Everyone loves a bargain. Most people don't think in terms of bargains when it comes to paying for their homeowner's insurance, but here in California, as elsewhere, there are several simple things almost any homeowner can do that will save them as much as 50% in total on the cost of their monthly premium.
Simply paying your premium automatically every month directly out of your savings or checking account can save you close to $100 each and every year. If your company isn't required to send you a costly bill every month they pass the savings along to you.
Most homeowners never questioned the amount of their deductible when they bought their policy. The majority of them are paying the standard $500 deductible. But did you know that if you double that deductible to $1,000 that you can save as much as 25% on the cost of your premium month after month and year after year. Unless you make a lot of small claims against your policy that can be a TREMENDOUS savings.
Simply buying and installing a kitchen-approved fire extinguisher can save you money every month. Let your agent know that you've added a fire extinguisher.
Making your home safer from burglaries can save you money. Simply install motion-detecting floodlights and make sure that every window has a working lock and that every exterior door has a secure deadbolt lock. Again, let your agent know when you make any upgrades to your home or property.
Insurance companies don't like injury claims either, so making your property safer from possible injury claims will also save you money. Replace any broken or uneven concrete walkways, fix any lose or broken floorboards on porches or decks, secure all railings on decks and porches and fill in any potholes around your yard. Again, let your agent know what you've done.
The major thing you can do so save a ton of money on your homeowner's coverage here in California is probably the easiest thing you can do - simply comparison shop for your policy online. Online brokers are set up to save you money, and lots of it! They have almost no overhead to cover and they have lots and lots of competition. That means they are very motivated to give you the best deal you ever dreamed of!
Shopping online can save you as much as 30% off the cost of what you are paying now. Add all of your savings together and it is possible that you could be paying half or even less every month for the exact same coverage. Now that's a real savings!