If you are a homeowner, you have purchased your home insurance through a local insurance agent or directly through an insurance carrier. Home insurance cost and coverage vary due to where you live, how much your home is worth, your credit score and many other insurance factors.

Home insurance can be confusing so we recommend speaking with one of our agents and going through a home insurance review. Even if you have had a home insurance policy with us for years, it is still best practice to review it to ensure you still have adequate coverage. We can break down your insurance coverage details and make sure you have the best protection for your insurance needs.

Here are a few terms we can discuss with you:

Named perils: this part of your home insurance coverage protects your home from named perils that can include damage from wind, hail, fire, fallen objects, lightning, theft, vandalism and more. Home insurance named perils vary so our agents can discuss what’s covered if you have questions.

Actual Cash Value (ACV): this is the cost to replace the damaged item minus depreciation. If you have damage to your home, the insurance carrier would determine how much it was valued before the damage occurred. For example, if your roof was damaged but it was 10 years old, your insurance carrier may factor in how much a 10-year-old roof is worth today. You would receive the valued dollar amount to put towards a new roof.

Replacement cost value insurance: this represents the cost to replace an item of similar quality without factoring depreciation. Replacement cost policies are more expensive than ACV because you are essentially getting a brand new item. After asking you questions, we can help determine if this coverage makes sense for you.

Deductible: if you have to file a claim, your deductible plays a role in how much you have to pay before your insurance carrier pays towards your claim. Deductibles can vary in price and typically the higher your deductible, the lower your home insurance premium. Our agents can help explain your deductible options.

Liability insurance: your home insurance coverage can provide you with liability coverage. For example, if your dog bit someone or if someone slipped and fell on your property, liability coverage could provide you with coverage. Talk to us about liability limits.

Additional insurance policies to consider:

Flood insurance: home insurance typically does not cover you if your home experiences water entering your home. This is typically a separate policy many individuals buy. If your home is susceptible of floods, talk to an agent.

Earthquake insurance: just like flood insurance, earthquake insurance is also a separate policy. If your home is damaged from an earthquake, you would most likely need an earthquake insurance policy to have coverage for any damage.

Other structure coverage: if you have a detached garage, barn, swimming pool, greenhouse, or other structure, be sure to tell your agent. This needs to be included in your policy and may require additional coverage.

Water sewer coverage: claims occur when heavy rain or floodwaters overrun your sewer system or your sump pump. Debris from rainstorms or natural disasters can also clog your system causing damage to your home when the water backs up into your house’s plumbing. Many home insurance policies do not cover this and water sewer coverage is needed to pay for the damage. Talk to us about this coverage.

Umbrella insurance: if you file a home or auto insurance claim and the damage exceeds your policy limits, an umbrella insurance policy can give you thousands of additional dollars in protection. There are limitations on what umbrella insurance covers so discuss this with an agent in our office.

Vacant home insurance: if you own a home that is vacant, you still want to protect it. Talk to us about your situation and we can explain your coverage options.

Ready to shop home insurance? Give our agency a call or email us for a quote. We can help you find great coverage.

Summer season can be the best time of year to enjoy your boat or motorcycle. Whether you enjoy the long days, warm weather, or enjoy using your ride to relax, being a boat or motorcycle owner has its perks. Here are a few things to consider when it comes to safety this season.

Consider Taking a Safety Class

Whether you are a seasoned vet or brand new boat or motorcycle owner, taking a safety class can always improve your skill set and help you understand the risks associated with riding or driving. Even if you are consider yourself to be experienced, taking a class can provide you with additional advanced techniques (for motorcycle riders). All boat owners should understand the rules while operating on the water and be familiar with their state’s boating laws.

Check your Equipment

If you are a motorcycle rider, take some time to review your gear. Shoes with good traction, protective textile or leather jackets, pants and gloves & owning a good helmet are all things that can protect you on the road. If you are a boat owner, look over your life jackets. Does each jacket fit correctly for each individual on the boat? Are they approved by the U.S. Coast Guard? Do you have a pre-departure checklist you can review before going out your boat?

Always be a Defensive Driver

This goes for both boat and motorcycle owners. When you practice being aware of your surroundings at all times you are on the road or water, you are doing everything in your control be a safe driver or rider.

Have a Routine Checkup Before Leaving Your Home

Both boat and motorcycle owners should have a routine checklist before hitting the road or water. For motorcycle riders this could be inspecting your tire pressure, lights, turn signals as well as your chain, belt and brakes.

For boat owners, this could be checking the weather, ensuring you have a life jacket for every person who will be on the boat, locating your floatation aids, orange signal flags, whistle/horn/bell, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, proper documentation, making sure you have sunscreen, water and more.

Need to Review Your Insurance Policy?

Talk to our agency if it is time to review your boat or motorcycle insurance policy. We can have a discussion about any updates you have made to your ride, requote you with other carriers if you are not happy with your current rate, and ensure you are fully covered in the event you have to file an insurance claim.