Most people realize adding a security system to their home or bundling their insurance policies can lead to discounts. However, many other discounts exist that can reduce your New Jersey homeowners insurance premium by up to 25 percent.
Being Claims-Free
Insurance companies favor customers that don’t file claims, because it costs them less money. Consequently, many insurers offer discounts when the insured remains claims-free for a period of time. The discount may even increase through the years.
The length of time to qualify and the amount depends on the insurer, but a claims-free discount may reduce your premium by as much as 20 percent.
Safety Sensors
Loss prevention devices such as water and gas sensors are affordable DIY solutions that improve home safety. Passive sensors emit an alarm or flash when there’s trouble, but active sensors switch off the source of the problem. Insurance companies may offer a discount of up to 10 percent for safety sensors.
New Electrical Wiring
Older homes with knob-and-tube wiring are often difficult to insure. If you own an older home, definitely consider upgrading the electrical wiring. It usually leads to an insurance discount of up to 10 percent and reduces fire risk too. Fire and lightning cause the most severe damage to homes.
Impact-Resistant Roof
If it’s time to replace your home’s roof, consider upgrading to impact-resistant roofing materials. Manufacturers rate impact-resistant roofing materials by Class 1 through 4, with 4 the strongest.
Insurer’s requirements may differ, so discuss your plans with your insurance agent before you re-roof. However, many offer discounts of up to 10 percent on your homeowner’s insurance premium.
Gated Community
Insurance companies like gated communities, because there’s an extra layer of protection between your home and vandals and thieves and this reduces the likelihood of a claim. Insurers may offer discounts of as much as 20 percent.
Live in an HOA Neighborhood
HOAs often insist on well-maintained properties, plus homeowners tend to belong to community watch organizations. Both these factors reduce the likelihood of claims, so insurers may offer a discount of up to 10 percent. You don’t necessarily need to be a member of your HOA either.
New Home
Insurers consider new homes safer and less likely to malfunction. They’re inspected many times before they’re sold, which reduces the chances of problems. Consequently, insurance company may offer a discount of 25 percent on a new home.
Mature or Retired Homeowner
Insurance companies offer discounts to retired individuals and those over 55 for several reasons. They’re home more often, spot problems quicker, and minimize losses. As a result, insurers often offer a discount of up to 25 percent.
Non-Smoker
In 2017, the National Fire Protection Association reported 22% of all fire deaths, 7% of home fire injuries, and 7% of direct property damage were a direct result of smoking. Consequently, insurers may offer up to a 15 percent discount to non-smoking households.
Payment Method
Your insurance company may offer a small discount if you pay your entire premium rather than choosing installments. If you pay by direct deposit they may provide a discount too.
A local, independent insurance agent like ours can access more products and actively seek insurance discounts on your behalf. We work for you and have industry expertise vital to securing good coverage.
Let a professional help you get the coverage you need at the best possible price.
