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How to Get a Car Insurance

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Drivers in Arizona are required to maintain state minimums of automobile liability insurance. This mandate requires drivers to have coverage in place in case they cause bodily injury to others or property damage. The table to follow shows the current minimum levels that have not changed since 1972. Recent legislation was enacted to increase these minimums effective on July 1, 2020.

TypeCurrent RequirementsCurrent RequirementsAfter July 1, 2020
Bodily Injury Liability$15,000 per person$30,000 per accident$25,000 pp/$50,000 pa
Property Damage Liability$10,000 $15,000
Uninsured Motorist Coverage*$15,000 per person$30,000 per accident–
Underinsured Motorist Coverage*$15,000 per person$30,000 per accident–

*Note: Policyholders may opt-out of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.

Even those who have an existing policy may want to shop around or use a comparison tool to review options. A recent report suggested that nearly 40% of policyholders have not compared competitor rates in more than three years.

Information You Will Need to Have

When you obtain a price quote for car insurance, there is some basic information to keep on hand. Personal details include your birthdate, address, and social security number. The vehicle’s year, make, model, and vehicle identification number (VIN). They also may inquire about your driving history and employment status. You are also likely to be asked whether other people will be regularly using the vehicle.

Direct from an Insurer

Most insurance carriers will provide you a car insurance quote directly from their website or over the phone. In this scenario, you are generally not going to have a designated insurance agent or broker. If the quote is obtained online, you do not speak with a sales or customer service person unless you choose to. Although quotes obtained online are a good estimate, they could slightly adjust after the insurer more thoroughly reviews your driving history and other factors.

This is typically a good option for those who have a good basic understanding of car insurance. Many people prefer to avoid speaking with a representative or salesperson that may pressure them. Many buyers avoid this option because they prefer using a local agent.

Using a Captive Agent

Larger insurance companies such as State Farm or Allstate often have captive agents. These agents exclusively represent one carrier. A captive agent is likely very knowledgeable about their offerings and provides personal support.

One drawback is that the agent will be unable to consider options from other carriers that may better suit your needs. These agents generally receive sales commissions and may be inclined to sell you certain products that you do not need.

Using Independent Agents or Insurance Brokers

An independent agent differs from a captive insurance company agent because they can offer products from multiple car insurance companies. Those who have been comparing quotes can attest that insurance premiums do vary and are influenced by a variety of factors. Independent agents are able to clearly explain policy details, answer questions, and find you comprehensive coverage at a lower cost.

Being Added to an Existing Policy

Often younger drivers that live at home may consider being added as a driver on their parent’s existing policy. In this scenario, you may be able to benefit from discounts that are already contained in the policy. You also may not have to pay a down payment when simply being added to an existing policy.

Those Unable to Purchase Coverage

There is a small segment of consumers that have tremendous difficulty obtaining regular “voluntary” car insurance coverage. The primary reason that some individuals cannot find a source to buy car insurance is because they have a poor driving history. The majority of states now have a “residual market” that is used by less than 2% of motorists. These programs are not insured by the government; however, state governments may require insurers to participate to some extent in order to be able to sell traditional policies in the state.

The Arizona Automobile Insurance Plan (AZAIP) is a “high-risk pool” that is not a cheap car insurance option. This plan is overseen by the Western Association of Automobile Insurance Plans. To be eligible, you must have a driver’s license and not have any outstanding debt owed to an auto insurer. Those seeking this coverage will need to make at least an 18.5% deposit. The remaining premium may be paid in installments.

Possible Car Insurance Discounts

If you are shopping for car insurance, be sure to look for discount opportunities. There are potential discounts available for some of the following:

  • Student discounts or “good” student discounts
  • For those who complete a driving safety or defensive driving type class or course
  • Discounts are often available to those who belong to professional organizations, alumni associations, etc.
  • Good driving discounts are sometimes available to those with no recent traffic infractions
  • Consider “bundling” multiple insurance products from the same carrier such as homeowners or life insurance
  • Some discounts are available to seniors or active military members

Independent Insurance Agency in Casa Grande

The Gebhardt Insurance Group has been providing insurance solutions in the local community for many years. We represent dozens of insurance carriers and will find you comprehensive and affordable protection for your car, home, business, and more. Contact us at (520) 836-3244.

Who Has the Cheapest Motorcycle Insurance in Casa Grande

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Motorcycle Insurance Casa Grande

Do you love riding motorcycles on Arizona scenic roads or highways? If you do and you are from Casa Grande, then you surely need get motorcycle insurance. Motorcycles are highly prone to accidents, and the fatality and injury rates are higher than that of cars. So it is just logical for motorcycle riders to get insured. It is for your own safety and for your financial protection.

But aside from this, insurance coverage for automobiles is mandatory in Arizona. This rule applies to motorcycles as well. Being mandatory, whether you like it or not, you need to get insured if you want to ride your bike in the streets or Casa Grande or anywhere in Arizona. Rightly so, so you can ride safe and worry-free.

What Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover

This depends on your needs and the price you pay for your motorcycle policy. These are the different types of coverage:

  • Damage to property and bodily injury which you are legally responsible while you were riding your motorcycle.
  • Any injury you incur because of an accident you encounter with an uninsured motorist.
  • Damage to protective gear.
  • Theft, loss, vandalism, fire and other similar circumstance.
  • Protection even when your motorcycle is in storage, like during the winter.
  • Damage incurred by your motorcycle as a result of an accident you were involved in.
  • Emergency roadside expenses.
  • Attached side cars.
  • Custom motorcycle works, like upgraded components and paints

Take note that the ones listed above are typically not covered in one policy. Ask a qualified motorcycle insurance agent, the specific type of coverage you many need as it may come as an additional coverage. There are separate deductibles for many of the different insurance types. There are even policies that only pay for the replacement factory parts. Upgrades like chrome parts, paints and accessories are covered only if they are paid for additionally.

The cost

The cost again depends on the individual needs of the rider and the coverage of the insurance you get. But in Arizona, the minimum amount you need is $30,000 per incident and $15,000 per person.

Who has the cheapest motorcycle insurance

With our economy, everyone’s on a tight budget. This is one of the reasons why riders, instead of getting additional coverage, only settle for less just so they can fit it within their budget. While there are various insurance companies in Casa Grande that offer motorcycle insurance services, these companies do not share the same rates. The prices vary from company to company.

If you are looking for the cheapest motorcycle insurance rates in Casa Grande, look no further. Here at Gebhardt Insurance, we can guarantee you both affordability and protection. Our motorcycle insurance service is the cheapest in the area. You can get the financial protection you need at the price you can afford.

As proof that we value your hard-earned money, here at Gephardt Insurance Group, we shop around for discounts to help you find the best value. Get your free quote online or call us now.

Get your motorcycle insurance with us and ride safe.

How Car Insurance Works in Casa Grande, Arizona

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“How do I make my car insurance affordable?” is one of the most frequently asked questions about auto insurance.  The key to understanding how to make insurance affordable is understanding how car insurance works.

Car insurance is not optional.

If you are thinking about skipping insurance in the name of pinching pennies, think again.  If you are leasing your vehicle or have a loan your finance company will require you to have insurance.  The lending company needs to ensure that if the vehicle is damaged, your insurance will cover the cost of repairs or replacement.   Many lenders and finance companies require insurance in the amounts of 100/300/100.  This means you have $100,000 bodily injury liability insurance per person, $300,000 total bodily injury liability insurance per accident, and $100,000 property damage liability per accident.  You will usually have to have proof of the minimum required insurance before a lender will finance your vehicle.

Finance companies aren’t the only ones that require car insurance.  The government also legally requires you to insure your vehicle.  This is determined at the state level.  Each state has its own minimum requirements so if you move make sure that your insurance meets your new home’s insurance minimums.  For Casa Grande residents, the state of Arizona requires a minimum coverage of $15,000 bodily injury liability per person and $30,000 per accident.  There is also a property damage minimum coverage of $10,000.  When it comes to car insurance the bare minimum can be dangerous.  If you carry only the required state level amounts, an accident can cost you much more in bills and expenses than your insurance will cover.  Work with a skilled agent to make sure you have enough coverage at a price you can afford.  There are many ways to bring down car insurance premiums without sacrificing coverage you need.

Know your policy – i.e. Read the fine print.

It is important for you to read your policy.  If you purchase a policy without understanding it you may not realize your coverage gaps until it is too late.  Liability, personal injury and property damage insurance are all important faucets of your policy.  What you don’t know can hurt you and your wallet.  For instance, if you are in a car accident, your insurance policy may only cover the value of your vehicle.  If your car is fairly new and the rate of depreciation is high, the estimated value of the car may be much lower than what you owe.  This means that the reimbursement from your insurance company might not be enough to pay off your damaged vehicle, much less help you get a new one.  Gap insurance is designed specifically to help bridge the “gap” in circumstances like this and can help you payoff the remainder of your vehicle so that you can start fresh.  This is just one example of possible policy gaps and why you need to know what is and isn’t covered.

Understand the money mechanics of insurance.

Understanding how car insurance works helps you make informed, affordable choices.  Insurance companies make their money by collecting more in premiums than they pay out in claims.  There are many factors that go into your insurance rates.

Statistics:  All insurance companies will compare your basic information to current statistics.  If you are a male, 18 year old driving a sports car your insurance rates will most likely be much more expensive than a female in her 30’s driving a minivan.  This is primarily because of statistics.  The numbers show that women and more experienced drivers are less likely to be in an accident.  Similarly, a minivan driver is much less likely to be in an accident than a person behind the wheel of a Ferrari.  While you may be a very responsible law abiding teenager with a new sports car, your insurance rates will initially reflect statistical averages and not your specific situation.

Driving record:  Generally, the better your driving record the better rate you can get.  Additionally, as you become more experienced behind the wheel you will be eligible for the best possible rates.   Insurance companies prefer responsible drivers with few or no claims.  If you have an accident or traffic violation such as a speeding ticket, your insurance company may automatically increase your rates.  The best way to keep your rates down is to keep your record clean.

Affordable premiums:  There are ways to make your premiums affordable.  A good agent will not only review your policy with you but will also help you stay within your budget.  For instance, you can usually decrease your premium by increasing your deductible.  This should be done strategically.  While a lower monthly premium is tempting, you need to sure you have a deductible you can afford.  You can also save money by bundling in one company.  By using one company for multiple policies you will usually be able to take advantage of deep discounts, giving you lower overall premiums.  Also, don’t be shy about shopping around.  There is lots of competition in the insurance industry which is good for the consumer.

Knowing how car insurance works helps you get the coverage you need for a price you can afford.  Work with your Casa Grande agent to address any coverage concerns and leverage your experience, driving record and policy bundling for the best price possible.

What are the Aspects I Should Look at When Choosing Life Insurance at Age 50?

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“By the time we hit 50, we have learned our hardest lessons. We have found out that only a few things are really important. We have learned to take life seriously, but never ourselves.” – Marie Dressler  Turning 50 is a wonderful milestone and this time of life brings new adventures, challenges and celebrations.  Part of taking life seriously includes making provisions for your loved ones in the event of your passing.  A popular way to achieve this is life insurance.  You may think that life insurance is no longer important or available once you reach 50 but this is not true.  If you want the reassurance of financial stability for your loved ones once you are gone a life policy may be a viable option for you; and there are many to choose from.  You should do your research and keep in mind the following items when looking at life insurance policies at age 50.

  1. Price: As you age you get closer to your life expectancy, making life insurance much more expensive. You will have to shop around to try and keep your rates reasonable.  Pricing considerations don’t just apply to new life insurance policies; they can apply to existing policies as well.  If you already have a life policy, your premiums will generally increase at age 50.  Some life insurance policies will guarantee premium payments while others have steadily increasing rates based on your age.  If you don’t have a fixed premium, expect your payments to increase at age 50.  This may be a good opportunity to have an agent review your existing policy and compare it to the pricing of a new policy.  It may be more cost efficient to switch policies depending on current rates and your health.
  2. Your insurance needs at age 50: If you have minor children, anyone that is financially dependent on you, or a mortgage to payoff life insurance may be a good fit for you.  People are now remarrying and having children later in life so it is not unheard of to need a life insurance policy at age 50.  This policy could provide much needed income to your family if something unexpected were to happen.If you are a business owner, you need to protect your business and employees. If your business cannot financially sustain itself without you, you need a life insurance policy to protect your investment.  This protection is an important consideration for you as a single business owner as well as for any partners necessary to the business.Life insurance at age 50 may also be a way for you to ease the burden of expenses when you pass away. If you do not have savings or investments that would cover funeral expenses and you do not want to saddle your loved ones with these expenses a life insurance benefit may be a financially feasible way for you to pay for these expenses.
  1. The type of insurance you need: When looking at life insurance you have options.  The two basic choices are term and permanent insurance.  Term insurance is available for a designated amount of time.  You can generally purchase term insurance for 10, 20, 0r 30 years.  Term insurance provides a death benefit if the insured dies during the period of the policy.  If you outlive your term policy, you forfeit your premiums.  While you only benefit from a term policy if the insured dies, the premiums are much less expensive than permanent insurance.Another option is permanent insurance.  Permanent insurance has several key differences than term and has many different variations.  The most notable difference is that permanent insurance lasts through your lifetime.  Because your insurance company will have to pay at the time of death, your premiums will be much higher than term insurance.  Also, permanent insurance provides a death benefit and has a cash value component.  The cash value can be taken out as a loan and may directly impact your death benefit amount.  There are many different variations of permanent insurance.Permanent insurance may be a better option if you are looking for life insurance for a death benefit and a cash savings vehicle.  You can utilize this type of policy to help pay for your children’s college or add to any other future cash need you see on the horizon.  Permanent insurance can be used as a forced savings account for those that have trouble putting money aside and then used at a later date when needed.
  1. Get help: It’s already been mentioned, but can’t be stressed enough, consult an expert.  It is exceedingly important to look at your entire financial picture and your goals before selecting a life insurance policy.  You need to first identify what your goals for a life policy are and then work with an experienced agent to find the right policy to achieve those goals.  How close are you to your retirement goals?  Do you have people in your life that are financially dependent on you?  Do you need assistance with saving for the future?  How much can you realistically afford to pay in premiums?  These are all questions that need to be answered and taken into account when selecting the policy that works for you.

Can You Save Money by Bundling All Insurance in the Same Company?

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Can your Casa Grande insurance agent really save you money by bundling your policies?  The short answer is yes, and here’s how to “Bang for Your Buck“:

  1. Discounts, discounts, discounts. An insurance company is anxious to earn your business and will want to earn as much of it as possible.  To that end, many insurers will offer discounts if you bundle multiple policies.  Some Casa Grande insurance companies can offer you homeowners, business insurance bundles, vehicle and umbrella insurance all in the same place.  The more insurance policies you bundle, the deeper the discounts.  Bundling is an easy way to be fully insured and save money on your insurance premiums.  It is far more expensive for an insurance company to earn new business then to keep an existing customer.  This encourages them to offer you deep discounts to bring all of your business to them and stay with them.  Once a customer has moved his/her policies to an insurance company he or she is less likely to go elsewhere.  The eagerness of the Casa Grande insurance companies to earn your business, and as much of it as possible, is your opportunity for big savings.
  2. Convenience: There is something incredibly simple about having all your insurance policies with one carrier. If you have multiple policies with different carriers you can look forward to multiple bills in the mail every month, different policy cards to keep track of and multiple phone numbers and calls that have to be made.  When you bundle your policies you can streamline all of that.  Your many different monthly bills can be consolidated into one.  If you only have one payment to keep track of you are much more likely to pay your bill on time, avoiding any late fees and penalties.  You also get to limit yourself to working with one company, one insurance card and one system of filing a claim.  Working with your Casa Grande insurance company to bundle your policies can make your life simpler and your insurance premium easier to pay and manage.
  3. Coverage: There are instances where your insurance policies can either overlap or have gaping holes.  Bundling your insurance with the same company allows an agent to review your coverage comprehensively and identify any gaps.  That same agent can review all your policies to see if you have any overlapping coverage and make adjustments to save you money.  The key to successful coverage, whether you choose to bundle policies or not, is to understand your insurance policies and coverage benefits.  Work with your Casa Grande insurance company and agent to thoroughly review your coverage and identify any overlapping items that can be reduced to save you money.
  4. Deductibles: When you bundle policies you may only be required to pay one deductible when you would otherwise have to pay multiple deductibles with different carriers. com gives an example, “But what if…, your car is damaged by the same hailstorm? If you don’t bundle, you might have to pay the $1,000 home insurance deductible and a $500 auto insurance deductible before you received help from your policies. Some providers, when you bundle coverages, have a single deductible requirement – though usually you have to pay the larger of the two deductibles. Even if your Casa Grande insurance company requires you to pay the higher of any applicable deductibles, it could still be more cost effective than paying multiple deductibles to multiple carriers.  In this instance, if you have bundled your policies, the claim process is also simplified.  You only have to pay one carrier and you only have to file one claim.  When dealing with an unexpected accident or property damage, the least amount of work and inconvenience the better.

Bundling is usually, but not always, a good idea.  If you need specialized coverage, you may not get the best deal bundling.  It may be most cost effective to separate out your policies so that you can obtain the best rate for your specialized needs.  Bundled policy rates will vary by insurers so even if you are bundling you will want to shop around.  Also, an insurer may require a long term commitment from you to qualify for the savings, so make sure you are getting the best deal possible before committing.

The savings of time, money and headaches can be reflected in a study published by Insurance Journal.com  as they studied Generation Y and their satisfaction with their insurance.  This article demonstrates that, “Members of the Gen Y generation, who were born between 1977 and 1994, are less satisfied with their homeowner’s insurers than others.  One reason may be because Gen Y home owners are less likely than older or younger customers to bundle their insurance policies with a single insurer….Satisfaction among bundlers averages 810 vs. 741 among non-bundlers.”  This report reflects higher satisfaction rates for those customers that bundle their insurance.  The financial and logistical savings make bundling a great option for most.  Your Casa Grande insurance company can review your specific circumstances and make sure that the advantages to bundling are a good fit for you.

What Determines the Price of My Auto Insurance?

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Auto insurance price determination

Auto insurance price is determined by many factors. Rates can be an expensive part of your monthly budget.  It is important to strike a balance between the amount of coverage you need versus the amount of coverage you can afford.  Part of making informed decisions about your coverage is understanding what the insurance companies take into account when deciding on your rates.  If you are a Casa Grande, AZ resident shopping for auto insurance, make sure you know the items insurance companies may be looking at when determining the your premium rates.

  1. Location, location, location: Where you live can impact your auto insurance rates. If the area you reside in has high rates of crime such as property damage, vandalism and car theft your rates will be much higher than if you reside in a relatively crime free area. The insurance companies look at statistics and percentages, and if you live in a high risk area you are statistically more likely to file a claim.  To protect themselves financially from this risk the insurance companies will increase your premiums to cover their potential losses.
  2. Previous claim history: Insurance companies can and often do lookup our previous claim history using a database called CLUE. CLUE stands for Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange.  A CLUE report, “provides a seven year history of losses associated with an individual and his/her personal property. The following data will be identified for each loss: date of loss, loss type, and amount paid along with general information such as policy number, claim number and insurance company name.”  The CLUE report shows all claims filed regardless of your insurance carrier at the time of the claim.  Insurance companies can use this information to see if you have filed multiple claims and if the claims were paid or denied.  You are far more likely to receive lower auto insurance rates if you do not have any claims.  If you are unsure of what might be on your CLUE report you are entitled to receive 1 free copy annually.  Casa Grande residents can request a copy of this report by completing the necessary form and sending it by mail to:

C.L.U.E. Inc. Consumer Center
P.O. Box 105295
Atlanta, GA 30348-52

  1. Credit: While your credit score typically demonstrates your credit worthiness and ability to pay your bills on time, this information is also being used by auto insurance companies. One car insurance company might weigh your credit score differently than another or not at all; but it is quite common for your credit score to be taken into account when determining your insurance rates. While this is not the only factor taken into account, a low credit score can certainly increase your premiums.  If you are shopping around for car insurance consider what you may be able to do to raise your FICO score.
  2. Age and gender: Those pesky insurance companies rely heavily on statistics to determine the cost of your car insurance. DMV.ORG, explains in detail how your gender can directly affect your auto insurance rates, “Starting from the time they begin driving, women generally pay less than men do for car insurance. This pricing gap is influenced by:
  • The types of cars typically chosen by men.
  • The frequency of accidents among women versus men.
  • Gender-based statistics on risky driving behavior.
  • The average number of miles driven by women vs. men.”

All these factors are taken into account; and generally speaking women will simply pay less than men in insurance premiums.  Also, if you are a very young driver your rates will be affected negatively.  The statistics show that young drivers are involved in more accidents and consequently they pay much higher insurance rates. If you are a male Casa Grande driver under the age of 25 you are probably paying higher rates than your female counterpart.

  1. How much you drive: How many miles you drive is another statistical factor insurance companies may take into account. According to Obrella.com, Casa Grande is #13 in overall best commuter cities and, “Roughly six out of 10 Casa Grande residents enjoy a drive to the office that’s less than 15, and eight in 10 get there in less than 29 minutes.” There are many employers with jobs for local residents available in Casa Grande.  This helps keep the total commute time short for many.  However, if you are a Casa Grande resident and you are commuting to downtown Phoenix or Tempe, expect your car insurance rates to be higher than your neighbors who work locally.  The more time you are on the road, the higher the likelihood of an accident.
  2. The car you drive: The type of car you drive can directly affect your insurance rates. If you drive a car that is frequently stolen, this may increase your premiums. Luxury vehicles and sports cars can also increase your rates.  Luxury vehicles are typically more expensive to repair while sport car owners are more likely to be in accidents.
  3. The type of insurance and coverage amount: The more comprehensive insurance you have the more you will have to pay for it. Some people have only liability insurance and that will generally be significantly less than someone who has full coverage.  (Consult with your insurance expert before opting for only liability insurance).  Also, if you opt for higher coverage amounts it will probably increase your rates.  The more money that the insurance company could potentially have to pay, the more they will charge you in premiums.

Auto insurance is, at its core, based on statistics and numbers.  If you need auto insurance be sure you know how the numbers likely affect you and work with an agent to get the best rate possible and the coverage that you need.

 

How to Protect Your Home Against Break Ins

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It goes without saying that your home serves as possibly the single most valuable asset in your life – it represents all of the hard work that went into purchasing the house, the work that you’ve put into making it your own, and the place that you and your family call home. The thought of an unwanted person making their way into your home and rummaging through you and your family’s belongings makes your stomach turn. After the burglar has left, chances are that you’ll find their mess, some signs of entry, and many other things, but what you won’t find is a large amount of your valuable possessions. As awful as this scenario might sound, it happens once every 13 seconds. With homes being intruded so frequently, you are going to want to take steps in order to prevent you from becoming a victim.

Understanding the burglar

If you want to stop the burglar, you have to think like the burglar, that is, you have to understand their motives, triggers, and desires. Some burglars will break into a house on a moment’s notice if they see you drive off without locking the door or if they spot an open window. Some will force their way into your property if they have reason to believe something inside is worth their time. Others will be well-experienced in the act of breaking and entering, and have ways of bypassing general security systems. Realizing that there are numerous types of burglars and burglaries and that your home may be at risk to any of them (on-the-spot, forceful, and experienced) is essential to protecting you and your wealth.

Remember to use common sense

The easiest burglars to keep out are those that act in the moment, that is, when they see an opportunity to easily make their way into a house and act. To avoid these, it is best to remember to keep your windows locked at all times if possible, and to remember to check that all doors are locked whenever you get ready to leave your house. These actions seem obvious, but it becomes very easy to forget when you are running late and are trying to get into your car and on your way as soon as possible. All it takes is receiving a reminder text that sends you running out the door with your keys and coat for you to forget to check the back door, and other possible entries which may have been opened recently. This is when the spontaneous burglar strikes. Remembering that it is better to be safe than sorry may mean being a few minutes late to an important meeting, but may also mean the difference between coming home relieved and coming home to find that you are missing thousands of dollars of jewelry, electronics, cash, and so forth.

In addition to checking that all doors and windows are locked prior to leaving the house, it is best to get motion-sensing lights for your front and back porch which are activated and turn on when they detect movement. Similarly, it is smart to use light timers in and around your house. Seeing a light turn off may dissuade a burglar from wanting to break in, thinking there’s someone there.

It is also smart to make sure that all of the doors leading into your home have heavy duty locks, such as inch thick deadbolts.

Putting up curtains or shades of some sort may also keep curious thieves from seeing what’s inside your property. If the thieve doesn’t have a strong enough reason for wanting to break in, then they probably won’t. Keeping your home private with shades or curtains might dissuade someone from wanting to break in.

If you are on a tight budget, and are currently unable to afford an advanced security system for your home, these simple steps can save you from the spontaneous burglar. Although it is in your best interest to think about making an investment in a security system, as these tips may not protect you against other types of burglars.

Fighting off the experienced burglars

Unfortunately, simply keeping your doors and windows locked isn’t always enough to keep some intruders out. Some will go as far as breaking in doors or windows if they believe that your home is holding some very valuable items. Often times, these thieves are triggered when they see cardboard boxes that once held electronics and other expensive items outside near a trash bin. Make sure to break apart your boxes and fold them so as not to advertise what is inside your home.
An experienced intruder will look for a home that is shielded from its neighbors (either by trees or shrubs) and that has an easy escape route (broken backyard fence). To make your home a less likely target, keep your trees and shrubs trimmed, and make sure you keep your backyard well-secured.
Investing in a home security camera that syncs to your phone is the best way to keep these experienced intruders away. If someone manages to make their way into your home without having to force their way or trigger someone’s attention, then a motion sensing camera will notify you, wherever you are.

To remain safe

The most efficient way to keep your home from being burglarized is to, of course, purchase a home security system. In today’s technology, these systems can alert your local police of an intrusion and have someone dispatched in minutes. Though this may not necessarily keep burglars from getting in, it will definitely scare them off, or keep them from taking much.

It’s best to obtain a homeowner’s policy to ensure that if your home is broken into, you will receive some type of recuperation. If your home is vandalized or damaged during the break-in, the typical policy will cover the cost of repairs. In addition, having homeowner’s insurance may help you pay for the cost of replacing your stolen items. Though your insurance may not cover the cost up to 100 percent, there may be caps on certain items or amounts depending on the insurance company and your premium. Regardless, receiving any amount of aid from your insurance will help offset the total cost, and that means you won’t have to pay as much. To learn more about obtaining an insurance premium, or to speak to an agent, visit our home insurance page.

Having a security system or homeowner’s insurance does not eliminate the need to lock all doors and windows while away. Having these, however, adds a secondary layer of protection to your home.

How to Effectively Insure Your Mobile Home

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A mobile home is a prefabricated home, built in a factory and then moved to a location to be used as a permanent home. It is important to effectively insure your mobile home just as you would any other home. You want to make sure that your home, property, and liability costs are protected. Mobile homes are also called pre-fab homes or manufactured homes.

Mobile home insurance coverage can vary from a standard built structure. Some insurance carriers will not insure a mobile home if it is older than a certain age. Another consideration is how is your mobile home used? Some insurers may not insure homes that are only used seasonally or rented out. Different insurance carriers will have different coverage options and the same option might include different things depending on the carrier. It is important that you have enough coverage for your mobile home that works with your budget.

There are some many insurance coverage options for your mobile home to consider

Personal Property:

Personal property insurance is exactly what it sounds like. Generally, this insurance is purchased to cover the cost of replacing your personal belongings in case something should happen. When deciding on the amount of personal property insurance you need think about how much it would cost to replace all of your belongings; your jewelry, home furnishings, clothes, etc. Depending on the policy expensive items may or may not be covered and if they are covered you might have reimbursement limits. If you have valuable items you would like covered in case you ever had to replace them you may want to look at extended coverage on high ticket items such as jewelry, furs or watches. Including your high value personal items is an important step in making sure you are effectively insuring your mobile home.

Liability:

Liability insurance is needed to insure you against the cost of injury to yourself or a guest in your home. This insurance will cover you in case you are sued for an injury or damage to property. Liability insurance will generally have two categories included: personal liability and medical coverage. Personal liability covers situations where you are liable for injury to someone or property damage. The medical portion of liability insurance would pay any associated medical bills up to your limit and minus any required deductibles. There can be exclusions included in your liability insurance. Work with an experienced agent to understand your options and determine the amount of liability coverage you need. You want to be sure to have enough to cover any lawsuit expenses and amounts awarded to the injured party. You should consider your finances and assets and ask yourself what you could afford in the worst case scenario. Liability insurance can be increased or supplemented with additional coverage if your situation warrants it.

Other Structures:

Other structures insurance is also exactly what it sounds like. If you have an additional structure that is not attached to your primary home, this coverage would extend to that structure. If you have a tool shed or standalone garage that you would like to insure this additional coverage might be a good fit for you. You should also note that even if the structure is connected to the mobile home by wire or other loose connection you may need other structure coverage for the other structure.

Fire Department coverage:

Some insurance companies offer fire department coverage for your mobile home. Investopedia defined fire insurance as “Fire insurance is insurance that is used to cover damage to a property caused by fire“. Fire insurance is a specialized form of insurance beyond property insurance, and is designed to cover the cost of replacement, reconstruction or repair beyond what is covered by the property insurance policy. Policies cover damage to the building itself, and may also cover damage to nearby structures, personal property and expenses associated with not being able to live in or use the property if it is damaged.” Mobile homes face particular challenges when it comes to fire hazards due to the way they are constructed. Due to the size and structure of many mobile homes a fire can be difficult to put out and dangerous to responding firefighters. Owner modifications such as a pitched rood and undercarrier storage can also present a challenge to putting out a fire. The addition of fire department coverage would help with any costs charged to you by the fire department if they came to your home in the event of a fire emergency.

Optional Replacement Coverage:

This coverage would allow you to replace your damaged property with new property that is a similar material and quality without deducting amounts for depreciation.

Flood Insurance:

Most mobile home insurance policies will not include flood insurance. Pinal County has a website devoted to helping home owners determine the flood plain for their properties. Even if your mobile home is not located in a high flood plain it is important to consider flood insurance. While mobile home owners in Casa Grande, Arizona may not worry about floods as much as people living on the coast, in 2013 there was enough summer rain to cause some area flooding. Desert monsoons can come quickly and bring heavy, unexpected amounts of rain. Consider your location and if flood insurance is appropriate for you.

Being able to own your own home is a tremendous gift and typically your greatest asset. Be sure you are protecting your asset by effectively insuring your mobile home. With so many options available, consult an expert to make sure you have a budget conscious policy in place that addresses all of your insurance needs.

Do I Need Insurance for My Business?

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Do I Need Insurance for My Business? The short answer is yes; you absolutely need insurance for your business. Your business is the product of your blood, sweat and tears. It may be a new enterprise or a booming and established business but either way, it is important that you protect what you have worked to build. Doing business without insurance leaves you and your company open to a world of potential problems.

When looking at insurance for your business you have lots of options and things to consider. As a business owner you have a lot to protect. Just like no two businesses are exactly the same, no two businesses will have the exact same insurance needs. Some insurance offerings are appropriate for a business based on size or industry. It is important to talk to an experienced agent that can help you cover all your business insurance needs without overpaying for insurance you don’t need. There are many different types of insurance offerings out there for you to consider.

Property insurance: Property insurance typically covers losses and damages to real or personal property. You can purchase additional insurance that covers specific things such as debris removal and glass replacement. If you own a restaurant you may consider a specific property insurance to cover your equipment such as your kitchen appliances, cash registers, booths, and bar area in case of a fire or other covered loss.

Liability insurance: Despite the fact you are the model business owner you always face the possibility of a law suit. Liability insurance comes in many shapes and sizes. “Any type of insurance policy that protects an individual or business from the risk that they may be sued and held legally liable for something such as malpractice, injury or negligence. Liability insurance policies cover both legal costs and any legal payouts for which the insured would be responsible if found legally liable. Intentional damage and contractual liabilities are typically not covered in these types of policies.” In this litigious day and age liability insurance is a very wise investment. The cost of coverage can vary and depend on what industry you are working in and the size of the business you own. For instance, a large construction company may find liability insurance much more expensive than a small marketing company.

Workers Compensation: If you have employee’s you will more than likely need workers compensation insurance. As of 2010 workers compensation was required by 49 of the 50 states, with Texas being the only exception. Workers compensation regulations vary by state. Some states require workers compensation for companies with only one employee while others require it for companies with at least three employees. Workers compensation provides coverage for employees that are injured on the job. It can cover the injured employee’s medical expenses and partial disability payments while the employee is unable to work. For a comprehensive list by state of the workers compensation regulations visit the National Federation of Independent Business’s website: https://www.nfib.com/. Because workers compensation is generally mandatory by law you should consult a state specific insurance expert to help guide you in your obligations and make sure you are compliant.

Life Insurance: Could your business continue if something unexpected were to happen to you? If you are a key employee, partner or owner and you were to die suddenly could the business go on without you? If the answer to either of these questions is no, life insurance for your business may be a consideration. A good example of this would be a husband and wife that have a family and own a small business together. If either spouse were to die unexpectedly not only would the family need funds to supplement the loss of income, so would the business. Life insurance designated for the business allows an influx of income if needed due to the loss of a key partner.

Data Breach Insurance: This insurance is an additional policy intended to cover the cost of a data breach. In this day and age of technology and hackers this policy may be well suited to your company, depending on what you do and if you handle sensitive data. An IT company or a doctor’s medical practice might be good candidates for this insurance. According to USAToday, 43% of companies experienced a data breach in 2013. In 2014 Target, Neiman Marcus, Michaels, UPS, Dairy Queen, and Home Depot were just some of the bigger named companies that experienced data breaches. Your general liability insurance may address a data breach to a limited extent. Consult with an experienced agent to make sure you have coverage appropriate for your industry and potential risk.

Commercial auto insurance: If your car is used for business purposes or is owned by your company you may need commercial auto insurance. If you use your vehicle for personal and business purposes you still may want to consider commercial auto insurance. Without it, if you are involved in an accident the insurance company may deny your claim under your personal car insurance because the commercial use of the vehicle may violate the terms of your insurance policy. The use of your vehicle and type of business will help determine your need for commercial auto insurance.

Directors and Officers Insurance: This is commonly known as D&O insurance. This business insurance is designed to protect you from personal losses if you are sued as a result of serving as a director or an officer. It may also cover legal fees for the organization should a lawsuit occur. D&O insurance can take different forms based on the industry and potential liability. Typically, D&O insurance does not cover fraud or dishonest acts.
As you can see you have many different options when it comes to insuring your business. Don’t let an unfortunate accident or lawsuit damage the business you have worked so hard to build. Your business needs insurance. Some policies will be required by law while others are optional and case specific. Consult an experienced insurance agent to figure out which insurance options are appropriate for you.

What You Need to Know About Insuring an Older Home

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Older homes can be great. They are charming, full of character and have a story to tell. But before you let yourself fall in love with a home that was built before the 1970s. be aware that they also usually also have more advanced wear and tear. This means potentially expensive repair and replacement costs. It also means that insuring an older home can be more expensive than insuring a home that was  built recently.  An experienced insurance agent can help you understand your options when insuring an older home, but here are some large ticket items to watch for that can make your insurance more expensive and might even have to be replaced before you move in to bring the home up to code:

The electrical system:

Electrical systems and wiring were very different 60 to 70 years ago. Homes that were built in the 1930s didn’t have the same kind of electrical appliances that we have today. An older home may not have sufficient capacity to handle a family’s modern day electrical needs. An older home may not even have enough electrical outlets for all of the appliances, light switches and the average family’s electronics like TVs and computers. Using extension cords and power strips isn’t a permanent solution. Overloading a home’s electrical system is dangerous and can potentially cause a fire.

Safety codes were also quite different 50 years ago. Some homes built in the 60s and 70s used aluminum wiring instead of copper. Aluminum wiring connections can loosen over time and can be a fire hazard–and can lead to higher premiums when insuring an older home. Homes built before the 19070s also often have electrical fixtures that are ungrounded. If an electrical outlet is not grounded or polarized you have no protection against shocks from defective fixtures or appliances using that outlet. According to the National Fire Prevention Association, faulty wiring is the leading cause of residential fires. Each year, household wiring and lighting causes an estimated 32,000 home fires resulting in nearly $674 million in property damage.

Outdated plumbing:

  • An older home will have older plumbing. Plumbing from the 1960s and before used galvanized steel. Galvanized steel pipes might suffer from corrosion and blockages over time.
  • Pipes are not confined to just the house. Outdated plumbing can result in massive sewage issues. Sewer lines can be made of cast iron, clay, or plastic. Some older sewer lines may be made of tar paper used from the Civil War to the 1970s. This type of sewer line would need to be replaced as soon as possible.
  • Sewage issues are not just smelly and expensive, they can also be dangerous. If methane gas is inhaled it can lead to health issues such as headache and heart palpitations. If it builds up in your home it can be a fire hazard.

The roof:

  • A roof should last approximately 20 – 30 years depending on the materials, how well it has been maintained and where you live.
  • Roofing materials have been updated over the years. Up until the late 1970s, asbestos was a commonly used fire proofing material and was used in roofing products. If you find out that your home contains asbestos, you will need to have a professional asbestos removal company handle the removal.
  • If your roof is more than 15 years old and you see any examples of possible damage such as buckling and curling, algae growth, rotting, or blistering, you should have it professionally inspected. A damaged roof can ruin your attic, ceilings and walls. It can also contribute to the growth of mold and mildew, create a fire hazard, and compromise the structure of the home.

Historic or antique value:

An important point to consider when insuring an older home is the historic or antique value of the home. Those original light fixtures, beautiful stained glass panels and custom woodwork are beautiful, no doubt, but it will be more expensive to purchase antique materials and supplies and hire skilled labor to repair or rebuild a these features, so you will need to count on paying more for you insurance—unless you are fine with having the cheapest possible repairs made.

Aged appliances:

  • Older homes typically have older appliances. These appliances can be potential fire or electrocution hazards. Refrigerators in the early 20th century relied heavily on gases like ammonia and ether to help the cooling process.
  • Older appliances might contain Freon and mercury switchboards that must be disposed of properly.
  • Aged appliances have to be vented properly. Over time an appliance’s vent mechanism may deteriorate creating exposure to dangerous gases. Vents should be free of cracks and gaps.

Old Decks:

Brackets and fasteners can become corroded and fail to support older structures such as an outdoor deck. Hardware can become worn with exposure to the elements creating a potential hazard. When purchasing and insuring an older home, be sure to have a professional inspect the deck, porch and any additions to the house for structural stability.

Chimneys:

Old chimneys pose a possible fire hazard. Older chimneys are often unlined creating a draft that can leak toxic gases into the home. If the chimney is used for wood burning, the build-up can create a fire hazard.

Given that older homes can come with so many potentially expensive repairs it is important to have an experienced insurance agent guide you through the process of insuring your older home. This does not mean that your home is unsafe. It just means that you will have different considerations when buying insurance. You may be advised to have inspections or repairs completed prior to insuring an older home. You may look at additional considerations for insuring your older home such as:

  • Increased dwelling protection to cover expensive replacement costs
  • Water backup coverage to help cover the plumbing and sewage
  • Roof surfaces extended coverage
  • Coverage for today’s building costs to cover the increase in costs to rebuild the home to today’s safety regulations

When insuring an older home, be sure to purchase enough coverage by working with an experienced agent who can assess your situation. Long story short, don’t be scared off by an older home. As long as you have the money to bring the home up to code and are willing to pay a little more for insurance, the charms of an older home will far outweigh any setbacks.