Governor Crist and Insurance Commissioner McCarty Announce Updated Homeowners Insurance Comparison Web Site

The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation (“OIR”) announced the re-launch of the updated www.ShopAndCompareRates.com Web site today, August 5, 2008.  In conjunction with the Office of Governor Charlie Crist, the OIR activated the free, online tool in July 2007 to assist consumers looking to acquire or switch homeowners insurance coverage.

The OIR press release on today’s re-launch is below.

Should you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact Colodny Fass.

Governor Crist and Insurance Commissioner McCarty Announce Updated Web Site to Shop for Homeowners Insurance
 
TALLAHASSEE – Governor Charlie Crist and Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty today announced the launch of the updated www.ShopAndCompareRates.com Web site. The two offices activated the free, online tool in July 2007 to assist consumers looking to acquire or switch homeowners insurance coverage.
 
Among the improvements made to the Web site is the addition of average countywide premium examples for a $300,000 home. Previously, only countywide average premiums for a $150,000 home were on the Web site.
 
“It is important for homeowners to know they are not necessarily stuck with their current insurer,” said Governor Crist. “Although the rates listed are only examples, the Web site is a great resource to help people shop around and compare rates.”
 
Other changes include simplified explanations of terms and links to other Web sites that list the construction types and wind mitigation features, like shutters and reinforced garage doors, for which consumers can qualify for reduced insurance premiums.
 
“We have licensed over 25 new homeowners insurers since January 2006, and they are hungry for business,” said Commissioner McCarty. “Every company’s average rate and contact information is listed on the Web site, and we encourage folks to shop around for a better price.
 
“The additional premium example, along with the other site enhancements, will offer consumers a more comprehensive and user-friendly tool at a time when it has become very important to shop carefully for the best insurance deal to meet their individual needs.”
 
An average of 10,000 people visit the Web site every month; and since July 2007, nearly 160,000 people from around the world have used this online tool to compare homeowner insurance rates in Florida.

 

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