LELAND — Effective this week, Leland residents’ homeowner’s insurance will now be billed at a lower rate, thanks to Leland Fire/Rescue.
In January, Leland Fire/Rescue received notice from the Department of Insurance Office of State Fire Marshal that its fire insurance rating had lowered from a six to a four out of ten ( the lower the rating, the better the service).
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This means for about 30,000 people living in the Leland Fire/Rescue district are receiving a higher level of service. And for those who pay the homeowners’ insurance bills in the district, rates will decrease by an average of 8% for residential and 16% for commercial policyholders, according to Barry Smith, Department of Insurance spokesperson.
“What’s more important, though, is that the fire department is better equipped to fight a fire, save lives, prevent property damage,” Smith said. “[The rating] just doesn’t change overnight. They work hard at it.”
Improved services, growing community
Leland Fire/Rescue transitioned from a non-profit to a town department in July 2017. Since the transition, 25-year Chief John Grimes said the department’s paid staff has doubled — from 20 to 40 full-time employees by hiring on long-time volunteers. In the last decade, Leland Fire/Rescue has added on two new stations off Lanvale Road and near Westport on River Road.
“We’re transitioning from a rural area to a suburban area,” Grimes said. “It affects staffing, the way we deliver emergency services.”
Generally, state inspectors issue ratings every 10 years, but Grimes said the department can request new ratings more often as the community continues to grow.
Not everyone will see decreased bills. Grimes said the discount comes into effect for those living within five miles of a station and within 1,000 feet of a fire hydrant — this includes all of Leland’s established subdivision communities.
Smith residents in the district should double-check their insurance renewal policy to make sure the updated fire rating — which took effect May 1 — was taken into account. He estimated on an annual $1,000 homeowners insurance bill, the change would result in about an $80 discount.
“You won’t be able to buy a new car with it, but it’s a little bit extra,” Smith said.
Send tips and comments to Johanna Ferebee at [email protected]
