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Homeowners Insurance 

When it comes to protecting your investment, having adequate insurance coverage is of the utmost importance. Your home is probably the largest and most significant asset investment you will ever make. Whether you plan to remain in your home for the rest of your life or plan to sell it at some point in the future, retaining its value is vital. Check out the video below for more information on adequate coverage, courtesy of the Insurance Information Institute.

 


Congratulations on being a homeowner, one of the cornerstones of the American dream. Along with the benefits and joys of home ownership, also come responsibilities:

  • Preparing for natural disasters
  • Preventing man-made disasters
  • Keeping household members, guests and pets safe
  • Maintaining your home
  • Protecting your investment

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  • Total Loss Replacement - In the unfortunate event of a total loss of your home, such as from fire, tornado, etc. Replacement Cost Coverage will compensate you for the insured amount plus an additional percentage to cover inflation and other expenses. For example, 150% Replacement Cost Coverage would pay $150,000 on a home insured for $100,000.
  • Liability – This coverage protects you from bodily injury and property damage claims. The cost to raise this amount from one level to the next is usually very small.
  • Property/Contents – In the event of a partial loss, this coverage can compensate you for assets such as:
    • personal assets
    • outbuildings
    • porches and decks
    • leisure vehicles and watercraft

 

Types of Coverage/Rates

 

Coverage


It is important to note that homeowners policies do not cover damage to land, only property and bodily injuries claims which occur on your property. It is also important to create and maintain a complete list of all your assets plus any home improvements and major purchases you make. It is advisable to keep this list in a safe place outside of the home, such as a safety deposit box:

  • Copy of your insurance policy with your agent’s contact information
  • Household inventory, written and visual
  • Year, make, model, serial#, receipts for major household items
  • Appraisal of valuable items such as artwork and jewelry

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Rates

Ask your insurance agent what you can do to lower your premium, such as repairing damaged shingles, installing an alarm system or removing dead trees and debris. You can also hire a qualified home inspector to identify hazards which can help you avoid damage or loss.

 

 

 


Rates are affected by risk, deductibles and the amount of previous claims on the property. Before you buy a home, ask your realtor or insurance agent for help in obtaining reports on past claims. Some of the risks that affect premiums and choices of companies include:

  • Swimming pools
  • Fire places
  • Certain dog breeds
  • Proximity to a fire station or fire hydrant

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Compare the savings of having a higher deductible with the amount of risk you are willing to assume. If you have a mortgage, your lender may have limits on how high the deductible can be.

 

 

 

Discounts


Make a list in your quote request of items that might result in a discount, such as:

  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers and fire alarm systems
  • Security systems and deadbolts
  • Age (senior discount or mature policyholder discount)
  • Multi-policy
  • No claims

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Natural Hazards


For more information on safety before, during and after storms visit the following web pages:

  • National Weather Service Storm safety…click here
  • FEMA What to do before, during and after a natural disaster…click here
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Helpful Links


In addition to natural hazard awareness and preparation, there are many ways in which a homeowner can protect their property and loved ones:

  • Preventing unintentional fires
  • Enforcing swimming pool safety rules
  • Installing and maintaining smoke detectors
  • Purchasing a generator and sump pump
  • Installing a water alarm in the basement
  • Keeping debris clear from gutters and downspouts
  • Maintaining a first aid kit in the home
  • Posting emergency numbers in a prominent place including the local fire and police departments, utility companies and your closest neighbors
  • Teaching your kids how to dial 911
  • Having and practicing an evacuation plan, both for humans and pets
  • For more information on safety and prevention in the home, click the topics below:

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Did You Know?

  • If you are selling your home or using it for rental income, and it is going to be vacant, you need to make sure you have adequate insurance coverage and take precautions to prevent theft of and injury on your property. Visit our Landlords/Rentals page for more information on renting. Some ideas to prevent theft and vandalism include:
    • Check the property frequently for mail, papers, etc. left on the steps or in the yard
    • Park a car in the yard
    • Install motion-activated outdoor lights
    • Leave an indoor light and/or tv on
    • Install a security alarm
    • Set up a noise-activated dog barking device

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The most we can do to cope with acts of nature is have a plan for before, during and after the event. Some of the natural hazards in our area include:

  • Tornadoes – According to the Southeast Regional Climate Center, Georgia averages about 20 tornadoes a year.  Disastercenter.com reports that Georgia ranks 4th in the cost of damages due to tornadoes.  For more information on tornado safety…Click here
    Source: Georgiatornadoes.com
  • Heavy rain – Water damage from external sources may or may not be covered by a standard homeowners policy, depending on the circumstances. Most industry and government professionals recommend separate Flood Insurance to make sure you are covered for all types of water damage. For more information, visit our Flood Insurance page. For more information on the types of water damage normally covered by homeowners policies, check out the video below courtesy of the Insurance Information Institute.
 
  • Lightning strike, hail and wind - Most homeowners policies cover damage caused by severe weather (except flooding). The amount of compensation depends on the type of policy and amount of coverage purchased. According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, Georgia, there were 1497 combined reported incidents of hail, thunderstorm winds and lightning strikes in Georgia in 2011. (Comprehensive coverage on your auto policy would cover your vehicle.)
  • Winter storms – Power outages and slip hazards are two big problems associated with winter storms. Preparing for a power outage can be key to keeping your loved ones and pets safe. Have emergency supplies handy (such as drinking water, batteries, flashlights, blankets, radios) and a plan to keep warm.