If you own a home it is critical that you carry adequate home owners insurance to ensure you are properly protected. Insurance will give you peace of mind, but it should also not break the bank. Here are 10 ways to save money on your homeowner insurance policy.

The main reason to purchase homeowner's insurance is so that your house, belongings, and property will be covered financially in case of loss. The policy also provides liability insurance. There are many options available offering different amounts of coverage. If you have any valuable jewelry or art work, it's wise to purchase coverage specifically on it.

You will need to look through the policy before you purchase it. It is important to know what your policy entails and what is covered under it. You will need to read through the exclusions. At the very minimum, you should know what you are covered for so that you are not surprised if you need to file a claim.

Once you know what coverage you need, it's time to save some money. Follow these 10 tips to do just that.

1. Shop Around. Like with any purchase it pays to shop around. Ask friends and family for agents they have been pleased with. Check and compare homeowner insurance quotes online. Check with consumer agencies to find out a companies reputation.

2. Higher Deductibles. The higher your deductible the lower your premiums will be. This is a great way to save some money but you need to be smart about it! Don't choose a deductible that is more than you could afford to outlay. If you have a claim and cannot come up with your deductible your insurance will not kick in.

3. Combine Policies. If at all possible purchase your home, auto, health care, or any other policies you require from the same company. Often multiple policies can earn you up to 25% discount on all your policies.

4. Disaster Proof. Disaster proof your home so that you can earn additional discounts. Storm shutters, stronger roof materials, making your home earthquake proof can save you money. Check with your insurance agent to find out what upgrades would be beneficial.

The fifth point is home security. You can save between five and twenty percent every year when you have home security equipment put in. You can earn additional discounts for security when you install smoke detectors, dead bolts, sprinklers, and burglar alarms.

6. Good Credit. Believe it or not, your credit history affects your insurance costs. That's because the industry believes if you have good credit you are more responsible and therefore less likely to have a claim. So make sure your credit stays healthy.

VII. Do not alter your insurance provider every twelve months. Many places have a "loyalty discount" that comes about only if you do not switch providers for several years. This discount can be as much as five percent after 36 months, or 10% after 72 months.

8. Check Your Limits. Be sure to pay close attention to your coverage. Don't pay for coverage you don't need and do be sure to have adequate coverage where you need it. That fur coat you insured for $10,000 ten years ago. Do you still own it? That beautiful diamond ring that cost $5000, do you have coverage on it?

9. Know Before You. Buy When in the market for a home, watch for those little things that can make the difference in your policy premiums. Fire hydrants within so many feet can reduce your premiums. A volunteer fire department can increase your premiums. Some types of heating can increase your premiums. Some districts can increase your premiums.

10. Go after the discounts that many insurance companies offer. They probably won't tell you about them, so make sure you ask. One example might be a discount of as much as 10% for seniors. Association memberships may also result in a discounted premium.

Having the best insurance for your home will give you a sense of security. You will never have to worry in the event that something happens to your home. Therefore, it is important to choose the best company and policy for your home.