It’s important to get a home insurance quote in Wichita KS at least once per year so the owner can ensure his or her coverage keeps up with the home’s replacement cost. While adding enough coverage to replace the structure and its contents can be expensive, it’s worthwhile to be adequately insured. Below are several factors that can affect the rate a homeowner pays for insurance coverage.
Home Renovations
Since the family moved into the home, they may have upgraded the bathroom, renovated the kitchen, or made different improvements. If these jobs have added to the home’s value, the insurance policy should reflect that. When rebuilding a home after a loss, construction and material costs are considered. While increasing coverage can be costly, it’s important to keep the policy updated.
A Wood-Burning Stove
If the home is so equipped, the owner can limit potential rate increases by offering proof that the stove was installed by a licensed, certified contractor and it meets current code requirements. It’s a good idea to install a smoke detector on each floor of the home, and fire extinguishers should be kept in easily accessible locations.
Home Businesses
If a person works from home, they may need additional coverage for electronics, office equipment, inventory, and corporate vehicles. Standard homeowners’ policies often provide a certain degree of protection, but the coverage may be insufficient. Consider adding a home business endorsement or buying a BOP (business owner’s policy).
Home Safety and Security
Security systems can help to reduce a policyholder’s premium, and they can add protection for the family, the home, and its contents. Replacing old, outdated locks with new deadbolts and installing a home security system can substantially reduce homeowner’s insurance rates.
Animal Attacks
Owners of dogs and other animals may find it hard to get coverage if the pet’s breed is known to be aggressive. More than half of all dog bites happen on an owner’s property, and they make up roughly one-third of all homeowner’s liability claims. Pet owners should consider the insurance carrier’s rules when they contact us for a home insurance quote in Wichita KS.
Final Considerations
In addition to getting yearly quotes, combining policies can be another great way to save. Furthermore, umbrella coverage can provide protection from claims in excess of the current policy limit. These policies offer upwards of $1 million in coverage at a relatively low rate.
