A home is the largest purchase most Americans will ever make. They want to protect it and their belongings in the event of an unpreventable disaster. This is why most Sarasota County residents carry homeowners insurance.

Yet, having full coverage does not mean paying top dollar for home insurance premiums. The more secure your home is, the better chance you have of reducing your overall costs.

Protecting your family is always going to be the priority, so here’s three ways you can better protect your family, as well as lowering your premiums.

Install a Home Alarm System

There were more than 2.1 million burglaries in 2012, the equivalent of one burglary every 15 seconds, according to alarm.org.

By installing a home security system with burglar alarms, homeowners can deter thieves from breaking into their homes. Alarm.org stated 90 percent of convicted burglars said they would avoid homes with alarm systems.

Homeowners could see their insurance premiums drop up to about 15 to 20 percent if they install a comprehensive home security system, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Not only can they reduce their insurance costs, they can also save money on buying these security systems if they ask about discounts.

home insurance quote venice

Install a Fence

Installing a fence will act as a theft deterrent and may lower your home insurance premiums. It can also help you protect recreational equipment like pools. It makes great sense to have a fence around your pool or home, and it is the law in some areas.

But before you begin digging holes, consult with your local city office.

See where your property line is and find out any ordinances that cover the installation of a fence. Saving on your premiums will be moot if you have to install your fence twice.

Install Hurricane Shutters

In many parts of the country, hurricane shutters are unheard of, but here in southwest Florida they are needed. Hurricane shutters are metal window coverings may be closed before a storm. They can be made to swing open and closed or roll up like a garage door.

At any rate, adding hurricane shutters will not only protect your home and your family, you’ll save money on the hurricane portion of your home insurance premiums.