5 Top Reasons Why You Should Rethink Buying Homeowners’ Insurance Online

When it comes to buying homeowners’ insurance, you can certainly buy a policy online today, no doubt. But, for protecting something as important as your home, is buying coverage online without the assistance of an agent really a good idea? Not necessarily!

The following are five reasons why you may want to reconsider buying your next homeowners’ policy online and Contact United Agencies for assistance. We are happy to answer any questions you may have:

1. The Quote You Receive May Not Be Accurate

You are not an insurance agent, yet to determine the price of a homeowners’ policy, you will need to know very specific information about your home. For example, if you don’t know the age of your roof, the distance to your nearest fire station, or whether your wood stove meets the required clearance from a combustible wall (among just a few critical “need-to-knows”), the price quote you get online could substantially change once your policy issues.

2. Your “Good Stuff” Might Not Be Covered

Most online quoting systems ask only the basic policy questions such as square footage, age of a home and type of roof. But what if you have a detached office?, wood shop, firearms, jewelry, antiques or valuable collectibles in your home? Unless the online application specifically asks you about these types of things, they won’t be included in your quote - or worse, they may not be covered under your policy if you have a loss.

3. Your Policy May Not Actually Issue!

Did you know? A prior homeowners’ insurance claim and the type of pet you own can determine your eligibility for a homeowners policy. Experienced insurance agents know to run the proper reports at the time of your quote so that any challenges can be addressed sooner rather than later. Sure, an online application can provide general pricing, but if these and other issues are discovered later, you may be denied coverage and your policy won’t get issued!

4. Your Policy Might Not Meet Your Lender’s Requirements

A standard homeowners’ policy doesn’t include earthquake or flood damage, and windstorm coverage is typically limited in regions are common.

• Do you know if your home is located in a high-risk zone for natural disasters?
• Do you know if your lender will require specific coverage for your property in order to close your loan?

If you are buying a new home or refinancing and don’t know what your lender requires, or if the information was left off the online application or included incorrectly, your escrow could be delayed and leave you back where you started.

Today’s technology has allowed consumers like you to meet many of your insurance needs entirely online.  However, while the internet can be a good first step for basic insurance information, buying homeowners coverage online cannot replace the value of an insurance professional who can walk you through the process step-by-step. A United Agent is happy to answer questions, identify possible gaps in coverage or customize a policy just for you.

5. You Might Not Get the Policy Options or Discounts You’re Entitled To

During the application process, an actual LIVE agent gets to know you and has your best interest at heart. The process of live interaction allows him/her to present and offer policy options and discounts so that your policy is tailored to meet your individual needs and budget.

The truth is without an agent to guide you, you risk missing out on some key options, such as replacement cost coverage, higher liability limits and choices in deductibles, which can put you at a serious disadvantage when making your final decision.

At United Agencies, we have worked hard to become a helpful resource to our clients. Please don’t hesitate to Contact Us if you want to talk about protecting your home, family or auto. Our team is happy to assist you!