How Much Flood Insurance is Enough?

Flooding can be common around St. Augustine, FL, especially around hurricane season. However, that is not the only time that you need to worry about it. You should have a flood insurance policy in place all year long from Tim Huber Insurance because flooding can happen in a variety of ways, not just with hurricanes. Unfortunately, most home insurance policies do not actually cover any flood damages so you need to get this in addition to that policy. However, the question is for how much?

When it comes to getting flood insurance, what you want to look at are the coverage amounts. To get the right coverage amount, you should consider not only the rebuild cost of your home but also the cost of your personal belongings in the home. Both of these things can be impacted by a flood and in the case of a total loss, you want to make sure you have enough in place to replace as much as possible. You may also want to consider getting enough coverage for housing in the interim if that is not covered by your home insurance policy. By taking these estimated amounts into consideration, it will give you the estimated amount of flood insurance coverage you need. 

Now that you have an idea of what you should be looking for in terms of a flood insurance policy, it is time to get one. You do not want to get caught without one during a flood because the financial impact can be devastating. Be sure to reach out to us here at Tim Huber Insurance, serving St. Augustine, FL, to get your flood insurance policy in place as soon as possible. We will also work with you to make sure we find a policy that fits in your budget. 

The ABCs of Liability and Boat Insurance

Owning a boat can bring both a lot of joy and also a lot of responsibility in your life. If you are concerned about the amount of insurance coverage that your current policy provides, or you are thinking about buying a boat and want to learn more about the boat policies that are available, contact Tim Huber Insurance, serving the greater St. Augustine, FL area, to learn more about your options. 

The ABCs of Boat Ownership and Liability

As a boat owner, you are responsible for any damage that your boat causes, whether through an accident or another mishap and for any injuries sustained by your passengers. Many owners do not consider that their liability can extend to medical costs as well as damages brought by a party who is injured while on your boat. In fact, if someone is injured climbing onto or out of your vessel you may be held responsible even if the boat is docked. In order to protect yourself from such damages, it is important to carry adequate liability coverage. Our team of professional agents can meet with you and review your current policy and confirm if the protection is adequate for your needs. Many boat owners focus on coverage for the boat itself without considering what can happen to them if there is an injury-causing accident involving their craft.

Don’t let the joy and exhilaration of boat ownership cloud your judgment when it comes to securing adequate boat insurance coverage. The team at Tim Huber Insurance is proud to serve the St. Augustine, FL area, especially those who own boats and enjoy being out on the water! Contact us today or stop by our office to learn more about your options when it comes to boat insurance.

Does My Condo Insurance Cover Jewelry?

A condo insurance policy offers an excellent protection package. However, this insurance coverage doesn’t automatically cover everything you own. There are some limitations to your basic policies when it comes to unique and valuable items like furs, collectibles, jewelry, and fine art.

Realizing that your condo insurance doesn’t cover your valuable jewelry may leave you wondering what to do next. Can you comfortably replace your jewelry out of your pocket when it’s stolen or destroyed in a fire? Is there an insurance option that will not leave you empty handed in case the unexpected happens? The key is to understand the situations and the items your insurer covers and for how much. Here at Tim Huber Insurance, we help St. Augustine, FL residents learn how to protect their valuables through insurance.

Jewelry coverage in condo insurance

In most cases, a condo insurance policy may cover your jewelry, but not entirely. Sometimes coverages are limited by:

  • Coverage value limits
  • Exclusions or limitations on the covered situations
  • The need for different estimates before a claim is settled
  • The requirements for using jewelry replacement companies

Additionally, a jewelry claim can easily affect your entire policy status, and this is why you need to evaluate all your options. Make sure you contact your condo insurer and find out more about your jewelry coverage details. Don’t just assume that your condo insurance covers your jewelry.

Getting jewelry insurance

Since your condo insurance won’t cover your jewelry and other valuables fully, you need to get a separate insurance policy from a reliable insurer. You may also upgrade your existing condo insurance policy by buying a rider that particularly insures these types of items. This is a mini-insurance policy that can be added to your condo policy covering certain lists of items.

For more information on your jewelry coverage, be sure to contact us at Tim Huber Insurance in St. Augustine, FL.

 

Why do life insurance companies need me to take a medical exam?

When you purchase a life insurance policy when you are very young, or through some work programs, there is usually no requirement for the individual covered to undergo a medical exam. One of the advantages to buying a loved one a whole life insurance policy from a very young age is that they have the benefits of the policy for life, without a threat of increased premiums, and they cannot be forced to take a medical exam.

When you are older and attempting to purchase a whole life policy in St. Augustine FL,  there is usually a requirement to go through a medical exam. Even though it is relatively noninvasive and only takes about 20 minutes, it gives the insurance company important information about your health. At this point, they are evaluating your health because when you buy life insurance, you become one of their investments. 

At Tim Huber Insurance, we can help you choose your options and prepare you for your exam. They will need to get basic information like height, weight, blood pressure and medical history, and being relaxed can make a difference.

You may be able to get a term life policy, which is more expensive, without a medical exam. It doesn’t have as many benefits, and will expire as soon as the premium is no longer being paid, but it does have the basic death benefit.

Our friendly agents at Tim Huber Insurance can help explain all your options. If you are in St. Augustine FL and are interested in obtaining a life insurance policy, or just have questions about an existing one, don’t hesitate to call us today.

3 Home Improvements that Could Reduce Home Insurance Costs

Major home improvements can affect the coverage and cost of your homeowner’s insurance. Some improvements will raise your premium while others can help reduce home insurance costs. Before undertaking a remodeling project, talk to a Tim Huber Insurance agent to see how your renovations will affect your home insurance policy. Here are a few projects that could help reduce insurance costs.

New Roof

Putting a new roof on your St. Augustine, FL home will not only give you extra protection against the elements but could qualify you for a discount on your homeowner’s insurance. If you have an older home, upgrading your roof will reduce the risk of damage to your structure and the interior of your home. For optimum protection, make sure your contractor uses top grade materials that will withstand the area’s hot, humid climate and the threat of hurricane winds and rains.

Plumbing and Electrical System Upgrades

Upgrading your plumbing or electrical system could make you eligible for discounts on your insurance premium. Upgrading your plumbing system reduces the risk of water damage due to old, corroded pipes. In like manner, a new electrical system could protect your home from fire due to faulty wiring. If your home is experiencing plumbing or electrical problems, an upgrade may be in order. In addition to fixing plumbing or electrical issues, upgrading these systems could qualify you for reduced rates on your home insurance costs.

New Security System

As a homeowner, the security of your home and family should be one of your greatest priorities. A new security system will offer greater protection against break-ins, vandalism, and theft. Improved security will make your home a safer place to live and help you save money on your insurance coverage.  

For more information on how to obtain quality homeowner’s insurance at affordable costs, contact Tim Huber Insurance in St. Augustine, FL.

Why Franchises Need Comprehensive Commercial Insurance

You fought hard to get your franchise license. Now it is up to you make sure that the business survives in these economic times. Competition can be intense in St. Augustine, FL.

What will protect your business when the times get tough?

One way to prove you have the acumen to remain in business is to buy Tim Huber Insurance comprehensive coverage. Do not make the mistake of relying solely on the minimum commercial insurance required by your franchising brand. Instead, get more coverage to ensure you can handle any unplanned events.

The Problem

Even if your standard St. Augustine, FL commercial insurance seems adequate you might need more. For example, an accident or lawsuit could cost so much that the parent company may see you as a liability no longer worth backing. Sure, they might allow the insurance to pay off your debts incurred in the lawsuit, accident, or other incidents; however, it is not uncommon for brands to decide to end such a partnership.

You will remain in business, just without their further support. All the hard work you did getting the franchise will have been wasted.

The Solution

To help keep your business from losing its franchise license by some unplanned calamity, always purchase comprehensive commercial insurance. Doing so is a fine way to build a solid reputation within the brand. The main office will know that you are a serious player out to protect both your interests and theirs.

Get More Information Now

Feel free to contact Tim Huber Insurance to learn about ways to save on extended commercial coverage. The helpful agents will lead you through the process. Visit the website today to request a free quote.

 

What You Should Know about Classic Car Insurance

Classic cars are an investment, and in St. Augustine, FL you aren’t going to be driving your classic car throughout the city. Whether you need to run errands or for a daily commute, insurance can still protect your investment that you have spent a lot of time on. Policies will depend on the age of the vehicle, miles driven, and any vehicle modifications. An agent at Tim Huber Insurance can help you determine if you qualify.

In order for classic cars to qualify for insurance, they must fit into three categories. Cars that are produced before 1974 qualify for classic status and can be convertibles; foreign sports cars or 2-door sports cars and certain 4-door sedans can qualify.

  • Classic car insurance differs from regular auto insurance because the value for the car, should anything happen to it, is agreed upon between you and the insurance company. The worth of the car will be judged on appraisals and research conducted by an underwriter. Unlike traditional cars that depreciate in value, classic cars can go up in value when they are well cared for, so different coverage is required.
  • There are strict requirements for how classic cars are stored. You can’t have your classic car just parked outside your home, and it will need to be in a storage area that is designed to protect the car.
  • You can’t use your classic car as your primary vehicle. There is usually a cap on the number of miles that can be driven per year on the car so you won’t be able to use it as your primary car anyway.
  • You can add other options to classic car insurance, like no attendance required, which will provide coverage for your car while it is not in your care. If your car will be displayed at a car show, this is a good option.

Because the rules of classic cars can vary, contact an agent at Tim Huber Insurance, serving the Jacksonville and St. Augustine, FL area, to find a policy for your vehicle.

What Type of Insurance Do I Need on a Motorhome?

One of the best ways to tour the country would be to buy and drive a motorhome. While a motorhome is often considered a recreational vehicle that is used for fun, it is also an important asset that needs to be adequately covered by insurance. For those that are in the St. Augustine, FL area, several types of coverage should be included in your motorhome insurance policy. 

Minimum Legal Requirements

When you are getting insurance on your motorhome, the first thing that St. Augustine, FL area residents need to consider are the minimum legal requirements. Similar to other states, motorhome operators in Florida are required to carry a minimum level of liability insurance. In Florida, you will need to have at least $10,000 per accident in property damage protection. You will also need to carry $20,000 per accident for bodily injury coverage and $10,000 per person.  

Property Damage Coverage

In the state of Florida, the amount of coverage you need to comply with the law only includes liability protection, which means you will not receive any coverage for your property. Since a motorhome is a major asset, you will likely be required under any loan you have to have additional coverage as well. If you choose to pursue a property damage coverage policy for your insurance, you will also receive coverage on your motorhome as well as insurance on your assets that are underneath the roof. This could save you a considerable amount of money if your vehicle is stolen or damaged.  

If you are looking to buy a motorhome, you should reach out to the Tim Huber Insurance. Tim Huber Insurance can help you to understand your motorhome insurance needs, the state requirements better, and other factors to help you build the right policy for your situation. 

Ways to Increase What You Get Out of Motorcycle Insurance

How can I get more out of my motorcycle insurance?

When deciding which type of motorcycle insurance to choose, it is important to know where to find the best coverage, what contributes to the cost, the kind of optional coverage available, and the type of coverage that is required. In the US, motorcycle insurance is mandatory because of the high risk associated with operating a motorcycle. Some factors that will determine the cost and kind of coverage you will obtain from Tim Huber Insurance in St. Augustine, FL include the motorcycle’s engine size, where it is registered, and various other factors.

Take a motorcycle safety course

After you have completed your motorcycle safety course, you can acquire a substantial discount on your policy. Before you sign up with your safety course instructor, it is paramount to make sure that it is an approved insurance course. Also, you may be able to get a discount for renewing your skills even if you have been riding for some time.

Consider a Part-time Insurance

Some motorcycle owners ride their bikes on a daily basis, but if you are an exception, you can save a lot by ensuring it with a seasonal policy. If you are not riding the bike, there is no need to insure it.

Increase the Deductible

If you believe that you are less of a risk because you are a great rider, then you can increase the deductible. This will cut the cost of the policy. However, you should make sure that you can cover the cost of the deductible in case of an accident.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is ideal for you if you are purchasing a luxury bike because it will protect you against fire, theft, and other forms of misfortunes that were not facilitated by accidents.

Maintain a good driving record

Conclusively, before an insurance company determines the cost of your insurance policy, they will review your history behind the wheel. If you have a bad driving record, this could reflect in your insurance coverage costs.

For more information about obtaining the right motorcycle insurance policy, contact Tim Huber Insurance in St. Augustine, FL. Our agents can answer your questions and help get you started.

 

When Can You Claim Your Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance has been specially designed to protect the holder from significant claims that may exceed the limits of a regular policy.

How does it work?

Umbrella insurance from Tim Huber Insurance in St. Augustine, FL can help protect your assets in two significant ways: it provides coverage for claims that are excluded from other liability policies and provides additional coverage above the limits of a general policy.

What Does it Cover?

Umbrella insurance covers all of your assets that may be at risk. Such assets include personal property, retirement accounts, real estate, liquid assets, and investments. The umbrella insurance covers your valuables that may exceed the limits. This means if you have valuable jewelry or are involved in an accident with a high dollar vehicle, the cover can go beyond the typical insurance to pay the difference.

Claiming Your Umbrella Insurance

Consider the following hypothetical scenarios that demonstrate when you can claim your umbrella insurance.

  • You cause a 5-car accident and your auto insurance policy isn’t sufficient to pay for all the five accident victims’ replacement cars nor is your personal liability insurance high enough to cater for their medical bills.
  • Assume a group of five customers becomes injured on your business property. You cater for their trip to the hospital, and on arrival, it turns out that they will need to undergo expensive surgeries. They sue your business for compensation, and you aren’t worried since you have a general liability insurance policy. However, it turns out that the compensation rises to the tune of $1 million which your general liability policy can’t cover. At this point, the only option you have is to file a claim with your umbrella insurance provider.

There is a lot to understand when it comes to umbrella insurance. Tim Huber Insurance in St. Augustine, FL  is here to help educate you on the topics and help you understand how it works. For a quote on umbrella insurance, please reach out to our office.