[grandma-annie]

I don't know if this is the right forum... but I am in need of some home insurance recommendations... I received a notice from my insurance company that because I am a snow bird that I would have to have "a monitored central burglar and fire alarm system and it has to be in a keypad protected building or be in a secured area with limited access "... I am coming down the first of January, am a new widow and don't think I should have to add this expense at this time. Help.... any ideas?

[buggyone]

You are not clear. Is the requirement for a burglar alarm system for your home in The Villages or where you are "up North"? I haven't heard of that requirement for homes in The Villages for snowbirds.

In either case, you had better do some quick checking around with other insurance companies to see if they also have the same requirement. Also, check on the "unoccupied home insurance" requirement in your area. If the home would be damaged and the requirements were not met, insurance companies will not pay for damages.

When I first came here 3 years ago, I did not know how long it would take to sell my home in Maryland. I was told by my insurance carrier (GEICO) that if the home was unoccupied for more than 90 days, I would need "unoccupied home insurance" which was very expensive. Luckily, the home sold in 8 days.

If the requirement for a burglar alarm system is for your home "up North", it may not be a bad idea at all to have one installed. I had one in Maryland for many years and it did lower insurance rates by about 20% and did stop at least one break-in during the daytime when I was at work.

[Fireball]

Buggyone is giving you good advice. We just got hosed big time by the insurance "fine print" requirements.

[KeepingItReal]

....

[BobnBev]

The McDonald agency in the Villages is our Allstate agent. Great people to work with, and Allstate also covers our house in CT. BTW, welcome to TV!! Where are you from "up North"?

[gomoho]

Originally Posted by KeepingItReal

Give Kate or Sharon a call at 352-326-8021, Thomas Insurance Services. They have been very good to work with and they actually appreciate your business.

Ditto on Thomas Insurance Services. Great company to work with and yes, they really do appreciate your business - just like the old days!

[GatorFan]

Ditto on The McDonald Agency 347-9201 ask for Sharon

[Bill-n-Brillo]

Contact Rita Canty with Brightway Insurance out of Jacksonville - (904) 646-1850

They represent a vast majority of the insurance companies what write HO insurance in FL. I'm sure they'll be able to help you.

Bill