A: No, flood insurance is not covered on your homeowners policy. You must purchase a separate flood policy to cover this exposure.

A: We recommend that you purchase a renters policy if you rent an apartment or house. Your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover your personal belongings or personal liability. A renters policy will also cover you for personal liability off premises.

A: In order to remove any vehicle off of your auto insurance policy, you must first turn in the license plates to your local DMV and they will give you an FS-6 form. Once we receive this form, we can then remove the vehicle from your policy.

A: If your vehicle is in storage and your license plates have been surrendered to the DMV, you may keep comprehensive coverage only on your vehicle. If your license plates have not been surrendered to the DMV, you must also cover liability coverage or you will be subject to fines and possible license suspension.

A: You can take a defensive driving course to help reduce your auto insurance premium. You may also increase your deductible on your comprehensive and collision coverage. Also, having your auto and home insurance with the same company can lead to additional discounts.

A: Many Insurance companies offer discounts for your home insurance policy if the roof, wiring, plumbing and heating have been recently updated. Also, you can raise your deductible to decrease your premium. Keep in mind, you don’t want to be putting small claims in, as many insurance companies may non-renew policies with a claim history and may not accept new customers with prior claims. Also, having your auto and home insurance with the same company can lead to additional discounts.

A: It is important to carry more than state minimum liability limits for your own protection. Today, 25/50/25 limits are not enough to protect you. Once your limits have been exhausted you may be personally liable for any injuries or damages above your limit. This could result in someone going after your house or other assets you may have.

A: CLICK HERE to download a printable PDF with a breakdown of each part of the coverage and their definitions.

A: If you are involved in a motor vehicle accident, the first thing you should do is notify emergency services which may include the police and fire/emergency personnel. It is important to get information of all parties involved including their name, address, phone numbers, license plate number and insurance information including company name and policy number. Try to retrieve information of any witnesses. Also, be sure to take pictures of the scene and location of the accident. Be sure to obtain a copy of the police report as well. Contact your insurance agent or company immediately. Keep in mind, try not to say it was your fault.

A: Make sure to maintain your property by keeping it clear of debris, make sure there are no trip and fall hazards which may include a uneven driveway, sidewalk or front steps/porch. During the winter, be sure to keep your driveway and sidewalks free of snow and ice.

A: Many companies offer the ability to pay your bill online at the company’s website. You may also be able to call the company directly in which the phone number should be found on your invoice or on their website. Of course, you can always call your Agent to make a payment.

A: It’s important to keep a detailed list of your contents throughout your home as well as your receipts for those items. You may make a detailed list, take photos or even take a video recording of your contents inside the home. Make sure to store this detailed list, photos, or video either in a fire/water proof safe inside the home, or keep it in a safe area off premises. This will take the guesswork out of filing a claim and trying to remember everything you had in your home.

A: CLICK HERE to download a printable PDF of an article that addresses this question.

A: A good driving record will help your insurance rates. Things like tickets, accidents and DWI’s will contribute to paying a higher premium.

A: Replacement Cost coverage would replace or rebuild your home or repair damages with materials with like kind and quality as long as you are covered properly.

A: Actual Cash Value coverage would replace or rebuild your home or repair damages, less depreciation.