Your homeowners insurance policy is designed to protect you against liability or any eminent disasters. You can lower the cost of your premium by making your house more resilient to the damage caused by blizzards, windstorms, rain, floods or earthquakes and break-ins. Here are some tips on how to make your house more resistant to damage and theft:

Make Insurance-friendly Upgrades

Save on the cost of your premium by replacing your roof or by making reinforcements to the current structure. Wind-resistant roofing materials are now available that provide better protection against such threats as snow loads or heavy winds. Storm shutters are also another installation that can assist in lowering the amount you pay for coverage.

Make Sure Your Home is Adequately Secured

In addition to making the aforementioned improvements, you can also add devices and equipment that make your home more secure and safe. Insurance companies provide discounts to homeowners who add smoke or carbon monoxide detectors in their home or install dead-bolt locks or security devices. Deluxe sprinkler systems, along with alarms that automatically notify the authorities, can slash as much as 20% off your premium.

Minimize Your Risk

The best way to lower the cost of insurance and to ensure that you’re fully protected is to work towards minimizing any risk that would cause you to file a claim. That means making sure that the heating system, your fireplace – if you have one – and electrical systems are in top-notch shape. Make sure that bushes and trees are trimmed away from your house too. Clean out the gutters to prevent any future issues with drainage or exterior damage.

Check Your Heating System and Make the Necessary Repairs and Adjustments

Change the furnace filter to prevent furnace breakdowns and reduce fire risk. You should also examine the blower assembly and belt. Tighten any loose connections and lubricate the components. During your inspection, check the safety controls, inspect the wiring and calibrate the thermostat. Make sure the fan and burners are working properly. Clean the heating vents of any debris to ensure a better flow of air.

Check the Electrical System

You’ll also want to go through your home and examine the electrical system. Check for any frayed wires or unsecured extension cords. If your electrical wiring is old, you might want to consider hiring an electrician to replace it. Typically, homeowners can reduce their premium coverage if their electrical system is under five years old.

Winterize Your Plumbing

Autumn is also a good time to look at your home’s plumbing system. While most homeowner policies will not protect you from a loss that results from a frozen pipe, taking precautions against freezing will, needless to say, lower any insurance-related costs. To keep pipes from freezing:

• Wrap outdoor pipes with either a plastic foam or paper
• Place a cover over foundation vents
• Insulate the water meter box, making sure to secure the lid

Avoid Future Problems with Water Damage

Prevent the potential for water damage within the home as well. Make sure your fall checklist includes:

• Inspecting appliance hoses
• Checking for leaks
• Caulking around tubs, sinks, windows and doors
• Examining the water heater for corrosion or clogs
• Checking ceilings and walls for water stains.

Prevention is the Key

Keep your home safe and secure and get the most out of your homeowner’s policy. Prevention is the key to avoiding a claim, and reducing your insurance rates.