Insurance Questions, Answered.

We believe insurance should be easy to understand. Browse our most frequently asked questions below, or contact us if you need help with your specific situation.

GENERAL INSURANCE QUESTIONS

Why should I use an independent insurance agency?

An independent insurance agency is not tied to just one insurance company. We can compare coverage and pricing from multiple carriers to help find an option that fits your needs, budget, and situation.

Can you shop multiple insurance companies for me?

Yes. We work with multiple reputable insurance carriers, which allows us to compare options and help you find the right combination of coverage, service, and value.

Can you review my current insurance policies even if they’re with another agency?

Absolutely. We can review your current policies, look for possible coverage gaps, identify areas where you may be overinsured or underinsured, and compare other available options.

How do I know if I have enough insurance coverage?

Your coverage needs depend on your property, vehicles, family, business, assets, and financial situation. We can review your current policies and help identify potential gaps or areas where your coverage may need to be adjusted.

What information do I need to get an insurance quote?

It depends on the type of insurance you're looking for. Generally, we'll need basic information about you and what you're insuring, along with details about your current coverage when available. We'll walk you through exactly what is needed.

Should I bundle my home and auto insurance?

Bundling home and auto insurance can sometimes provide discounts and make your policies easier to manage, but it isn't always the best option. Because we're an independent agency, we can compare bundled and separate policies to help determine which provides the right coverage and value.

AUTO INSURANCE

What should I do after a car accident?

First, make sure everyone is safe and call 911 when appropriate. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, take photos of the vehicles and accident scene if it is safe to do so, and document any relevant details. Then contact your insurance carrier or our office for guidance on reporting the claim.

When should I add my teenage or newly licensed driver to my auto insurance?

Requirements can vary by insurance carrier and state. Let us know when someone in your household receives a learner’s permit or driver’s license so we can review your policy and determine when they need to be added.

What factors affect the cost of my auto insurance?

Insurance companies may consider factors such as driving history, location, vehicle type, annual mileage, coverage limits, deductibles, claims history, and other rating factors allowed in your state. Because rates vary between carriers, we can compare options to help find appropriate coverage and value.

Do you insure motorcycles, RVs, ATVs, golf carts and other vehicles?

Yes. We can help with coverage for many types of vehicles, including motorcycles, RVs, ATVs, low-speed vehicles and golf carts, classic cars, and other specialty vehicles. Available coverage and eligibility vary by carrier and location.

HOME & PROPERTY INSURANCE

What does homeowners insurance typically cover?

Homeowners insurance generally provides protection for your home, personal belongings, certain additional living expenses, and personal liability for covered events. The exact protection, limits, and exclusions depend on your policy, so we can help you understand what your specific coverage includes.

Does homeowners insurance cover flooding?

Standard homeowners insurance generally does not cover flooding caused by rising water. Flood insurance is typically purchased separately. We can help you determine whether flood coverage is appropriate for your property and compare available options.

Do you insure condos and renters?

Yes. We offer coverage options for condo owners and renters. These policies can help protect personal belongings and provide liability protection, while condo policies can also cover portions of the unit that may not be insured by the condominium association.

Can you insure rental properties and vacation rentals?

Yes. We can help with insurance for long-term rental properties as well as short-term and vacation rentals. These properties often have different insurance needs than a primary residence, so it's important that the policy reflects how the property is actually being used.

How much homeowners insurance do I need?

The amount of coverage you need isn't necessarily the same as your home's market value. Dwelling coverage is generally based on the estimated cost to rebuild the home after a covered loss. We can review your home's characteristics and available replacement-cost estimates to help determine an appropriate level of coverage.

BUSINESS INSURANCE.

What types of insurance does my business need?

The coverage your business needs depends on your industry, operations, employees, vehicles, property, contracts, and potential risks. We can review your business and help identify appropriate coverage options, which may include general liability, commercial property, professional liability, workers’ compensation, commercial auto, and umbrella coverage.

What is general liability insurance?

General liability insurance can help protect your business from certain claims involving bodily injury, property damage, and personal or advertising injury. Many landlords, clients, and contractors may also require proof of liability coverage before doing business with you.

Do I need workers’ compensation insurance?

Workers’ compensation requirements vary by state and the size and type of business. It generally provides benefits for employees who experience covered work-related injuries or illnesses. We can help you understand available coverage and determine what may be required for your business.

What is the difference between general liability and professional liability insurance?

General liability typically addresses claims involving bodily injury, property damage, and certain other liabilities arising from business operations. Professional liability generally addresses certain claims involving errors, omissions, or professional services. Depending on your business, you may need one or both.

Do you offer commercial auto, builder’s risk, bonds and commercial umbrella insurance?

Yes. We can help businesses explore coverage for commercial vehicles, construction projects, property, excess liability, bonds, and other specialized risks. Because every business is different, we'll help determine which coverage options fit your operations.

LIFE & HEALTH INSURANCE

Why should I consider life insurance?

Life insurance can provide financial protection for the people who depend on you. Depending on the policy, the benefit can help with expenses such as a mortgage, household bills, debts, education costs, final expenses, and replacing lost income.

How much life insurance do I need?

There isn't one amount that's right for everyone. Your needs can depend on your income, debts, mortgage, family responsibilities, existing savings, and long-term goals. We can help you evaluate those factors and explore coverage options that fit your situation and budget.

What is the difference between term life and permanent life insurance?

Term life insurance generally provides coverage for a specific period of time, such as 10, 20, or 30 years. Permanent life insurance is designed to remain in force longer as long as policy requirements are met, and some policies may build cash value. We can explain the differences and help you compare options.

Can I get life insurance for both myself and my spouse?

Yes. Life insurance can be important for both spouses, even if one earns less or doesn't currently earn an income. The financial value of childcare, household responsibilities, income, and other contributions should all be considered when planning coverage.

Do you offer health insurance?

Yes. We can help individuals, families, and businesses explore health insurance options based on their needs and budget. Because available plans and eligibility can vary, we'll take the time to understand your situation and help you review the coverage options available to you.

RECREATIONAL & SPECIALTY INSURANCE

Do you insure boats and personal watercraft?

Yes. We can help you explore coverage for boats and personal watercraft. Depending on the policy, coverage may include the vessel, liability, theft, damage, and other risks associated with owning and operating your watercraft.

Can you insure RVs, motorcycles, ATVs and golf carts?

Yes. We offer coverage options for a variety of recreational and specialty vehicles, including RVs, motorcycles, ATVs, low-speed vehicles, and golf carts. Coverage options and eligibility vary by carrier and location.

Can I insure jewelry, collectibles and other valuable items?

Yes. Certain valuable belongings may have limited coverage under a standard homeowners or renters policy. Additional coverage can often be added for items such as jewelry, watches, collectibles, artwork, and other valuable property.

What is umbrella insurance, and do I need it?

Umbrella insurance provides additional liability protection above the limits of certain underlying policies, such as home and auto insurance. It can be especially worth considering if you have significant assets, multiple properties, recreational vehicles, or other circumstances that may increase your liability exposu