Insurance Blog???

Why you should consider Erie Insurance.

Erie Insurance is a well-known insurance company that has been serving customers for almost a century. The company was founded in 1925 in Erie, Pennsylvania, and has since expanded its operations to 12 states in the U.S. Erie Insurance is known for providing a range of insurance products, including auto, home, and life insurance, as well as business and commercial insurance.

One of the key benefits of Erie Insurance is its commitment to providing excellent customer service. The company has consistently ranked high in customer satisfaction surveys and has received numerous awards for its customer service. In fact, Erie Insurance has been recognized as one of the best companies for customer service by J.D. Power for several years in a row.

Another benefit of Erie Insurance is its competitive pricing. The company offers affordable insurance rates without sacrificing coverage or service. Erie Insurance also offers discounts for safe driving, bundling policies, and for having safety features installed in your home or vehicle.

Erie Insurance also has a reputation for being reliable and dependable. The company has an A+ rating from A.M. Best, a leading rating agency for the insurance industry, which indicates that Erie Insurance has a strong financial standing and is able to meet its financial obligations.

In addition to these benefits, Erie Insurance has also received numerous awards and recognitions for its products and services. For example, Erie Insurance was named the top auto insurer in the nation by Consumer Reports in 2019. The company has also been recognized for its outstanding workplace culture and was named one of the best places to work in the insurance industry by Business Insurance in 2020.

Overall, Erie Insurance is a trusted insurance company that offers a range of benefits to its customers. From excellent customer service and competitive pricing to reliable coverage and numerous awards and recognitions, Erie Insurance is a top choice for those in need of insurance.

Exciting News!!! New Carrier Alert!!!

Exciting news for all our valued clients! We are thrilled to announce the addition of a new insurance carrier to our already extensive lineup of insurance options. We are proud to introduce Erie Insurance to our family of insurance carriers.

At Advantage Insurance Agency, we believe in providing our clients with a variety of insurance options to fit their unique needs. Erie Insurance is a well-established insurance company that has been providing quality insurance solutions for over 100 years. With a focus on protecting the things that matter most to our clients, Erie Insurance offers a range of insurance products, including auto, home, life, and business insurance.

One of the things that sets Erie Insurance apart from the competition is their commitment to providing excellent customer service. They have a reputation for handling claims quickly and fairly, which is important to our clients who want to know that they will be taken care of in the event of a loss. In addition, Erie Insurance has a strong financial rating, which provides peace of mind to our clients who want to know that their insurance carrier will be able to pay their claims. Industry leading benefits like guaranteed replacement cost for your home as well as Auto Rate Lock for your auto insurance, make this company stand out from all other companies.

At our agency, we work hard to stay up-to-date on the latest insurance products and services, so we can provide our clients with the best possible insurance solutions. The addition of Erie Insurance to our lineup of insurance carriers is just one more way we are working to meet the evolving needs of our clients.

If you are interested in learning more about the insurance options available through Erie Insurance, we encourage you to contact one of our knowledgeable insurance agents. They will be happy to answer any questions you have and help you determine if Erie Insurance is the right insurance carrier for you.

We are always working to expand and improve our insurance offerings, and the addition of Erie Insurance is just one of the many ways we are doing that. We look forward to serving you and providing you with the insurance solutions you need to protect the things that matter most to you.

Thank you for choosing our independent insurance agency, where you can always expect the best insurance options and exceptional customer service.

Why do you need to shop your Auto Insurance every couple of years?

Auto insurance is a necessary expense for drivers, as it provides protection and financial support in case of accidents or damages. However, many drivers make the mistake of sticking with the same insurance company for years without re-evaluating their coverage and rates. It's important to shop for auto insurance every couple of years for several reasons.

• Insurance rates change over time: Insurance rates are constantly changing due to a variety of factors such as inflation, industry trends, and the risk profiles of different drivers. As a result, the insurance company that offered you the best rate a few years ago may not be the most cost-effective option now. By shopping around, you can find the best rates available and potentially save hundreds of dollars a year on your premium.
• Your driving record may improve: If you've been a safe and responsible driver, you may be eligible for lower rates or discounts that you weren't eligible for when you first signed up for auto insurance. For example, some insurance companies offer discounts for drivers who take defensive driving courses or install safety features in their vehicles. By shopping around and comparing quotes, you can ensure that you're taking advantage of all the discounts available to you.
• You may have new insurance needs: As your life circumstances change, your insurance needs may also change. For example, if you've recently purchased a new car, you may need to adjust your coverage levels to protect your investment. Similarly, if you've moved to a new location or started a new job with a longer commute, you may need to adjust your coverage levels to ensure that you're adequately protected.
• Customer service matters: In addition to finding the best rates, it's important to consider the customer service and claims handling of different insurance companies. If you've had a negative experience with your current insurance company or have heard complaints from others, it may be time to switch to a new provider.

In conclusion, shopping for auto insurance every couple of years is an important part of being a responsible driver. By comparing rates, taking advantage of discounts, and ensuring that your coverage levels meet your current needs, you can save money and have peace of mind knowing that you're adequately protected on the road.

How do you evaluate a homeowner's policy?

First thing to look at is Coverage A.

Coverage A is the main coverage in a homeowner's insurance policy. It provides coverage for the dwelling, which includes the structure of the home, attached structures such as a garage or shed, and permanent fixtures such as built-in appliances. The purpose of Coverage A is to protect the homeowner from financial loss in the event that their home is damaged or destroyed.

Here are the key components of Coverage A:

Coverage Limits: The coverage limit is the maximum amount that the insurance company will pay out in the event of a claim. This limit is determined by the homeowner and should reflect the cost to rebuild the home. This is not market value. It is only based on the cost to rebuild the home building materials and labor.

Most of the other coverages are based off of a percentage of the limits of Coverage A. (i.e. Coverage B, Coverage C)

Most insurance companies limit their responsibility to rebuild your home in case of a total loss to cap at that Coverage A limit. However, we have multiple companies that will rebuild your home no matter how much it costs.

That kind of peace of mind might sound expensive but it can be even less than what you are paying now.

Coverage B- Other Structures

Coverage B is the second coverage in a homeowner's insurance policy and provides coverage for other structures on the property. Other structures include detached garages, sheds, fences, and other structures that are separate from the main dwelling. The purpose of Coverage B is to protect the homeowner from financial loss in the event that these structures are damaged or destroyed.

Here are the key components of Coverage B:

• Coverage Limits: The coverage limit is the maximum amount that the insurance company will pay out in the event of a claim. This limit should reflect the cost to repair or rebuild the other structures on the property.
• Perils Covered: Coverage B provides protection against the same perils that are covered under Coverage A, such as fire, lightning, windstorms, and hail.
• Deductible: Like Coverage A, a deductible is the amount that the homeowner must pay out of pocket before the insurance company will begin to cover the cost of a claim. Deductibles can vary depending on the policy.
• Percentage of Coverage A: Coverage B is typically expressed as a percentage of Coverage A, so the homeowner should review the policy to determine the exact amount of coverage for other structures.
• Flood and Earthquake Coverage: Flood and earthquake coverage may not be included in Coverage B. Homeowners who live in areas prone to these types of natural disasters may need to purchase additional coverage to protect themselves from financial loss.

Coverage B is an important component of a homeowner's insurance policy. It provides protection for other structures on the property, and is designed to help homeowners recover from financial loss in the event of a covered claim. Homeowners should understand the coverage limits, perils covered, deductible, and percentage of Coverage A that are included in Coverage B, and should review their policy regularly to ensure that it meets their needs.

Coverage C - Personal Property

Coverage C is the third coverage in a homeowner's insurance policy and provides coverage for personal property, such as furniture, clothing, electronics, and other items that are not permanently attached to the home. The purpose of Coverage C is to protect the homeowner from financial loss in the event that their personal property is damaged or destroyed. There are two types of repayment methods, replacement cost and actual cash value.

Here are the key components of Coverage C:

• Coverage Limits: The coverage limit is the maximum amount that the insurance company will pay out in the event of a claim. This limit should reflect the cost to replace the homeowner's personal property.
• Perils Covered: Coverage C provides protection against the same perils that are covered under Coverage A and B, such as fire, lightning, windstorms, and hail.
• Deductible: Like Coverage A and B, a deductible is the amount that the homeowner must pay out of pocket before the insurance company will begin to cover the cost of a claim. Deductibles can vary depending on the policy.
• Scheduled Personal Property: Some types of personal property, such as jewelry, collectibles, and fine art, may have a separate coverage limit. These items are known as "scheduled personal property" and may require an endorsement to the policy.
• Flood and Earthquake Coverage: Flood and earthquake coverage may not be included in Coverage C. Homeowners who live in areas prone to these types of natural disasters may need to purchase additional coverage to protect themselves from financial loss.

Coverage C is an important component of a homeowner's insurance policy. It provides protection for personal property, and is designed to help homeowners recover from financial loss in the event of a covered claim. Homeowners should understand the coverage limits, perils covered, deductible, and scheduled personal property that are included in Coverage C, and should review their policy regularly to ensure that it meets their needs.

Coverage D - Loss of Use

Coverage D, also known as loss of use coverage, is a component of a homeowner's insurance policy that provides coverage for additional living expenses incurred as a result of a covered loss. This coverage is designed to help homeowners who are temporarily displaced from their homes due to damage from a covered peril.

Here are the key components of Coverage D:

• Coverage Limits: The coverage limit is the maximum amount that the insurance company will pay out for additional living expenses. This limit should reflect the cost of temporarily residing in a hotel or rental property.
• Perils Covered: Coverage D provides protection in the event that a covered peril, such as fire or windstorm, damages the home and makes it uninhabitable.
• Time Limit: Coverage D typically has a time limit, which is the maximum number of days or months that the insurance company will cover additional living expenses.
• Reimbursement: Coverage D will reimburse the homeowner for additional living expenses incurred as a result of the covered loss, such as hotel bills, meals, and other expenses related to temporary housing.
• Exclusions: Coverage D may not cover all additional living expenses, such as lost income, and may have exclusions for luxury items or expenses that are considered unreasonable.

Coverage D is an important component of a homeowner's insurance policy. It provides coverage for additional living expenses incurred as a result of a covered loss, and is designed to help homeowners who are temporarily displaced from their homes. Homeowners should understand the coverage limits, perils covered, time limit, reimbursement, and exclusions that are included in Coverage D, and should review their policy regularly to ensure that it meets their needs.

Coverage E - Personal Liability

Coverage E, also known as personal liability coverage, is a component of a homeowner's insurance policy that provides protection for the policyholder in the event that they are sued for causing injury to another person or damaging another person's property.

Here are the key components of Coverage E:

• Coverage Limits: The coverage limit is the maximum amount that the insurance company will pay out in the event of a claim. This limit should reflect the policyholder's financial exposure in the event of a lawsuit.
• Perils Covered: Coverage E provides protection for the policyholder in the event that they are sued for causing injury to another person or damaging another person's property. This can include incidents such as a slip and fall accident on the homeowner's property, or damage caused by a pet.
• Defense Costs: Coverage E also covers the cost of defending the policyholder in court in the event of a lawsuit.
• Exclusions: Coverage E may have exclusions for intentional acts or illegal activities.

Coverage E is an important component of a homeowner's insurance policy. It provides protection for the policyholder in the event that they are sued for causing injury to another person or damaging another person's property, and is designed to help the policyholder recover from financial loss in the event of a covered claim. Homeowners should understand the coverage limits, perils covered, defense costs, and exclusions that are included in Coverage E, and should review their policy regularly to ensure that it meets their needs.

Coverage F - Medical Payments

Coverage F, also known as medical payments to others coverage, is a component of a homeowner's insurance policy that provides coverage for medical expenses incurred by someone who is injured on the homeowner's property.

Here are the key components of Coverage F:

• Coverage Limits: The coverage limit is the maximum amount that the insurance company will pay out for medical expenses incurred by someone who is injured on the homeowner's property. This limit should reflect the policyholder's financial exposure in the event of an injury.
• Perils Covered: Coverage F provides coverage for medical expenses incurred by someone who is injured on the homeowner's property, regardless of fault.
• Time Limit: Coverage F typically has a time limit for payment of medical expenses, which is the maximum number of days or months that the insurance company will cover medical expenses.
• Reimbursement: Coverage F will reimburse the policyholder for medical expenses incurred by someone who is injured on the homeowner's property.
• Exclusions: Coverage F may have exclusions for intentional acts or illegal activities.

Coverage F is an important component of a homeowner's insurance policy. It provides coverage for medical expenses incurred by someone who is injured on the homeowner's property, and is designed to help the policyholder recover from financial loss in the event of a covered injury. Homeowners should understand the coverage limits, perils covered, time limit, reimbursement, and exclusions that are included in Coverage F, and should review their policy regularly to ensure that it meets their needs.

Other optional endorsements:

Here are some of the most common optional homeowners insurance endorsements, and their benefits:

• Umbrella Insurance: Umbrella insurance provides an extra layer of liability protection, typically in increments of $1 million. It covers claims that exceed the limits of a homeowner's insurance policy and can help protect the policyholder's assets in the event of a lawsuit.
• Flood Insurance: Flood insurance provides coverage for damage to the home and its contents caused by floods. This coverage is important for homeowners who live in flood-prone areas, as it is not typically included in standard homeowners insurance policies.
• Earthquake Insurance: Earthquake insurance provides coverage for damage to the home and its contents caused by earthquakes. This coverage is important for homeowners who live in earthquake-prone areas, as it is not typically included in standard homeowners insurance policies.
• Personal Injury Coverage: Personal injury coverage provides protection for the policyholder in the event that they are sued for causing injury to another person, including damage to another person's reputation. This coverage is important for homeowners who are at risk of being sued for defamation, invasion of privacy, or other similar claims.
• Scheduled Personal Property Coverage: Scheduled personal property coverage provides coverage for high-value items, such as jewelry, fine art, and collectibles. This coverage provides broader protection and higher coverage limits than are typically included in standard homeowners insurance policies.
• Water Backup Coverage: Water backup coverage provides protection for damage caused by water that backs up through sewers or drains. This coverage is important for homeowners who live in areas prone to flooding, as it is not typically included in standard homeowners insurance policies.
• Underground Service Line: This covers water mains and sewer mains that run from the city lines to your home. This can cost a homeowner $10,000 or more to replace these lines.
• Identity Theft Protection: This coverage can be used to cover the costs of remediating the effects of identity theft including legal fees and administration fees.
• Siding and Roofing Restoration Coverage: If a loss occurs that effects roofing or siding, the products used replacing the damaged areas with exactly the same product in the same color. If it is no longer available, the carrier will replace all of the siding or all of the roofing materials.
• Business Property: This coverage effects any property used to conduct business that would happen to be at a personal residence.
  
  These are just a few of the available endorsements that can be added to your policy to protect you against perils. Endorsements are not mandatory, only an agent that digs into your specific needs can protect you when the worst circumstances happen.

Uninsured drivers Are responsible for your high car insurance rates. Here's why!

Uninsured drivers can cause rates to go up for a number of reasons. The most obvious reason is that when an uninsured driver causes an accident, the cost of that accident falls on the insured drivers who are involved in the accident or on the insurance company. This can lead to higher rates for everyone.

Another reason that uninsured drivers cause rates to go up is that they often drive recklessly or negligently. This puts other drivers at risk, which can lead to more accidents and higher rates for everyone. Tennessee is ranked #3 for highest rate of uninsured drivers at 23.7%.

There are a few things you can do to protect yourself from uninsured drivers. The first thing is to make sure that you have adequate insurance coverage. This will help to cover the cost of an accident if you are hit by an uninsured driver.

Another thing you can do is to be aware of your surroundings when you are driving. Try to stay out of the way of drivers who seem to be driving recklessly or negligently.

You can also take steps to reduce your risk of being in an accident with an uninsured driver. This can include things like taking a defensive driving course, avoiding driving during rush hour, and avoiding certain areas of town where there is a lot of traffic.

Additionally, you can also invest in an uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage will protect you in the event of an accident caused by an uninsured driver. It will pay for your medical expenses, repairs to your vehicle, and other damages.

Overall, uninsured drivers can cause rates to go up for everyone, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. By making sure you have adequate insurance coverage, being aware of your surroundings when you drive, taking steps to reduce your risk of being in an accident with an uninsured driver, and investing in uninsured motorist coverage, you can help to protect yourself from the negative impacts of uninsured drivers.

Save Money on your Auto Insurance with these tips!

Are you tired of feeling like you're getting ripped off by your auto insurance company? Well, have no fear! Here are some tips to help you save some serious dough on your car insurance.

• Get a good driver discount: This one is a no-brainer. If you're a safe driver, your insurance company will reward you with a discount. Just don't go around telling everyone that you're a good driver, you might be inviting tragedy.
• Get a bundle discount: If you bundle your car insurance with your home insurance, you'll save even more. Just make sure you don't bundle it with your pet insurance, unless you're insuring a car for your hamster.
• Raise your deductibles: The higher your deductibles, the lower your premium. Just make sure you have enough money saved up in case you do have to make a claim.
• Get a cheaper car: If you're looking to save money on car insurance, consider getting a cheaper car. Not only will you save on the cost of the car, but you'll also save on the cost of the insurance. And let's be real, do you really need that fancy sports car to impress the neighbors?
• Don't speed: This one is pretty self-explanatory. If you don't speed, you won't get speeding tickets, and your insurance company will love you. Plus, you'll get to your destination just as fast, without the added stress of constantly looking over your shoulder for the cops.
• Don't drink and drive: Let's be real, this one is a no-brainer. Not only is it illegal, but it can also be deadly. Plus, your insurance company will not be happy if you get a DUI and your rates will go through the roof.

In short, if you follow these tips, you'll be on your way to saving money on your car insurance. Just remember, insurance companies love safe drivers, so drive safely and enjoy the savings!

How the Age Of Your Roof is important to Insurance companies?

The age of your roof can have a significant impact on your homeowners insurance rates. As your roof ages, it becomes more susceptible to damage from natural elements such as rain, wind, and hail. This increased risk of damage can lead to higher insurance rates, as the insurance company must factor in the likelihood of a claim being made.

One of the main factors that insurance companies consider when determining rates is the condition of the roof. If your roof is older and in poor condition, the insurance company will likely charge you a higher rate. On the other hand, if your roof is newer and in good condition, your rates may be lower.

Another factor that insurance companies consider is the type of roof you have. Some types of roofs, such as metal and tile, are more durable and resistant to damage than others, like asphalt shingles. This means that if you have a durable roof, your rates may be lower than if you have a less durable roof.

It is important to note that insurance companies also take into account the climate in the area where your home is located. If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, such as hurricanes or tornadoes, your rates may be higher than if you live in an area with milder weather.

In summary, the age and condition of your roof can have a significant impact on your homeowners insurance rates. If your roof is older and in poor condition, your rates may be higher. On the other hand, if your roof is newer and in good condition, your rates may be lower. It is also important to consider the type of roof you have and the climate in your area when determining your rates.

How does Homeowners Insurance affect your Mortgage Payment?

Homeowners insurance is an important aspect of owning a home, as it protects you and your property from a variety of potential hazards. However, did you know that your homeowners insurance can also have an impact on your mortgage payment?

When you take out a mortgage to purchase a home, the lender will require you to have homeowners insurance in place. This is to protect the lender's investment in the property, as well as to ensure that you have adequate coverage in the event of a loss.

One way that homeowners insurance can affect your mortgage payment is through the use of escrow. Escrow is a system in which the lender holds a portion of your mortgage payment in an account, and uses it to pay your property taxes and insurance premiums on your behalf. This means that your insurance premium will be included in your monthly mortgage payment, rather than being paid separately.

Another way that homeowners insurance can affect your mortgage payment is through the cost of the premium itself. The cost of homeowners insurance can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the location of your home, the age and condition of the property, and the amount of coverage you choose. If your insurance premium is higher than the lender's estimate, it can result in a higher mortgage payment.

It's also important to remember that your insurance premium can change over time, due to factors such as inflation or changes in the local housing market. This means that your mortgage payment can change as well, if your insurance premium goes up or down.

To ensure that your homeowners insurance doesn't have a negative impact on your mortgage payment, it's important to shop around for the best policy and coverage options. We can help you shop for the best coverage options at the best rates to possibly lower your mortgage payments and still keep you and your lender protected.

In summary, homeowners insurance plays an important role in protecting your home and assets, but it also can affect your mortgage payment. By understanding how escrow and insurance premium costs work, you can make informed decisions and keep your payments as low as possible.

How can I save money on my Auto Insurance?

Auto insurance is a necessary expense for most drivers, but it doesn't have to be a budget-buster. There are several ways that consumers can save money on their auto insurance premiums.

• Shop around: One of the best ways to save money on auto insurance is to shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies. Prices can vary widely, so it's important to compare at least three to four quotes to find the best deal. We shop over 20 companies everytime we quote.
• Raise your deductible: Another way to save money on your auto insurance is to raise your deductible. A higher deductible means that you'll have to pay more out of pocket in the event of an accident, but it can also result in lower monthly premiums.
• Bundle your policies: Many insurance companies offer discounts for customers who bundle multiple policies, such as home and auto insurance. Bundling your policies can save you money on both types of insurance.
• Take advantage of discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like good driving records, taking defensive driving courses, certain professions, and having multiple cars on a policy. Be sure to ask us about any discounts that may apply to you.
• Drive a safe car: The type of car you drive can also impact your insurance rates. Cars that are expensive to repair or that have a high rate of theft will typically have higher insurance rates.
• Use telematics: Some insurance companies use telematics to track your driving habits and offer discounts if you drive safely. This type of insurance is also known as usage-based or pay-as-you-drive insurance.

By following these tips, consumers can save money on their auto insurance without sacrificing coverage or protection. Remember, it's always a good idea to review your insurance policy and compare quotes periodically to make sure you are still getting the best deal possible.

How is my Homeowner's Insurance rate calculated?

Homeowners insurance is a necessary expense for protecting your home and personal property, but the cost can vary greatly from one policy to another. So, how do insurance companies determine the rates for homeowners insurance?

The process of determining homeowners insurance rates is known as rating, and it takes into account a variety of factors. Some of the most important factors that insurance companies consider when setting rates include:

• The location of the home: Homes located in areas that are prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes or earthquakes, will generally have higher rates than homes in less risky areas.
• The age and condition of the home: Older homes may require more maintenance and repairs, and may be more susceptible to damage from natural disasters, which can result in higher rates.
• The value of the home and personal property: The cost to replace your home and personal property will be considered when determining your rates.
• The type of coverage: The level of coverage you choose will also play a role in determining your rates. For example, a policy with more coverage will typically be more expensive than one with less coverage.
• Your claims history: Insurance companies will also look at your claims history when determining your rates. If you have a history of filing claims, you may be considered a higher risk, and your rates may be higher.
• Your credit score: Your credit score can also impact your rates, as insurance companies may view a low credit score as a sign of increased risk.

It is important to note that different insurance companies may weigh these factors differently, so it is always a good idea to shop around and compare rates from multiple companies.

In conclusion, insurance companies use a variety of factors to determine the rates for homeowners insurance, including the location, age, and condition of the home, the value of the home and personal property, the type of coverage, claims history and credit score. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions about your homeowners insurance and potentially find ways to lower your rates.

Why do Car Insurance rates go up every year even if you don't have any tickets or claims?

Car insurance rates can be confusing and frustrating, especially when they go up even though you haven't had any tickets or claims. There are several factors that can contribute to an increase in your car insurance rates, even if you have a clean driving record.

One of the most common reasons for an increase in car insurance rates is your location. Insurance companies take into account the crime rate and the likelihood of accidents in your area. If you live in a high-risk area, your rates may be higher than someone who lives in a low-risk area.

Another factor that can affect your car insurance rates is your age and gender. Young drivers and males are considered to be higher risk and therefore may pay higher rates.

Your credit score can also impact your car insurance rates. Insurance companies may consider you a higher risk if you have a low credit score, as they may believe that you are more likely to file a claim.

Changes in the insurance market can also affect your car insurance rates. If there is an increase in the number of claims or the cost of claims, insurance companies may raise their rates to cover their costs.

Finally, the type of car you drive can also affect your car insurance rates. Cars that are more expensive to repair or replace, or that are more likely to be stolen, will typically have higher insurance rates.

In conclusion, there are many factors that can cause car insurance rates to go up, even if you haven't had any tickets or claims. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about your car insurance, and may even help you find ways to lower your rates.

What is a deductible?

A deductible is the amount of money you agree to pay out-of-pocket before your insurance kicks in. So, if you have a $1,000 deductible and you file a claim for $5,000 in damages, you'll have to pay the first $1,000 and your insurance will cover the remaining $4,000.

It's important to keep in mind that the higher your deductible, the lower your insurance premium will be. However, this also means that you'll have to pay more out-of-pocket if you file a claim. It's a trade-off between the cost of insurance and how much you're willing to pay out-of-pocket.

Make sure you understand your deductible before you file a claim and if you have any questions feel free to reach out to your insurance agent or company. Happy to help you to have the best coverage for your home.

Why You Need a Personal Umbrella Policy!

A personal umbrella policy is an additional layer of liability insurance that provides protection above and beyond the limits of your regular liability insurance policies. It's called an "umbrella" policy because it covers a wide range of liabilities and provides an extra layer of protection for you and your family.

There are several situations in which a personal umbrella policy can be beneficial for a family:

• If you have a high net worth: If you have a significant amount of assets, such as a home, investments, and savings, you may be at risk of being sued for a large amount of money. A personal umbrella policy can provide extra protection in case you are sued and the damages exceed the limits of your regular liability insurance.
• If you own a business: If you own a business, you may be at risk of being sued for business-related liabilities. A personal umbrella policy can provide extra protection in case you are sued and the damages exceed the limits of your business liability insurance.
• If you participate in high-risk activities: If you or a member of your family participates in activities such as boating, skiing, or horseback riding, you may be at a higher risk of being sued for damages or injuries. A personal umbrella policy can provide extra protection in case you are sued and the damages exceed the limits of your regular liability insurance.
• If you have a teenager who is learning to drive: As mentioned earlier, having a teenager who is learning to drive can be nerve-wracking. A personal umbrella policy can provide extra protection in case your teenager is involved in an accident and the damages exceed the limits of your regular liability insurance.

In conclusion, a personal umbrella policy can provide an extra layer of protection for your family in case of unexpected liabilities or accidents. It's especially important for families who have a high net worth, own a business, participate in high-risk activities, or have a teenager who is learning to drive.

How to choose Home Insurance in 5 steps?

The decision to purchase home insurance may be the most important one that a homeowner has to make. Homeowners need to understand what they are getting into before purchasing any coverage for their home, and it is always best to do research on homeowners insurance in order to find out how much you should pay for your monthly premiums as well as what type of coverage you will receive so that if anything were ever to happen, you would know exactly where you stand with the law.

The following article provides 5 simple steps on how homeowners can choose between different types of home insurance plans offered by various companies so that they can get the right amount of protection without having too many headaches later down the line.

Choosing the right home insurance is not always easy. There are many factors that go into it and you need to be knowledgeable about them. Here are 5 steps to help you find the best coverage for your needs:

1) Check with a Licensed Agent that you can depend on. The quality of the agent will be evident by the amount of knowledge that you gain from the experience. Our agents will not "upsell" you on coverages that you don't need but will let you know how each of the coverages work and give you peace of mind when disaster strikes.

2) Find out what type of policy suits you best (e.g., replacement cost, full replacement, or cash value) and how much liability protection you should have in case someone gets injured on your property.

3) Consider if there's a particular area in which you want more protection than others, such as earthquake coverage or flood insurance. Be sure to ask for a free quote from different insurers before making your decision so that you can compare rates and benefits among providers.

4) Roofs are a big deal. The newer the roof the better the discount. However, some companies will not cover the full price to replace a roof if there is damage. They do this to be more competitively priced. Replacement cost is a must in our office.

5) Deductibles could be wildly different between companies. Some are a percentage of the Dwelling Coverage ( E.G. $300,000 Dwelling coverage with a 1% deductible is a $3000 deductible.) This shift of financial responsibility will effect the premium however, when a claim is filed that savings would disappear.

Homeowners who are looking to purchase home insurance need to do their research before going into the process blindly. When researching, you should always find out what your monthly payments will be and how much coverage you'll receive. This way, if any damages occur in your house, you already know that all of them are covered by an insurance company. If this sounds like a lot of work for something that is not easy to understand then give us a call or fill out our form so one of our experts can guide you through the process.