If you’re planning to get home insurance, the coverage, and premium you will pay usually depend on your home’s features. However, certain things can make some homes more difficult to insure than others. But don’t worry. You can still get affordable insurance coverage even if your home is difficult to insure.
Why Is Your Home Difficult To Insure, And What Can You Do?
Location
Some areas are considered “high-risk” if they’re prone to crime or natural disasters. Your policy will likely be more expensive if you live in an area highly susceptible to earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, or wildfires.
Installing safety features in your home is the best way to offset a high-risk location. For example, if your home is exposed to crime, you need an active security system. If you reside in an area prone to hurricanes, you’ll need to install a strap on your roof and hurricane shutters.
Age
Older homes are challenging to insure because they require more maintenance. They may also be more expensive to repair and renovate because the materials and style are outdated, and insurers don’t want to take the risk.
We recommend upgrading and remodeling your home to meet modern building codes. After renovating and remodeling, show the insurer documentation to prove that your home is structurally sound.
Condition
Insurers also consider the condition of your house. New houses aren’t perfect if they’re made with inferior construction materials. Insurance companies don’t insure homes with foundation issues, old electrical systems, or bad plumbing.
You need to address any hazards in your home to lower homeowners’ insurance premiums.