What will come with a home insurance plan in Scottsdale?

If you have recently visited the Scottsdale, AZ, area, you will likely see it can be a great place to own a home. As you are looking to purchase a home here, you will need to ensure that you are also getting the right insurance. One of the best ways this can be done is by working with a professional to build a new home insurance plan. Your home insurance policy will offer many advantages and coverage options, making it a great choice. 

Protection for Dwelling

One of the reasons you will want to have a home insurance policy is to get protection for your dwelling. If you choose to buy a home, you will want to know that you are covered in the event of a fire or natural disaster. If you are insured, you will get support to repair or replace your property in many situations. This can help ensure you are supported during otherwise difficult times. 

Liability Risk Mitigation

Getting a home insurance policy to reduce your liability risks would also be a good idea. There is always a risk you could be named liable if an accident results in damages. If one of these situations does occur, you will have some personal coverage through a home insurance policy. This can prove to be helpful if an accident occurs on your property. 

Home insurance must always be considered necessary if you are in the Scottsdale, AZ, area. As you are looking for a home, calling our team with the Homeowners Insurance Group would be brilliant. Our professionals with the Homeowners Insurance Group can offer any help you need in choosing a new insurance plan, whether you are purchasing a new home or are simply evaluating your coverage needs and options. 

Simplify Home Insurance Claims with a Home Inventory

Even if you’re familiar with your belongings, you may find it difficult to make an accurate home insurance claim for lost items from memory alone after a disaster. That’s why it’s important to have a home inventory. In the event of theft or loss in a disaster, a home inventory will make it easier to file an insurance claim to recover your losses. At Homeowners Insurance Group, we recommend all Scottsdale, AZ homeowners make an inventory of their personal property.

What is a Home Inventory?

A home inventory is a list of all of your possessions, from designer clothing and shoes to furniture, appliances, and electronics. You should keep receipts after purchasing expensive goods like major appliances or electronics and photograph your possessions to verify they’re in good condition and that you actually own these items. High-end goods such as original artwork, posh jewelry, rare coins, etc. should be appraised to verify their value.

All this information should be kept in a safe location that’s easily accessible along with other important documents.   

Benefits of a Home Inventory

In the event of theft or loss in a natural disaster, all you have to do is check your inventory to see what’s missing, destroyed, or lost. Along with your inventory, you’ll have a record of the value of your property and proof of ownership so you can make an accurate insurance claim to recuperate your losses.

Making a home inventory takes time. But in the end, it will pay off by simplifying insurance claims and getting quicker reimbursement results. Your home inventory can even be used to purchase accurate insurance coverage as you’ll have a better idea of all that you own and their value.

Reach Out To Us

For tips on creating a home inventory or assistance in purchasing home insurance coverage, contact Homeowners Insurance Group serving the greater Scottsdale, AZ community.

Four details you shouldn’t overlook when you buy life insurance

When you buy life insurance, it’s important for you to carefully consider the details. Life insurance is a significant investment that can impact your finances significantly down the road. At Homeowners Insurance Group, we can help you understand all the details of your life insurance policy in Scottsdale, AZ. 

The following are four details you shouldn’t overlook when you buy life insurance:

Coverage type

There are quite a few different types of life insurance available. When you’re in the market for a policy, you can choose from term life and whole life insurance. 

The biggest difference between term and whole life insurance is that term life insurance is temporary and doesn’t accumulate cash value. On the other hand, whole life insurance policies last indefinitely and typically accumulate cash value over time. 

Coverage amount

Life insurance providers generally offer a wide range of coverage amounts from which you can choose. The amount of coverage you need depends on how long your dependents need financial support and how many beneficiaries you have on your policy. 

Premium costs

Make sure that you can afford your policy premiums. If you can no longer make your premium payments, your policy will be canceled. Factor premium payments into your monthly budget to keep yourself in good shape financially. 

Coverage term

If you choose term life insurance, you’ll have to decide on the right coverage term. Usually, term life insurance policy terms range from 10 years to 30 years. To decide on the right term for your family, consider how long your dependents are expected to be financially dependent on you. 

Reach Out To Us

Do you need more information on life insurance in Scottsdale, AZ? We’re here to assist you at Homeowners Insurance Group. Get in touch with us online or by phone for a quote on a life insurance policy. 

What NOT to do when buying home insurance

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

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?

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

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?

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

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

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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