Reasons why you may need to review your home insurance policy

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Like many other types of insurance, it’s crucial to review your home insurance policy. When your policy arrives, the front page, also known as the declaration page, will provide a summary of your coverage. You should look it over and see if it makes sense. It provides replacement coverage, content coverage, your liability coverage, and any additional add-ons you have. With this information, you can determine if your coverage is appropriate. Getting the right insurance agent in Commerce, GA is as easy as contacting our team at Commerce Insurance Agency.

Have you made improvements to your home?

Not every improvement you make to your home will increase its value, but adding square footage may significantly increase its value. Have you finished your basement or your attic? Added dormers to your roof? Converted a screened porch into a room? Added another bathroom? Have you upgraded your floors or kitchen? All of these can increase the value and thus the replacement cost of your home.

Have you bought or received an expensive item?

Your content coverage has some areas that have limitations. If you have more than the minimum amount of jewelry, you probably need to get it appraised and check your coverage. If you collect art or antiques, you’ll need a waiver to get the coverage you need. If you love expensive electronics, you could be left high and dry if your home suffers a catastrophic loss.

Check for discounts you may be eligible for

Specific safety equipment can make you eligible for a lower rate. Have you replaced your roof recently? Do you have all your insurance coverage with the same carrier? Talk to your agent to ensure you’re getting everything you deserve.

Contact our independent agents at Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA for all your home insurance needs.

The Impact of Technology on Vehicles and Drivers

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The safety of our roads today primarily hinges on two factors: vehicles and their drivers. Technology also significantly impacts these two areas. Essentially, the question isn’t so much about the influence of technology on driving safety as how technology affects vehicles and their drivers. Ensuring safety and protection on the roads is why many drivers in Commerce, GA, rely on the professional and experienced team at Commerce Insurance Agency for their auto insurance needs.

Technology’s Influence on Vehicles and Drivers

While the debate over driving safety and the impact of technology continues, one thing is clear: there are two sides to this discussion. Advocates for technology in vehicles and driver safety will quickly highlight the improvements technology has brought in making vehicles safer. Conversely, those who express concerns about the impact of technology on driving safety will point out issues like distracted driving or accidents related to texting.

Regardless of the final outcome of this controversy, driving safety will always be a concern for anyone who drives. That’s why it’s beneficial to work with knowledgeable and professional agents who can provide the right auto insurance solutions for your needs, irrespective of your stance on the technology and driving safety debate.

Auto Insurance Solutions for Drivers in Commerce, GA

If you reside in the Commerce, GA area and have questions or need auto insurance for your vehicle, we’re here to help. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment with our Commerce Insurance Agency team today for the auto insurance solutions you need and deserve.

How Whole Life Insurance Works

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Life insurance is essential to protect your family when you’re gone. The two main types that are popular with policyholders include whole life and term life policies. Term life policies work very differently from whole life policies. Whole life comes with several benefits that keep people interested in this type of life insurance. When you’re looking for life insurance, we’re here to help. Call us at Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA.

Whole Life Insurance: No Expiration Date

At its core, whole life policies work like all life insurance policies. They pay out a death benefit when the policyholder dies. However, unlike term life policies, whole life policies don’t have an expiration date. There is never an expiration date with whole life, and policyholders can keep their policies for as long as they like. This is important for providing coverage during the later years when it would be difficult to get a new policy. The insurance company can’t cancel these policies as long as you keep paying the premiums.

Whole Life Insurance: Builds a Cash Value

Another benefit of this type of insurance is that the policy will build up a cash value over time. Starting out small, this is an amount that grows over the years and will be available if you ever need to borrow it. Many people choose this type of life insurance for just this reason. It can bring peace of mind to know that funds will be available to borrow if you should ever need to.

Get Whole Life Insurance

It’s important always to have life insurance to protect your loved ones against financial problems. If you’re looking for a policy, contact us at Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA, to learn more and get started.

Will My Home Insurance Cover Stored Recreational Vehicles?

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If you own one or more recreational vehicles in Commerce, GA, chances are you probably store them on your property when they are not in use. Whether the RV is a motorhome or a smaller vehicle like a snowmobile or personal watercraft, you want to protect your investment. Those new to the world of recreational vehicles often believe that homeowner’s insurance will protect their RVs while stored on their property. Commerce Insurance Agency can help you determine whether you have sufficient coverage for your big toys.

Read Your Homeowner’s Policy

Most homeowner’s policies will provide some protection when you store recreational vehicles on your property. Most of the time, you must store the vehicle in a garage or another type of shed to keep the vehicle out of the elements. However, each company and policy is different, so reading the coverage provisions is vital to knowing what is covered, what is not, and how much of a deductible you will need to pay in case of a claim. If you have a large motorhome, fifth wheel, or if your RV is quite valuable, considering standalone RV coverage may be in your best interests.

Consider Dedicated RV Insurance

Just as your auto insurance will only offer you minimal protection for recreational vehicles, so will your homeowner’s insurance. A better solution is to buy a recreational vehicle insurance policy to protect your RV, whether on the road or at home. Some companies may have provisions for lower premiums if you keep your RV garaged for an extended length of time due to reduced risk.

Let the professionals at Commerce Insurance Agency, serving Commerce, GA, help you find the right solution for protecting your RV at home. Contact our office today for an appointment to start your insurance protection.

Basic auto insurance add-ons to consider

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In Georgia, basic insurance is mandatory for driving on the roads. The state requires a minimum liability coverage of 25/50/25 to protect other drivers. This coverage includes $25,000 for the first person injured, $50,000 for all injuries, and an additional $25,000 for property damage. At Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA, we ensure all our customers have the right amount of insurance.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage pays for repairing or replacing your vehicle if it’s damaged in an accident where you’re at fault. This coverage comes with a deductible that you’ll need to pay.

Comprehensive Coverage

Also known as non-collision coverage, comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from various types of damage caused by wind and water. It also covers theft, vandalism, and damage caused by large animals like deer. This coverage also includes a deductible.

Gap Coverage

If you have a newer vehicle with an auto loan, considering the rapid depreciation of vehicles once driven off the lot, you might owe more on your vehicle than your insurance will pay to replace it. Gap insurance covers the difference between what you owe and what you receive from the insurance company.

Full Glass Coverage

While comprehensive coverage includes glass coverage, it comes with a deductible. Opting for full glass coverage means you won’t have to pay any deductible to replace your windshield.

Rental Car Coverage

If your vehicle is damaged in an accident or totaled, you might be without a vehicle for a few weeks. Rental coverage ensures you can get a rental vehicle during this period.

Contact Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA, to discuss your auto insurance needs with one of our independent agents.

Understanding the Pros and Cons of Term Life Insurance

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Life insurance provides your immediate family with the financial assistance needed to cover funeral expenses and large bills such as college tuition and mortgage payments. However, not all policies are equal. Term life insurance, which is popular due to its relatively low price tag, has both advantages and disadvantages. Commerce, GA residents will want to carefully consider this type of policy’s pros and cons to make an informed decision.

How Does Term Life Insurance Work?

When you purchase term life insurance, you choose the length of the policy, be it ten years, twenty years, or thirty years. If you die before the policy ends, your beneficiaries will receive a payout. If your policy expires before your demise, you get nothing.

Term life insurance is ideal if you need affordable coverage that offers protection for specific expenses. However, it’s less than ideal if you want to build a nest egg. While more expensive than term coverage, whole life insurance builds cash value that you can access while you’re still alive. What’s more, if you purchase whole life insurance, you don’t have to worry about renewing your policy at a later date. On the other hand, if you decide to renew term life insurance once it expires, your premiums will go up. This is especially true if you’ve developed a medical condition since the time you originally purchased your term insurance policy.

Get Life Insurance Help from Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA

Purchasing life insurance is an ideal way to protect your family from financial ruin. At Commerce Insurance Agency, we offer personalized advice and assistance to help each client review policy options and pick the policy that’s the best fit for their personal situation. Contact us to learn more about our policy options or to get a life insurance policy quote.

Common Home Insurance Exclusions: What You Need to Know

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While most homeowners focus on the coverage provided in their policy, it’s equally important to be aware of what isn’t covered. Home insurance exclusions can leave you vulnerable to unexpected losses. At Commerce Insurance Agency of Commerce, GA, we offer complete coverage to help safeguard your property.

What are Home Insurance Exclusions?

Home insurance exclusions are specific events, circumstances, or types of damage that a standard home insurance policy does not cover. Common exclusions include:

Natural Disasters

Many policies do not cover damage caused by certain natural disasters, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods. Separate policies may be needed to cover these events.

Maintenance Issues

Lack of maintenance, such as neglect or excessive wear and tear, may be excluded. This may include issues like mold, mildew, and pest infestations.

Certain Personal Property

While most standard homeowners insurance policies cover personal belongings, specialized items may not be covered. This is most commonly seen with high-value items like fine jewelry, electronics, art, or collectibles. Additional coverage or endorsements may be necessary for these items.

Intentional Damage

If any damage to your home was found to be intentional, it may be excluded from coverage. This includes damage caused by the homeowner or anyone living in the house.

Liability for Specific Situations

Certain liability situations, such as dog bites from specific breeds or injuries that occur in certain areas (e.g., trampolines or pools), may not be covered without additional liability insurance. Your Commerce, GA insurance provider can help determine your liability needs for specific situations.

Stay Protected with Home Insurance

Understanding home insurance exclusions is important for every homeowner looking to protect their assets and property. Contact Commerce Insurance Agency today to see how the right policy can protect your property.

How to Navigate Auto Insurance Coverage for a Leased Vehicle

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Navigating Auto Insurance for a Leased Vehicle

Navigating auto insurance for a leased vehicle can be more complicated than insuring a vehicle you own outright. Most leasing companies have strict insurance requirements, meaning you may need more coverage than you originally anticipated. Our reputable agents at Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA can help you build a personalized auto insurance policy that fits your unique needs.

Understanding Lease Requirements

Leasing requirements can vary depending on the individual leasing company. However, insurance requirements for leased vehicles may include additional coverages, such as comprehensive and collision coverage. Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP) insurance is also a common requirement for leased vehicles. It covers the difference between your vehicle’s worth and what you still owe.

Determine Coverage Needs

When comparing auto policies, consider different coverage levels, such as:

  • Liability coverage
  • Comprehensive and collision coverage
  • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

One of our experienced agents can help you determine what levels of coverage are right for you.

Compare Auto Insurance Policies

Not every auto policy is right for every driver. Review key features, such as coverage limits, deductibles, and similar components, to determine which is best suited for your needs. Ask your agent about potential approaches to help reduce insurance costs, such as bundling policies or safe driver discounts.

Review and Adjust Your Policy Regularly

Over time, your auto coverage needs may change. Periodically review your insurance policy to ensure that it continues to meet your personal needs and lease requirements. Changes in your lease or certain personal circumstances may require you to adjust your coverage.

Please speak With One Of Our Trusted Agents

Securing the right auto insurance for a leased vehicle can help you meet your lease requirements and ensure you have the necessary protection. For help navigating auto insurance, contact Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA.

Can You Change Your Life Insurance Beneficiary?

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At Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA, we know that circumstances can change over time, and so can the person or entity you want to name as the beneficiary on your life insurance policy. For many folks, the first person they list as their beneficiary on a life insurance policy can seem like the only one they’d ever want to list. As life happens and relationships reconfigure, knowing whether you can switch the beneficiary on your life insurance or add a new one can empower you to make informed decisions about who will receive your death benefit when the time comes. Even if you never anticipate changing the beneficiary on your life insurance policy, it can still be helpful to know whether that’s a possibility in general so you’ll have an idea of what you can do with this information if you find yourself in a position that encourages you to make the change to your beneficiary.

Can You Change the Beneficiary on a Life Insurance Policy?

While we won’t be able to speak specifically to whether your life insurance policy allows for changing beneficiaries, many life insurance policies allow policyholders to change the beneficiary as long as they follow the appropriate procedures for making this adjustment. Before passing away, the policyholder should complete the appropriate forms and provide the appropriate verification that they are the person who holds the life insurance policy. After someone passes away, changing the life insurance policy’s beneficiary can be trickier. This may require legal proceedings and other hurdles, so it’s not an easy process. Choosing a life insurance beneficiary requires careful consideration and an understanding that it’s hard to change after death.

For more information, call our office at Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA!

Power Outages in Commerce, GA: Does Your Home Insurance Cover Food Spoilage?

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There is nothing worse than sorting through the aftermath of a devastating severe weather event and learning that your power could be knocked out for days. Not only are power outages inconvenient, but they can also cause indirect losses related to non-functioning appliances like refrigerators.

Learn if your home insurance covers food spoilage from the experts at the Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA.

Does Your Georgia Home Insurance Policy Cover Food Spoilage?

The increasing threats of violent thunderstorms, tornados, and severe weather have local homeowners rethinking their home insurance policies. Whether your home insurance policy will cover claims for food spoilage depends on several factors, including what caused the spoilage.

For example, negligence on behalf of the homeowner that leads to food spoilage is not a covered incident. However, food spoilage caused by blackouts, natural disasters, and severe weather events may be covered up to the designated dollar amount written on your home insurance policy.

Learn More About Uncommon Coverages for Home Insurance Policies

Food spoilage is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to saving homeowners from having to shoulder the out-of-pocket expenses associated with power outages, blackouts, and natural disasters.

Most new homeowners carrying a mortgage are required to have comprehensive home insurance as a condition of their financing. Homeowners who own their dwelling outright may not understand the value of having complete home insurance until something like a natural disaster, theft, or burglary happens.

Please don’t wait until the inevitable happens and it is too late to apply for full coverage home insurance.

Reach out to the trusted and friendly professionals at Commerce Insurance Agency in Commerce, GA, to learn more about home insurance benefits and get a policy quote today!