TDI TO HELP HOMEOWNERS

The Texas Department of Insurance is launching a new program and Web site, www.helpinsure.com, designed to help consumers find homeowners insurance. Governor Rick Perry directed TDI in August to find new ways for consumers and insurance companies to connect in the existing marketplace. The marketing campaign to promote the Helpinsure.com program, which is the result of Perry’s directive, will consist of both print and radio public service announcements. The program is designed to provide Texans with three distinct levels of help: 1.) Consumers may sign-up by providing information about their homeowners’ insurance needs. Helpinsure.com will then provide this information to insurance providers and independent agents who are selling homeowners policies; 2.) Helpinsure.com will provide consumers a listing of current providers of homeowners insurance in Texas and contact information and; 3.) Helpinsure.com will provide an extensive learning center to answer consumer questions about homeowners insurance. It includes TDI’s 2002 rate guide, smart shopping tips, advice, information columns, and complaint information. TDI is working with and encouraging the insurance industry to participate in this new program. Insurers are not required to accept applicants and may follow their own underwriting standards when reviewing any applicant participating in the program. Information provided by consumers will be secure and can be accessed only by insurance agents and companies. The program’s toll free telephone number is (866) 695-6873.