More Bang for Your Buck: Insurance

WSVN -- Even the Florida Legislature couldn't solve the insurance crisis in Florida.

Homeowners Ray and Lisa Smith say their bills skyrocketed.

Ray Smith: "The biggest thing is the homeowner's, the wind, and the boat's also, really increased after all the hurricanes we've had."

And now, the upcoming hurricane season has left the Smith's asking what they can do to keep some money in their pockets and still protect their home.

Lisa Smith: "We wanted to make sure that we had adequate coverage for this season."

So they called up insurance agent Robert Nava to help them find ways to save on their policies.

Robert Nava: "Today, what most people come in and are concerned about are their premiums, is the reduction and the reducing of their insurance premiums."

So how can you get More Bang for Your Buck out of your insurance coverage?

The easiest way to find out if you're paying too much, have your agent come to your home and give you an insurance makeover.

Robert Nava: "I can see their environment, and I can also see what they're trying to insure-- their assets, belongings."

Robert says he first checks the policy.

Robert Nava: "People's insurance may fall behind, or, in some cases, it may go beyond, and they become over-insured."

He makes sure homeowners aren't paying for dirt.

"What you want to insure is not the land that the home sits on but the actual structure."

And, as the 2007 storm season approaches, Robert says there are some inexpensive fixes that can save you big bucks: First, your garage doors.

Robert Nava: "They can install bracing on the garage door or perhaps get a more dated garage door that can meet some of the current building codes."

And, if you haven't already, get shutters or storm-proof windows.

Robert Nava: "I would say that probably the largest discount that's going to be available to a homeowner here in South Florida is going to be the installation of hurricane shutters or impact glass."

As for Ray and Lisa, they took Robert's advice and put shutters on all their windows and doors. Now they're seeing savings on their insurance bills.

Ray Smith: "And that was a smart thing to do because it protects the house and helps the premium come down."

Tom Haynes: "Keep in mind, your insurance agent is supposed to help you get the best deal. They may have ideas specific to your area or home, so ask for advice."

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Robert Nava
Robert Nava Insurance Agency Inc., State Farm Insurance
13730 Biscayne Boulevard
North Miami, FL
305-945-5004