Homeowners Insurance Archives - Alexander Insurance Agency

17Jul

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Landscaping Damage?

Blooming Beauty Without Budget Breaking: Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Landscaping?

Landscaping is a provision that helps your outer appearance so much, as shrubs, bushes, trees, and other forms of plant life are components of what makes your property look so spectacular. The comforting benefit of homeowners insurance is designed to protect you financially if your landscaping elements undergo damage or complete destruction. After investing time and money into making your yard look so great, many homeowners wonder if their insurance company will pay to replace your lawn, garden, trees, shrubs, and any other outdoor features after an unwanted event takes place.

The answer is generally yes, if the damage falls under the guise of what’s covered under peril. In this blog post, we’ll break down what a covered peril is, tell you how much insurance you may need to pay out, and fill you in on options available if your landscaping offers a few more bells and whistles for visual pop.

When Will My Homeowners Insurance Cover Landscaping and Yard Damage?

Your standard homeowners insurance policy will cover damaged landscaping when the particular event is a covered peril. Here are some examples:

Lightning episodes
Fire
Theft
Vandalism
Explosion
Damage to your landscaping caused by someone else’s vehicle

You may have an incident where someone steals some of your landscaping or loses control of their vehicle and it causes damage. Your homeowners insurance coverage is in place to protect you against these occurrences. The provisions you enjoy that protect from lightning, vandalism, and fire under your homeowner’s policy will usually extend to your yard.

Weather-related damage is where many exceptions lie, with losses from wind, hail, frigid temps, and the weight of ice and flooding typically not being covered. Insurance companies have recently noticed more damage caused by insects, pests, and disease, which can be protected with an entirely separate flood insurance policy. Much of the confusion surrounding landscaping is pinpointing which aspect of your previously acquired coverage will help you when something goes wrong.

How Much Landscaping Damage Will Be Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

If your landscaping damage is due to an event that is covered by an existing policy, the insurer will decide upon the amount it will pay, as it applies to the dwelling limit. If your home has a dwelling limit of $400,000, that’s how much the insurance company will cover if your home, much like an automobile that is totaled, is rendered a complete loss. Most insurance companies will cover damage that occurs to your landscape up to 5% of the total dwelling limit. If your entire drawing had a limit of $300,000, the insuring party would pay up to $15,000 toward cosmetic landscaping loss.

What are the Coverage Limits for Landscaping and Yard Damage?

After there has been theft or the forces of nature have acted upon your landscaping, the covering insurance company isn’t able to just quickly write a check for 5% of the total dwelling limit. There are caps on what will be paid out, which are broken down objectively. A company may cap the amount they’ll pay for any element of landscaping to be removed at 500 or $1000. Every other element of landscaping has another cap, so you as the homeowner may not ride off into the sunset with 100% of the money needed to see your yard back to its healthy state.

The limits of your coverage will vary by the company you use, which makes it crucial for those who have especially well-groomed yards to closely examine their policy before a bad situation occurs. It’s also valuable to find out what local nurseries and landscaping services charge for the kinds of upgrades you want to your lawn before you bid on the work. It’s common for a homeowner to find out that the cost of removing the tree could be more expensive than any policy will cover, or that your coverage could be insufficient to correctly replace the high amount it has taken to render your yard presentable in your eyes.

If you have to pay your deductible before your provider pays the remainder of your bill, you may have to give careful thought to whether the coverage is valuable at all. Another similarity here that exists with auto coverage is that the fewer claims the homeowner has on file, the lower your annual premium to pay will be.

Other Options for Yards and Garden Coverage:

Homeowners who have spent a large amount of money creating their own beautiful oasis have options for increasing the amount of coverage they have. “Yard and garden endorsements” raise the caps set in place by the insurer, but they don’t change the total amount paid out to repair any damage to your landscaping. If your neighbor’s house catches on fire and the havoc spreads to your yard, you will undoubtedly suffer immense damage to your landscaping.

This type of policy does a little bit more than increase coverage caps on plans, as it also will extend the coverage of the tools needed to maintain your area and the machinery used to upkeep the property. If things like tractors, leaf blowers, sprinklers, and lawn mowers suffer an extreme amount of damage, you will have more coverage at your disposal to be able to properly replace these items.

What Steps Should I Take to Make Sure I’m Adequately Covered?

Many homeowners are understandably worried about what could happen if their landscaping is damaged, otherwise compromised, or destroyed. For homeowners of all ages, landscaping is a house characteristic that can give you much pride and enjoyment year-round. Here are some steps that can assure that you have the coverage that will fit your needs and fully protect your investment:

Check your existing policy to ensure that your landscaping elements are written in. If you are fully covered, read the fine print to see what pre-existing issues and other circumstances could surprise you if something happens.
Determine how much coverage you have and decide if it would be adequate if full replacement of the landscaping you worked so hard to attain is needed.
If you are already covered, get in touch with us here at the Alexander Agency of Saint Charles to learn about a yard and garden endorsement.
If you find a yard and garden endorsement that specifically fits your needs, you can expect to pay an extra $50 to $100 a year for this Peace of Mind and new coverage.

Will This Type of Coverage Cover Groundhog Damage?

We understand that it’s not just the 1980s movie “Caddyshack’s” Gopher and Groundhog problems on the golf course that can cause massive frustration in a well-kept yard! Homeowners insurance will generally not normally cover damage from groundhogs because they are technically considered pests, as are squirrels. If Groundhog damage is covered it will apply only to damage done to the structure of the home and not the plants and trees. Your homeowners insurance policy will cover damage caused by much larger intruders, such as deer or bears.

Landscaping elements are part of the essence and dwelling enrichment that make your home comforting, unique, and appealing. We have enjoyed providing many happy homeowners with the best in homeowners and landscaping coverage here at the Alexander Agency of St Charles and offering a “solid rock” of protection for the boulders and builder’s pride your home exemplifies.

19Jun

The Deep End’s Inviting Distraction: Homeowners Insurance & Swimming Pool Coverage

A swimming pool is a hot-weather friendly feature in many American backyards, but there can be a slightly risky side to their recreational existence. Nearly 7000 children under the age of 15 were seen in the emergency room in 2021 for injuries that took place in a swimming pool, with 45% of these injuries happening in residential pools. From a smaller size and shallow pool to Olympic-grade structures, there’s always a risk of accidents that could lead to injury when a pool is on your property. It’s always best to inquire whether your home insurance will cover these potential risks.

Is my Existing Homeowners Policy Adequate for Pool Coverage?

To answer this question properly, it’s best to look at if your pool largely depends on your insurance provider. Some insurers will not issue a policy at all if a pool exists on the property, and others have specific criteria that need to be taken into consideration, including:

Fencing the area around the perimeter
placing adequate lighting around the pool to reduce accidental risk
installing a useful, non-skid surface on the diving board
Placing a lock on your ladder when the pool is above ground

Once you have your homeowners coverage intact, liability coverage can extend to the pool structure, and any damage the pool itself undergoes is protected under a separate coverage type. Secondly, if the pool in question is above ground, your insurance company can consider it part of your personal property since there are no permanent structures attached to it. Personal property coverage may offer both a policy limit and a category limit for your pool, as there are separate coverage limitations to think about with each type of construction.

Above-Ground Pools are usually covered under personal property or other structures coverage as long as they are permanent installation.

In-Ground Pools are usually covered under the dwelling or other structures coverage function of your policy.

How are Pool-Related Injuries Handled by Insurance?

When an injury occurs in your pool, homeowners insurance coverage is the first means of assistance. Depending on how the injury took place, your local laws on residential swimming pools and what safety features you have will govern the outcome. If the pool is used without your permission, the responsibility level can lower drastically, but if they are invited to your house and get injured, you could still be held responsible for said injuries.

One general rule of thumb is that if someone is injured while using your pool, the personal liability coverage on your homeowners policy will take care of all the associated costs. Proper safety measures to reduce risk are also an excellent help for reliability extent, and many property insurers will ask you to put safety measures in place such as a fence around the pool with a locking gate or the removal of the ladder to keep uninvited guests away.

Is a Personal Umbrella Policy Right for You?

A personal umbrella policy is not required, but it is very much worth considering because of the added layer of financial protection it provides. With an umbrella policy, homeowners can rest easy with $1,000,000 or more in valuable additional liability protection. If there is a fatality on their property or someone becomes seriously injured while invited to the pool, this umbrella policy would help pay for their funeral and medical expenses, as well as any fees originating from legal action.

Steps to Take for Heightened Safety in and Around Your Pool:

Even if you are certain that your swimming pool will be covered under personal property or other structures, it’s best to consider taking additional proactive steps to reduce any risk of injury at all on the property. Here are some steps that will assure that the fun you’re enjoying with the pool and your property will be as safe as possible:

Installing a fence with a locking gate: it’s not just on graduation nights and when pranks are in play: swimming pools are often appealing to the public and a durable fence is an excellent first line of defense to keep trespassers away. If this gate can be locked, you are provided with an even better layer of protection. Some insurance coverage providers may ask for the fence’s exact height and require a 6-foot minimum.
Alarm Installation: Any door on the property that leads to the pool should have an alarm that sounds as soon as it is opened. It should be loud enough that you can hear it throughout the entire house, and have a very distinct ring. Following this protocol will allow you to know every time someone is near your pool that does not have your permission to be there.
Prohibit Swimming Alone: When anyone swims alone, the chances of a serious accident increase drastically. Even a minor bump or duck can turn severe without anyone around, and it can be practical to impose this restriction, even for the adults in your household.
Acquire proper CPR training: CPR training is a very valuable skill to have when considering everyone’s safety around the pool. Knowing how to administer CPR can absolutely save a life within an instant and can be obtained through hospitals or other cooperating agencies such as the American Red Cross.
Assuring That Your Pool Area is Obstacle-Free: Obstacles such as toys and built-in decor can greatly increase the chance of an unwanted injury. It’s best to keep items like toys and chairs away from the pool, especially when left unattended. This will prevent not only accidents in the dark but mishaps that incur when people begin running around recklessly or jumping in from a distance.
The Leisure Hour Minus the Ladder: Since most pools are above ground, raising the ladder or removing it completely when the pool is not in use is a good habit that promotes safety. This will at least provide a little bit of defense against unwanted visitors helping themselves to a dip.

Do all Types of Swimming Pools Require Insurance?

Savvy and experienced insurance agents will tell you that each variety and size of pool will need to be insured. This helps cover the cost of any damages or injuries and provides financial safety and security for the owner. Come see us this summer at the Alexander Agency of Saint Charles while you are weighing your options, preparing your flip-flops and trunks, and adjusting the optimal chlorine levels for all out sunny summer fun!

19May

Reassurance For the Stormy Season: How Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Once water damage occurs inside your property, you can have a time-consuming and worrisome situation on your hands! This article will outline what is and is not covered under home insurance, along with how to assure that you are fully protected from “h20’s decay.”

What is Homeowners Insurance?

Sometimes referred to as “hazard insurance”, homeowners insurance protects your property and other assets in case of sudden damage. It reimburses the policyholder for damage and losses to the property if you fall prey to burglary or fire. While you are completing the homebuyer process, the lender usually requires proof of homeowners insurance to acquire the mortgage. Homeowners insurance does not cover mortgage payments, but rather the losses that these events can cause.

Here are some of the common events these policies do cover:

Hail, lightning, wind, and fire damage
Property that is stolen from the inside or outside
Anyone that sustains an injury on the property
Costs for hotel stays post-damage
Damage from fallen objects or branches

What justifies Coverable Water Damage?

Water damage generally refers to damage on your property after a water accident. To officially qualify as water damage, moisture must exist as the primary cause of the damage. If you have pipes that have burst on the property and the entire basement is flooded, that damage is definitely water damage. If heavy rains leak through the roof and damage floors or walls and your belongings, this is water damage as well. Here are some of the most common events categorized as water damage:

Pipes that have burst
Flooding because of torrential storms
Backed up sewer mains
Leaks from a water heater
Cracks in the foundation from seeping moisture
Plumbing malfunctions

In What Instances is Water Damage Included in a Homeowners Policy?

Dwelling Coverage is one of the types of coverage included in a standard homeowners insurance policy. This protects your home from vandals, theft, fires, and storms. When water damage occurs, the coverage usually should cover the act of repairing any physical property damaged by water. If a burst pipe caused water to seep into the walls, ceilings, and floors, dwelling coverage would cover the repairs. If you do undergo damage and file a claim, most policies have a limit on the amount they will pay out.

How Will Your Belongings Make Out?

Most homeowners insurance policies will offer the inclusion of personal property coverage. This will protect your possessions from water disasters and covers elements such as clothing, electronics, and your beloved furniture. If a forceful Missouri storm causes water to leak through the roof and damage personal belongings such as furniture, your coverage will reimburse you. If you are away from your home on business or vacation and do you experience water damage you will want the peace of mind knowing that you are fully covered.

Which Type of Water Damage Incidents Are Not Covered?

Homeowners insurance may cover most types of water damage, but the following are a few scenarios that may leave you without valuable protection.

Neglecting Routine Maintenance:

If plumbing or maintenance upkeep has not been attended to, your homeowners insurance policy may not be able to cover you in case of an emergency. If a pipe bursts because of neglected plumbing over the years, you also may not benefit from coverage. It is so very important to frequently check on the pipes and plumbing in your home and make sure that everything is 100% up to par.

Drain and Sewer Issues:

If your unfortunate water damage is caused by sewers or drains, you may not benefit from coverage. If a sewer backup or clogged drain is the culprit, the insurance policy won’t cover your repairs. Here it is important to note that you won’t be fully uncovered, as backup coverage is an optional add-on to most policies. Simply check in with us here at the Alexander Agency to see what options there are for you to bypass any “backup anxiety.”

The Root Cause of Damage:

Homeowners insurance will not cover the final cost to repair or replace the water damage’s source. If a washing machine breaks down and causes the flooding, you won’t be reimbursed for an entirely new machine. You may be able to cover the cost of replacing or repairing the affected floors and tile, at least assuring that your dwelling is habitable and presentable. Following are some other scenarios where you’ll want to be sure about coverage questions:

Floods: When an unexpected flood renders your living area uninhabitable, it is NOT typically covered by homeowners insurance. If you happen to live in a very high-risk area, a separate flood insurance policy to protect yourself could be in order.
Earthquakes: Homeowners insurance will not cover earthquake damage in most cases. To be sure that you have adequate coverage, to assist with the process of structural damage recovery. One extreme value in this type of coverage is that it will entirely replace your home if it is destroyed. It will even cover damages that occur with dangerous aftershocks that can occur post-event.
Sump pump failures: Homeowners insurance will not cover the damage if you encounter a sump pump failure and water floods your basement.
Intentional damage: One of the predominant reasons that insurance investigators exist is to seek out and hone in on those who fake events to receive financial reimbursement. If you flood your basement on purpose or younger residents spray water on the walls to cause damage, you will not be covered.

Things to Consider When Choosing Water Damage Coverage:

Here are some of the items to consider while you are preparing to secure the form of water damage coverage that works for you:

Deductible Amount:

The deductible is the amount of money you’re responsible for paying before your insurance provider financially covers the rest. Much like an auto insurance policy, the higher you situate your deductible, the lower your premium payment will be. When you compare policies, it is important to think about the amount you could pay out of pocket if you encountered water damage and had to file a claim.

Coverage Limits:

The coverage limit is the maximum amount that your insurance company will pay out if there is a claim. One of the most crucial things to consider during your selection process is making sure that these limits are enough to cover the cost of any water damage you stand at risk of. It is so important to choose an insurance company that has a good track record for handling water damage claims promptly and one that has a good reputation for comprehensive performance. The many ratings and review sites online will assist you with locating a standup and well-liked provider.

We know that summer fun with water is only supposed to be OUTSIDE the house, and that it can be very daunting to see damage after mother nature strikes! All of us here at the Alexander Agency of St Charles has the knowledge and experience to assure that your interior won’t ever be sopping, and “desperation for dry confines” will not be on your worry list.

20Dec

Heralding the Holiday-Spirited Battle Against Inflation: Ways to Lower Your Homeowner’s Insurance Premium

Everywhere you look this year you see hard-working families fighting inflation, as the cost of goods has skyrocketed and making ends meet is becoming more of a challenge. We wanted to be sure to bring about a bit of holiday cheer since this is not the season to be constantly worried about breaking even regarding your bankbook and have devised some great tips on lowering your homeowners’ insurance policy.

The Insurance Information Institute performs very specific data-driven forms of research, which ultimately provides resources for homeowners to assist them in the final decision about the policies they select. These savvy solutions can assist you when it comes to making sure that you don’t see sticker shock when you receive your home insurance premium bill every month!

Freeing Up Vital Reserves by Shopping Around:

While it may take some extra time to make sure that you are checking with as many different companies as possible, you will rest assured knowing that you checked as many sources as you could. Friends and family are always likely to be transparent about their experience with insurance companies, as well as the Missouri Department of insurance. This department provides excellent services in resolving questions and complaints and allocating unpaid insurance benefits wow alleviating discrimination.

Services that provide online insurance quotes can offer you the opportunity to browse comfortably at your own pace, and rating companies’ resources such as A.M. Best and Standard & Poors spend a good amount of time with trained research and development teams looking at demographics and consumer results. Sitting down with us here at the Alexander insurance agency of Saint Charles will provide you a variety of options and ideas to ultimately lower your costs.

Advance at the Game of Risk by Raising Your Deductible:

The deductible is the amount of money you need to pay out of pocket to cover a loss before the claim even begins to be paid. Your policy will clearly dictate these terms upon the first read, with a higher deductible meaning a lower premium cost. A $500 deductible is common but doubling that amount can provide for up to a 30& savings on your premiums. It can be difficult to think that more out-of-pocket saves you in the long run, but the principle does hold true.

Closely Examine the Potential for Over-Coverage:

Your final home price and cost to rebuild are not the same, allowing for homeowners to pay too much unintentionally. The land beneath your structure is not at immediate risk from incidents such as fire and theft, and they are accidentally listed as blanketed under coverage from fire and theft. As market conditions continue to shift drastically, those hurrying to close a deal may overlook this crucial detail.

The Positive Outcome From Bundling, (Much Like Clothing for Winter!)

It is a great idea to consider bundling your home and auto policies from the same provider. This can ultimately provide you the timely and useful savings of 5 to 15% on your premium. It is also so very convenient to just log in and pay everything at once or enjoy another potential discount for autopay. Having all of your insurance needs taken care of by the same entity is now making more sense than ever and offers top-tier convenience in your daily life.

Discounts for Extended and Enthusiastic Loyalty:

Many providers will happily reduce their premiums by five percent if you stay with them for 3 to 5 years, and by 10% if you stay on board for 5 years or more. As you begin to enjoy this valuable perk, it is wise to periodically check with everyone around to assure that you are obtaining the best rate. As times have changed so drastically over the last two years, many providers have sat down and created much more attractive loyalty programs and discounts for those who value their services frequently.

Heightening Claim Prevention by Adhering to Home Security:

Even though many unexpected issues arise due to inclement weather and other natural disasters, taking a close inventory of your home security system will be a great help. Many prominent insurance companies will be willing to offer you a discount once you are equipped with smoke detectors, deadbolt locks, burglar alarms, in other means of keeping you safe. We have spoken with homeowners that are a little apprehensive about the initial intrusion and setup process of a home security system, but are very happy with the peace of mind and protection it ultimately brings.

When times get tight on the monthly budgeting end, even the most financially secure families are going to want to find ways to save wherever they can. Taking the steps to make sure you can have lowered premiums will assure that you’ll have money freed up for the other expenses that life doles out. As we are now situated in the holidays at the Alexander Insurance Agency and we know that every spare dollar counts, now is a great time to meet with us and decide which form of protection will feasibly help you best!

09Nov

Confidently Weathering Seasonal Changes: Reasons to File an Insurance Claim in the Winter

As we are prepping for the holiday season here at Alexander Insurance, we know about the many elements we could be encountering soon. From torrential rain and high winds to long-lasting drifts of snow, your treasured home can endure many tough calamities that are hard to take care of in a pinch. Luckily, your foundation is built to hold up under severe doses of mother nature’s wrath. However, it can still suffer damage in many ways.

In some instances, coats of paint that you thought would be durable may peel after heavy rains, and snow that seeps into cracks will damage the paint and lift even the final coat. Your foundation can suffer cracks and leaks as well. Dreaded mold can begin to form if conditions are favorable in the attic, and homeowners’ insurance can be a great help if your home experiences damage from any of these elements.

While you may be handy enough to repair some of these issues on your own, here are a few instances when a claim will be of great assistance to you during a stressful time.

Damage to Your House from Fallen Trees

Having your home surrounded by gorgeous trees can be the ultimate example of a double-edged sword. They add so much scenic value and shade for both residents and guests to enjoy, but harsh elements can render them to form a quite dangerous hazard. If a tree does happen to fall on your property, your policy will most likely kick in and cover extensive removal and cleanup efforts.

Taking the time to sit down with us and review your policy is essential to make sure that you’re prepared for the winter, especially in states such as Missouri that can change drastically from day-to-day. Most insurance carriers can shell out up to $1,000 for the removal of a fallen tree. To prevent this accident from happening in the first place, you could inspect the trees on your property by taking a good look at their structure to find out if they are experiencing illness in any form. If you determine that this is the case, take accurate pictures and try to remove them before the nasty weather hits.

The Peril and Eventual Destruction From Ice Dams

Taking up residence in the Show-Me State offers A-list activities such as watching the Cardinals during the playoffs or enjoying the open space and recreational fun at the scenic lakes of the Ozarks. But eventually, many trees, lawns, autos, and homes will be covered in a white blanket that carries various risks. If a blizzard happens to lock you in, a dangerous ice dam can form on your roof, which can also wreak havoc on your gutters.

One of the best ways to prevent this from happening is by keeping your gutters clean. Your homeowners insurance policy will cover the damage to ice dams, but your coverage limits play a huge factor during this process. Your homeowners insurance policy may also be able to provide assistance with damage to the ceiling, roof, or walls resulting from ice dams. You can contact us here to find out more about what your policy will aid you with in times of need.

The Inconvenient Burden of Bursting Pipes

Without the luxury of running water in your house, simple tasks such as dishes and bathing become very difficult. During the winter months here in Missouri, water pipes can freeze and expand and sometimes unfortunately burst. The first sign that this has happened is that you will not have any running water, and most lines will break in areas that are not properly heated such as your garage or basement. One great way to make sure you’re covered is to have a plumber stop by before the cold season to inspect every line before the temperatures begin to drop.

In many instances, landlords endure a difficult time if the furnace goes out during the dead of winter. When this happens, a new unit may need to be replaced within a day to prevent this extensive damage from happening. Colder spaces like attics can benefit from upgrades to insulation along with proper insulation during construction. Homeowners policies do cover water pipers, but you may not be fully protected if you have failed to do everything you can to prepare your home.

The Peace and Comfort of Confidently Assessing Risk

Along with cold weather comes the joy of spending the holidays with your family, and this is not a time that you want to be interrupted by freezing and leaking! Here at Alexander Insurance, we have been preparing businesses and families to quickly protect themselves and recover from the elements under any circumstances. We will take time with you to make sure that you are protected under the kind of coverage that works best for you and adheres to the unique elements of your dwelling.

18Jul

Navigating The Range of Turbulent to Terrific Tenants: What to Know About Landlord Insurance

Owning rental property is frequently thought of as a viable financial investment because if it’s managed properly, it can provide the owner with a steady flow of income! Just like anything else that has the potential to provide massive financial gains, there are also risks involved, which will make any landlord want to review their insurance coverage.

How Does Landlord Insurance Aid You in Protecting Your Investment?

Landlord insurance policies are like a standard homeowners insurance policy, but there are a few very important differences. Landlord insurance will always apply to the properties that are rented out to legally occupying tenants, and will not protect a place that you or your family occupy. One vital benefit is that landlord’s insurance comes with higher liability limits, because rental property owners can take on a sizably larger amount of risk than those who are protecting their own home.

Since the primary reason for the landlord owning the property is to generate income, a huge part of landlord insurance is that it provides coverage for lost income, which the homeowner’s plans will not do. Some rental properties will require that their tenants have renter’s insurance policies to provide aid in covering stolen or damaged possesions and prevent any unwanted distress or financial damage from coming back to you as the owner.

What Are the Coverage Benefits of Landlord Insurance?

Landlord insurance policies come with three basic coverages:

Property Damage: This coverage is there for you when any serious physical damage or other types of loss occur to the property and even structures nearby, including garages, sheds, and fences. This type of coverage can also aid with items that are left temporarily on the property site to help maintain upkeep such as a snowblower.
Liability Protection: Much of the liability will fall on you as the landlord, as you can ultimately be held liable for harm to residents due to ice, general decay, and problems with pests. Liability coverage will pay out the medical or legal expenses that may stack up if you have been deemed negligent.
Rental Income Protection: This will help provide temporary financial assistance if a rental property is unlivable for a short amount of time. It does not apply if you are planning on making additions or renovations, but it’s a huge help if a tornado or structural problem affects one of your units.

Is Landlord Insurance Going to Be Expensive?

Several factors are in play when it comes to the cost of landlord insurance. Things to look at are the aging condition of the rental property, the location, and any built-in features that your insurance provider deems high risk. As a rule, landlord policies may cost 25% more than typical homeowner’s coverage, because it offers so much solid protection for times when you will need it most. The average home insurance policy providing $250,000 in coverage is around $1,400 a month, according to the Insurance Information Institute. This means that you will realistically be looking at a landlord insurance premium amount of around $1,750.

What are the Most Important Factors to Consider Before Buying Landlord Insurance?

We have been helping individuals just like you build their dreams for years, and if you already own a rental property or are thinking of purchasing a one and becoming landlord, we encourage you to shop around to find a policy that best fits your needs. Here are some of the most important things to consider while looking for optimum coverage during challenging times:

Length of term: is this a short or long-term property?
The rental history of your current tenants
The reasons why this property is a rental instead of owned
The amount of income you expect
How far away you reside from the property
Level of responsibility for upkeep and maintenance
If renter’s insurance is an option or required for tenants
Any discounts the landlord may quality for

Finalizing the decision to become a landlord is one that will brighten your future and give you security in the long run. Landlord’s insurance is crucial in making sure that things stay afloat if you hit a rough patch that is not covered by a standard homeowner’s policy. Our expertise can help you with valuable insight and coverage options!

20Jun

Enjoying Sunny-Day Real Estate: Tips for Home Insurance Coverage While Renting Vacation House

Once you begin the exciting process of planning a vacation and looking at the various types of accommodations to choose from, you’ll find that vacation rentals, quaint bed and breakfasts, lavish hotels, and independent contractors such as Airbnb are all now on the scene for your selection. There are many good reasons to book a vacation rental, and just as you would look at many other traits, you and your fellow vacationers should counsel how significant it is to have appropriate insurance coverage when staying at a vacation rental.

We know that everyone loves to envision the excitement of jet skis on pounding waves, ideal dinners outside at night, and the best of what a vacation has to offer, but your personal belongings along with other items need to be considered when you embark on your routine trip of seasonal summer fun. You may have an existing policy that protects your home and your belongings, such as a renter’s insurance policy or a homeowner’s insurance policy. Personal property coverage and liability coverage are two of the predominant means of protection we can offer you here at the Alexander Insurance Agency of St Charles.

What are the Most Important Means of Coverage During my Stay?
Personal property coverage is in place to protect any property that is not physically attached to buildings or structures on the real estate you are enjoying your vacation in. The personal property that is entirely covered in your homeowners or renters’ policy will kick in and cover all the dire contents of your home or even apartment, such as a stove, refrigerator, and your personal belongings like books and clothing. These policies will actually also cover other personal property that you keep in other locations, such as a nearby storage facility, and may even cover items for a next of kin’s personal property away at school in a dorm room.

The Personal Liability portion of your homeowner’s or renters’ insurance policy protects you against unexpected lawsuits for things like injury on your property, and damage on said property that you and your family members can inadvertently cause to guests. Many times, things happen in a vacation rental when the family is not paying attention and you can cause damage at the drop of a hat with something like a hot skillet or leaking cooler. Everyone who goes on vacation is also excited to bring along their favorite furry friends, this kind of coverage also protects you against damage that your overexcited canines may incur.

Other Very Useful Types of Coverage for Seasonal Stays:
Other things to consider during a seasonal summer stay are whether the vacation rental you are temporarily inhabiting is protected by a homeowner’s insurance policy. It is best to always ask the owner what type of insurance they have as a policy for the vacation rental because you want to make sure that there’s liability coverage in place to protect you if any amount of things happen to you while you are enjoying your stay. It is best to make sure that the owner has procured proper coverage for the vacation rental just in case one of your party is injured on the property if the owner is negligent.

You can stumble, fall, slip, or trip on any part of the dwelling that may not be up to code or deteriorating, and their liability coverage would be needed to assure the person who was injured had their medical bills properly covered. We can assist you before you go on a vacation because we know that the next one you take may be extended! It has been amazing to see the world open up again and all of our customers enjoying the all-out freedom of taking extended trips: there is so much to see and do out there in the wide world! A few quick questions answered on our end here at Alexander Insurance will assure that you are in good shape for the trip, the packed bags are done with due diligence, and the flight plan is booked for pre-boarding and summertime excitement!

28Mar

Tactics to Ensure You Have Sufficient Homeowners Insurance Coverage for 2022

So much can happen to your home over the course of a year. You may have made additions such as skylights and back decks that boosted your value, or maybe suffered a natural disaster that has affected your premiums and living quality. Whatever the reason may be, you may be currently realizing that the homeowner’s insurance policy you had a year ago is no longer the appropriate fit for you.

Doing in-depth research on home insurance is necessary to make sure that you don’t spend too much for coverage that you may not ultimately need, but you still don’t want to risk your home suffering the peril of under coverage. Lower-income households now place a much higher level of importance on a positive user experience, while higher-income households place greater value on an Insurance Company’s collective financial rating. Homeowners now need greater flexibility in both their coverage and how much they pay.

Important Elements to Consider While Exploring Your Options:

Every homeowner should be thoroughly shopping around, comparing quotes, coverage offerings, and researching the long-term financial stability of their provider. A yearly checkup of your policy coverage can let you know what you need for coverage so you don’t end up without any at all. Here are some valuable tips that will ensure you are getting the most out of your homeowners insurance for 2022.

Closely Review Your Current Policy:

The number one goal of homeowners insurance is to help you rebuild or replace your home if it’s damaged. If you have chosen to undergo renovations or improvements last year that increased your home value, your limits should be closely looked over and increased to reflect the change. The final cost to completely rebuild should also consider the cost of all materials along with labor. You should also make sure that your home inventory list is updated so your limits are high enough to completely cover replacement costs.

Look at Your Add-On Rider Coverage:

If you happen to reside in an area where natural disasters are common, you may need extra coverage. Unless homeowners live in a designated flood zone, they are not required to possess flood insurance. But there has recently been a strange exception to the rule: over the past year, the majority of flood claims were from people that did not live in flood zones, and did not have coverage under homeowner’s insurance.

Think About Combining Multiple Policies:

Homeowners insurance offers several add-on coverages like special jewelry and pet insurance so you can enjoy the benefit of not having multiple separate policies. One of the most important conversations we can have with you is figuring out what optional coverage is out there and figuring out what different types of riders could cut your monthly costs. Many homes have added a pet to their family, and this makes us happy as they are great at relieving stress and promoting well-being!

Missouri’s Penchant For Weatherproofing Prep:

During cold, harsh winters, homeowners can suffer massive damage from ice and snow. Personal liability claims can frequently gain more attention during these months too, as it is the homeowner’s responsibility to effectively clear ice and snow from sidewalks and driveways. Sometimes when you first move in, small but important details like this can fall by the wayside.

Making Sure that Home Maintenance is Priority #1:

One of the most important aspects of owning a home is making sure you keep up on routine maintenance. Many issues could be much easier to fix if they were caught on time rather than accumulating into much more time-consuming problems later. Tasks such as putting wire mesh properly over vents and plugging up any holes in your house with steel wool can keep out pesky rodents that are always on the hunt to make your place their home. One of the most important things to note about homeowner’s insurance is that it does not cover inclement damage caused by insects or rodents, which can both slowly take their toll on your structure’s longevity.

Which Provider Will Ultimately Win Your Business?

You may have realized that a competitive price does not necessarily mean you will be satisfied with the customer service and your overall experience. The average cost for homeowners insurance will vary based on the state you live in and whether your home is categorized as rural or urban. If you have made a claim and were satisfied with the speed, accuracy, and due diligence, then it bodes well to stay with your current provider.

Have you been looking for an insurance provider with better service, attention to detail, and understanding of what it takes to navigate your everyday life? Everyone here at Alexander Insurance is educated and ready to provide an experience that surpasses your expectations!

04Mar

Navigating a Necessity: Tips for Saving on Homeowners Insurance

When brand-new homeowners come to see us here at Alexander Insurance, the first thing we want to do is CONGRATULATE YOU! You now own your own slice of the American dream, and have a long list of responsibilities. The cost of homeowner’s insurance depends on several factors, including your deductible, how much your home is worth, and your belongings inside. Your home’s location and the surrounding environment will affect your risk, and the less risk you encounter, the lower the cost you will incur.

We have found many ways to save you money when you make the final decision for your homeowner’s coverage. Here are a few tips:

The Large-Sized Benefit From Bundling:

Homeowner’s insurance is necessary once you sign the dotted line and embark on your new mortgage to make memories. One of the best ways to get a discount is buying more than one policy through the same insurance company, such as homeowners insurance combined with auto insurance. It can be very convenient to have your policies in one place, and you can notice significant savings. We have been paying attention to what customers’ needs have dictated during recent years, and provide an ideal means of multiple offerings.

The Decision Factor of Your Deductible:

The deductible is your share of a covered claim. You can select your deductible for property coverage while you are setting up your homeowner’s policy, which is what you will cover if anything goes wrong. For example, you could select a $1,500 deductible that would apply to your dwelling’s coverage, any other structures, and your own personal property. If you opt for a higher deductible, the annual premium for your insurance policy will be lower, and if you have to make a claim to make valuable repairs, you’ll need to provide more out of pocket before your insurance covers the transaction.

Take into Close Consideration the Types of Claims are Being Filed:

Some incidents can’t be helped when a claim must be filed due to weather and other severe damage. What insurance companies do when they are reviewing your claims is take a close look at the claims that have been filed for up to the past 7 years, and you’ll notice a massive amount of savings if you have not filed any claims with the carrier you used for past forms of coverage. Many of the best scenarios stem from those asking for coverage who have either been savvy or lucky enough to not file any claims for roofs, other damage, or even theft.

The Reality of Risk Reduction’s Good Side:

You can see a healthy decrease in your premium if you take steps to reduce your constant risk like installing an alarm system, deadbolt locks, or anything else to prevent theft and forced entry. If you have an older home and undergo an update to more modern heating and plumbing systems, check with us to see what types of discounts we can provide to make life easier!

It would be wise to purchase an older home right now, as availability is limited and they can be amazing remodeling projects that teach you how to spruce a home up right. Making sure that an older home is updated in terms of plumbing, heating, and electrical will ultimately aid you in seeing what discounts are available for homeowner’s insurance.

Fruitful Results From In-Depth Price Comparison:

Make sure you ask every company you encounter why they are the best and why they provide the rates they do. Checking around with all providers is most definitely in your best interest.

Homeowner’s insurance is a necessary component of life that will aid you if an act of God or anything else happens during the process of your mortgage term. We have been hard at work for many years figuring out what clients need the most, how to provide the ultimate assistance, and prepping our finely-honed response when disaster strikes. We’ve always been here for our client base, and look forward to many more years of providing you security, a safe haven, and an opportune place to make incredibly valuable memories with those closest to you.

24Jan

Premiums, Predictions, and Purchaser’s Savvy: A Glance at 2022’s Outlook for Home Insurance

The last two years have been anything but predictable, and the pandemic has had a lasting influence on many aspects of life beyond simple mental health and well-being. If you are a homeowner, you may wonder how this affects your costs regarding insurance and how these trends are shaping up now that January is nearly over. Here’s a quick look at what we have observed here at Alexander Insurance that can influence you, as well as noticeable elements that may continue throughout 2022.

The Battle with Supply Chain Bottlenecks:
During 2021 there was a pandemic-induced round of stark inflation, shortages in valuable labor, and other disruptions in the supply chain itself. This caused a 15-year high of the backlog in new home construction and rising costs because of massive demand. Even if your home is already built, the demand for dire repair in the event of a natural disaster can take its toll on the cost of rebuilding. Incidents could occur that could make your present coverage not enough, and if a disaster occurs, you may be responsible for the amount over your insurance limit. One way to face this problem is to negotiate an extended or guaranteed replacement cost coverage to provide some relief.

Inflations Effect on Personal Belonging Replacement:
From 2020 to 2021, the annual rate of inflation was at about 6.8%. What is important to note is that some goods have suffered inflation of twice that rate, and many home furnishing outfits have seen their needed wares increase by about 14% during the last year. Since home insurance kicks in and covers your belongings, you’ll want to be sure you have enough personal property coverage for their replacement costs if they become damaged or destroyed. It is imperative to make sure that you have replacement cost coverage on your homeowner’s policy after doing a thorough home inventory to figure out whether your current level of personal property coverage will be enough.

Closing in on Ideal Solutions for Climate Change
The insurance agency is now going to take a harder look at how climate change disasters have a direct impact on our customers’ well-being. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners and state regulators released a report on how insurers can better manage climate-related risks, continue to be affordable, and educate consumers on the importance of sustainability and long-term education about environmental issues.

If you feel that your home is at any type of risk for disasters, you can count on us at Alexander Insurance Agency to help re-evaluate your type of coverage right away. Flood Insurance is a necessary form of protection in many areas and is no longer a luxury that can be ignored as weather patterns continue to intensify. There are also many other helpful add-ons for protection such as wildfire insurance that can cover issues from kitchen fires, wildfires, and other accidents, and it’s smart to evaluate your policy to make sure you are adequately covered if an unforeseen disaster affects your living arrangement.

The Earth may not always refrain from being temperamental, but we are standing by to make sure that you won’t suffer losses to your property. We have years of experience when it comes to natural disasters and are standing by to assist with the choices that will keep you prepared and firmly rooted when severe weather issues rear their head.

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