Switching insurance companies???

[disneymom3]

Okay, so here is the deal. DHs family has used the same ins co for like 35 years or more. We like them a lot. They do a good job, you know you can rely on them if something goes wrong, they know my kids names, etc. When we bought a new house, we were literally on the way to the closing and I realized I hadn't gotten the insurance binder. Called them on my cell and they faxed it to the closing co stating "paid in full" and it really wasn't until the next day.

Now I am looking at serious ways to save money and am thinking we could save some $ by changing our car insurance if nothing else. BUT, I like this company. What if I switch and then don't have as good of service or whatever?

Give me your honest and brutal opinions budget masters!

 

[Grumpy's Gal]

I don't really trust insurance companies so if you have one you like, I'd sure stick with them. I think that saving money in this way might end up costing you more money if something happens. Have you talked to your insurance company and ask if there's any way to save money with them? You might try that. They might surprise you.

 

[GIOny]

There is alot to be said for customer service. Do you have insurance with an independent agent? If so, you can ask them to shop other companies that they represent. If they don't, then you can shop it, I think you can do it on the internet. Don't forget to compare apples to apples, because alot of times when you recieve quotes from other companies they leave out some little detail that later can turm out to be major, of course if they leave out some coverage the rate is cheaper. If it's a difference of not that much money, I would stick with the good customer service and the ones who have gone out of their way to help you through the years. Good Luck

 

[disneymom3]

Thanks guys. Now I don't feel so crazy for not wanting to switch!!

They are not an independent agent--it's State Farm.

 

[HERSEY]

Even though I like my insurance agent and company, I periodically get quotes from other companies. So far I haven't found one that has as competive rates. I have car home and life with the same company. Good Customer service is worth quite a bit. Talk to your agent, He should be able to advise you on ways to save money on your premiums.

 

[juliegirl]

I work for a major insurance company and I would stick with one you know and trust.

Maybe raise your deductibles (if you can afford to cover the higher deductible in the event of a loss) if you NEED to save money, but I would stay with the reps you like.

I didn't even change to my employer's insurance when I started working there, it was not worth it to me, to give up someone I trust and like.

 

[Okiemom]

My husband and I have run an agency for 23 years, and there is alot to think about as far as insurance coverage, etc... Our company has new discounts come along pretty often, so I would sure call and ask for a review. But if they service you well, return your calls, are honest I would really think before moving.
We see so many people come into our office and did not even realize their home policy from their current Insurance Company had a percent deductable on their roof, as much as 3% of their dwelling. Or they did not realize they did not have replacement cost on their home, which can make a big difference in a claim. I think some companies sell "price", so we really try to point out what they really have.
But I would sure call and see if there are any new discounts available to you. You can really save some money sometimes.

 

[twojo21]

many companies offer home & auto discounts 5-20%, so you will most likely lose the discount with your current company or if you switch without having both policies with the same company. i agree with others a good insurance company is hard to find but money savings is important. call your current company & ask about ways to reduce your policy premium, by reprocessing/migrating the policy, changing policy coverage as needed or reviewing available discounts like renovated home discount, alarm system/protective device discount, etc on the home & good student/resident student/teensmart discount, antitheft, etc on the auto. also when getting insurance quotes elsewhere check ambest & the dept. of insurance in your state to see how the company is rated for customer service, claim handling & cash reserves.

 

[canwegosoon]

I would ditto the calling, perhaps there is a discount you qualify for. We love our ins agent too. I know I could save money else where, but when I call, he knows me and helps me any way he can.

 

[my3kids]

If you personally know your agent, I would not switch to save a few dollars.

 

[becky7953]

Don't switch If you like them and are happy with them stay. Sometimes it is worth the extra money.

 

[tlbwriter]

An agent who actually provides good customer service is worth a lot, IMHO.

 

[disneymom3]

Well, the overwhelming favorite opinion is obviously to stay where we are! That is good for me because I didn't want to switch anyway! I was really just feeling like maybe it was not money savy to stay where I am. I feel better now!! Thanks guys!

 

[kaddjr]

An agent who actually provides good customer service is worth a lot, IMHO.

I called my former agent 3 weeks ago, requesting that he check with other companies that he insures with for lower rates and suggestions on lower rates. I didn't get any response at all! So, last week DH called an aquaintance of his who happens to be an agent. As of yesterday, we now have better coverage, lower rates, and a less confusing payment plan. I received cancellation papers from the former agent today and had to call them with a question. The gal on the other end said, "Gee, you have been with us for a long time- hate to see you leave." I told her that I had called about 3 weeks ago requesting quotes. She said, "Well, I see you were with XXXX XXXXXX and they are the best we have right now." I replied, "Well, gee, I didn't even receive a courtesy call to let me know that and THAT is one of the main reasons why we are leaving (on top of saving $433/yr )!"