Homeowners Awareness:Be Educated

Being Aware of Your Surroundings Can Lead to Lower Homeowners Insurance Quotes

By Rafael Onak, InsuranceAgents.com Staff Writer

Would you take basketball lessons from an individual who’s never stepped foot onto a basketball court? Most likely not. Then there’s no reason for you to be building a home if you aren’t familiar with the process. Sure, constructing your own home is an exciting act, but you have to be educated on what you’re doing in order to construct a safe and reliable dwelling. Besides, building a safeguarded home can save you a drastic amount of money on home insurance rate quotes. Start comparing up to five quotes using our online quote forms.

There are many factors that can and will have an influence on your home insurance. The condition of your home, for one, can mean the difference between inexpensive homeowners insurance quotes and rates that go through the roof. Insurers will inspect the general wear and tear on your home when setting a home insurance premium, but since new homes tend to be in better condition, some insurance companies will offer up to a 15 percent home insurance discount if your home is new.

Your insurer will inspect a number of features in your home, so it’s important to pay extra attention to them in the midst of construction. Elements of your home that can greatly affect your homeowners insurance quotes are:

1. Electrical wires. This includes all interior and exterior wiring throughout the house. Switches, receptacles, wires, panels, and breaks should be in tip-top shape and not out in the open.
2. Roof. A roofing subcontractor can familiarize you with the variety of roofing materials and their lifespan, all of which can affect your homeowners insurance quotes. Keep in mind that materials are usually quoted per square yard and labor per square foot.
3. Fireplace. If you have a fireplace in your home, expect for your insurer to inspect it. Most fireplaces have been built out of brick or stone by masons, but recently prefabricated fireplaces and manufactured inserts are used in combination with wood construction housing a stovepipe.

Hire a Professional for the Most Competitive Homeowners Insurance Quotes

While these are the most important features in your home, expect your insurer to inspect every little crook and nanny in your home. The condition of your home has a major influence on the types of homeowners insurance quotes you will receive, so it’s imperative you build your home to the best of your abilities. If you are unfamiliar with the process, talk to your home insurance agent or, better yet, hire a professional to guide you in the process. Find an agent using our online quote service and compare up to five offers.

Published: Thursday 3rd September 2009