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Auto Insurance Companies' Response to Rising Car Theft Rates: Hyundai and Kia Vehicles without Immobilizers

Discover how auto insurance companies Progressive and State Farm are refusing policies for older Hyundai and Kia vehicles without immobilizers due to increasing theft rates. Learn about the social media trend of car thieves filming joyrides and tutorials on stealing these cars, and the spike in theft claims in Wisconsin. Find out why insurers are prioritizing safety and limiting policy sales on these models, and how Hyundai and Kia are improving vehicle security. Explore the financial impact of auto theft and the importance of technology in reducing insurance premiums.

Auto Insurance Companies' Response to Rising Car Theft Rates: Hyundai and Kia Vehicles without Immobilizers

Auto insurance companies Progressive and State Farm's decided to refuse policies for older Hyundai and Kia vehicles lacking immobilizers. According to the Highway Loss Data Institute, some 2015 through 2019 models of these vehicles are twice as likely to be stolen than other vehicles of a similar age. Additionally, this problem has become a social media trend in 2021, with car thieves filming their joyrides and even tutorials on how to steal the cars. The thefts have also become more expensive, with theft claims of Hyundai and Kia models spiking to more than thirty times their 2019 levels in Wisconsin. Therefore, it is not surprising that Progressive and State Farm have increased insurance rates and limited sales of policies on these models in certain geographic regions.

Prioritizing Safety and Security

The decision of these two companies would encourage other insurance providers to prioritize the safety of their clients and be more selective when writing policies for cars that are easy targets for criminals. Insurance companies tend to expand their market share, but this should not be at the expense of the security and peace of mind of their clients. The fact that other vehicles in these Hyundai and Kia model years have engine immobilizers installed and that these cars are lacking them should be seen as a red flag for insurance companies. Given that they price their policies based on risk levels, it becomes challenging for insurers to offer competitive rates for these models, especially in the market that has experienced explosive increases in the rate of thefts.

Improving Vehicle Security

Hyundai and Kia have taken steps to improve the security of their vehicles by offering free software upgrades and steering wheel locks to police departments and owners, respectively, while their dealerships install security kits for their customers. Auto theft not only results in financial losses for individuals but also increases the cost of insurance premiums for policyholders, making it a problem for everyone in the industry. It is important to continue to develop and implement technology that protects cars and drivers from theft to save individuals from financial losses and reduce auto insurance premiums for everyone.

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State Farm Insurance's Impact on Bay Area Community

State Farm's decision to cease new applications may lead to limited buyer pools in heavily-wooded areas of the Bay Area. Buyers getting a mortgage might face challenges due to the need for adequate insurance coverage. Discover the potential drying up of private fire insurance for luxury properties and the impact on homebuyers and small business owners. Find out the factors driving State Farm's decision and the need for innovative solutions to provide affordable and holistic coverage in high-risk areas.

State Farm Insurance's Impact on Bay Area Community

Limited Buyer Pools and Mortgage Buyers

State Farm's decision to cease accepting new applications is likely to lead to limited buyer pools in heavily-wooded areas. This will affect buyers getting a mortgage, as lenders need to ensure buyers have adequate insurance coverage.

Private Fire Insurance for Luxury Properties

Private fire insurance, an alternative for buyers of luxury properties, may also be drying up. The lack of insurers willing to cover fire damages may make it more difficult for homebuyers with mortgages to find affordable cover, putting them in a precarious situation.

Impact on Small Business Owners

Entrepreneurs in the Bay Area, such as small business owners, may be negatively affected by State Farm's move. With fewer companies in the mix, insurance rates could increase, hampering the potential of the sector.

Factors Driving State Farm's Decision

According to Department of Insurance Press Secretary Gabriel Sanchez, factors driving State Farm's decision are beyond the state's control. These include climate change, reinsurance costs affecting the entire insurance industry, and global inflation.

Need for Innovative Solutions and Consumer Interest

Insurance providers need to find innovative solutions to provide affordable and holistic coverage to their insureds. It is essential for the insurance industry to prioritize consumer's long-term interest above short-term financial goals.

Long-Lasting Effects and Sustainable Coverage

State Farm's decision could have long-lasting effects on the Bay Area's economy. Homebuyers and small business owners are likely to experience the brunt of the shift, with the latter potentially seeing a significant rise in their insurance rates. Insurers should review stricter community guidelines to ensure adequate coverage for those living in high-risk areas. Providing sustainable insurance coverage that is affordable should be the industry's primary focus.

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The Advantages of Using an Independent Insurance Agent

When it comes to insurance, big-name companies may seem like the obvious choice, but independent insurance agents offer a range of advantages. They have expanded options, can save you money through comparative analysis, act as customer advocates, provide unbiased advice, offer personalized service and local expertise, and simplify the insurance process with one-stop shopping. Licensed professionals with expert guidance, independent agents ensure you have comprehensive coverage and peace of mind. Discover the value of independent insurance agents for tailored coverage.

Calling your insurance agent to shop for home and auto insurance.

Many people are familiar with the big-name companies that dominate the media with their flashy advertisements. While these established insurers may seem like reliable choices due to their longevity in the industry, it's essential to recognize that they might not always be the best fit for your personal insurance needs. Independent insurance agents offer a compelling alternative, providing a range of advantages that go beyond what a single company can offer. In this article, we will explore the merits of independent insurance agents and how their customer-centric approach can benefit policyholders.

Expanded Options

One of the primary advantages of working with independent insurance agents is their ability to collaborate with multiple insurance companies to find the best coverage at the most competitive prices. Unlike agents tied to a specific provider, independent agents have access to a wide range of markets, enabling them to offer policies with lower rates, fewer restrictions, and improved coverage. Moreover, independent agents excel in identifying potential gaps in coverage and can recommend supplementary policies that complement your existing insurance, ensuring comprehensive protection.

Financial Savings through Comparative Analysis

By not being bound to a single company, independent insurance agents have the freedom to shop around and find the most favorable rates for their clients. With no brand preferences or loyalties, independent agents can present you with multiple price comparisons for the same policy, leading to significant savings. Furthermore, they can maximize cost efficiencies by leveraging multi-policy discounts and suggesting bundled insurance plans that provide complete coverage across various areas.

Advocacy for Customers

Unlike insurance agents affiliated with a specific company, independent insurance agents prioritize the needs of the customer above all else. This customer-centric approach becomes particularly advantageous when it comes to filing claims. Insurance claims can be intricate and overwhelming, often causing policyholders to feel lost in the process and confused by technical terms. With an independent insurance agent acting as your advocate, you benefit from the expertise of a trained professional who works diligently on your behalf, increasing the likelihood of obtaining a fair settlement and simplifying the claims procedure.

Unbiased Advice

Insurance agents tied to a single company often possess a limited perspective of the industry. In contrast, independent agents work with numerous companies that offer different types of insurance policies. This broad exposure empowers them to provide unbiased advice based on the positive or negative experiences of their clients. Independent agents are not influenced by allegiance to a particular company, allowing them to find the best prices and coverage options tailored to the specific needs of their customers.

Personalized Service and Local Expertise

An independent insurance agent is not just a service provider; they are a trusted member of your local community who can address your insurance needs throughout your lifetime. This local connection brings multiple advantages. Your agent gets to know you personally, understanding the changes you experience over time and tailoring coverage to meet your evolving requirements. They can also offer insights based on past client experiences with various insurance companies, ensuring you make informed decisions. Additionally, local agents possess knowledge about specific risks in the area, ensuring you have comprehensive coverage that safeguards against potential gaps.

One-Stop Shopping

Managing different types of insurance to suit your lifestyle can be complex and time-consuming. However, independent insurance agents simplify this process by offering one-stop shopping for all your insurance needs. Rather than visiting multiple agencies or navigating confusing online searches, you can discuss your requirements with a single agent who will present you with the best options available. This saves you time, provides a comprehensive overview of the market, and ensures you can make well-informed decisions efficiently.

Licensed Professionals with Expert Guidance

Understanding insurance policies can be challenging due to the complexities, exclusions, and technical jargon involved. Independent agents hold licenses and possess the experience necessary to explain insurance terms in a clear and understandable manner. They bridge the gap between industry jargon and policyholders' understanding, ensuring you grasp the coverage you have and determining what you genuinely need. By leveraging the expertise of independent agents, you can avoid the pitfalls of being underinsured or paying excessive premiums for unnecessary coverage, ultimately achieving a better balance between cost and protection.

While big-name insurance companies have their merits, it's important to recognize the value that independent insurance agents bring to the table. With their ability to provide a multitude of options, deliver cost savings, offer personalized service, and act as customer advocates, independent agents provide a superior insurance experience. Their unbiased advice, local expertise, one-stop shopping convenience, and expertise in navigating complex insurance policies make them an indispensable resource in securing comprehensive coverage tailored to your needs. When it comes to protecting your assets and peace of mind, an independent insurance agent is a trusted ally who genuinely works for you.

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Save on Home Insurance Premiums with a Security System | Family Union Insurance

Learn how installing a security system can help you save on home insurance premiums. Discover the benefits of safety devices, such as video surveillance cameras, motion detectors, smoke detectors, and fire alarms. Protect your property, save money, and gain peace of mind. Contact our insurance agents for discounts and referrals.

Camera doorbell security system

Home Insurance and Security Systems

Home insurance is an important aspect of homeownership, not only because it provides financial protection in the event of loss or damage to one's property, but also because having a policy in place is often required by mortgage lenders.

Save on Home Insurance Premiums

Many homeowners may be unaware that there are ways to save on their home insurance premiums by taking proactive measures to protect their property. One such measure is installing a security system, which can potentially provide discounts on home insurance policies.

Discounts for Security Systems

Insurance companies may offer discounts to policyholders who have specific safety devices installed in their homes, including security systems. These systems come in all shapes and sizes and can include video surveillance cameras, door and window sensors, and motion detectors. The goal is not only to deter potential burglars but also to alert homeowners of an intrusion. By offering discounts for these types of systems, insurers are incentivizing homeowners to take proactive measures to protect their properties, which can ultimately save them money.

Additional Safety Devices

In addition to security systems, insurance discounts may also be available for safety and anti-theft devices such as smoke detectors, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems. Homeowners who have these devices installed and monitored may also be eligible for insurance savings. It's worth noting that these discounts will vary by insurer, and it's important to speak with your insurance agent to understand the specific discounts available to you.

The Value of a Security System

While the financial benefits of a security system discount can be enticing, the true value of having a security system lies in the potential loss it could prevent. Burglaries and other property crimes can be devastating financially and emotionally, and the average loss from a single burglary is over $2,000. By investing in a security system, homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that they've taken proactive measures to protect their homes and potentially avoid the trauma and loss associated with a break-in.

Additional Benefits of Security Systems

Beyond protecting against property crime, security systems can also offer additional benefits such as fire and smoke protection. Monitored smoke detectors and fire alarms can help alert homeowners and emergency services to potential fires, allowing for faster response times and hopefully preventing further damage. Some security systems can also include water sensors that detect leaks or warn of malfunctioning HVAC systems, providing an added layer of protection against water damage.

Take Steps to Protect Your Property

It's important for homeowners to take steps to protect their properties, not only to potentially save money on insurance premiums but also to safeguard against potential losses. Investing in a security system or other safety devices is one way to do this and can provide peace of mind knowing that proactive measures have been taken to protect one's home. Speaking with an insurance agent is a great way to understand what discounts may be available for specific devices and to ensure that your home insurance policy is providing adequate coverage.

Contact Us for More Information

If you’re a current client or interested in saving some money on your home insurance policy, reach out to us for a security system referral or to see what discounts are available to you!

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Tips to Save Money on Auto Insurance Premiums

Discover effective ways to decrease your auto insurance costs while maintaining adequate coverage. Learn about driving safely, increasing deductibles, managing credit scores, taking advantage of special discounts, and shopping around for the best rates. Find reliable auto insurance solutions in Kansas City, Missouri with the help of an insurance agent.

Tips to Save Money on Auto Insurance Premiums

If you are like most people, you are always looking for ways to save money. One area where you may be able to save some money is on your auto insurance premiums. Here are some tips that may help decrease your auto insurance costs while still maintaining adequate coverage.

Drive Safely

The first and most important thing you can do to lower your auto insurance premiums is to drive safely. Nothing affects your auto insurance rates more than your driving record. Every time you are responsible for an accident or receive a moving traffic violation, you risk having your premium raised or your policy cancelled.

While you can't change your past driving history, you can make a commitment to drive responsibly going forward. Keep your speed down, always wear your seatbelt, and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Not only will these actions help keep you safe, but they may also help lower your insurance costs.

Increase Deductibles

Your auto insurance rates will decrease as you raise the deductible amounts on your policy. A deductible is the amount of any loss you must pay before the insurance company will cover damages. For example, if you have a deductible of $500 on your auto policy and have $2,000 worth of damage, you pay the first $500 and the insurance company pays $1,500. Deductibles are not available on liability only coverage.

Credit Scores

Most insurance companies use your credit history along with accidents, violations, age, and location to determine your premiums. Obtain a copy of your credit report and verify that the information is accurate. Bankruptcies, judgments, liens, late pays, and credit inquiries will cause your "credit score" to decrease and your premiums to increase.

Take Advantage of Special Discounts

Some companies offer "good student" discounts to young drivers with good academic records. Generally, a B average is required to qualify. Others offer discounts for insuring two or more cars, buying both auto and homeowners coverage, or special features that lower accident risk, like a security system or Ring doorbell.

Shop Around

Another way to lower your auto insurance premiums is to shop around for the best rates. You can increase your odds of getting the best insurance "deal" by getting information about rates, coverage, and service from a number of companies.

There are several websites that can provide instant quotes for auto insurance. However, be wary of buying auto insurance directly over the Internet without an agent to compare carriers and make sure you’re getting the best rate. To simplify, call Family Union Insurance and we can shop for you, compare carriers, and make sure you’re getting the best rates for you.

Conclusion

Lower your auto insurance premiums in Kansas City, Missouri may seem overwhelming, but following these tips may help make it easier. Remember to drive safely, consider increasing deductibles, check your credit score, take advantage of special discounts and most importantly, have an agent shop for you!

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Pet Insurance: Is It Right for You and Your Pet?

Discover the importance of pet insurance in managing unexpected veterinary expenses and ensuring the well-being of your furry friend. Learn about the rise of pet insurance and its benefits, including cost coverage for emergency medical care. Understand the factors to consider when choosing the right pet insurance policy, such as premiums, coverage options, and limitations. Find out what is and isn't covered by pet insurance, including exclusions for routine procedures and pre-existing conditions. Consider your pet's health history and weigh the costs and benefits before making a decision. Contact Family Union Insurance for a quote tailored to your pet's needs. Invest in their health and secure your peace of mind today.

Women browsing online for pet insurance while her dog sleeps beside her.

The Importance of Pet Insurance

As a pet owner, we all want our furry friends to live long and healthy lives. But when emergencies arise, it can be difficult to manage those sudden and often costly medical expenses. Pet insurance can provide peace of mind by helping owners to cover the cost of veterinary care. However, pet insurance may not be the best option for everyone, and choosing the right policy can be a daunting task. Here’s what you need to know about pet insurance to determine if it’s right for you and your furry friend.

The Rise of Pet Insurance

The rise of pet insurance has been significant in recent years. In 2022, over 4.8 million dogs and cats in the U.S. were covered by pet insurance. The number of insured pets has nearly doubled since 2019. Despite this growth, many pet owners are still hesitant about investing in pet insurance or unaware that it’s an option.

Evaluating Pet Insurance Plans

When evaluating pet insurance plans, it’s essential to know what costs to expect. The average annual cost of an accident and illness policy is approximately $640 for dogs and $387 for cats. This equates to around $53 per month for dogs and $32 per month for cats. However, premiums can vary depending on factors such as breed, age, and location. As pets age, premiums tend to increase, and after several years of paying into the policy, the annual cost of pet insurance can grow.

It’s crucial to note that pet insurance policies come in different forms. Accident-only policies cost less but cover limited conditions such as hit-by-car accidents or poison ingestion. The more comprehensive accident and illness policy covers a wider range of health concerns. When selecting a policy, make sure to review all options carefully and choose the best one for your pet's needs.

Limitations and Requirements

Pet insurance policies also come with limitations and requirements that pet owners should know before making a decision. Deductibles, or the amount the pet owner is responsible for before the insurance kicks in, are often in place. Additionally, there are often limits on the amount that the insurance company will pay per year. Make sure to read the policy carefully to understand how much you will be reimbursed per claim, what types of treatments are covered or excluded, and whether reimbursement is provided by payout or reimbursing percentage.

What Is and Isn’t Covered

One of the most important things to understand is what is and isn’t covered by pet insurance. Most policies will not cover routine procedures such as spaying/neutering, vaccinations, and dental cleaning unless they are purchased as an add-on for wellness and preventive care. Pre-existing conditions are also generally excluded from coverage, meaning that any illnesses or injuries pre-existing before the policy will not qualify for reimbursement.

Considerations for Pet Owners

When considering pet insurance, pet owners should also factor in their pet’s health history. If their pet already has pre-existing conditions or a chronic illness, they may not benefit from pet insurance, as their needs may not be covered by the policy. Additionally, any illnesses or injuries sustained during a lapse in insurance coverage will not be eligible for reimbursement.

Pet owners should weigh the costs and benefits when deciding whether or not to invest in pet insurance. While pet insurance can be a significant investment, it may pay off in the long run if your pet needs significant medical attention. If you want a quote to see what pet insurance might cost for you and your furry friend, contact Family Union Insurance.

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Why You Need Umbrella Insurance for Your Home, Car, and Boat

Insure your home, car, or boat with primary insurance policies, but don't forget the importance of umbrella insurance. It offers additional protection against unexpected financial hardship caused by accidents, liability claims, and property damage. Safeguard your income and assets by purchasing umbrella insurance to ensure peace of mind. Consult an insurance agent to determine the right amount of coverage based on your financial assets. If your net worth exceeds $500,000, umbrella insurance becomes a necessity. Bundle policies to save on premiums. Protect your assets and avoid significant financial hardship. Contact Family Union Insurance for more information on umbrella insurance coverage.

Umbrella insurance for your family

When it comes to insuring your home, car or boat, it's important to have primary insurance policies that provide liability coverage for each of these assets. While it may seem like your primary policy limits are enough to cover all claimed damages, they may not be sufficient for everyone. This is where umbrella insurance comes in.

What is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella liability insurance is designed to offer additional protection against claims made against you for bodily injury or property damage due to a car accident, boat incident, fall or other covered accidents, and personal liability claims like libel or slander that can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. If you are concerned about safeguarding your income and assets, it's time to consider purchasing umbrella insurance.

Why You Need Umbrella Insurance

The concept of umbrella insurance may seem confusing, but it's not as difficult to understand as it may appear. If you have assets that you want to protect, regardless of whether they are homes with swimming pools, rental properties that you own or boats that you use during the summer, it's important to consider purchasing umbrella insurance. While these items offer leisure and entertainment, they can also present significant property and liability concerns.

It's common to hear stories of accidents occurring when the homeowner isn't present or teenagers using a car or boat unsupervised. These types of accidents can lead to serious claims against you, leaving you with unexpected financial burdens. An umbrella insurance policy not only covers the excess liability claims without limit but also provides peace of mind. It's important to remember that no one knows when things go wrong, but it's better to have extra protection in place when things do go wrong.

Determining How Much Coverage You Need

The amount of umbrella coverage required depends on the value of your financial assets, which includes the value of your properties, equity, jewelry, art, antiques, cars, boats, other vehicles, savings, investment accounts, retirement accounts, and other valuables. It's essential to speak to your insurance agent, who can advise you on the amount of umbrella coverage that makes sense for you.

If you're still unsure if the cost of an umbrella policy is worth it, if your net worth is higher than $500,000, then umbrella insurance is a necessity. Also, keep in mind that umbrella insurance is generally very affordable. The cost of umbrella insurance depends on various factors unique to your situation. To save money on your premiums, it's advisable to bundle policies with the same insurance carrier.

Protect Your Assets with Umbrella Insurance

Purchasing an umbrella policy is a perfect way to safeguard your assets now to help avoid significant financial hardship later. At the end of the day, life is unpredictable, and accidents can happen to anyone. However, with the right insurance policies in place, including umbrella insurance, you can protect yourself financially. So, If you own a home, car, or boat, it's important to have umbrella insurance coverage that offers extra protection in case of accidents or liability. Contact Family Union Insurance today to learn more about umbrella insurance coverage.

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Do I Really Need Renters Insurance? | Understanding the Importance and Benefits

Are you uncertain about the necessity of renters insurance? Discover why having renters insurance is essential to safeguard your personal items, finances, and liability. Explore the cost of coverage, benefits of renters insurance, and how to find the best rates through Family Union Insurance.

Wondering if you need renters insurance? Learn why it's crucial to protect your personal belongings, finances, and liability. Find out how renters insurance coverage can cost less than you expect and how to get the best rates at Family Union Insuranc

Some landlords will require renters insurance while others don’t, which can leave you wondering, “Do I really need renters insurance?”

A recent survey by NerdWallet revealed that 56% of renters do not have renters insurance. Many of them cite the cost of coverage as a hindrance, but renters insurance coverage can cost less than you expect — in fact, some tenants could pay next to nothing.

Why Do You Need Renters Insurance?

Protection for Personal Belongings

One of the primary reasons why many tenants do not get renters insurance is that they presume their landlord's policy covers their personal belongings. However, this is far from the truth. Landlord insurance covers the structure of the building and not the tenant's personal possessions. In the event of a disaster, such as fire or theft, a standard renters policy will cover the cost of replacing lost or damaged belongings, including TVs, electronics, shoes, clothes, and other personal items.

Value of Personal Possessions

Another reason why renters should consider getting insurance is that they may own more valuable items than they assume. To know what coverage they need, renters should take stock of their personal belongings and tally up their value. Most will be surprised by the amount of value in their possession and understand that having insurance is absolutely essential.

Liability Coverage

Renters insurance also provides coverage for liability, which is inclusive of the legal cost of paying for any third-party damages or injuries. If you accidentally cause damage to a neighbor's apartment or cause injury to someone, your renters insurance will cover the liability costs, including legal fees and payment of a settlement or judgment amount.

Coverage for Additional Living Expenses

In the event of a disaster, such as a fire, flooding, or other natural disasters that may force you out of your apartment, renters insurance can cover the cost of additional living expenses. Most policies provide coverage for a ‘loss of use’ or ‘additional living expense,’ which will cover hotel costs, restaurant meals, and other related expenses incurred when you are not in your apartment.

Financial Protection

Renters insurance can protect your finances as well. Rather than having to pay out of pocket in case of an accident, if your dog bites someone, or a guest gets hurt while at your apartment, your renters insurance policy will pay for their medical expenses, legal fees, and other damages. Furthermore, if you're saving for a down payment on a house, or you've worked hard to get out of debt and build an emergency fund, the last thing you need is to be paying out of pocket for an accident.

Coverage for Belongings Outside Home

Lastly, renters insurance can cover belongings even when they're not inside your home. For instance, if your laptop is stolen while you are at the café, you can still file a renters insurance claim to recover the cost of the items stolen. You may also have coverage for your belonging in a storage unit.

Get Affordable Renters Insurance

In conclusion, the cost of renters insurance is not a hindrance, and it is a worthy investment. The rewards of securing your personal items and financial future far outweighs the cost of the insurance premium. By bundling your renters policy with your auto insurance policy, you may save even more as many carriers offer multi-policy discounts. While renters insurance is not always required by your landlord, it is in your best interest to purchase renters insurance, as you'll be able to rest easy knowing your personal belongings and finances are protected.

When you're ready to save, contact Family Union Insurance and we’ll shop for the best rates for you!

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Your Guide to Landlord Insurance

Discover why landlord insurance is an essential investment for rental property owners. Learn about the different types of policies, including dwelling policies, and the benefits of having coverage for unexpected events like natural disasters, theft, and vandalism. Find out how landlord insurance differs from homeowners' policies, and why you may need additional insurance for short-term rentals, general liability, and personal property. Protect your investment and ensure peace of mind with the right landlord insurance policy.

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Landlord Insurance and Coverage

The Importance of Landlord Insurance

The idea of taking out landlord insurance may seem daunting at first, but considering the benefits, it is usually well worth the investment. While it may not be a legal requirement, having landlord insurance could help you save from catastrophic losses that may happen when managing a property, such as a tornado or fire. Without insurance, you would have to pay the entire cost of rebuilding the property if the worst were to happen. However, with landlord insurance, you would only have to pay a small deductible, and the policy can be customized to add additional coverage for other events like vandalism or theft.

Types of Rental Properties Covered

It is important to note that, while landlord insurance applies to long-term rentals over 30 days, if you plan to do short-term rentals like Airbnb or VRBO, you will need a commercial, homeshare, or vacation rental policy instead of landlord insurance. This ensures that you are adequately covered for the short-term rental nature of your business.

Now, you might be wondering, what about when you rent to family or even just a single room in your home? In both instances, you should discuss this with your agent to see what options are available for your specific situation. It’s wise to have landlord insurance, regardless of whether you are renting out to strangers or someone you know personally. You might also be able to add a home sharing endorsement on your current homeowners policy. Disclosing that you’re renting out part of your home and having a policy in place that can protect both you and your tenant in case of an accident, damage is important.

Types of Landlord Insurance Policies

When it comes to coverage, landlord insurance offers three types of policies, known as "dwelling policies." The basic DP-1 policy is a very limited coverage policy. The payment amount from this policy would be significantly less than the landlord's cost to repair the damage, and the landlord would have to make up a large difference out of pocket, but the premium will be much lower than other options. The most popular policy is DP-3, which provides comprehensive coverage, while the policy DP-2 offers moderate coverage.

Differences Between Homeowners and Landlord Insurance

There are some key differences between homeowners and landlord insurance policies. For example, while both policies cover building, liability insurance, loss of use/rental income, personal property, medical payments, and other structures, the amount of personal property coverage varies. A homeowner's policy will usually cover up to 50% of the home's insured value, while a landlord policy will often not offer any personal property coverage unless an additional premium is paid to cover appliances and furnishings. It's important to note that personal property coverage under landlord insurance does not protect the tenant's property, as they would need renters insurance for that. Additionally, the homeowner's liability covers you for personal liability that's non-business related, but landlord's liability coverage only applies to losses related to the rental. You would need separate business insurance for general liability protection.

Get Landlord Insurance with Family Union Insurance

When you’re ready to look into landlord insurance, Family Union Insurance is here to help match you with the best coverage for your specific situation. We work with many carriers that provide customizable landlord policies

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How to Save Money on Car Insurance: Tips for Car Owners

If you have a teenager, ensure that they take a safe-driving course before getting a license. Also, inform your insurer if they are not licensed or reside more than 100 miles from your home without a car. Maintaining a good credit score and reporting reduced mileage if you're driving less than usual can also help reduce your premiums.

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Car insurance is an essential investment for any car owner. However, it can be a costly affair, especially for new cars. To avoid breaking the bank, there are several tips that you can follow.

Annual Rate Check and Comparison

Start by conducting an annual rate check and comparing rates from different insurers online. Additionally, consider forming a relationship with an independent agent who can help you compare rates from multiple insurers.

Choosing a Top-Rated Insurer

It is important to choose a top-rated insurer that won't undercut loss estimates, harass repair shops or unfairly increase your premiums.

Deductible, Coverage, and Discounts

Make sure to set the right deductible that suits your financial situation, review all of your coverage and take advantage of discounts offered by insurers. Car insurance companies offer a range of discounts, such as for students with good grades, new drivers who have taken a driver-training course, and multiple-policy holders.

Safe Driving Course and Reduced Mileage

If you have a teenager, ensure that they take a safe-driving course before getting a license. Also, inform your insurer if they are not licensed or reside more than 100 miles from your home without a car. Maintaining a good credit score and reporting reduced mileage if you're driving less than usual can also help reduce your premiums.

Choosing Your Car Wisely

Finally, choose your car wisely and ask your insurer for premium quotes on different models under consideration. Following these tips will help you save money while still getting the coverage you need.

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IMPORTANCE OF INSURANCE

Insurance is one of the most important financial tools that we have in our lives, providing individuals, families, and businesses with protection from the unexpected.

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Importance of Insurance - Social and Economic Benefits

Importance of Insurance - Social and Economic Benefits

Insurance is one of the most important financial tools that we have in our lives, providing individuals, families, and businesses with protection from the unexpected. However, insurance's impact goes beyond the individual level, benefiting society as a whole in various ways. In this post, we'll explore the social and economic benefits of insurance and why it's so important to have insurance in our lives.

Natural Disaster Relief

Natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and wildfires are often unpredictable and can cause significant damage to both property and people. Insurance plays a critical role in disaster relief efforts, providing financial support to those affected by the disaster. Small businesses also benefit from insurance, which can help them mitigate risks such as property damage, liability claims, and employee injuries. Insurance payouts after disasters such as Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy have helped individuals and small businesses get back on their feet and rebuild.

Financial Stability

One of the most significant benefits of insurance is the ability to achieve financial stability. Without insurance, individuals and families may struggle to pay for unexpected expenses, such as medical bills, car repairs, or home damage. Uninsured households are three times more likely to declare bankruptcy than those with insurance. Insurance provides financial protection, allowing individuals and families to plan for the unexpected and avoid financial ruin.

Other Social and Economic Benefits

Moreover, insurance also provides society with other advantages. For instance, insurance helps to spread risk, ensuring that losses are shared across a large pool of individuals and businesses. This helps to stabilize the economy, as losses from disasters or other events are distributed among many different parties. Insurance companies also work with policyholders to identify and mitigate potential risks, helping to prevent accidents and other disasters from occurring in the first place.

Conclusion

In conclusion, insurance is a critical tool for protecting individuals, families, and businesses from the unexpected. Its benefits extend far beyond the individual level, benefiting society as a whole in a multitude of ways. Insurance is an essential component of a healthy and stable society. Therefore, it's important for individuals and businesses alike to prioritize insurance and ensure that they have the coverage they need to thrive. By doing so, we can all contribute to a more resilient and secure future for ourselves and our communities.

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