What options should I consider to reduce my insurance costs when replacing my roof?
Living in Minnesota offers its residents some great perks such as experiencing the beauty of four seasons all year long. Unfortunately, living in a state that experiences such varied climates can pose a great challenge to the roofing on the houses in the state; this causes some major roof problems. Therefore, it is extremely crucial to buy homeowners insurance to cover any possible roof damage that may be a gateway to far greater damage in case of any breaching. However, the price you pay for your home insurance can vary in amount depending on the insurance company you buy the policy from. With the rising cost of living in the state today, insurance companies' policies raise your premiums as your residence and property appreciates in value. Don't fret, though, here are some tips to maintain homeowners insurance costs at bay; by modifying your policy to make some long term adjustments.
What options should I consider to reduce my insurance costs when replacing my roof?
1. Shop around for the best homeowner's insurance company
When choosing an insurer, the price should not be the only thing you consider, a lot of other crucial factors goes into cutting the insurance costs. With that said, the insurer you select should offer the best quality service you need if you require assistance in filing a claim. The best way to get the best insurance company is by getting referrals. Ask your friends, check consumer guides and yellow pages, insurance agents, online companies or simply contact the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (www.naic.org) in Minnesota to get all the information on insurance companies available as well as, complaints and recommendation based on people's reviews. Then narrow down the list to the least number you need and get price quotations. Also, ask them what they would do to lower your cost. Sure it will take some time but saving you a good sum of money will be worth it.
2. Raise your deductible
A great way you can reduce your homeowner's insurance costs is by raising your deductible. When shopping around for an insurer, check with insurer what deal you stand to lower your costs by increasing your deductibles to the maximum amount to save on your premiums, so that you have sufficient coverage in the event of a loss if you happen to live in danger-prone areas.
3. Remodel your home to be more disaster resistant
Insurance companies' price your home insurance based on the soundness of your roof and how much it costs to replace. Hence, some investments to reinforce your home and make it more resistant to natural disasters are necessary. By reinforcing your roof, adding storm shutters, purchasing stronger roof materials or retrofit an old house to make it able to resist earthquakes, qualify for premium discounts hence lowering insurance costs. In addition, you can consider modernizing your plumbing and electrical systems to reduce the risks of water damage or fire outbreaks.
4. Eliminate unneeded coverage and old structures
Evaluate your policy before you sign it and every year after; only get insured for what you really need to be covered. Exclude land value, the land your house is on isn't endangered from theft or if you're not susceptible to an earthquake, or fire-prone areas, there is no need to include them in your cover. Additionally, remove old structures that are not needed in your home, chances are you are most likely paying for them in your policy. Therefore, consider eliminating unnecessary insurance coverage to avoid paying high premiums.
5. Resolve cautiously about making a claim
First, you need to hire an insurer who understands how the insurance claims process works and how they can incorporate proper supplements in the claim to ensure that your roof will be properly installed. Second, claims can skyrocket your premium. Therefore, only make minor claims that you can afford, they could save you money by paying for yourself in the end.
6. Purchase all your policies from one insurer
Buy all your home insurance and auto policies from the same homeowner's insurance company. Most insurers offer great discount rewards to esteemed customers who make them their sole policy handlers.
7. Maintain a good credit score
Establishing a sound credit score, could highly cut some of your insurance costs. Ensure you pay your bills on time, keep your credit balances low and don't obtain unnecessary credit.
8. Pay lump sum payments
If you are able to make payments of all your monthly insurance payments at lump sum, this can save you $50+ annually.
With the above tips, you will reduce major insurance costs when replacing your roof, however, make certain you have all the coverage you need.