Mobile homes, also known as manufactured homes, are a popular housing option for many people. While mobile homes offer many advantages, such as affordability and flexibility, they also come with their own unique set of risks and challenges. One of the most important steps that mobile homeowners can take to protect their investment is to purchase mobile home insurance. In this article, we will discuss three ways to save money on mobile home insurance: doing your research and shopping around for quotes, improving your credit score, and taking advantage of available discounts.
Do Your Research and Shop Around for Quotes
One of the best ways to save money on mobile home insurance is to do your research and shop around for quotes. Mobile home insurance premiums can vary widely depending on the insurer, the location of the home, the age and condition of the home, and the coverage options selected. Therefore, it is important to compare quotes from multiple insurers to find the best coverage at the lowest price.
When shopping for mobile home insurance, be sure to provide accurate information about your home, including its location, age, size, and features. Also, consider the coverage options that are important to you, such as liability coverage, personal property coverage, and additional living expenses coverage. By providing accurate information and selecting the coverage options that meet your needs, you can ensure that you are getting the most accurate quotes possible.
Improve Your Credit Score
Another way to save money on mobile home insurance is to improve your credit score. Insurance companies use credit scores as one factor in determining insurance premiums, as research has shown that people with higher credit scores tend to file fewer insurance claims. Therefore, if you have a low credit score, you may be paying higher premiums than someone with a higher score.
To improve your credit score, focus on paying your bills on time, keeping your credit card balances low, and avoiding opening new credit accounts unnecessarily. Over time, these actions can help to improve your credit score and lower your mobile home insurance premiums.
Take Advantage of Available Discounts
Finally, be sure to take advantage of available discounts when purchasing mobile home insurance. Many insurers offer discounts for a variety of reasons, such as:
- Bundling insurance policies (e.g., purchasing mobile home insurance and auto insurance from the same insurer)
- Installing safety features (e.g., smoke detectors, burglar alarms, and deadbolts)
- Maintaining a claims-free history
- Being a member of certain organizations (e.g., AARP, AAA)
By taking advantage of these discounts, you can lower your mobile home insurance premiums and save money over time.
Increase Your Deductible
One way to save money on mobile home insurance is to increase your deductible. Your deductible is the amount you agree to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance policy kicks in. Typically, the higher your deductible, the lower your insurance premiums. However, be sure to choose a deductible that you can afford to pay if you need to file a claim.
Maintain Your Home Regularly
Maintaining your mobile home regularly can also help you save money on insurance premiums. Insurance companies consider the condition of your home when calculating your premiums, so keeping your home in good condition can help lower your risk of filing a claim. Some things you can do to maintain your home include:
- Regularly inspecting your roof, siding, and foundation for damage or wear and tear
- Fixing any issues promptly, such as leaks or cracks
- Keeping your gutters clean and free of debris
- Updating your electrical and plumbing systems as needed
By taking these steps, you can help keep your home in good condition and potentially lower your insurance premiums.
Review Your Policy Regularly
Finally, it’s important to review your mobile home insurance policy regularly to ensure that you have the coverage you need at a price you can afford. Your insurance needs may change over time, so it’s a good idea to review your policy annually and make any necessary adjustments. For example, you may need to increase your coverage if you’ve made significant upgrades to your home, or you may be able to lower your coverage if your home’s value has decreased.
Conclusion
Mobile home insurance is an important investment for mobile homeowners, and there are several ways to save money on insurance premiums. By increasing your deductible, maintaining your home regularly, reviewing your policy regularly, and taking advantage of available discounts, you can help keep your insurance costs down while still protecting your investment.