Insurance FAQs

Yes, they are two different coverages. Flood insurance covers rising water from outside sources (like rivers, lakes, or heavy rain pooling). Water backup coverage protects you if water backs up through sewers, drains, or sump pumps. Having one does not replace the other.

You should add your teen driver as soon as they are licensed. Some companies may also require them to be listed when they get their learner’s or work/school permit. Adding them early ensures there’s no coverage gap if they’re behind the wheel.

Generally, yes, if you carry comprehensive and collision coverage on your personal auto policy. The same coverages (and deductibles) usually extend to a rental vehicle for personal use. However, rental companies may charge fees (like loss-of-use and diminished value) that aren’t always covered, so it is best to consult with your independent insurance agent.

Typically, your own homeowner’s insurance covers damage to your home, regardless of where the tree came from. If the tree was clearly neglected, dead, dying or decayed your neighbor’s insurance may be liable.

Most carriers apply a surcharge for 3 to 5 years after an at-fault accident. The length depends on the company and state regulations. After that period, the surcharge usually drops off however rating may still be effected based on tiering and discounts available.

ACV (Actual Cash Value): Pays to replace the item minus depreciation (wear and tear, age, etc.). Replacement Cost (RC): Pays the full cost to replace the item with a new one of like kind and quality, without deducting for depreciation.

An umbrella policy provides extra liability protection above your auto and home insurance limits. It can cover large claims, lawsuits, or damages that exceed your base policy limits, and it’s often relatively inexpensive for the amount of coverage provided. Items like a dog, pool or trampoline can increase your risk and an umbrella policy can give you peace of mind.

Many companies now apply ACV coverage to roofs once they reach a certain age (some at age 1, many at 10 years or older), regardless of shingle life. This is because roofs are prone to frequent and now more severe claims from hail, wind, and storms, and limiting coverage helps keep premiums manageable overall.

Insurance rates are affected by more than your personal claim history. Rising construction costs, inflation, labor shortages, severe weather, reinsurance costs, and updated risk models can all drive premiums up—even for customers with no claims. Be sure to inform your independent agent of any updates and renovatinos such as replacing your new roof, adding a deck or deck roof, etc.

An audit is when the insurance company reviews your actual business figures (like payroll or sales) at the end of the policy term. Since premiums are often based on estimates, the audit adjusts the premium up or down based on your real numbers.

Co-insurance in property insurance means you agree to insure your property to a certain percentage of its value (commonly 80%, 90%, or 100%). If you don’t carry enough coverage, a penalty may apply at the time of a loss, reducing the amount the insurer pays—even on partial claims.