Home safety enhancements may lower home insurance premiums
Modifications like security systems and sprinklers can lead to safer houses and reduced home insurance costs
Home insurance policyholders may want to consider upgrading their houses’ safety in the new year, a report from a Philadelphia CBS affiliate says.
Modifications like security systems can cut insurance premiums significantly, CBS3 reports. Electronic security alarms can reduce premiums 10 to 20 percent, especially if the alarms are connected directly to emergency response teams. Smaller add-ons like fire extinguishers can lower insurance costs, as well.
People looking for a new home may want to consider properties’ proximity to fire stations: the closer a home is, the lower its insurance costs may be. Shopping around for a policy once a year is a good idea, too, CBS3 adds.
“You might find you can get better rates with another company so it’s important to stay competitive in the market,” Angie’s List founder Angie Hicks said to the television station.
Sprinklers save on insurance, as well. A Pennsylvania law slated to take effect on January 1, 2011 will mandate sprinkler installations in all new one- and two-family homes. Excel Homes, a Camp Hill, Pennsylvania-based homebuilder, announced this week that it will install sprinklers in its homes beginning this year. State Fire Commissioner Ed Mann said he was “ecstatic” about the company’s announcement.
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Posted: December 29, 2009
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