From coverage limits to choosing right policy partner — here’s a guide on insurance plans for first-time home buyers
Summary
While making a property purchase decision, buyers usually consider factors such as stamp duty, registration fees, etc. as add on charges. They miss out on buying home insurance, which is crucial in offering protection against natural calamities and sudden crises.
Homeownership is a significant milestone for many Indians, embodying aspirations, stability, and security of owning a physical asset. However, along with the joy of owning a home comes the responsibility of safeguarding it against unexpected risks.
For first-time homebuyers, navigating the landscape of home insurance is crucial to protect their investment and make a prudent financial move.
Despite its profound significance, the penetration of home insurance in India remains remarkably low, standing at just about 1%.
While making a property purchase decision, buyers usually consider factors such as stamp duty, registration fees, etc. as add on charges. They miss out on buying home insurance, which is crucial in offering protection against natural calamities and sudden crises.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials of home insurance, empowering you to make informed decisions and secure your newfound haven effectively.
Understand your home insurance policy’s coverage limits
Knowing what your policy covers is important. The most common home insurance offerings are structure insurance and content insurance.
While structure insurance covers the losses that arise from damages to the structure due to natural calamities and man-made perils, content insurance protects against damages to appliances, jewellery, furniture and more within your home.
Before choosing an insurance policy, you must carefully review what is included in and excluded from the policy’s scope.
Begin by assessing your home’s replacement cost, not just its market value.
This ensures financial protection in case of disaster. Next, choose coverage levels for both the structure and your belongings, considering valuable items like jewellery or collectables.
Understand common risks in your area – floods, earthquakes, or theft – and ensure the policy addresses them, or add riders for specific concerns. Research deductibles – the amount you pay before coverage kicks in – finding a balance between affordability and financial security.
Finally, compare quotes from reputable insurers, prioritising not just price, but claim settlement ratios and customer service to ensure peace of mind during unforeseen events.
Exploring additional coverage options
While standard home insurance offers essential protection for your property, consider exploring add-on covers to tailor your policy to your specific needs. These optional benefits provide additional financial security in unforeseen circumstances.
Popular add on options include earthquake insurance coverage, flood insurance and jewellery coverage. There are add-ons that enable you to cover the cost of temporary accommodation, meals and other living expenses while your home is being rebuilt.
Many insurers offer comprehensive “package policies” that combine various covers, including the above options, under a single plan.
These can be more convenient and potentially cost-effective compared to purchasing individual add-ons separately. However, the decision between a basic or a package policy ultimately depends on your risk tolerance and budget. You can always consult with an insurance provider to help you find the right add-ons.
Selecting the right insurance partner
Selecting the right insurance partner involves more than just finding the cheapest quote. You want an insurer that delivers on their promises, efficiently settles claims, and offers dependable support.
Essential considerations must include the insurer’s financial strength and stability, as evidenced by strong ratings from agencies like CRISIL, ensuring they can cover claims under difficult circumstances.
The claim settlement ratio is crucial, with a higher ratio indicating a better chance of prompt claim approval and settlement.
Additionally, an insurer with a broad network of surveyors and repair companies can offer quick assessments and repairs, reducing life disruptions.
Instead of settling for the first quote, comparing options from various reputable insurers is advisable, looking beyond price to find comprehensive coverage and superior service.
This is a problem that is easily solved when you are buying your home via a trustworthy seller or a platform.
Many of the modern proptech services now help you find the home insurance provider and package that fits your requirements.
Conclusion
Owning a home marks a momentous new chapter in your life.
While savouring the experience, it’s crucial to secure your investment and ensure peace of mind in the face of unforeseen circumstances. This is where home insurance comes in.
Remember, this is the first step towards protecting your dream – research, compare, and choose the home insurance plan that best meets your individual needs.
This way, you can truly relax and enjoy your new chapter, knowing that your haven is well-guarded and your peace of mind secured.
—The author, Amit Agarwal, is CEO & Co-founder at NoBroker.com. The views expressed are personal.
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