Having buildings and contents insurance is a vital component of owning a home but it is undeniably another expense added to the other costs involved with owning a home. While having adequate insurance is the smart thing to do, there are steps you can take to lower your premiums.
Shop Around
The first step in reducing your home insurance costs is to make sure that your base premium is already at its lowest for the best possible coverage. The easiest way to do that is to use a reputable insurance quotation comparison website. These sites can quickly and easily compare rates from many different insurance companies. Use your current policy renewal deadline as an opportunity to shop around. Don’t just blindly renew and trust that the company is offering you competitive rates.
Compare + Buy Online
Steep discounts are often available to purchasers who sign up for home insurance through the company’s website. Take advantage of these savings and sign up online rather than in person or on the phone.
Combine your Policies
Opting to have one company cover both your buildings and contents insurances often results in a discount so be sure to ask for a combined policy discount when purchasing.
Voluntary Excess
Premiums can be lowered if you agree to pay more on a claim should the need arise. Just don’t get carried away because if you do need to place a claim you don’t want to be overwhelmed by the predetermined amount.
Added Security
Security lighting, burglar alarms, better door locks, secure window locks as well as updated fire alarms and fire extinguishers can all add up toward lowering your premiums. Call your insurance company to find out what they recommend and what products will earn you a discount.
No Claims Discount
Many insurance companies offer a discount based on a certain number of years that you’ve been claim free. If unsure if your company offers this option, call to ask. This is also a worthwhile consideration when choosing a new company as these discounts can be substantial.
Neighborhood Watch
Becoming part of or organizing a new neighborhood watch group can lower insurance premiums by up to five percent.
There are many things that you can do to lower your monthly insurance premium. And for those who can afford it, paying annually over the monthly option can reduce monthly interest fees substantially. Take the time to carefully read your current policy or the fine print on any quotations and be sure you’re getting the maximum number of deductions possible.