As a homeowner, you may be thinking about purchasing a home security system to protect your property, yourself, and your family. However, you may also be wondering what other advantages having this type of system can bring.
One question that many homeowners have is whether having an effective home security system can earn them a discount on their homeowner’s insurance coverage. With premiums expected to rise with time, discover the truth behind this mystery and how you may be able to take advantage of this perk as a homeowner.
Do Homeowners Insurance Companies Extend Discounts for Security Systems?
While every insurer has different rules regarding discount policies, many will offer discounts in exchange for installing a home security system on your property. Once your security system is installed, you should call your insurer to inquire about the requirements surrounding the discount program.
For most policies, you will need to provide documentation of ownership. That may mean providing a certificate of completion or even a receipt from your purchase. If you pay monthly, the discount is likely to show up on your next bill. If you pay your premium yearly through an escrow account, you may need to exercise a little more patience to see the discount applied to the next year’s payment.
How Much of a Discount Can a Homeowner Obtain?
Just like insurance companies differ in their discount policies, they also vary in terms of discount sizes. The amount of money you will save for having a home security system will depend on a number of factors, including the insurance company, the type of system you have, and the type of policy you’re enrolled in.
Still, research shows that most home security discounts fall into a standard range. USAA Bank reports that most homeowners receive discounts of 5-20% on their homeowner’s insurance premiums when they install and maintain a home security system on their property.
Why Insurers Offer Discounts for Home Security Systems
Why would a home insurance provider accept less money from you every month simply because you have installed a home security system? Your system has the potential to save them money.
Research shows that 60% of burglars will choose another target if they think there’s an alarm system present on the property. Among those who initiate a break-in, half would discontinue their quest once they detected an alarm.
A home security system can deter and reduce the possibility of a crime occurring on your property. The less crime there is, the smaller the chance of you making a claim due to a break-in or burglary. This, in turn, saves the home insurance company a lot of money since they don’t have to repair your property or replace items. The insurer then passes that savings on to you in the form of a premium discount.
What Homeowners Should Look for in a Home Security System
It’s important to make sure your home security system has all the right features to protect your home and help you secure the best discount. Here are five things you should be looking for when you purchase a system.
Comprehensive
Your system should provide protection and surveillance for all the major entrances in your home, including the front door, garage, and any side or back doors. If possible, it’s best to choose a system that provides more than just a burglar alarm. Being alerted to possible fire or water damage can offer extra protection and peace of mind, as well as reduce property damage claims.
Customizable
Your home security system should be customizable to your needs. For example, it should monitor as many sensors as you need for your home so that you can personalize your layout. If you’re away from home a lot, choose a system that offers a mobile app for constant monitoring as well as real-time alerts so you’ll know if anything happens.
Tamper-Proof
Criminals are often good at what they do. Consequently, many of them know how to disarm popular alarm system models. For this reason, you should choose a system with tamper-proof features. DIY wireless home security systems are great for this purpose, as burglars won’t be able to cut the wires and gain unfettered access to your home.
Offers Monitoring
You can’t always keep your eyes on your home. Having someone else watching your property can definitely be helpful. Try to choose a home security system that offers around-the-clock professional monitoring so you can rest assured that your home is secure every minute of the day.
Get a Reliable and Comprehensive System to Protect Your Home and Secure Your Discount
With home insurance rates going up, it’s no wonder that homeowners are looking for ways to lower them. Getting a discount for installing a home security system is one way to accomplish that goal. Though a home security system is an investment, it will continue to pay off every time you pay your home insurance premium.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive security system that can deter criminals and protect your property from fire and water damage, tattletale®’s DIY wireless home security system is the way to go. Our portable standalone solution provides 500 feet of range, instant mobile alerts, and 24/7 monitoring. Contact us today to learn how you can benefit from hassle-free installation and start reaping the benefits right away.
