Homeowners Report :
Ten Ways to Save Money on Your Homeowners Insurance...
BY EARL SIMONS
If your automobile insurance company is not the same company that carries your homeowners or renters insurance, you are paying too much for both. The fact is, most insurance agencies offer substantial discounts to clients who insure their vehicle and home with the same company. The discounts are at least 15% and some insurers apply discounts to both the vehicle and the homeowner policies. EARL SIMONS OFFERS SOME OF THE BEST DISCOUNTS IN THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY WITH FARMERS INSURANCE
- HIGHER DEDUCTIBLES=LOWER PREMIUMS
When you file a claim, the deductible is the portion of the claim you pay. For example, if you have a claim for $10,000 and your deductible is $1000, the insurance company would pay the difference, $9,000. The higher your deductible, the less you pay for premiums. Raising your deductible can lower your premiums between 12%-37% depending on the amount of the deductible and the insurance company you choose.
- NEWER HOME-LOWER PREMIUMS
It is less likely something will go wrong with a newer home. Insurance companies offer discounts of up to 15% if you have a newer home. The Simons Insurance Agency offers the highest discount in the industry, 20% with Farmers Insurance.
- GOOD LOCATION-GOOD RATES
Where you live, and the structure of your home can make a difference in your premiums. A brick home in an area prone to wind damage, or a frame home built to withstand an earthquake are examples of appropriate structures for the areas in which they are built. A home close to a fire station will also save you money on your homeowners insurance. If your home is located in a flood zone, you will have to pay for flood insurance in addition to your homeowners insurance. The right structure and location of your home can save you up to 15% on your insurance.
- INSURE THE HOUSE, NOT THE PROPERTY
When purchasing homeowners insurance, you don't need to insure the land, since you don't expect anyone to steal it, and fire and wind wont destroy it. When you insure your home, do not include the value of the land. You will be paying too much.
- SAFETY SAVES
Not only can you protect your family and your property, but you can also save money by installing smoke detectors, burglar alarms, and deadbolt locks. Installing these items can save you at least 5% on your insurance. You can save up to 20% by installing a sophisticated sprinkler system, or an alarm system that is linked directly to your police department or security company.
- SMOKING- IT'S NOT JUST A HEALTH HAZARD
Smoking causes more than 23,000 residential fires in the U.S. each year. Some insurance companies offer discounts to homeowners who do not smoke.
- CONSULT YOUR AGENT BEFORE FILING A CLAIM
Before filing a claim with a 1-800#, call your agent. Most companies now surcharge your policy if you have a loss that is not wind or hail related. Call Earl, he can advise you if it's worth it to file a claim which may end up costing you more in the long run.
- GROUP DISCOUNTS
Some companies offer discounts to certain businesses or associations.
- STICK WITH ONE COMPANY
If you have been with the same company and you are content with their service and products, stay with them. Some companies offer discounts for policyholders who have been insured with the company for a certain number of years.
If you are ready for a new insurance representative, then call
SIMONS INSURANCE AGENCY at 562 803-3101
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