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Renters’ Insurance Policies: Seven Common Mistakes Buyers Make

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At Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA, we understand the importance of protecting yourself in case the unexpected happens. You could be blindsided by a fire, displaced by wind damage, or caught off guard by a burglary. In any case, it’s essential to have peace of mind knowing that the belongings you’ve worked so hard for are protected and can be replaced after a covered peril.

As crucial as renters’ insurance is, we’d like to highlight seven common mistakes policyholders make regarding their renters’ policies, so you’re well-informed and prepared for whatever unexpected twists and turns life may bring.

1. Underestimating the Value of Your Property

Many renters aim for coverage that’s as “cheap” as possible. However, if you own high-ticket electronics, collectibles, or jewelry, it’s worth getting extra coverage to ensure your possessions are fully protected.

2. Not Knowing What Is Excluded in Your Renters Policy

Renters are often unfamiliar with the exclusions in a standard renters’ policy. For instance, earthquakes and floods are not typically covered. Avoid disheartening surprises when filing a claim by familiarizing yourself with policy exclusions.

3. Not Keeping the Policy Up to Date

Keeping your policy updated ensures you are adequately covered after a move, a life change, or the purchase of expensive items.

4. Believing the Landlord’s Insurance Will Replace Belongings

A landlord’s policy only covers the building structure or home you rent from them. Renters’ insurance helps replace your possessions and provides liability coverage.

5. Failure to Compare Quotes

When searching for the best coverage at a reasonable rate, it’s helpful to shop around and compare quotes from different providers.

6. Not Learning About Deductibles

Deductibles affect price—the higher they are, the lower the insurance premium. While most consumers desire a lower rate, they often overlook their ability to pay a higher deductible if a claim occurs.

7. Seeking Coverage for a Retroactive Incident

Some consumers don’t shop for coverage until after an incident occurs. Insurance policies only cover incidents that happen during the active coverage period.

For More on Renters’ Policies

We love it when our customers have confidence in the policies they have with us, knowing they are protected after a covered incident. If you’re in the market for renters’ insurance, we’d be happy to assist you. Contact us at Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA, at (800) 296-1011.

What Umbrella Insurance Doesn’t Cover, and Why It Still Matters

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If you’re in Glen Allen, VA, and considering umbrella insurance, it’s essential to understand what is covered and what is not. That’s where we come in. At Everett Insurance, we want to ensure you fully understand the type of policy you’re considering, how it can benefit you, and what won’t be covered in the event of a claim. Here’s what to consider before choosing umbrella coverage.

Umbrella Policies: Liability Protection for Claims Against You

In simple terms, an umbrella policy protects you in the event of a claim made against you by someone else. It does not cover damage to your car, home, or personal possessions. Instead, it is designed to cover the cost of property damage or injury to another person. For example, if someone is harmed in an accident and their claim exceeds the limits of your primary insurance policy, an umbrella policy can help cover the additional costs.

Business Losses and Contracts Are Not Covered

Losses sustained by your business or issues arising from a bad contract are typically not covered by an umbrella policy. However, that doesn’t mean your business shouldn’t have one. The primary goal of umbrella insurance is to reduce liability and protect you from claims made by others, allowing you to continue operating and keep your company afloat. Whether you’re looking to protect personal assets or business interests, umbrella insurance may be a valuable option.

Work With an Agent to Make the Best Choice

Contact us today at Everett Insurance if you’re in Glen Allen, VA, and interested in umbrella insurance. Our agents will help you understand the details of the policy, including what is covered and what is not. With this information, you can decide if the benefits are valuable to you and select the type and level of policy that provides the additional protection you need.

How Workers’ Comp Insurance Benefits Your Employees

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When you operate a business with employees, it’s essential to have workers’ comp insurance to protect your business. This coverage is crucial regardless of the number of employees you have. While it’s clear how this can benefit your business, your business isn’t the only one that benefits. Your employees also stand to gain from it. Contact us at Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA when you need a workers’ comp policy.

Workers’ Compensation Provides Security

A company that doesn’t have workers’ comp insurance may make employees feel uneasy. They may worry about what will happen if they get injured at work or contract a work-related illness. This constant worry is not conducive to a positive working environment. Employees shouldn’t live in fear of an accident. Accidents can happen anytime, and you and your employees need peace of mind about it.

Liability Handled

After a work accident, there will be a lot of liability, but it won’t be yours. That liability will be handled by professionals who understand how to manage these problems. This means that the process of getting the accident covered will be much more straightforward, and the worker won’t have to sue your business to get paid. This is much better for everyone involved, including the employee who is sick or hurt. It makes the process easier for them to navigate.

Get Workers’ Comp Insurance in Virginia

Even if you have only one employee, it’s always better to be safe in case of an accident. To get started with a business insurance policy, contact us at Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA.

Questions to Ask Your Agent About the Limitations Involved with a Classic Car

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At Everett Insurance, we have the answers for current owners or those considering classic car ownership in Glen Allen, VA. Owning a classic car comes with plenty of history, personal enjoyment, and the opportunity to be involved in activities focused on classic cars. Our knowledgeable agents at Everett Insurance can inform you about the limitations that also come with classic car ownership.

Classic Car Registration

When your car turns 25, it becomes a classic. You can choose to keep your classic car as a normal form of transportation and use a standard license plate, or you can register it as an antique, which requires a plate designated as antique. When registered as an antique, the state imposes a few limitations.

Classic Car Limitations

There are a few restrictions when owning a classic car that you should be aware of and discuss with one of our agents.

When your car is registered as a classic, what you can use it for, when you can use it, and where you can drive it are affected. A classic car may be on display at a car show, part of an exhibit of classic vehicles, or used in a parade. The car can also be driven occasionally, but not for long commutes. The car cannot be used for daily driving, regardless of the reason or destination.

Owners must also comply with the safety equipment that the car was originally equipped with, based on its year. The car must also be safe to drive. This information must be provided on a VSA 10B certification form and submitted to the state.

Contact Us

When you contact Everett Insurance, we will guide you through each step of the classic car process, which includes state-required liability insurance or opting for the uninsured motorist fee. Give us a call. We are here to help our Glen Allen, VA classic car owners.

Why your landlord’s insurance doesn’t cover your personal property

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One of the best ways Everett Insurance protects families in and around Glen Allen, VA, is by helping our clients better understand their coverage, including renters insurance.

One common misconception about renting is that a landlord’s insurance will cover a renter’s personal property in the event of a loss. This can be an expensive mistake.

A Landlord’s Policy Covers Their Interests

While your landlord likely has coverage on the rental property, it generally only covers their financial interests, not yours. This means your personal property is at risk of a fire, theft, or other peril. While the landlord’s insurance will typically cover the structure, the contents are generally not protected. It also exposes you to accident injury liability claims, including associated legal costs.

Understanding Renters Insurance Coverage

Renters insurance covers personal property like furniture, bedding, clothing, kitchenware, and electronics. It can also cover costs associated with a liability claim against you.

It is important to note that renters insurance only covers the insured’s property. Each roommate should have their own policy.

Renters insurance can also cover your personal possessions when traveling. Check your coverage for specific personal electronic devices.

Like other insurance, benefits are subject to your deductible and policy limits.

Get a Renters Insurance Quote Today

If you rent in the Glen Allen, VA, area and do not have renters’ insurance, we encourage you to contact us at Everett Insurance. Many clients are surprised by how affordable it can be. We look forward to assisting you.

Does Umbrella Insurance Cover You If Someone Sues Over a Social Media Post?

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Millions of people around the world use social media to enrich their lives. It’s undeniably enjoyable to scroll through pictures of exotic locations, daydream about fancy kitchen renovations, and keep up with trending topics. However, social media has a dark side, and it’s very easy to accidentally comment in a way that a person might not necessarily do in a face-to-face conversation. Considering that slander and libel are two actionable offenses, it’s worth considering carrying umbrella insurance, available through Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA. This specialty insurance may offer some protection against more than just physical mishaps.

How Umbrella Insurance Applies to Defamation

Umbrella insurance is designed to extend liability coverage beyond home and auto policies. Many policies include personal liability coverage for defamation, meaning that your umbrella insurance could help cover legal defense costs and settlements if someone sues you over a social media post. Coverage varies, so working with your representative to determine your needs is important.

What Is and Isn’t Covered?

If your policy includes personal injury coverage, it may protect you in cases where an individual claims you damaged their reputation through social media. This could apply to posts, comments, or even shares that are considered defamatory. However, umbrella insurance won’t cover intentional harm—if the post was knowingly false or meant to cause damage, the insurer may deny the claim. Business-related lawsuits, such as defamation linked to a professional account, are also typically excluded.

While lawsuits over social media posts are rare, they do happen, and legal fees can be costly. While being mindful of what you post online is the best way to avoid legal issues, umbrella insurance through Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA, may offer peace of mind if an unexpected legal complication does arise.

Subrogation: What Happens When Your Home Floods From the Outside — Due to Someone Else’s Negligence?

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Flood insurance covers damage to your home from external flooding. This typically includes flooding due to a broken hydrant if the flooding covers a certain amount of terrain and/or affects other neighbors; the exact details depend on your specific policy. But what happens if the flooding is due to someone else’s negligence, such as a driver hitting a hydrant? Everett Insurance, serving Glen Allen, VA, provides some insight into a process called subrogation.

Contacting Your Insurance Company First

If a covered flooding event occurs after a driver hits a hydrant (or someone else causes the flooding), you might think you have to deal directly with the other person’s insurance company. While technically, the other person’s insurance policy should cover the damage, and you should obtain their information if possible, your first call should be to your own insurance carrier.

Instead of waiting for the other person’s insurance company to send you money for repairs, your flood insurance carrier will handle that task. Your company will then contact the other company to recover costs from the other policy. This process is known as subrogation.

Avoid negotiating with the other person’s insurance. Your carrier and agent likely have more knowledge about the regulations than you do, and they’ll be able to navigate the tactics other insurance companies might use when trying to reduce payouts.

Everett Insurance: Serving Glen Allen, VA

Everett Insurance serves the Glen Allen, VA region. Contact us to discuss flood insurance and to verify exactly what you should do in the event of a flood.

Safe Winter Driving Tips Everyone Should Know

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Winter can be a lot of fun with activities like sledding, skiing, and snowball fights. However, for drivers, winter presents a variety of additional dangers. The good news is that you can mitigate many of these dangers with the right approach to driving and the appropriate auto insurance plans. If you’re looking for an auto insurance agent serving Glen Allen, VA, Everett Insurance is here for you. For now, let’s cover some basic winter driving safety tips.

Staying Safe on the Road During Winter

First, always check the weather report before you hit the road. This is crucial during the coldest months, as snow, ice, and rain can make driving more dangerous due to slick roads. Being stranded outside in cold weather can be especially dangerous in case of an accident or breakdown. Also, ensure your phone is charged and that you have a charger in your car in case of emergencies.

It’s also wise to keep an eye on your vehicle. If the tires are worn out, the reduced traction in winter can be particularly dangerous. The same is true for your brakes. Worn-out brakes won’t slow your vehicle as safely as brakes in good condition. Speaking of brakes, make sure you practice braking in the snow or on ice, as it’s easy to lose control.

Reduce your speed in winter, especially during inclement weather like snowstorms. Avoiding steep hills, when possible, is often smart. Of course, you should also have the right auto insurance coverage if an accident or other incident occurs. Even if you’re a perfect driver, someone else can cause an accident. You can work with the insurance agents at Everett Insurance, serving Glen Allen, VA, and other communities, to select the right auto insurance.

Is the Company Car Insured Under Commercial Insurance or Auto Insurance?

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A company car is a valuable incentive, particularly for employees who spend a lot of time on the road. However, being on the road carries risks. Accidents can occur, and if someone harbors ill will towards your employee or your company, they may express it through vandalism. The question arises: would the cost of such damages be covered by auto insurance or commercial insurance?

Commercial Insurance is the Best Option in This Case

As the name suggests, personal auto insurance is designed for personal vehicles used for personal purposes such as running errands and commuting. A commercial insurance policy would be the best choice to protect a car that your employee uses for work-related duties. Many personal car insurance policies do not provide coverage for incidents resulting from the business usage of a vehicle. Additionally, the number of miles driven daily is a factor to consider. A personal auto insurance policy may not provide all the coverage you need, especially when a vehicle is owned by a company but driven by an employee. It’s important to note that the policy is only in effect if an employee with a valid driver’s license is behind the wheel.

Contact Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA

If you need commercial insurance and live in the Glen Allen, VA, area, please contact Everett Insurance. Our courteous and knowledgeable agents are ready to help you find the policy that best suits your needs and your business.

Things home insurance doesn’t cover in Virginia

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Understanding Home Insurance Exclusions

Home insurance provides a great deal of peace of mind. It covers many things, which can tend to lull you into a false sense of security. However, home insurance does have some exclusions, and by knowing them, you can add that coverage if you need it. At Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA, we place the needs of our customers first and offer competitive rates and great service.

Floods

With all the once-in-a-hundred-year floods that have been happening around the world, it is time to think about your vulnerability. When a small creek can rise 30 feet, it is bound to cause damage. While your home insurance won’t cover the damage, flood insurance will. The NFIP provides flood insurance in two parts: structure and content. You buy them separately, and they have pretty strict limits.

Mudslides/ landslides

When areas get heavy rain, it can lead to other damage beyond flooding. Mud or landslides are one of them. These are becoming more frequent and can cause catastrophic damage. If you are in an area with potential for this type of damage, an additional policy can be added to your current coverage.

Sinkholes

Many areas have shown an increased occurrence of sinkholes; if you live in one of these areas, adding this coverage makes sense.

Earthquakes

Everyone knows the areas where this is a common occurrence, but with fault lines running under other areas, earthquakes can happen almost anywhere.

Owner neglect

This is a much broader category and can mean many different things. Did you neglect to replace your old roof and then suffer interior damage to your home? The repair is something you will have to take care of yourself. Termites and rodents are considered owner neglect.

Contact Everett Insurance in Glen Allen, VA, to learn more about home insurance. We can help ensure that you are covered for every accident and event.