Home insurance protects your home and belongings from various catastrophes. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner or someone who has owned their home for decades, there are some basic home insurance tips that you should always follow. Here are 5 home insurance tips for protecting your investment.
1. Shop for homeowner’s insurance in the winter
Homeowner’s insurance premiums are based on a variety of factors, including the age of your home, the materials it’s made of, the value of your possessions, and the replacement cost of your home. Most companies offer discounts if you buy your policy in the winter. So, if you’re in the market for homeowner’s insurance, now is the time to shop around. Be sure to ask about the following discounts:
2. Understand your deductible
One of the most important things to understand about homeowner’s insurance is your deductible. Your deductible is the amount of money you are responsible for before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if your deductible is $1,000 and your home is damaged in a fire, you would be responsible for paying $1,000 towards the repairs before your insurance company would start to contribute. It’s important to know your deductible amount so you can budget for potential home repairs and know when you need to file a claim.
3. Understand your policy’s coverage
One of the most important things to understand about your policy is what is and is not covered. Your policy will outline the specific damages that are and are not covered in the event of a loss. For example, if you live in a region that is prone to wildfires, your policy may not cover damage caused by a wildfire. It’s important to be aware of these limitations and make sure you have the right coverage in place for your needs.
4. Get a security system
One of the best ways to protect your home is by installing a security system. Burglars are much more likely to target homes that don’t have one, so this is a great way to deter them. You can also get a discount on your homeowners insurance if you have a security system. And, if something does happen, you’ll be glad you have it.
5. Powerwash Your House
A little powerwashing can go a long way in protecting your property and your investment. Winter is a great time to do a quick powerwash of your house. Not only will it help to remove any built-up dirt or grime, but it will also help to clear out any unwanted guests like spiders, wasps and other insects that might have taken up residence over the winter. It’s a good idea to powerwash your house at least once a year, but twice a year is even better. You can do it yourself, or hire a professional to do it for you. Just make sure you take the time to do your research and find a reputable company who will do the job right.
Conclusion
Home insurance is something we all need, and we can never have too much. Make sure you’re covered with the perfect policy that will protect your investment, and always make sure to read over it as carefully as possible!