Getting a discount on your homeowners insurance is easier than you may think.

Making small improvements to ensure both the security of your home and the safety of yourself, your family and your guests can lower your rates. Here are nine simple upgrades to consider.

1. Dead bolts and window locks

If you live in an older home, it’s possible your door and window locks could use an upgrade. You should have a deadbolt on every door into your home, not just the front door, and today’s state-of-the-art window locks use keys, bolts, pins and wedges to keep would-be thieves out. You can even use your smartphone to monitor some deadbolts and locks.

2. Security system

These days, security systems can be anything from a simple alarm, video camera or motion sensor to elaborate smart home systems that let you see anything from anywhere. Connecting the system directly to the police often lowers insurance rates because it eliminates any lag time after an intrusion is detected.

3. Smoke detectors

Most homes have smoke detectors, but many homeowners forget to test (at least once a year) or replace them (every ten years). An aging smoke alarm can be as bad as no smoke alarm, signaling false alarms or—worse—nothing at all in a real fire.

4. Sprinkler system

Many homeowners don’t realize that the sprinkler systems required in many public buildings are an option in their own homes. These systems are proven to reduce heat, flames and smoke in the event of a fire, potentially saving lives and limiting damage to your home and possessions.

5. Water sensors

Avoid water damage in your home with water sensors, which can be either passive (with alarms or lights to signal leaks) or active (which shut off the water source completely if they detect a leak).

6. Storm shutters

You and your insurance company will both appreciate storm shutters the next time a hurricane is barreling up the east coast. A broken window in a storm can result in untold damage to walls, floors and furniture, costing far more to fix than just the price of a pane of glass.

7. New wiring

You probably don’t think about what’s inside your walls until something stops working, but old wiring is another serious fire hazard. Have an electrician inspect all wiring and replace anything that isn’t up-to-date, even if it’s not (yet) a danger.

8. Clear sidewalks

Snow- or ice-covered sidewalks are a danger to your family and passersby alike that could results in injuries or even a lawsuit. Contracting a professional snow removal service ensures that your sidewalks are always safe, within the amount of time after a storm required by your town.

9. No smoking

Smoking isn’t just bad for you—it’s also a fire risk. Cigarettes are the ignition source in more than 20% of fatal household fires, according to the National Fire Protection Association.

No one knows your home better than you, and no one knows the best ways to save on homeowners insurance than a qualified agent. Contact John B Wright today for a free quote.