Auto Insurance FAQ

A standard home insurance policy typically covers four main areas: the structure of your home (also called the dwelling), your personal belongings, liability protection, and additional living expenses if you're temporarily displaced due to a covered event. These events often include things like fire, theft, vandalism, and certain weather-related damages.

However, it’s just as important to understand what isn’t covered. We always advise reviewing the exclusions section of your policy carefully—this outlines what your insurance won’t pay for. Some common exclusions, such as flooding or earthquakes, usually require separate policies or endorsements, while others may not be insurable at all.

Understanding both your coverage and exclusions ensures there are no surprises when you need to file a claim.

You need enough coverage to rebuild your home at today’s construction costs, not market value. You should also consider coverage for your personal belongings, liability protection, and temporary living expenses. We can help assess your needs based on your home’s size, features, and location.

Standard home insurance policies don’t cover everything. Common exclusions include damage from floods, earthquakes, routine wear and tear, mold, and pest infestations (such as termites or rodents). To protect against some of these risks, you may need to purchase separate policies or endorsements.

As mentioned in Question 1, it's just as important to understand what your policy excludes as it is to know what it covers. Always review the exclusions section of your policy carefully so there are no surprises when it’s time to file a claim.

You can lower your premiums by:

• Bundling your home and auto insurance
• Installing safety features like smoke detectors, security systems, and storm shutters
• Raising your deductible
• Maintaining a good credit score
• Avoiding small claims that could increase your rate

Replacement cost covers the full cost to repair or replace your home or belongings without depreciation. Actual cash value takes depreciation into account, so you’d receive less money. Replacement cost policies offer more protection but may cost more in premiums.

Home insurance is not legally required, but if you have a mortgage, your lender will almost always require you to carry it. Even without a loan, having coverage protects your financial investment in your home.

It depends. Sudden and accidental water damage (like a burst pipe) is usually covered. However, gradual leaks, sewer backups, or flooding from rising waters typically are not unless you have specific endorsements or a flood insurance policy.

Insurers consider factors like:

• Your home’s age, size, and construction type
• Your location (including weather and crime risks)
• Your claims history and credit score
• The amount of coverage you choose
• Your deductible

First, document the damage with photos or videos. Then, contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible to start the claims process. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary accommodations, and avoid making permanent fixes until your claim is reviewed.

Yes, you can make changes at any time—like adjusting coverage amounts, adding endorsements, or switching carriers. However, it's best to make changes at renewal or consult with your agent first to avoid cancellation fees or gaps in coverage.

Auto insurance usually includes several types of coverage:

• Liability (covers injuries and property damage to others if you're at fault)
• Collision (pays for damage to your vehicle from an accident)
• Comprehensive (covers damage from non-collision events like theft, fire, or hail)
• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist
• Medical Payments or PIP (Personal Injury Protection)

If you're unsure what your policy includes, reach out to our office directly-we're here to help clarify your coverage and make sure you're properly protected.

Yes. Most states require at least liability coverage. Depending on your location and loan/lease status, other types of coverage may also be mandatory. Not sure what your state or lender requires? Contact us directly for guidance-we'll walk you through what you need based on your situation.

Your premium is influenced by many factors, including:

• Your driving record
• Age and gender
• Type of vehicle
• Location
• Coverage levels and deductibles
• Credit score (in some states)

Let us help you understand what's driving your rate. Reach out to our agency, not just your carrier, for a personalized review.

If your policy includes rental reimbursement coverage, it may cover a rental car if your vehicle is being repaired due to a covered claim. For rental cars during travel, your policy may extend-but not always.

Before renting, call us directly to check your coverage so you don't pay for unnecessary insurance at the counter.

Here's a quick checklist:

1. Ensure safety and call 911 if needed
2. Exchange information with the other driver
3. Take photos of damage
4. File a police report if necessary
5. Contact us immediately to start the claims process

We'll help you every step of the way-don't wait to call your agent or carrier first; reach out to our office so we can advocate for you.

• Comprehensive covers damage from things like theft, weather, animals, or vandalism.
• Collision covers damage to your vehicle from hitting another car or object.

If you're unsure whether you need both, contact our team-we'll help you weigh the options based on your car's value and driving habits.

Yes. Some common ways include:

• Bundling your auto and home insurance
• Increasing your deductible
• Maintaining a clean driving record
• Using telematics or safe-driver programs
• Removing unnecessary coverage

Reach out to us-we'll do a coverage review and make sure you're not overpaying.

Driving without insurance is illegal in most states and can result in fines, license suspension, vehicle impoundment, and more. In an accident, you could also be held personally liable for damages.

If your coverage has lapsed or you're unsure about your policy status, call us right away so we can get you back on track.

Generally, insurance follows the vehicle, not the driver. So if someone else has your permission to drive your car, they may be covered under your policy. But there are exceptions.

To avoid gaps in coverage or surprises, check with us directly before letting someone borrow your vehicle.

You can add or remove vehicles, update drivers, change your address, or adjust your coverage anytime. But don't wait on hold with a call center-contact us directly so we can ensure the changes are handled correctly and quickly.