My annual homeowners insurance bill came in the mail the other day. It's not due until the end of April, but it is always sent out 2 to 3 months ahead of time. I was very curious and a bit nervous to see what my premium was going to be this year, as I felt certain that it would probably go up (as they always seem to - you know how insurance is.)
Well, the bill was the same as it was last year, $698.00. I was absolutely tickled!
In 2007 my insurance premium was over $1700.00 a year. Then I had a free wind inspection done on my home. A certified, licensed inspector came out and checked the doors, the windows, storm shutters (if there are any), the roof, the bracing on the roof and any upgrades made to the home. The items that they focus on are items that will keep your home protected in case of a tropical storm or a hurricane. If you don't have wind upgrades to your home, then they recommend the necessary precautions you should take to prevent severe damage in the event of a storm.
In many instances, if your home has been upgraded with new windows, a newer roof, storm shutters, you may be eligible for deep discounts on your insurance policy.
Since I had a new roof in 2005 and a new garage door my annual insurance premium went from over $1700.00 to $698.00. I couldn't believe the discount. I have told many, many people to have the inspection done and most have saved no less than $300 to $500 a year on their insurance.
The state of Florida is still offering wind inspections to residents on their single family Florida properties through the My Safe Florida Home website.
They performed 400,000 inspections for free. Although the free inspections are no longer available, you can pay to have the inspection done. I believe the cost is approximately $150 - $200, but check with the individual inspector to be sure. Certified inspectors can be located online on the My Safe Florida Homes Webite. It may be well worth the cost of the inspection for the savings on your annual insurance.
This article is authored by Sandy Shores, Brevard County Real Estate
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