Category: Home Insurance

What NOT to do when buying home insurance

Posted on by agentinsure

Buying home insurance can be a daunting task, but the experts at Homeowners Insurance Group are here to guide you through the process and help you avoid common mistakes. Here are a few things NOT to do when buying home insurance in Scottsdale, AZ and the surrounding areas.

Don’ts of Home Insurance

Don’t skimp on coverage:

It can be tempting to save money by opting for a lower coverage limit, but it’s important to make sure your policy provides enough coverage to rebuild your home in case of a total loss. It’s also important to review your policy to make sure you have adequate liability coverage in case someone is injured on your property.

Don’t neglect to update your coverage:

As you make changes to your home, such as remodeling or adding a pool, it’s important to update your coverage to reflect these changes. Failing to do so could result in a coverage gap in case of a loss.

Don’t assume your policy covers everything:

Standard home insurance policies often exclude certain types of damage, such as flooding or earthquakes. Be sure to review your policy and understand what is and isn’t covered, and consider purchasing additional coverage if necessary.

Don’t overlook discounts:

Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like installing security systems or being claims-free. Be sure to ask Homeowners Insurance Group about available discounts to help lower your premium.

Don’t forget to shop around:

It’s important to compare quotes from different insurance companies to make sure you are getting the best deal. At Homeowners Insurance Group, we are committed to providing our customers in Scottsdale, AZ and the surrounding areas with the best coverage at the best price.

Give Us A Call

Contact Homeowners Insurance Group today to learn more about the coverage options available to you.

Home Claims, Submit or Not to Submit

Posted on by agentinsure

My New Years’ Resolution for 2022 is to educate my clients on a variety of insurance topics.   Understanding the insurance rating process will help you keep your insurance premiums as low as possible.

My topic today is going to be homeowners’ claims, should you submit or not submit it?

I think it is important for you to know that you can be canceled for claims.    It is not unusual for a company to cancel you if you’ve had 2 claims in 3 – 5 years.

So what happens if you’re canceled for claims?   If this happens then I can’t get you insured with another preferred company until that falls off your record.    I just had this happen to a good client of mine and it is a big deal for them.   Their premium increased from $1700 to over $3000 once 2 claims were presented.   On the third, they were canceled.   The only company I can place them with is a high-risk company.   The premium is now over $4400 a year and their coverage is not nearly as good as the old policy.  They have no choice but to take the policy because nobody else will insure them.   Even one claim can preclude you from moving to some insurance companies.   I have several companies that won’t write a home if the client has had 1 loss in 3 years.

I know…why have insurance?!?!?   I agree it isn’t fair, but this is how it is unless they pass legislation precluding companies for canceling due to claims.

The amount of the claim doesn’t matter, it is a frequency issue.   I had a client that came to me from another company.   She was canceled for having a $150 claim and a $500 claim.   I was able to write the policy, but the premium was $3000.   Her original premium was only $500.

Back to my original question, should you submit that claim?   Well, that is up to each individual situation and your “pain threshold” as I like to put it.    Claims stay on your record for five long years.  Of course, there are those situations where you can’t avoid a claim and really that is why you have insurance.   Don’t be afraid to submit a claim if you need to.   My primary goal is to protect you and educate you on the process.   I write for 15 different companies and have the ability to move you if needed.   I want to keep you in the best possible rating category to keep those rates down.

Some claims are unavoidable, but keeping your home well-maintained will stave off many unfortunate situations.   Is your roof in good repair?   If you have an older home, have you had that inspected by a plumber or electrician to insure that all is in good working order?   What about that old water heater?   Those have to be replaced as they get older because they’ve been known to explode, causing major water damage.   It is recommended that they be replaced every 10 years.   There are many ways to ensure that you and your family have a safe and claim-free home.

I found another article in the Wall Street Journal on home claims that was interesting…if you’d like more information.    https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB106380332733463200.

Again, you have your insurance in case something happens.   I want to help assist you in your process.   I usually advise my clients to call me before calling the insurance company.   I’m happy to discuss your individual situation and possible options in the event something happens.   I represent you first and foremost!

Have a wonderful 2023!

Aliesha Brard, Principal

Does Home Insurance Cover My Electronics?

Posted on by agentinsure

In a modern world, electronics are a big part of our lives. They make our lives easier, connect us to the world, and provide entertainment. When something happens to your home and belongings, you want to be sure that your home insurance will cover your electronics. Unfortunately, home insurance has limitations for electronics. Homeowners Insurance Group in Scottsdale, AZ is here to guide you through this important insurance coverage.

What Most Standard Home Policies Say About Electronics

Most home insurance policies have limited coverage for electronics. The limit is usually $2,500 for all electronics combined. This includes computers, tablets, smartphones, TVs, and other electronics. The limit may be higher if you have a home office, but it is usually limited to $5,000.

The costs of your devices add up quickly. The total could easily be over $2,500 if you have a new computer, phone, or device. If you have an older computer, the limit may not be enough to cover the replacement cost. If your home is burglarized or damaged in a fire, you may not replace all of your electronics.

Your Homeowners Insurance Group can help you get the coverage you need for your electronics. We offer additional personal property coverage that can be added to your home insurance policy.

What You Can Do To Protect Your Electronics

There are a few things you can do to help protect your electronics. You can add an endorsement or rider to your home insurance policy. This will increase the limit on your electronics coverage. You can also purchase a separate insurance policy for your electronics. This is called a personal property floater.

A personal property floater will cover your electronics anywhere in the world. It will also cover you if your electronics are damaged in a fire or stolen in a burglary. The cost of the policy will depend on the value of your electronics.

Give Us A Call

Learn more about home insurance coverage and electronics in Scottsdale, AZ by contacting the Homeowners Insurance Group. We can review your policy and help you get the coverage you need.

Home Insurance Myths Exposed

Posted on by agentinsure

Homeowners Insurance Group assists Scottsdale, AZ residents, as well as the local community. We strive to simplify the process of searching for insurance. We work closely with our clients to help them find a policy that protects their assets. We have relationships with multiple carriers across the Pacific Northwest.

Home Insurance Myths Exposed

Your Scottsdale, AZ home is one of your most valuable assets. Home insurance allows you to protect your sanctuary. The policy covers interior and exterior damage to your home. All of your personal items inside your home are also covered if they are stolen or vandalized. Liability coverage protects you if a guest is injured while visiting your property. While researching coverage, avoid these common home insurance myths.

I Don’t Need To Take Inventory

This is false. Taking inventory is important because it ensures that you receive fair value for your items if they are stolen. Make a list of your personal items inside your home.

All Damage Is Covered

There are some cases when home insurance will cover damage to your home. If your home suffers flood damage, you need to acquire a traditional flood policy in order to cover your home. If your home is damaged due to an invasion of rodents or mold develops, you are not covered. These are situations that likely would have been avoided if you take care of your property. You have to perform regular maintenance on your home.

I’m Covered If I Get Injured

The bodily injury coverage in your policy protects you if one of your guests is injured. You are not protected from your own injuries. Bodily injury coverage can prevent you from losing your assets if the injured party pursues legal action.

Homeowners Insurance Group Will Help You Cover Your Assets

Visit our website to learn more information about home insurance.

Who should get home insurance in Arizona?

Posted on by agentinsure

People who live in the Scottsdale, AZ area will find that the local housing market offers many advantages and benefits to property owners. Those that own property here will enjoy the increase in property value and the chance to have a consistent home. If you end up buying a home, getting the proper insurance is a good idea. There are several situations when someone should get home insurance here.

When Trying to Protect Assets

Those in this area of the state should primarily consider getting home insurance to protect their asset. Home takes a major investment and is one that you should always look to protect. If you get a home insurance policy, it will give you coverage to repair or replace your home if it is seriously damaged. 

When Wanting to Comply with Agreements

Anyone in this area of Arizona should also get a home insurance policy because it will ensure they comply with their insurance agreements. Those who buy a property here will likely take out a mortgage and live in a home association. If this is the case for you, likely, you will also have a home insurance requirement that needs to be met. Having proper insurance will keep you in good standing. 

Scottsdale, AZ property owners clearly need to get a quality home insurance policy. If you are in the market for a new home insurance policy here, the first call you should make is to the Homeowners Insurance Group. Anyone that calls the Homeowners Insurance Group will quickly find that the team can answer any questions that you have. This can help guide your decision when you are choosing your next insurance policy. 

Home Insurance Add-Ons to Consider

Posted on by agentinsure

Your home insurance in Scottsdale, AZ covers plenty of different things, but there are some things not covered that you can add on extra coverage to include. An agent at Homeowners Insurance Agency can help you determine which add-ons make the most sense for your needs. 

  • Underground Sewer Lines: Underground utility lines will bring services to your home, but you are responsible for the damage that happens to the lines on your property. While the damage can be caused by the age of service lines or tree roots, it’s not covered under a typical policy. Adding this can be helpful if you live in an older home that may have dated systems.  
  • Drain and Sewer Back-Up: If a municipal drainage system overflows, then the water can back up into your home and cause flooding damage at your home and property, along with creating a significant inconvenience. The damage caused by this can be expensive to repair, and adding this protection can give you some peace of mind. 
  • Sinkholes: Depending on your property and the composition of the ground, your home could be susceptible to this. If you add this type of endorsement to your policy, then you won’t have to face this expense on your own. 
  • Home Based Business: With more people working from home in Scottsdale, AZ, it’s important to note home insurance doesn’t cover your business dealings. You may even get your home insurance canceled if you don’t have a home-based business endorsement. This type of endorsement covers personal property in a home office and medical bills that result from injuries or accidents to business visitors. 
  • Add-Ons for Personal Property: If you have valuable items, such as electronics, jewelry, or artwork, then you need add-on endorsements to protect these items.  

Flood and earthquakes aren’t covered under standard home insurance, and you can get coverage for these under separate policies.  

Contact Homeowners Insurance Agency to get a quote on home insurance. 

Home Claims, Submit or Not to Submit

Posted on by Aliesha

​​​

My New Years’ Resolution for 2016 is to educate my clients on a variety of insurance topics.   Understanding the insurance rating process will help you keep your  insurance premiums as low as possible.

My topic today is going to be homeowners claims, should you submit or not submit?

I think it is important for you to know that you can be cancelled for claims.    It is not unusual for a company to cancel you if you’ve had 2 claims in 3 – 5 years.

So what happens if you’re cancelled for claims?   If this happens then I can’t get you insured with another preferred company until that falls off your record.    I just had this happen to a good client of mine and it is a big deal for them.   Their premium increased from $1700 to over $3000 once 2 claims were presented.   On the third they were cancelled.   The only company I can place them with is a high risk company.   The premium is now over $4400 a year and their coverage is not nearly as good as the old policy.  They have no choice but to take the policy because nobody else will insure them.   Even one claim can preclude you from moving to some insurance companies.   I have several  companies that won’t write a home if the client has had 1 loss in 3 years.

I know…why have insurance?!?!?   I agree it isn’t fair, but this is how it is unless they pass legislation precluding companies for cancelling due to claims.

The amount of the claim doesn’t matter, it is a frequency issue.   I had a client that came to me from another company.   She was cancelled for having a $150 claim and a $500 claim.   I was able to write the policy, but the premium was $3000.   Her original premium was only $500.

Back to my original question, should you submit that claim?   Well, that is up to each individual situation and your “pain threshold” as I like to put it.    Claims stay on your record for five long years.  Of course there are those situations where you can’t avoid a claim and really that is why you have insurance.   Don’t be afraid to submit a claim if you need to.   My primary goal is to protect you and educate you on the process.   I write for 15 different companies and have the ability to move you if needed.   I want to keep you in the best possible rating category to keep those rates down.

Some claims are unavoidable, but keeping your home well maintained will stave off many unfortunate situations.   Is your roof in good repair?   If you have an older home, have you had that inspected by a plumber or electrician to insure that all is in good working order?   What about that old water heater?   Those have to be replaced as they get older because they’ve been known to explode, causing major water damage.   It is recommended that they be replaced ever 10 years.   There are many ways to ensure that you and your family have a safe and claim free home.

I found another article in the Wall Street Journal on home claims that was interesting…if you’d like more information.    https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB106380332733463200.

Again, you have your insurance in case something happens.   I want to help assist you in your process.   I usually advise my clients to call me before calling the insurance company.   I’m happy to discuss your individual situation and possible options in the event something happens.   I represent you first and foremost!

Have a wonderful 2016!

Aliesha Brard, Principal

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