While homeowners appreciate the protection that their homeowners insurance provides for them, some do not understand the in’s and outs of their policy. Furthermore, many homeowners are unaware that there are several home upgrades they can have done to their home which will not only give further protection for the people and things they hold dear but may also help them save money on their monthly premiums.
One way in which a homeowner can give their home and family more protection, while reducing their monthly premium.
is to install a home alarm system. Home alarm systems fall into two basic categories. Alarms may be local, unmonitored alarms, or they may be central, or monitored alarms. A local, unmonitored alarm is usually only heard by those inside or near your residence. For example, if an intruder forces his way into your residence through a locked entry, you or your neighbors will be alerted by the noise of the alarm.
A central, monitored alarm will alert an alarm company, your local police, or, in case of fire, will notify the local fire department. A monitored alarm system usually requires an initial installation fee, and a monthly membership with an alarm service provider, but the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home and loved ones are being protected is worth the financial investment.
Another way to protect your family is to install an internal home sprinkler system.
When shopping for homeowners insurance, the insurance brokers you speak with will ask you many detailed questions about your home, including how far your home is from the nearest fire department, and even the location of the nearest fire hydrant. Under some circumstances, internal home sprinkler systems may be required for a policy to be written. In other instances, the installation of an internal home sprinkler system can knock a significant amount off your monthly premiums.
While the initial installation of the sprinkler system isn’t cheap, the cost can be recouped over time, plus you have the added benefit of additional fire protection for your family. These systems may be set up to cover your entire residence, or only major living areas like the living room, kitchen, and bedrooms. And speaking of the kitchen, don’t worry, they cannot be accidentally set off by smoke should you accidentally burn dinner. Internal sprinkler systems are designed to detect high temperatures and activate them individually.
Finally
Homeowners insurance policies are written specifically for individual situations. For more tips on saving money on your home’s insurance policy, while making sure you have the coverage you need, contact us.
Robert Macoviak is the President of Oyer, Macoviak and Associates. Oyer, Macoviak and Associates is the oldest independent insurance agency in Boynton Beach and has been in business since 1953. Oyer, Macoviak and Associates are vested members of the community who are committed to doing business face-to-face and being your insurance advocate in times of need.
