I hate the scare tactics associated with insurance. In all honesty, most people will never use insurance if they are buying the insurance they actually need, high deductible (no less than $2000), assuming you are on the FI track.
Don't pay for perceived improved customer, etc... Yes, make sure your contract does what you want it to do, protect your downside in the event of a disaster. However, why pay thousands of dollars for something you are unlikely to use, like more attentive customer service, quicker assessments, etc.
Example, former car insurance was $750. Switched to new policy for $320, same protection, same deductible, just different company without the local agent (who we never met in over a decade). I also got rid of thing that don't apply like uninsured motorist (which you only need if you have no health insurance).
I'm also in the process of switching homeowners. We are getting ripped off so bad! There is all kinds of crap that we will never use: fraud protection, etc.
To mtnrider, the agent is not interested in deciphering contracts for your favor, he/she wants to sell you what gets him/her the most commission. If you feel uncomfortable reading the policy consider hiring an independent person without conflict of interest.
