San Diego home fire insurance: seek expert advice to guarantee the best coverage
By Cathy Peterson
Last month, we discussed the issue of fire risk in San Diego County and the precautions necessary for homeowners in fire-prone areas to mitigate that risk. This month, we turn our attention to
-- including the benefits, costs and considerations that every homeowner should discuss with his or her insurance agent before choosing coverage.
According to a recent
news report, there are more than two million California homes at high risk for wildfire danger – a number that constitutes nearly 15% of all homes statewide. For those who live in and around these areas, home fire insurance is an absolute necessity. Pete Moraga, of the Insurance Information Network of California, points out that, when purchasing home fire insurance, it is important to cover not only the original value of one’s home, but also rebuilding costs, which tend to go up by about 2% each year. Replacement costs for all items in the home should also be included in any fire coverage plan.
However, because all insurance is based on risk, homeowners in the highest risk locations may face equally high insurance premiums – or inadequate coverage -- from certain companies. In these cases, there are steps homeowners can take to decrease overall risk and bring down insurance restrictions. Examples might include replacing wooden roofs and fixtures and clearing a broad expanse of defensible space around the property in question. But ultimately, even these measures may not yield the best possible coverage.
So what is the best strategy when it comes to buying the best home fire insurance in San Diego? And what should you do if you review your existing coverage and realize it is inadequate to cover severe fire damage? As an experienced Poway insurance broker well versed in all facets of fire coverage, I would recommend that anyone concerned about their coverage get in touch with a professional immediately to discuss the fine print of his or her policy, and to determine what changes, if any, should be made in order to enact the most comprehensive coverage possible.
At
, we welcome your calls and questions at anytime – whether you are one of our customers, a prospective buyer or someone covered by another insurance company all together. Unlike some companies, we at Farmers will sit down and go over your questions on an individual basis – no strings attached. For honest, customized and stress-free insurance coverage advice, contact me,
, at
today. Simply call (858) 748-3134, or visit me online at
.