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Making an Insurance Comparison
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Graham McKenzie
Graham McKenzie is the content Syndication Manager at Insurance123.co.za South Africans leading car insurance information portal. 
By Graham McKenzie
Published on 25 April 2009
 
No one wants to be "taken" on their insurance premiums. It is hard not to view these payments as money down the drain, so many of us use price quotes as the deciding factor when we select auto, home or household insurance.

No one wants to be "taken" on their insurance premiums. It is hard not to view these payments as money down the drain, so many of us use price quotes as the deciding factor when we select auto, home or household insurance.

Many consumers come to regret the policies they purchased when it comes time to file a claim with their insurance companies. This is usually when we find out what we've been paying for with our premiums, and more often than not, we find out that we get what we pay for.

Therefore, a variety of companies can be found that offer excellent service and comparable pricing. In order to differentiate between them, you will need to do your homework. Research individual companies to determine their rates and benefits.

The simplest way to start is to look for insurance online, where you can find resources that explain terms and practices used in the industry. You should be able to get enough information to determine if a company warrants more specific consideration, including quotes, company histories, and cover information. You can thus avoid high-pressure sales pitches that are intended to force you into a hasty decision.

You need to understand the content of your policy and what you can expect if you need to make a claim. Don't be afraid to ask questions until all aspects of the policy are clear to you. If the company wants your business, you should expect them to do everything possible to earn your business.Once you begin negotiations with an insurance company, do not be intimidated by unfamiliar terms or a fast-talking consultant.

It is important to understand how insurance companies determine properties. It comes down to your risk level. If your risk levelis high so will be your premium and vice versa.

Several factors influence your risk profile, including, age, gender, place of residence, the value of the item(s) to be insured, your history of claims, the type and amount of cover you want to buy and the risk the item(s) being insured are exposed to. These factors can influence the various types of insurance in different ways, but some have the same effect on each insurance type.

Home, household, and car insurance will cost you more if you live in a high-crime area, because of the increased risk of burglary and hijacking. You can lower your car, household, and home insurance premiums if you add security measures beyond those required by the insurance company.

Excess refers to the amount you are responsible to pay when you file a claim. All car, home and household policies have minimum excess amounts, but you can raise yours in exchange for lower premiums.Consider increasing your excess amounts,if you can afford it.

If you have not filed many claims throughout your driving history, you may qualify for a discounted rate. If you have never carried insurance before, however, you will not qualify until you have established a history.