Four Ways to Save on Your Homeowners Premium

1. Install Hurricane Shutters

Protecting your windows from flying debris is one of the most cost-effective measures you can take to safeguard your home from hurricane damage. If you're thinking of buying new shutters or upgrading the ones you have, first talk to a licensed professional who can explain the kinds of shutters available and what codes they meet.

The level of compliance with the building code will directly affect the discount on your homeowners policy.

2. Reinforce Your Concrete Roof Deck

Securing your roof is another cost-effective way to safeguard your home from damage. Insurers may give double-digit discounts for strong roof construction. However, before you do anything you should first consult with and get estimates from two or more professionally certified roofers.

You must weigh the cost of making certain improvements against the amount of the insurance discount and determine if it's worth it. Some states provide homeowners grants for making these types of improvements.

Again using Florida as an example, the state provides grants of up to $5,000 for "approved risk mitigation measures" through its Comprehensive Hurricane Damage Mitigation Program. Check with your state to see if there is a similar program where you live.

3. Attach Your Roof With Long Nails

It might sound silly, but it's worth finding out how long the nails are that attach your roof. The longer they are, and the closer together they are nailed in, the greater the discount. This discount generally is not as significant as the others mentioned here, but it can still save you a couple of hundred dollars a year on your premium.