Save on Insurance Premiums Without Sacrificing Coverage

Navigating the complex world of insurance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. For property owners, one of the most impactful ways to reduce premiums while maintaining excellent coverage is by reviewing and optimizing their insurance policies. 

Understanding Your Policy

Insurance policies consist of various components, including deductibles, coverage limits, and endorsements. Understanding these elements allows property owners to assess their policies effectively.

Deductibles

High deductibles often result in lower premiums. However, property owners should evaluate their financial capacity to cover the deductible in the event of a claim.

Coverage Limits

Reviewing coverage limits ensures adequate protection without overpaying for excessive coverage. Assess the property’s value and adjust coverage limits accordingly.

Endorsements

Additional coverages can be added through endorsements. Evaluate the necessity of endorsements based on the property’s specific needs to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Regular Policy Reviews

Insurance needs can evolve over time due to changes in property value, renovations, or lifestyle. Regular policy reviews, ideally conducted annually, allow property owners to align their coverage with their current requirements. By staying proactive, policyholders can identify potential areas for savings to reduce premiums and optimize their coverage.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

Implementing risk mitigation measures can lead to lower premiums. Property owners can consider:

Security Systems

Installing security systems, such as alarms and surveillance cameras, can reduce the property’s risk, leading to potential premium discounts.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance, including roof repairs, electrical updates, and plumbing improvements, demonstrates responsible property ownership and can result in reduced premiums.

Bundling Policies

Combining multiple insurance policies (e.g., property and auto) with the same insurer often results in substantial discounts, making it a cost-effective choice for property owners.

Policy Shopping and Comparison

Periodically shopping for insurance quotes and comparing policies from different providers is a proactive approach to securing competitive premiums. Additionally, it’s essential to obtain quotes from reputable insurers, ensuring a balance between cost and coverage quality.

Consulting with a Public Adjuster

Engaging a public adjuster, like those at Premier Claims, can significantly impact premium savings. Public adjusters have in-depth knowledge of insurance policies and can guide the policyholder on to best protect themselves and their property. Their expertise aids policyholders attempting to receive fair treatment and optimal coverage for their premiums. 

Property owners who invest time in understanding their policies, conducting regular reviews, implementing risk mitigation strategies, and exploring their options can achieve significant savings on premiums. By staying informed and proactive, property owners can make educated decisions that lead to substantial financial benefits.

Our team of seasoned public adjusters are on standby to assist you through the complexities of insurance coverage. To provide you with a comprehensive and accurate review of your policy, we invite you to complete our policy review. Subsequently, our team members will review your policy in-depth and reach back out to go over their findings at your convenience, allowing you to get the help you deserve!

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Are Low-Risk States the Future of Safe Property Investments?

Are Low-Risk States the Future of Safe Property Investments?

The New Geography of Property Ownership

For many Americans, homeownership is more than a financial milestone—it’s a deeply personal achievement tied to safety, stability, and legacy. However, climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of natural disasters nationwide. As a result, many homeowners are questioning the long-term viability of their investments. A recent U.S. News and World Report survey found that “35% of homeowners have considered moving to a state with a lower natural disaster risk.” As a result, states traditionally overlooked in the real estate spotlight are now emerging as safe property investment state options. Let’s explore why and how this new geography of homeownership is taking shape.

Why Climate Is Reshaping Real Estate Priorities

Climate change has introduced a new variable to real estate decisions. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global temperatures have risen by about 1.1C since the late 19th century, intensifying extreme weather events like hurricanes, floods, and droughts. Property owners in vulnerable states are not only seeing more severe weather but also feeling the ripple effects through increased insurance premiums, restrictive policies, and reduced property values.

In response, states with fewer climate risks—such as Ohio, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania—are becoming increasingly attractive to climate-conscious buyers. This trend reflects a re-prioritization where personal safety and financial stability outweigh traditional factors like job markets and amenities. In response to this shift in priorities, Zillow has added climate risk data to their property listings to help buyers make informed decisions. According to a Zillow® Analysis of new listings from August 2024, a growing number of homes listed for sale in the U.S. are now linked to major climate risks compared to five years ago. “The analysis found that 16.7% of new listings were at major risk of wildfire, while 12.8% came with a major risk of flooding,” Zillow reports.

Climate-Safe States: Where Property Owners Are Looking Now

While no location is entirely immune to climate risks, certain states are statistically safer from the most devastating natural disasters. For example: 

The Financial Incentives of Low-Risk States

Safe property investment states offer not only lower risk of disaster but also provide economic benefits that make them more attractive for long-term investments:

1. Lower Property Insurance Premiums

According to Bankrate, property owners’ insurance premiums have surged nearly 40% nationwide over the past decade, with high-risk states bearing the brunt. In contrast, premiums in generally safer property investment states tend to be more affordable and stable, reducing the financial burden on property owners.

2. Stable Property Values

Recent research from Zillow indicates that property values in regions with lower climate risks have remained stable or even appreciated as buyers seek out these areas as safer long-term investments. Properties in high-risk zones, conversely, may struggle to retain value over time due to increased insurance costs and higher buyer scrutiny.

3. Increasing Government Interest

As more states and municipalities recognize the risks of climate change, there’s growing support for community resilience programs. These initiatives often include eco-friendly building codes, improved infrastructure, and sustainable housing projects. While some regions less vulnerable to extreme weather are enhancing their resilience to maintain their appeal, many vulnerable areas are also adopting proactive measures. For example, coastal states are strengthening building codes to withstand hurricanes, and wildfire-prone regions are implementing stricter land-use regulations and fire-resistant construction materials.

Weather Is Shaping Tomorrow’s Real Estate Market

The concept of safe property investment states is no longer niche; it’s quickly gaining mainstream attention as buyers, developers, and policymakers look for sustainable solutions to our planet’s warming future. Already, property developers are marketing homes and communities with climate resilience as a selling point. This trend indicates a shift toward responsible, forward-thinking investments that prioritize both personal safety and environmental adaptation.

For property owners and prospective buyers, this “new geography” of real estate is redefining what it means to find a ‘safe” investment. It’s not just about market performance or neighborhood reputation—it’s about building security in an era of unpredictability.

Navigating the New Map of Safe Investments

Relocating to a low-risk state isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. For those considering it, careful planning, market research, and understanding the climate outlook are essential steps. As the real estate landscape continues to transform, staying informed and adaptable will be key for buyers looking to secure their homes and investments for the long haul.

Protect Your Property, No Matter the Climate

Whether you’re in a high-risk state or a “climate-safe” haven, your property and insurance policy can be ready for anything. That’s where a public adjuster, like those at Premier Claims, comes in.

Having a public adjuster on your side means turning uncertainty into confidence—no matter what challenges come your way.

Take control of your future today and connect with our team!

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How Climate Drives Insurance Rates and Property Damage

How Climate Drives Insurance Rates and Property Damage

Weathering the Unexpected

In the wake of recent storms, many property owners are realizing how unpredictable the weather—and their insurance coverage—can be. Severe weather events are becoming more frequent and more destructive, pushing property owners and insurers to the brink of financial strain. Understanding the relationship between climate risks and property insurance premiums is crucial for anyone looking to protect their property and finances best. 

The Increasing Frequency and Severity of Natural Disasters

It’s no secret natural disasters are occurring more frequently. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. experienced 18 weather-related disasters in 2022, each causing at least $1 billion in damage, tying 2022 with 2011 and 2017 for the third-highest number of such events. This continues a trend of increasing disaster frequency and severity driven by factors like higher temperatures and extreme weather events.

The Impact of Climate Risks on Property Insurance Costs

Areas prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes, are seeing significant increases in their insurance premiums. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that average home insurance premiums have risen by about 7% annually since 2017. The New York Post reported, “At $11,759, Florida has the highest average home insurance in the nation. In 2023, Floridian homeowners paid an average of $10,996 for coverage.” States like Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Louisiana also experience high insurance costs due to their exposure to tornadoes and hailstorms. 

The Cost of Rebuilding is Rising

One of the primary reasons for rising insurance costs is the increasing cost of rebuilding homes after disasters. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), “Building materials prices are up 19.2% year over year and have risen 35.6% since the start of the pandemic.” This increase, paired with labor shortages, is driving up insurance premiums as insurers adjust for the higher claims payouts required for repairs. 

Credit Scores—An Overlooked Factor in Insurance Premium Rates

Beyond the risks of the climate driving insurance rates, your credit score plays a surprisingly large role in determining your insurance rates. Insurers often use credit-based insurance scores to assess the likelihood of filing a claim. Nerd Wallet found “that a person with good credit would pay $1,915 per year for homeowners insurance, on average. But in most states, someone with poor credit would see an average premium of $3,320 per year — more than 73% more.” This factor means that even if you live in a lower-risk state, a low credit score can still result in significantly higher premiums.​

Documenting Damage is Essential for Claim Success

When disaster strikes, your ability to document damage could be the difference between a fair payout and being left to shoulder repair costs on your own. Claims are often underpaid or denied due to poor documentation. Insurance carriers often seek ways to minimize payouts when evidence is lacking. Our team is here to help you set a strong foundation for your claim—starting with proper and thorough documentation. Contact our team today for claims assistance!

Push for Fair Treatment

Many property owners don’t realize that they can negotiate their insurance claims. A significant number of people who accept their insurer’s first settlement offer end up with less than the full value of their claim. This is where public adjusters come in. A public adjuster represents the policyholder—not the insurer—and can help fight for you to receive the payout you’re entitled to per your policy. They are skilled at negotiating with insurance carriers and often help policyholders recover more than they would on their own.

Planning for the Future

The rising cost of insurance and increasing frequency of natural disasters means property owners need to take a proactive approach to protecting their property. Understanding how local climate risks, insurance regulations, and economic trends impact your premiums will help you make better decisions. Consider reviewing your policy annually and consult with professionals to ensure you have adequate coverage for the specific risks in your region. 

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Nebraska’s Property Insurance Crisis

Nebraska’s Property Insurance Crisis

How Hailstorms and Tornadoes are Driving Premiums Through the Roof 

Nebraska’s weather can be downright relentless. With tornadoes and hailstorms frequently appearing each season, the aftermath often leaves property owners grappling with soaring insurance premiums. While we can’t ignore the power of Mother Nature, do insurers really need to pass every last cent of their costs onto you? Spoiler alert: they don’t.

The Storms Aren’t Slowing Down

Nebraska has always been a storm-prone state, but in recent years, the frequency and intensity of hailstorms and tornadoes have hit record highs. The Center for Disaster Recovery stated, “As of September 18, 2024, there have been 1,437 confirmed tornadoes.” Nebraska ranks among the “top five most impacted regions, alongside Iowa, Texas, Missouri, and Oklahoma,” as reported by 11 Alive. Hailstorms, notorious for causing costly damage to roofs, vehicles, and properties, have also been relentless. Since 2020, Nebraska has averaged 50 days of severe hailstorms each year, one of the highest in the nation.

What Does This Mean for Your Insurance Premiums?

Insurance carriers justify premium hikes by pointing fingers at these natural disasters, but is that the whole story? Nebraska Public Media spoke with Chip Bullock, an agent in central Nebraska, who “said he’s seen premiums increase rapidly in the last few years, by between 10% and 40%.” Insurers claim it’s all due to the high number of storm-related claims. But here’s the kicker: while storm frequency is up, insurers are also racking profits by leveraging reinsurance and passing costs along to you. It doesn’t stop there—many carriers are notorious for using delay, deny, and defend tactics to avoid paying out claims altogether. 

The Passive-Aggressive Reality of “Risk Management”

Let’s be honest. Insurance carriers love to talk about “risk” when it comes to raising your rates. Yet, when you file a claim, they’re suddenly not so generous, are they? It’s almost as if they prefer collecting premiums without paying out. According to experts, insurers have a history of using reinsurance policies that protect them—not you—from catastrophic losses. So, while you’re paying more, they’re quietly pocketing their share. 

Make the Most of Your Policy

So, what should a Nebraska property owner do in the face of skyrocketing premiums? Well, start by evaluating your current policy. Many property owners are underinsured, but unfortunately, insurance carriers won’t volunteer that information.

Some insurance carriers have begun to exclude wind coverage, which could be a significant setback for Nebraska policyholders. To make matters worse, Insurance carriers aren’t communicating this coverage change when they send out policy renewals, leaving it up to the policyholder to read through their policy to ensure they know exactly what they’re signing up for. Unfortunately, this critical detail is often overlooked, leaving many policyholders underinsured and caught off guard when it matters most.

We recommend reviewing your policy annually to ensure your property is adequately protected. Submit your policy for a free review today! Our team will identify gaps in your coverage and help you find a policy to protect you when disaster strikes.  

The (Not So) Transparent Insurance Industry

Here’s where the gloves come off. Despite their endless justifications, insurance carriers aren’t hurting. Many are seeing record profits—and yet premiums continue to rise. The property and casualty insurance industry made a “record $88 billion in profits in 2023. In Q1 2024, profitability continued to surge, reaching $39 billion in one quarter alone,” the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association reported. So, the next time your carrier leaves you to believe they simply don’t have the means to help, remember—you’re padding their bottom line. 

Don’t just Weather the Storm—Fight Back!

Nebraska property owners deserve better. The ongoing storm cycles may be uncontrollable, but unchecked insurance premiums don’t have to be. Start by taking control of your policy and working with professionals who have your back. Because let’s face it: your insurance carrier? Not so much. 

Submit your policy for review today!

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Insurance Deception Exposed: Who is Your Carrier Loyal to?

The Mask of Trust

You’ve faithfully paid your insurance premiums for years, believing that when disaster strikes, your insurance carrier will swoop in to save the day. But what if I told you your blind trust could be costing you thousands? Take the time to learn their game and overcome possible insurance deception. 

The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing 

Your insurance agent may smile warmly and shake your hand, but beneath that friendly facade lies a stark reality: their loyalty isn’t to you— it’s to their employer. And when push comes to shove, whose interests do you think they’ll prioritize?

Let’s be real: insurance carriers are in the business of making money, not handing it out. When you file a claim, your agent’s job isn’t to maximize your payout— it’s to protect the company’s profits. Suddenly, that friendly smile doesn’t seem so reassuring, does it? 

The Power of Choice

Unlike your insurance agent, we’re not beholden to the whims of the insurance company. Our allegiance lies solely with you, the policyholder, and we are committed to fighting stop at nothing to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. 

Still Skeptical?

Imagine this: You’re facing the aftermath of a vicious storm, and you filed a claim with your insurance carrier, seeking rightful compensation for hail damage to your property’s metal roof. But instead of a swift resolution, you’re met with a daunting denial— making you question the coverage you’ve faithfully paid for.

Enter Premier Claims

With unwavering determination, we become your advocate. In the face of carrier delay tactics, we stand firm by your side, armed with collected evidence of the storm’s damage to your property. 

Through our expertise, we secured a $1.16 million settlement for a complete roof replacement. Our impact didn’t stop there, as we commonly attempt to steer the insured towards a future of coverage security by advising an upgrade to a more robust policy, further safeguarding them from future coverage denials.

This isn’t just a story we pulled out of thin air— it’s a true testament to our capabilities. Premier Claims secured this complete roof replacement for a religious center in Orlando, Florida. Imagine the possibilities for your own claim. 

Take Your Place in the Driver’s Seat

As storm clouds gather on the horizon, now is the time to take action. Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your interests. Contact Premier Claims today, and let us be your guiding light in the darkness of insurance deception. Together, we can weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side. 

In the face of uncertainty, one thing remains clear: the importance of having a trusted ally by your side. With Premier Claims in your corner, you can rest easy knowing your interests are protected. Don’t let the storm catch you off guard— let us lead you to victory. 

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Will My Insurance Premiums Go Up?

A hailstorm hits your area, leaving a trail of damage in its wake. Amidst the chaos, you’re left wondering about the aftermath, not just in terms of property damage but also the looming uncertainty of insurance premiums. Will your premiums go up if you seek professional help in navigating the claims process?

Understanding Insurance Premiums

Insurance carriers assess several factors when calculating premiums. This includes the likelihood of future claims and the overall risk associated with insuring a property. However, it’s important to note that insurance carriers cannot legally raise premiums solely due to an Act of God, such as a hailstorm, flood, or hurricane.

Factors Influencing Premium Increases

Insurance carriers may increase premiums based on two primary factors:

Fault of the Policyholder

Premiums may increase if the policyholder is deemed at fault for the property damage. For example, if a policyholder recklessly drives a vehicle into their building, resulting in damage, the insurance carrier may raise premiums to reflect the increased risk associated with insuring the property. 

Catastrophe Area

Premiums may also increase if the property is located in a “Catastrophe Area.” This designation typically applies to regions affected by severe storms, such as hurricanes or tornadoes. Areas where severe storms cause multiple claims to be filed in the area. In such cases, insurance carriers may raise rates for all policyholders in the affected area to help mitigate the financial impact of widespread damage. 

The Role of Public Adjusters

Public adjusters play an important role in the insurance claims process. These professionals advocate for policyholders and assist in navigating the complexities of filing insurance claims. Contrary to common misconceptions, hiring a public adjuster should not inherently cause insurance premiums to increase. 

Public adjusters work tirelessly to fight for policyholders to receive fair and equitable compensation for their losses. They possess in-depth knowledge of insurance policies and regulations. This allows them to negotiate effectively with insurance carriers on behalf of the policyholder. By leveraging their skills, public adjusters strive to earn the best settlement possible for a claim, in turn expediting the claims process. To learn more about the role a public adjuster can play in your claim, read our blog: What is a Public Adjuster?

Connect with Premier Claims

If you’re considering hiring a public adjuster or have questions about your insurance premiums, our team at Premier Claims is here to help. We comprehend the complexities of the insurance industry and pledge to serve as a trusted resource for policyholders. Contact us today for an inspection or to have your policy reviewed by our experienced team. 

Working with a public adjuster should not result in an increase in insurance premiums. Insurance carriers primarily base premium adjustments on factors such as fault and Catastrophe Area designations. Public adjusters play a vital role in advocating for policyholders. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from our team at Premier Claims, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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