Check your credit reports before shopping

Not many people realise this, but credit reports have an effect on insurance quotes. If you are looking for home insurance quotes you may want to consider improving your credit record.

Gather your information about your home and its contents

This is one of the first steps you should take when looking for home insurance quotes.  You need to gather as much information as possible about your home and its contents, as this will help you get an accurate quote.

Get several insurance quotes

This the golden rule of getting insurance. With increased competition in the insurance industry, it means that more companies are willing to provide you with the best services to keep your business. As a consumer this is an advantage for you.

Research the licencing of each online insurance provider

You need to make sure that the insurance company you choose is a registered financial services provider.

Compare claims settlement options

This is an important factor. You will want to find an insurance provider that will settle your claim as efficiently as possible.

Look for companies that offer optional replacement cost coverage for personal property

Insurance companies will often inform clients that items are covered at market value, retail value or replacement value. Make sure that you understand what kind of coverage you have.

Compare optional coverage not offered on basic policies

You need to take the time to compare as much as possible. Take a little extra time to find out what kind of discounts you may qualify for.

Get quotes using a range of excesses to see how much each one impacts the total premium

Compare the availability of premium and rating discounts between companies. You need to find the best type or coverage for your needs and that also includes comparing premiums.