flood Insurance Program.
“Regardless of what coverage you decide on, be sure it’s what’s right for you and your family,” says Flick. “And remember to always work with an insurance agent who is experienced and trustworthy – he or she will be able to help you make the right decision.”
By Larry Flick
