Along with the other expenses and aspects of our recent economy, the cost of homeowners insurance has risen over the past year. And the Insurance Information Institute says rates are likely to increase even further in 2023.
Yet you do have some control over the cost of your home insurance. Your premium depends on many factors, including where you live, the value of your home and your policy deductible. Other factors are home safety and protective features.
Home security systems can decrease the likelihood of a burglary. In fact, a survey of convicted burglars showed that 60% left a house alone if they saw evidence of a security system. Many insurers recognize the value of home security, which is why installing a system could help lower your rates.
Not All Security Systems Are Created Equal
There are many types of home security systems. Popular options include:
- Monitored — alerts both the homeowner and a monitoring station (that can communicate with emergency services) in the event of a break-in.
- Hard-wired — uses a series of wires and sensors placed around your home, which may offer more reliable connectivity than a wireless system.
- Wireless — relies on a wireless signal to connect with battery-powered sensors and detectors, and can be placed in areas that hardwired systems may not be able to reach.
- Smart home — sends signals to your phone and allows you to monitor cameras and sensors.
- Surveillance cameras — give you the ability to monitor activity visually.
Each system offers different types and levels of protection and may be available in different combinations. You should choose the system that’s right for you based on your needs.
Savings Can Be Substantial — In More Ways Than One
You could save up to 20% on your premium by installing a home security system. Generally, monitored systems provide a larger savings benefit than unmonitored systems, but the discount will depend on your provider.
Because a home security system decreases your risk of burglary, it may help you save in other ways — by avoiding the need to replace uncovered items, report a break-in, or file a claim. If your possessions aren’t 100% covered by your policy, you may need to replace stolen items out of pocket. In addition, your premium could also increase more with a break-in than it would for other types of claims, such as property damage.
Safety and Savings All in One
Ultimately, the most important benefit of a security system is the added safety it offers you and your family. But it can also help protect your bottom line by not needing to replace stolen items out of pocket and making your homeowners insurance more affordable. However, never rank affordability above adequate coverage. It’s important you protect what you need to. With We Insure, we can help you do both by shopping around to find you the best coverage at the best rates — and make sure you get the right policy for your needs. If you don’t already have a We Insure agent, you can find your local agent today.
Sources
https://www.wsj.com/articles/four-ways-to-save-money-on-home-insurance-as-rates-rise-11669982813
https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/security-systems-crime/
https://www.safewise.com/home-security-faq/wired-vs-wireless-security/
https://www.bobvila.com/articles/home-insurance-discount-for-security-system/
