Most summer projects involving freshening up the paint, bringing our gardens back to life, and cleaning out the garage. What about the things that make your home safer?

We’re talking about your roof, your electrical, plumbing, and heating. These are things we don’t think about when fixing our homes up in the summer. In fact, we really don’t think about them until its usually too late.

So why not look at them now, while fixing everything else around your home? Doing so will not only protect your home and reduce the risk of further damage, but it can qualify you for safety discounts on your homeowner’s insurance.

 

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Summer Money Saving Tips With Home Upgrades

Roofing Tip:

Different roofing materials determine how often a roof needs to be replaced. Slate shingles, for example, can be expected to last the lifetime of a house. Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, will need to be replaced every 15 to 30 years.

Looking at your roof, it may look like you don’t need to replace your roof. Your roof is your house’s first defense against rough weather, harsh winds, and flying debris. It’s important to make sure you have a strong defense to keep those hazards out.  One way to determine is if the neighbors in your association are replacing their roofs, then it may be time to also replace yours.

Qualifying for a roofing insurance discount (up to 25% or even up to 50%) depends on what material is used and what roof coverings classification it falls under.

Some examples of roofing upgrades that may qualify you for this insurance discount are class 4 shingles such as metal or impact resistant shingles.

Electrical System Tip:

Depending on the age of your home, your electrical components could be outdated. You risk damage to your family, appliances, and can make it harder to sell your home down the line. Updating the wiring and electrical circuits help reduce your chances of a fire breaking out.

An electrical upgrade can lower your insurance premium because you are reducing the risk of damage to your home.

Plumbing Tip:

If you have a leak, a plumber can cost anywhere from $160-$430 with an hourly cost that ranges between $45-$150 on top of that. It gets expensive fast! To avoid the hefty cost of a plumber, and possible water damage to your home, it’s good to check for any sign of water drips or corrosion in exposed pipes.

If you discover an issue with your plumbing, have someone come out to check for clogs from the sewer, sink, and bathtub (they’re the number 1 plumbing problem). Or, have them check for sewer and septic issues. The last thing you want is a flooded yard of waste.

An upgrade to your plumbing system can lower your insurance premium the same way electrical does; it reduces the risk of severe damage to your home.

PRO TIP: Do not turn in a leaky pipe water damage claim. It’s not covered. Anytime damage happens over time like this, it’s not covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy. It must be sudden and accidental. This can result in a 25 to 100 percent surcharge for turning in the claim, even if nothing is paid out to you.

Heating System Tip:

We know, it’s summer! Why should you think about your heating system right now? Your furnace isn’t working in the summer months, so it’s the perfect time to make sure it’s in working condition. Depending on the age of your furnace, you may find components of it starting to fail.

On average, the lifespan of a furnace is between 14 and 18 years. If you’re looking to replace your furnace, make sure you do your research; look for something EnergyStar approved to help cut down on energy costs.

Your new furnace will also help save you money on your insurance premium. Make sure you inform your Compass Insurance Agent.

Save Money by Shopping Around

Insurance.com did a study in 2016 and found the average homeowner’s insurance premium was $1,228. Michigan falls 13% below the national average at $1,073. By addressing some of the safety upgrade tips, you may find yourself saving even more money on your premium!

Compass Insurance Agency (CIA) takes all the legwork out by shopping and comparing over 17 different insurance carriers for you. We are known for finding you the best coverage at the most affordable price.

Click or Call Today – 616-245-5555 – Online Quote

“I called ten different companies looking for quotes for homeowner insurance. They quoted over $400 cheaper than ANY OTHER PLACE. For the SAME COVERAGE!! Jack is an amazing insurance agent and the rest of the staff is amazing as well! We have three autos and our homeowner through them now and I know for a fact there isn’t anything cheaper out there! I refer all of my friends and family!!! Now go give them a call!! No JOKE!” – Lisa.

Helping Michigan Homeowners In More Ways Than One

Compass agents can ‘point you in the right direction’ with more than just insurance. We work closely with our connections and within our communities. We have a wide network of Michigan contractors, roofers, plumbers, HVAC companies, and other local businesses.

Call your insurance agent before summer begins; we’re here to help.