Category Personal Lines

When buying a home, acquiring insurance coverage may not be at the top of your to-do list in the midst of packing, moving, and decorating your new space. However, once you understand the many practical benefits that a homeowner’s insurance policy provides, you will see why it is so important to take care of it as soon as possible.

Here are five primary reasons getting a homeowner’s insurance policy should be a priority for you and your property.

5 Main Benefits of Homeowner’s Insurance

In simple terms, homeowner’s insurance provides compensation for damages to your property and belongings.  A standard policy often covers extra living expenses, injury to others, theft of property, and damage or destruction to the interior or exterior of your home.

A typical homeowner’s policy can help safeguard your assets, but it typically includes coverage for the interior and exterior of the building as well. The following elements, including your personal belongings, exteriors structures such as a shed, and even hospital costs in the event that a guest is injured on your property, may all be covered by a normal homeowners insurance policy.

#1 Protection of Your Main Dwelling

The most important component and main objective of home insurance policies is to safeguard your principal dwelling, or the part of your home where you actually reside.

#2 Protect Your Detached Structures

The second most important component of home insurance is coverage for your detached structures, which may include garages, storage sheds, fences, dog houses, and more.

#3 Coverage for Your Home’s Contents

Make a list of all the furniture, electronics, appliances, and other personal objects that your policy would cover before you buy house insurance.

You might be eligible for a partial or full reimbursement if a covered event (like a hurricane) damages or destroys some of this property, depending on the specifics of your policy.

#4 Liability Coverage

If someone is injured on your property, you could be held liable for the medical costs, which could be incredibly costly. Homeowners Insurance protects you in the event someone is hurt in your home or on your property.

Note that your insurance does not provide coverage for personal injuries or property damage to you or other household members. It is designed to specifically protect you against costly lawsuits that could arise from others being harmed.

#5 Loss of Use Insurance

You will incur hotel, food, and travel costs if a covered event forces you to vacate your home while it is being repaired or rebuilt. Your homeowner’s insurance policy’s loss of use provision will provide coverage for temporary dwelling and basic living expenses up to a specific amount.

These are all important advantages of having homeowner’s insurance. As you can see, a policy will take care of much more than just fixing broken shingles!

Contact us to Gain Peace of Mind

Although having homeowner’s insurance won’t keep damages from occurring, it can help by acting as a financial safety net in the event of an unforeseen disaster. Coverage can allow you to have peace of mind as a homeowner.

At GWK Insurance, we take pride in providing our clients with the best options for insurance cover in order to remove the concern if disaster should strike. Contact our office to find out more about how we can get the best homeowner’s coverage for you.

Flood insurance in Florida is essential. In the coming decades, there is a 26% risk that severe flooding may occur on one-fourth of all Florida properties. As a property owner, if you do not have flood insurance, your possessions are at risk, and you face the danger of having to pay for potentially expensive repairs out of pocket.

In an effort to provide you with dependable information concerning flood insurance, we are sharing four common misconceptions.

#1 Homeowners Insurance Covers Flood Damage

Homeowner’s insurance covers a variety of losses and occurrences including fire, powerful winds, and even theft, but many of these plans exclude losses brought on by water.

In fact, if you are a homeowner, it is important to note that most homeowner’s insurance policies do not provide coverage for flood-related damage. As a result, if there is a flash flood, hurricane, or other water-related catastrophe, you may be at risk.

#2 People in Low-Risk Areas Do Not Need Flood Insurance

It’s a reasonable assumption to think that because you live in a low-risk location, you don’t need to invest in flood insurance for your home. Unfortunately, there is an error in this thinking since areas that are regarded as low-risk flood zones account for around a quarter of all flood claims in Florida.

It’s important to understand that a lower risk does not equate to zero danger. Therefore, take the time to carefully examine your homeowner’s policy and your flood insurance coverage details, or consult a professional insurance representative to determine your coverage status.

#3 Only Homeowners Can Purchase Flood Insurance

In Florida, there are more than 1.5 million condos, many of which are located close to flood plains. Condos on lower floors are just as susceptible to flooding as nearby single and two-story homes.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established enabling homeowners, landlords, and renters to purchase flood insurance to safeguard their property, residence, and possessions.

If you are a renter, you can and should consider purchasing flood insurance to ensure that your residence and belongings are insured in the case of flooding.

#4 Flood Insurance Covers All Damages

People with flood insurance frequently run into financial difficulties because they’ve made the error of thinking that this type of insurance covers all damages associated with a flooding event.

There is a list of exclusions that apply to flood insurance much like most types of policies. This fact makes it very important that you familiarize yourself with your current policy or ask specific coverage questions when shopping for flood insurance.

It’s also important to note that a typical flood insurance policy does not cover living costs, such as rent, while homes are being repaired. Depending on the catastrophe, you could need alternate housing for months or even years.

Protect Your Home from Flooding

At GWK Insurance, we assist people in finding the insurance coverage that will best suit their individual needs and is within their budget. To find out more about how we can get the best coverage for you so that you and your possessions are protected in the case of flooding, contact us for a consultation.

Did you know that one of the most frequent and expensive natural disasters that happens in the United States is flooding? Flooding can occur for a number of reasons, such as river overflow, excessive rainfall, storm surge from tropical storms, and of course, hurricanes.

Despite the common nature of flooding, only a small percentage of property owners get flood insurance. The good news is flood insurance is a valuable investment that can be purchased at a variety of price points. With the proper coverage, you can have peace of mind that both your property and its contents are protected.

Flood Insurance Coverage

Understanding the value of flood insurance coverage may make it even easier to seek it out and secure it for your specific needs. There are a few important things to consider when deciding whether you should invest in flood insurance.

Flooding is a Real Risk in Florida

No state has a more vulnerable stretch of shoreline as Florida. The Sunshine State is the ideal location for sun, sand, and unfortunately, floods primarily because of its more than 1,300 miles of coastline.

If you don’t live near the coast, you shouldn’t’ get too comfortable in thinking that your property is not at risk. With a population of around 21 million and the average residence sitting at an elevation of only six feet above sea level, the majority of Floridians should consider their property vulnerable.

Your Homeowner’s Insurance Does Not Protect You Against Flooding

Many types of water damage are covered by typical home insurance plans, but flood damage is not. Flood insurance can be a wise investment, given that just one inch of water can cause as much as $25,000 in damage.

Keep in mind that the goal of flood insurance, like the goal of other insurance plans, is to prevent you from having to pay costly repair and replacement costs in the event of a flood or disaster. Flood insurance has significant return on investment for those who experience flooding, as they have their home and belongings covered.

What Does Flood Insurance Cost and Cover?

Depending on your needs and budget, the cost and coverage of your flood insurance will vary. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which was created to lessen the socioeconomic impact of floods, offers solutions.

The NFIP imposes a cap of $250,000 for any structural damage to the property brought on by flooding and a cap of $100,000 for actual cash value coverage for any loss of personal possessions. It’s important to note that water damage from other sources (such as leakage or seepage claims), or damage brought on by wind-driven rain, are not covered by flood insurance.

Looking for Coverage?

For some people, the need and choice for purchasing a separate flood insurance policy can seem obvious. However, that may not always be the case for those not in specially designated flood zones. The fact is that without protection in place, you and your family maybe at risk financially. Flood coverage is your best protection.

At GWK Insurance, we assist people in finding the insurance coverage that will best suit their individual needs within their budget. To find out more about how we can get the best coverage for you and your family, contact us today.

Renting is an appealing lifestyle for many Americans today. As opposed to owning a home, renting provides the comfort that home life has to offer without the weight of a mortgage payment or long-term commitment to the property.

Renting a property comes with the important task of acquiring renter’s insurance. Most renters are required to obtain insurance by their leasing office or landlord but are not educated about what the policy actually covers. The following is everything you need to know about renter’s insurance.

What is Renter’s Insurance?

Renter’s insurance is essentially the renter’s equivalent of homeowner’s insurance. Your policy protects your property from harm, caused by theft, fire, water damage, and more. It also protects you, the renter, from potential liability claims.

Liability claims may arise in the event that someone is injured on your property and chooses to take legal action against you. Your policy will cover the costs of necessary legal defense if you are sued by an injured person or the landlord, as well as medical bills if someone is hospitalized due to an injury on your property.

Renter’s insurance applies if someone is injured due to structural failure or otherwise. Additionally, if the property you are renting is damaged and you are required to move out while repairs are made, your policy will cover the costs of alternate housing.

What Events Does Renter’s Insurance Cover?

The renter’s policy will cover the cost of your belongings in the case of theft, or if they are damaged due to an “event.” Most policies cover damages caused by 15 specific events: lightning/fire, hail, smoke, vandalism, explosion, volcanic eruption, falling objects, ice/snow, riots, accidental water damage from within the home, sudden tearing of the home structure, freezing occurring within the home, sudden damage from electric currents, damage caused by aircrafts, and damage caused by vehicles.

Your property will be covered even if you are outside the home at the time of the event. Additionally, renter’s insurance covers a portion of your belongings even if it they are with you, and not inside the structure. For example, if you are out shopping and your smartphone is stolen, your renter’s insurance will cover a fraction of the cost of your phone replacement.

What Events Does Renter’s Insurance Not Cover?

Outside of the 15 main events (+ theft), your renter’s insurance policy will not cover much else. Depending on where you live, there may be some variation in your policy.

In general, however, the following are not covered by renter’s insurance: the structure itself, which is covered by your landlord, flooding, earthquakes, infestations of termites or mice, or a roommate’s personal property.

These events are often insured through separate individual policies. If you live in a region prone to flooding or earthquakes, it is best to reach out to your insurance agent to discuss potential coverage options. If you are unsure of what your policy does or does not cover, contact your insurance company for guidance.

How Much Coverage Should You Get?

Your renter’s insurance coverage is directly related to the combined worth of your belongings. When applying for renter’s insurance, it is wise to compile a list of your belongings and their estimated worth. This is especially important for any high-value items you may have on the property. Without doing this, it is easy to under-value the worth of your belongings, and they may not be fully covered in the event of a disaster.

Additionally, submitting a comprehensive list of your belongings will protect you if a claim needs to be filed in the future. By doing this, you will prove the value of your possessions and be much more likely to be reimbursed if they are stolen or destroyed.

Looking for Coverage?

Are you a current renter or looking to rent in the near future? We would love to discuss renter’s insurance with you. At GWK Insurance, our agents are prepared to walk you through the renter’s insurance process and/or help you file a claim, if necessary. Contact us today to discuss your policy options and get a free quote.

Getting into a car accident is every driver’s nightmare. The majority of individuals utilize cars as their main form of transportation to and from work, school, the grocery store, long road trips, and other daily activities. However, the more time spent on the road, the more likely you are to eventually find yourself in a car accident.

Whether serious or minor, car accidents are incredibly stressful and often difficult to navigate in the moment. Your adrenaline may be running, you may need to make a few phone calls to family members, and you will need to determine whether or not your car is drivable. It may be difficult to determine the proper steps to take with your insurance company, so we have provided a few items to accomplish if you are in a car accident.

What to Do If You Get into a Car Accident

These steps should be completed after checking yourself and your passenger(s) for injuries, moving your car to a safe space on the side of the road if possible, and calling 911 for assistance.

#1 Exchange Information

If other drivers are involved in the accident, it is important to exchange contact information with the other individual(s). Be sure to gather the full name and contact information, insurance company and policy number, driver’s license number, license plate number, the make/model of their vehicle, and the location where the accident occurred.

During this exchange, ensure that you do not admit fault for the incident. Fault will be determined by the insurance provider, based on the information provided by the drivers, damage caused to the vehicles and the surrounding area, and any documentation provided by the police officers on the scene.

#2 Document the Accident

While at the scene of the accident, it is important for you to gather documentation. It may be tempting to just provide the details requested by police, but you will need a record of details to report to your insurance provider as well.

First, gather the names and badge numbers of all police officers on the scene. Next, ask the officers how you can obtain a copy of the accident report to give to your insurance provider. Third, take photos of both vehicles from all sides and the scene and surroundings of the accident, ensuring that you capture all resulting damage. Fourth, write down the names and addresses of all parties involved, including passengers in the other vehicle and witnesses who saw the accident occur.

#3 Begin the Claims Process

While at the scene of the accident, you may begin submitting a claim with your insurance provider, either through their mobile app or by calling the provider directly. This is more efficient than calling the provider after leaving the accident, since the provider will likely ask for detailed information that you may not remember after the fact.

They will also provide you with general expectations for the claims process. If your vehicle cannot be driven after the accident, your insurance company will assist you in having the vehicle towed to an auto-mechanic shop.

#4 Keep Records

Finally, it is important to keep all accident-related documents in a single location. This will be helpful in case you need to refer back to the documents in the future. This file should include:

• Claim number
• Adjuster who is handling the claim
• Contact information for all involved parties
• Rental car receipts and all other related expense receipts

Do You Need Auto Insurance Assistance?

Have you been in a vehicle incident recently, or are you looking for auto coverage? At GWK Insurance, our licensed agents are prepared to help you. We understand the stressful nature of car accidents and are ready to guide you through the claims process. Contact us for more information, whether online, in person, or over the phone.

There are multiple decisions for homeowners when selecting and purchasing home insurance. Homeowners must choose their policy’s deductible in addition to the coverages, limitations, and endorsements they want.

The majority of insurance companies give policyholders a variety of deductible options. It’s crucial to choose wisely because the decisions you make and the deductible you select will directly affect your premium. Understanding how deductibles work will help you make the most of your money.

What is a Home Insurance Deductible?

Your deductible is the sum that you and your insurance company agree that you will pay when you file a claim. Your home insurer pays the remaining claim amount up to the limit of your policy after your deductible has been reached.

Your home insurance company will take the deductible amount from the total claim settlement it offers you. The amount of your home insurance deductible might be either a fixed financial sum or a percentage of the cost of your policy. The deductible is fixed for the duration of your home insurance coverage once it is chosen.

Types of Home Insurance Deductibles

There are two types of home insurance deductibles, a dollar-amount deductible, and a percentage deductible.

A flat deductible is another name for a dollar-amount deductible. Every time you make a claim under your house insurance, you must pay a set fee. Average house insurance deductibles range between $500 and $1,500.

A percentage deductible is calculated using a portion of the insured value of your home. If you have a 1% deductible and a $500,000 house insurance policy, the reimbursement for any home claims will be $5,000 less. Compared to what you would have to pay with a dollar-amount deductible, this is more expensive.

How Do I Pick the Right Home Insurance Deductible?

Many homeowners consider the monthly premium amount added to their mortgage payment when deciding which insurance deductible to choose for a policy.

Homeowners may want to reduce their monthly premium payments, and choosing a higher deductible can help do this. Consider a large deductible as a one-time investment in your future finances.

Normally, it’s a good idea to choose a deductible that you will be able to afford should you need to submit a claim, but there can be benefits to picking the highest deductible you can manage. Higher deductible choices typically result in reduced monthly prices for house insurance policies. A greater deductible will lessen your likelihood of making a little claim, which could prevent you from receiving a discount or raise your premiums.

When selecting a deductible for your home insurance policy, there are a few questions to consider:

• If you had a claim, how much could you afford to pay out-of-pocket?
• How affordable do you want your homeowner’s insurance premium to be?
• If you don’t submit a claim, are you eligible for a discount?
• Will making a claim result in higher premiums?

Choose the Best Homeowner’s Insurance and Deductible for Your Needs

Having the right insurance policy with a deductible you can live with is important for homeowners when navigating the many curves life can throw at you at a moment’s notice.

At GWK Insurance, we understand that shopping for the best policy that meets your unique needs and budget can be challenging. We’ll help you find the best homeowner’s insurance policy that checks all the right boxes for you. Contact us today to learn how we can help you.

There’s nothing quite like taking your motorcycle out for a ride, whether it’s your weekend getaway or the way you commute to work every day. Of course, being properly insured is the best way to enjoy your ride no matter where you’re traveling.

Florida is unique in that the state’s motorcycle laws don’t require that you purchase motorcycle insurance to register and ride your bike. However, it is important that you understand that not having coverage leaves you in financial jeopardy in the event of an accident.

When looking for motorcycle insurance, there are a few things to keep in mind. The Insurance Information Institute (III) advises starting by obtaining several quotes from multiple providers. Look at motorcycle quotes with comparable coverages, limits, and deductibles for an accurate comparison.

How to Compare Motorcycle Insurance Quotes

Shopping for motorcycle insurance doesn’t need to be complicated, but there are important elements to note. Here are some key things to be aware of so that you can compare quotes effectively and find the best policy for your needs.

Liability Coverage

While additional motorcycle coverage is often optional, liability coverage is typically required by law in every state. However, you should check with your agent about the insurance requirements in your jurisdiction.

Liability insurance may assist in covering costs associated with another person’s injuries or their damaged property if you cause an accident. Make sure you choose the same coverages for each quote if you want to compare motorcycle insurance prices accurately.

Determine Your Desired Level of Coverage

Your first step is to determine the amount of liability coverage you need. This covers damages caused to the other motorist and their vehicle similar to liability car insurance. While a motorcycle isn’t likely to cause as much damage as a car or a truck in the case of an accident, it can still be very costly. If you are at fault and cause both property damage and bodily injuries in a worst-case scenario, you could be responsible for thousands of dollars.

Here are some typical motorcycle coverage choices that you might be able to obtain in addition to liability coverage:

• Collision Coverage
• Comprehensive coverage
• Bodily Injury Coverage for Uninsured and Underinsured Drivers
• Personal Injury Protection and Medical Payments Insurance (not available in all states)

Coverage Limits

The maximum sum that your policy will cover for a covered loss is known as a limit. Check the limits for each of the coverages you choose when you compare quotes. Higher coverage limits tend to mean higher premiums. There will be a cap on the amount the insurer will pay out for repairs, medical expenses following an accident, or to assist in reimbursing you for a stolen motorcycle under a motorcycle insurance policy.

Keep in mind that that increasing your liability limits will allow you to purchase more liability insurance. Think about your capacity for paying out of pocket if you caused a collision that caused someone harm. You might determine that raising your liability limits is wise if their medical bills exceeded your liability limits.

Collision Coverage and Comprehensive Coverage

These limits are typically up to the actual cash value of the motorcycle.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage

In states where this coverage is optional, you choose your policy’s limits.

Medical Payments Coverage/Personal Injury Protection

Some states may require motorcyclists to carry these coverages and the state determines the mandatory limits.

Next, decide what level of property and bodily injury coverage you need for your own protection. Comprehensive, collision, gap insurance, personal injury protection (PIP), MedPay, and uninsured/underinsured driver coverage are all potential coverage options. To protect your income and assets in the event of an accident, you must make sure you have adequate coverage.

You can start comparing prices once you are clear on how much coverage you require.

Comparing Deductibles

A deductible is typically associated with most policies including collision and comprehensive coverages. The deductible is the dollar amount you select when purchasing coverage. It represents the out-of-pocket expenses for a covered claim.

For instance, if your deductible is $500 and you need $1,500 in covered repairs for your bike, your insurance company will probably pay $1,000 toward your claim.

According to the III, a larger deductible typically translates into reduced premium payments for you.

As you are comparing rates, make certain the deductible you select is the same for each estimate you receive.

Shop the Best Motorcycle Insurance for You

While motorcycle insurance is not required in Florida, having any amount of coverage can be beneficial. There are several policies and providers to choose from, so it is important to evaluate your needs and budget to help narrow down your options.

Shopping for an insurance policy can often be a hassle and extremely time-consuming. At GWK Insurance, we help you find the best insurance policies to meet your unique needs and budget. Contact us today to help you find the best quotes for your insurance needs.

Purchasing a life insurance policy is important if you are concerned about ensuring the financial security of your dependents. However, purchasing a life insurance policy comes with many questions and decisions that may be intimidating, possibly causing you to hesitate. Unfortunately, putting off such an important conversation can be expensive and even harmful in the long term, particularly if the unexpected occurs.

What Questions Should You Ask When Purchasing Life Insurance?

The following are five important questions you should ask when purchasing life insurance.

#1 What Kind of Life Insurance Policy Should I Get?

First, it is important to understand the basic types of life insurance coverage available. There are two main forms of life insurance that you can purchase: term and permanent insurance.

If all other requirements are satisfied, a term insurance policy offers protection for a predetermined period of years and pays a death benefit. Term insurance policies typically last one to 30 years and are purchased to pay for a child’s education or to cover mortgage payments.

The death benefit of a term policy may remain constant over the course of the policy, or it may decline — it depends on the kind of coverage you select.

Permanent life insurance, however, gives the insured a death payout regardless of how long you live. A permanent insurance plan might be entire, universal, or variable universal, and it is more complicated than a term insurance policy.

Traditional insurance policies have a predetermined premium and death benefit at the time of purchase. Variable and universal policies, on the other hand, will change based on how the market performs.

#2 How Much Life Insurance Do I Need?

The amount of life insurance you need will depend on a variety of factors, such as the sum required to settle your debts, including your estate taxes and funeral costs. The amount needed by your dependents to maintain their standard of living in the event of your death should also be factored into the decision. Other factors that may impact the quantity of coverage you purchase are:

• Your income
• Your age
• Existing debt
• Current expenses
• Future expenses, such as sending children to college

Before you decide to get insurance, be sure your insurance agent considers your financial situation and your family’s future needs. Once your insurance agent has considered all your present and future financial needs, you can then begin to consider which policy is best for you.

# 3 How are Death Benefits Paid?

Unless the beneficiary elects to receive the benefit as an annuity or in installments, the death benefit is given out as a single, income tax-free payment. A few policies (including some employee benefit plans) require pre-tax payments for the premium; in these cases, the death benefit may not be income tax-free.

A death benefit may also be divided between multiple beneficiaries. For instance, as the policyholder, you may name more than one beneficiary and divide the benefit equally (or unequally) among family members such as children.

#4 Does the Policy Provide Living Benefits?

The idea that life insurance solely offers death benefits is a widespread one. Many life insurance policies also include living advantages, such as the ability to borrow money against the policy’s cash value.

Depending on the company, the insured party may be eligible for living benefits while they are still alive. Some life insurance policies offer common living benefits such as:

Early payment: This benefit, which helps pay for care and medical expenses, is available to insureds who have been told they have a terminal illness. The percentage of the benefit is determined by your insurance and the firm.

Long-term care: If the insured needs assisted living because they are unable to provide for their basic needs on their own, the long-term care benefit may allow them to use the proceeds from their life insurance policy to help cover those costs.

Short-term care: If the insured is hurt or temporarily disabled, this benefit may help pay for the costs of care in the short term.

It is noteworthy to remember that while some of these benefits may be covered by the life insurance policy, others may be purchased separately. If you’re interested in finding out more about your options, our expert representatives are ready to assist you.

#5 What Life Insurance Benefits are Guaranteed?

You should thoroughly read the entire policy before buying life insurance to understand what benefits are ensured in the event of death. Depending on how long the policy is in effect, you may be offered a “life insurance illustration” when you request a quote. This document outlines the estimated value of your policy.

However, the economy, particularly with variable policies, can produce a significant volatility in prediction values. You should make sure you are comfortable with the guaranteed figures when you are examining your illustration.

Evaluating the Best Life Insurance Coverage for Your Needs

No matter your current phase of life, life insurance can create a sense of comfort for you and for those who matter most to you. GWK Insurance is here to help with your life insurance needs. We make it a priority to inform, educate, and help our clients make the best insurance decisions possible.

We are experts in helping you make the right insurance choices to protect the financial future for those you care about most. Contact us today to begin comparing life insurance policies that best serve your specific needs.

Purchasing your first car is a big milestone and one that comes with important responsibilities. Choosing auto insurance includes deciding what coverage and deductibles you need.

It is important to first realize that a number of variables such as age, marital status, and home ownership can affect coverage and cost when it comes to auto insurance.  The type of coverage and size of deductible you want in the event of an accident may also influence the policy and restrictions you select.

Here are four of the most important elements to understand when considering your first your first auto insurance policy.

#1 Coverage Pays for Damages You May Cause

Liability insurance comes in two different varieties. In most states, both are types are mandated by law.

Bodily Injury Liability

This coverage could assist in covering your legal costs as well as the injured party’s medical expenses and lost wages in the event that they sustain injuries as a result of an auto accident you caused. This insurance frequently has two distinct limits: one for each injured person and another for each accident.

Property Damage Liability

This insurance can shield you if your car damages someone else’s property. You may not have to compensate the other party’s damages out of your own pocket if property damage coverage helps reimburse them for their losses.

#2 Coverage That Helps Protect You if You’re Injured

Personal Injury Protection (PIP)

If you are hurt in a car accident, this coverage might assist in covering your health insurance deductible (if you have one) as well as any additional medical expenses that go beyond the limitations of your health insurance. While you are recovering, this insurance may also cover your lost income. In the worst circumstance, PIP may assist in paying for your funeral costs. Keep in mind that not all states offer PIP.

Medical Payments

Similar to personal injury protection, this coverage may assist in covering your medical expenses related to an auto accident. However, this coverage extends to your passengers and any family members who were in the car at the time of the collision. This coverage can also assist in covering medical costs if you or a member of your family is hurt in a pedestrian accident or while riding in another vehicle.

#3 Coverage That Helps Protect You from Drivers Without Insurance

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist

If you are hit by a driver who does not have auto insurance or whose policy limits are insufficient to fully cover the costs of the accident, this coverage may be able to help safeguard you. Depending on the insurance requirements in your area, it can also help cover the cost of any vehicle damage in addition to your medical expenses.

#4 Coverage That Helps Protect Your Vehicle

Collision

This coverage accommodates repairs or even the replacement costs of your car as a result of a collision with another car or item.

Comprehensive

This insurance might help with non-auto accident-related damage to your vehicle. Examples include theft, fire, and fallen objects.

Guaranteed Asset Protection (GAP)

You will normally receive fair market value for your car from your insurance carrier if it is stolen or totaled in an accident. However, if you still owe a lender more than the automobile is worth, GAP insurance may be able to help you get paid the price difference.

Finding the Best Auto Insurance Policy

Reliable insurance coverage is an important component of auto ownership. The first step is choosing an insurance agency you can trust.

At GWK Insurance, we help individuals and families get the proper coverage for their specific needs. Contact us today to help you find the right auto insurance policy coverage for your needs.

During the summertime, most individuals find themselves occupied with vacations, events, pool and beach days, baseball games, and other outdoor activities.

After your days of fun in the sun, returning to your air-conditioned home to relax is one of the best ways to cool down from the heat. However, what do you do when your air conditioner unit suddenly stops working?

Whether from unit failure due to age and use, physical damage caused by weather, or simply failing from a broken coil, air conditioner units are not always reliable. In the middle of the heat and humidity, it can be difficult to know how to proceed with repairs. You don’t want to be left wondering if you are required to perform them yourself or if your insurance company will cover repair costs.

Is My Air Conditioner Covered?

Here is a general breakdown of which air conditioner-related issues your homeowner’s insurance will likely cover and what is typically not covered by the average policy.

Policy Definitions

Your homeowner’s insurance policy will lay out specific perils that are covered. Generally, a peril is considered to be any event that causes damage to your personal belongings inside the home, or the structural integrity of the home itself.

Most policies typically cover fire, theft, and weather damage. The following are example scenarios:

• Hail damage: if the central air conditioning unit is damaged in a hailstorm, the homeowner’s policy will most likely cover these repairs. A central air conditioning unit is considered part of the structure of the home, and will often be covered under dwelling coverage, depending on how the unit is damaged.
• Fallen trees: most homeowner’s policies cover damages caused by falling objects, specifically when caused by inclement weather.

It is important to note that while most central air conditioning units will be covered in peril-related incidents, window units typically fall under personal property, and are not always covered. Contact your insurer for further explanation of what your specific policy covers.

Age and Usage

If the air conditioning unit breaks down because it is older and well-used, be aware that most policies do not cover general wear. Therefore, repair costs will be your responsibility as the owner.

If you live in an older home, an easy way to ensure that your unit is running properly is to schedule annual maintenance checks. These checks will either reveal that everything is running smoothly or will ideally identify a problem long before your unit breaks down.

General Part Damage

Homeowner’s policies do not cover part failure or damages if they are not caused by a peril-related event. For example, if the air conditioning unit’s fan stops functioning on a hot day, and no peril-related event is identified, then the homeowner would be responsible for the cost of repairs.

The same is true of frozen coils, leaking refrigerant, thermostat/sensor failure, and drainage issues. These issues are fairly common in a central unit and can be avoided through annual maintenance checks.

We are Here to Help!

Put simply, your central air conditioning unit is typically protected from any weather damages, vandalism, or other peril-related incidents. Unfortunately, breakdown from a lack of maintenance or common age-related issues is unlikely to be covered under your insurance policy, and repairs will be your responsibility.

At GWK Insurance, we can help you find the best insurance policy that meets your budget, lifestyle, and needs. If you find yourself unsure of your options or are looking for a homeowner’s policy for your specific needs, our experienced agents are ready to assist you. Contact us today to get started.