Overview
1. Review your coverage annually and make changes as needed
2. Raise your deductible
3. Shop around for the best rates
4. Install security devices
5. Make your home more disaster resistant
6. Bundle your insurance policies
7. Consider dropping unnecessary coverage
8. Get discounts for being claims free
9. Use credit wisely
10. Pay your premium in full
Home insurance is one of those necessary evils we all have to deal with. It's a pain to pay, and it's even more of a pain if you actually need to use it. The good news is that there are some things you can do to lower your home insurance costs. Here are 10 effective ways to dramatically lower your home insurance costs.
1. Reassess your home insurance coverage annually for optimal adjustments
Your home insurance needs will change over time, so it's best to review your coverage yearly and make adjustments as necessary. Be sure to cancel any coverage you no longer need and add any new coverage that may be required.
2. The impact of a higher deductible on reducing costs
The higher your deductible, the lower your premium will be. Just make sure you have enough saved up in case you do need to file a claim. Also, remember to never file a claim for something that would only cost you a few hundred dollars to fix, as this will likely raise your rates.
3. Compare different insurance offers to find the best deal
Insurance companies are always competing for your business, so be sure to shop around and compare rates before renewing your policy. You can even use websites like assurance.com to get multiple quotes at once. This will likely leave you at a loss of use in home insurance you may currently have.
4. Install security devices in home to reduce insurance premiums
Smoke detectors, fire alarms, and home security systems can all help to lower your rates. Insurance companies view these as safety features that will help protect your home and belongings, so they are often willing to give discounts for them.
5. Make your apartment more disaster resistant
Some home improvements, such as storm shutters and reinforced roofing, can make your home more resistant to damage from natural disasters. This will lower your rates, as well as give you some peace of mind.
6. Benefits of bundling your insurance policies
If you have multiple insurance policies with the same company (home, auto, life, etc.), you may be eligible for a discount. This is because insurance companies view you as less of a risk if they insure multiple things for you. A viable option for many people looking to lower their overall costs.
7. Consider dropping unnecessary coverage to save costs
If your home is paid off and you have a good amount of savings, you may not need as much coverage as you think. Be sure to talk to your agent about what coverage you actually need and drop any that isn't necessary. Examples would be dropping flood insurance if you're not in a high-risk area or dropping jewelry coverage if you don't have any expensive pieces.
8. Benefit from claims-free discounts
Many insurance companies offer discounts to customers who haven't filed any claims over a certain period. This is usually five years, but some companies offer even longer periods. If you've been claim-free for a while, be sure to ask about this discount when shopping around.
9. Use credit wisely for preferential rates
Your credit score is one of the factors insurance companies use to determine your rates. Keep your credit in good shape by paying your bills on time and maintaining a good credit history.
10. Save by paying your premiums in full each year
Insurance companies often offer discounts to customers who pay their entire premium upfront rather than monthly payments. This can save you a significant amount of money, so it's definitely worth considering.
Factors influencing home insurance costs
Several factors can affect your homeowner’s insurance premiums. Some of these include the age and condition of your home, the location of your home, the amount of coverage you need, and the deductible you choose.
Including the cost of insurance in your apartment renal budget
When renting a home, be sure to factor in the cost of home insurance. If you rent an apartment near a fire department or hydrant, you may pay less on your insurance premiums. Some home improvements, such as storm shutters and reinforced roofing, can make your home more resistant to damage from natural disasters, lowering your rates.
If you are looking at a location, try to find a home in an area with a low crime rate, as this will also help reduce your rates.
Summary and key tips for reducing home insurance costs
Keep these tips in mind to help you save money on your homeowner’s insurance premiums. By taking these steps, you can save yourself a significant amount of money on your homeowner’s insurance.
credit photo @Kalhh
Editor: Allan W
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