Your homeowner’s insurance offers coverage for any homes, condos, or manufactured homes that you may own.
Your policy is developed to return your home and all of your possessions back to the same condition they were in prior to a loss such as fire or theft. Insurance companies provide you with several options to choose from. Of course, not all coverages are the same. That’s why it’s imperative that you take the time to review your options and coverage so you and your family can make the decision best for you.
Homeowner policies will differ on where you live, the valuables in the home and which coverages you choose. A comprehensive plan will cover you financially if you have a loss due to fire, theft or other events, in addition to the event if someone is injured on your property.
Most companies will provide these benefits:
- Extended Dwelling replacement cost - If purchased this will extend the amount necessary to rebuild up to 125%
- Replacement Cost- Your home will be covered with no “wear and tear” consider.
- Comprehensive Perils- Includes mysterious disappearance for Jewelry, Watches and Furs up to $3,000
There are many factors that will influence your home insurance rates. Below are seven of these factors that will determine how much you pay for home insurance.
Condition of the Home
—If you have a brick home, it often carries a lower insurance premium than a house that was built from wood or other flammable materials. Also, the older your home, the higher the premium will be.
Location
—Always expect to pay a higher premium rate if your home is located in an area that is prone to natural disasters such as flooding.
Neighborhood Crime
—Want a discount off your policy? Be sure to purchase a home security system. Most companies will offer a discount if you protect your home.
Fire Safeguards
—In some cities, it does help if you live near a firehouse. Your policy rates may be slightly lower than if you lived in a rural area. However, even if your home is not located near a firehouse, it is a good idea to remove as many fire hazards as possible.
Bundling
—Most insurance companies will offer you a discount off your premium if you bundle your home and auto insurance policies together. It’s always good to check first.
Deductible
—If you are in the financial position to do so, you may be able to save some money by increasing the amount of your deductible. You have to determine if it’s worth it. If you increase your deductible by $500 just to save $25 per year, a loss in the next 20 years will cost you more money because of a higher deductible than the amount of premium you saved.
Credit Score
—Keep in mind that while an insurance company cannot refuse you coverage based on a low credit report score, they may be able to offer you a discount if they take a high score into account.
At Bock Agency, we have the home insurance specialists that can tailor a specific package to your needs and risks. We have access to many top rated companies to find you the best fit at a fair price. We can quickly compare rates to ensure you don't have any gaps in coverage down the road.