How To Get The Most Out of Your Home and Auto Insurance

/in , , , /by

With the beginning of a new year, it is important to review your home and auto insurance policies to ensure you are getting the most out of them. To begin this process, here are some questions you should ask when reviewing your policies; “What is and is not covered with my policies?”  “Do I need to add any new family members or vehicles to my policies?”  “What are my deductible amounts?”  “Am I taking advantage of all available discounts?” “Is my coverage adequate enough to cover a loss should I have one?”

The following information will help guide you through some of these key questions for getting the most out of your home and auto insurance.

  • Review Your Policy- Make Sure You Are Aware of What Is and Is Not Covered

It is essential to review your home and auto insurance policies to make sure you are aware of exactly what is and is not covered. Different policies cover different things, so it is best to read the entire policy to understand what is included. Depending on where you live and the type of coverage that you have purchased, there may be certain geographical limitations or exclusions related to certain types of damage such as flooding or earthquakes. Additionally, many policies will also list out any items that are not covered under your policy such as high-value items like jewelry or expensive electronics. By understanding exactly what is and is not covered with a policy can help prevent any unpleasant surprises if something were to happen down the line.

When reviewing your current home and auto insurance policies, it is also important to consider additional optional coverage that could be beneficial for you in 2023. This will be based on your changing needs or circumstances – especially when it comes to new vehicles added over the past year. Optional add-on coverage options can provide extra protection from specific risks not otherwise provided by standard coverage, like roadside assistance packages or rental car reimbursement, should an accident occur away from home. It is always worth considering these additional coverage options since they often come with minimal cost, but they can offer tremendous peace of mind knowing that all bases are covered should anything unfortunate arise during 2023!

  • Add Any New Family Members or Vehicles to Your Policy

Adding any new family members or vehicles to your policy is a crucial step in getting the most out of your home and auto insurance.

If you have purchased a new car, it is important to include it on your policy as soon as possible so that you can enjoy the full benefits of coverage right away. Typically, this involves providing details such as make and model information, VIN numbers, and registration data. These details will ensure a smoother process when adding a vehicle to an existing policy!

For any newly added family members (spouse/children), you may need to update certain aspects of your policies, such as personal liability limits and increased medical payments should they be involved in an accident. It is also worth considering adding them onto the same auto insurance plan since doing so often results in discounted rates due to economies of scale associated with multi-car policies.

  • Check Your Deductibles To Make Sure They Are Still Appropriate

When reviewing your home and auto insurance policies, it is important to check and make sure that the deductibles are still appropriate for your needs. Having a deductible that is too low can put you at risk of losing out on potential savings if you need to file a claim. However, having a deductible that is too high could leave you facing hefty costs in the event of an accident or damage. It is best to review the amount of deductible currently listed with each policy and compare it against any changes in your financial situation over the past year. If either has changed significantly, then it may be worth considering adjusting deductibles accordingly, so they better reflect current circumstances while also allowing for maximum savings when filing claims down the line.

Ultimately taking advantage of all applicable deductions can help ensure adequate coverage while keeping costs manageable throughout 2023 and beyond.

  • Confirm That You Are Taking Advantage of All Available Discounts

It is advisable to investigate available discounts as well when checking deductibles since these could help lower overall premiums further. It is important to make sure you are taking full advantage of all the discounts available when it comes to your home and auto insurance policies. Some of these may include discounts for having multiple policies with one insurer, being a part of certain organizations like alumni associations or professional societies, or even having certain safety features installed in your vehicle. Taking advantage of any applicable deductions can offer significant savings on premiums while still providing adequate coverage should something unfortunate arise during 2023!

It is also worth confirming if there are additional discounts that could be applied towards specific coverages such as roadside assistance packages or rental car reimbursement should an accident occur away from home. Additionally, many insurers now offer preferred driver discount programs designed to reward safe driving habits with discounted rates, so even if you have been involved in a few accidents over the past year—this could still provide some relief when it comes time to renew your policy in 2023. Ultimately exploring all potential deductions and discounts before signing up for new policies each year can help ensure maximum savings while also protecting yourself and your loved ones against unforeseen risks throughout the year.

  • Review Your Coverage Limits To Ensure They Are Still Adequate

It is important to review your coverage limits and ensure they are still adequate for your needs. This means confirming that the amount of liability protection you have is high enough, as well as any other coverages such as medical payments or rental car reimbursement should an accident occur away from home. It is also worth considering increasing these limits if possible since doing so can often result in lower premiums due to economies of scale associated with higher-value policies. Also, having adequate coverage offers more peace of mind knowing that greater financial protection is available against unforeseen risks during 2023.

 

Business Owners Policies

/in , , , /by

For small to medium-sized firms, a business owner’s policy, or BOP, is an excellent insurance option. This type of policy is popular since it combines the most frequent coverages into a single policy with a single payment rather than paying for individual policies. This package is totally customizable and, in most cases, less expensive than purchasing individual policies.

If your company employs less than 100 people and generates less than $1 million in annual revenue, you may be eligible. For home-based business owners, this is also a popular option. Property and liability coverage is included, as well as your choice of the following alternatives (with some insurers offering extra options):

Property insurance protects a company’s physical assets, such as its buildings, furniture, equipment, and inventory.

Loss of income insurance pays out for income lost due to a covered business interruption, such as profits and expenses like rent and wages.

Third-party bodily harm or property damage while on your business’s property is covered by liability insurance.

Equipment breakdown insurance covers equipment that fails or is damaged as a result of a covered incident, such as computers and phone systems.

Third-party medical expenses incurred as a result of a liability claim are covered by medical payments insurance.

Most BOPs do not include worker’s compensation or commercial auto insurance, which must be acquired separately if they are needed.

Data breach insurance protects digital assets like databases and customer records from hackers, data spills, identity theft, and other disasters.

Employment practices liability insurance: Covers your company’s liability charges in the event that discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, or other law violation-related claim is made.

When you own or run a business, you have a lot to at-risk and much to protect, and having the right business insurance coverage can be crucial to your long-term success. When it comes to protecting your business, fortunately, there are a variety of coverages to choose from. We represent a variety of carriers and are dedicated to assisting you in protecting your company from damage and liability. When you work with the team at the Oakwood Insurance Agency, you will receive personalized advice from an experienced agent who will assist you in developing a plan that includes all of the coverage you may require.

How To Improve Your Homeowner’s Insurance Without Jeopardizing Coverage

/in , , , /by

Homeowner’s insurance costs an average of $1,083 a year in the United States, though the cost varies significantly by state. Insurance companies provide policy discounts in the form of credits or lower premiums for home improvements that may reduce the need to file a claim as well as the amount paid out for claims that do occur. In essence, it is less expensive for insurers to lower premium prices than it is to compensate for damages and losses. Here are a few steps you can take to lower your insurance costs without jeopardizing your coverage

Roofing Upgrades

A new roof is a major — and expensive — investment. A faulty roof, on the other hand, might be very costly. If your roof leaks, you could end up with rotting wood and water damage inside your home. Hail and high-impact storms can breakthrough if it’s weak.

Increase the safety of your house

A smoke detector, lights, burglar alarm, or dead-bolt locks can normally be purchased at a discount of at least 5%. If you install a sophisticated sprinkler or fire detection system and a fire and burglar alarm that rings directly to the police, fire, or other monitoring stations, some companies will reduce your premium by as much as 10 or 15%. These systems are not inexpensive, and not all of them qualify for a discount. Find out what kind of system your insurance recommends, how much the device will cost, and how much you’ll save on premiums before you buy one.

Take advantage of every possible discount.

For everything from paying your annual payment in full up advance to keeping your insurance for more than three years, insurers provide a variety of discounts to homeowners.

Lower your risk

Even if it’s entertaining and fun, possessing something your insurer considers a “attractive nuisance” such as trampolines, certain dog breeds, swimming pools, or playground equipment will raise your homeowner’s insurance cost. Getting rid of these things could save you a lot of money on your insurance.

Talk to your insurance agent.

Before you start looking for methods to save money on your insurance, be sure you know what your existing policy covers.

Consider when to file a claim and not file a claim

Even while it may be tempting to file a claim with your insurance company whenever something minor happens, you may be better off in the long run if you pay for these smaller expenses yourself. This is because certain insurance companies may give you a discount if you don’t file a claim for a certain period of time, usually a few years.

Remain to use the same insurer.

If you’ve had your insurance with the same carrier for a long time, you may be eligible for a special discount as a long-term policyholder. If you stay with an insurer for three to five years, your premiums will be reduced by 5%, and if you continue with them for six years or more, your premiums will be reduced by 10%. However, make sure to compare this price to that of other insurance regularly.

Increase the amount of your deductible.

The larger your deductible, the lower your insurance costs are likely to be. According to the Insurance Information Institute, increasing your deductible by $500 to $1,000 might save you up to 25% on your premiums.

In 1989, Oakwood’s founder, Bruce L. Sogn, set out to establish a business that would give him the opportunity to serve the community and to fulfill a need in the marketplace. Today as an independent insurance agency, Oakwood does just that.

After researching the insurance industry, he found that by becoming an independent insurance agent, he could offer a comprehensive range of insurance products and services to his clients. By maintaining focus on competitive products, Oakwood has kept its commitment to service, professionalism, and the highest integrity.

 

What’s In Your Policy?

/in , , , , , /by

Homeowners don’t always review their policies until they have a claim. Only to discover that their coverage isn’t what they expected. That is why it is critical to understand what you are paying for. We believe it is important to understand what you are purchasing. So let’s start with this overview.

Here are a few of the coverage you need to consider. So what’s in your policy?

Are you covered for flood loss? 

Most basic homeowner’s insurance policies exclude flood coverage. A separate flood insurance policy is required, which can be acquired through the National Flood Insurance Program. Your agent can assist you.

Do you know your deductibles? 

You will be responsible for a deductible if your house and goods are harmed in a covered loss. Your agent can tell you the amount if you don’t know.

Do you have ACV or replacement cost coverage?

Actual Cash Value (ACV), which reflects depreciation, and Replacement Cost (RC), which is what it costs to replace the item today, are the two ways claims are settled. Ask your agent if you’re not sure what you have.

Have you considered a personal umbrella policy? 

Umbrella insurance is a type of personal liability insurance that covers claims in excess of regular homeowners, auto, or watercraft policy coverage. Get a quote today.

Our agents will give you great service and the products you require, whether you need to safeguard your car and home, want insurance for the contents of your apartment, or need a general umbrella policy for peace of mind. We take satisfaction in providing personal insurance coverage that safeguards your most valuable possessions. We want to make sure that your insurance coverage covers your most important people and resources.

Oakwood is involved with numerous local, state and national insurance associations and communities. The agency encourages employees to devote time to these endeavors. Oakwood’s approach is one of total risk management, encompassing the areas of property & liability insurance, automotive insurance, worker’s compensation, professional liability, individual or group accident & health insurance, life insurance, contract surety bonds, and personal insurance. Oakwood provides an in-depth range of insurance products and services to assist in securing our clients’ future. We are an agency committed to excellence, founded on the principle of integrity.

The best way to solve a problem is to first understand it. To understand a problem involves asking questions, reviewing agreements, and visiting the facility or business. We believe that a professional agent must do more that merely issue insurance on the client’s behalf. Besides determining and placing proper coverage with reputable insurance companies, we seek to educate our clients on coverage and to reduce, or transfer risk to the insuring company, and working closely with management team to protect and preserve assets.

How Insurance Protects Your Financial Future

/in , , , , , /by

Insurance is designed to provide the financial resources you need in the event of an un-expected loos.  This could be form an auto accident, home fire, disability or even a loss of the primary bread winner.

There are many personal insurance solutions and products that can provide the protection you need to help you manage your future financial wellbeing. Your current premiums are intended to help cover you in the future. What if your home was lost in a natural disaster? Will you be able to afford substantial repairs or a full rebuild? The cost of dealing with this catastrophe will be more than you can handle, as well as more than you have charged in insurance premiums.

What Kind of Insurance Do You Need To Protect Your Future?

Life Insurance – Life insurance provides real security for those you care about. Life benefits can provide financial security and resources for your family or loved ones after you are gone. Life insurance can provide funds to; pay off debt, un-paid medical expenses, funeral expenses, future living expenses, college, and more.

Home Insurance – Homeowners insurance is a form of insurance that covers losses and damages to an individual’s residence, along with furnishings and other assets in the home. Homeowners insurance also provides liability coverage against accidents in the home or on the property.

Health insurance – Health insurance is important to have, no matter what your situation is. If you don’t have affordable health insurance through your work, you might be able to qualify for a tax credit to make it affordable on the health insurance exchange.

Auto Insurance – Car or truck insurance is needed if you drive a vehicle. Almost every state mandates some kind of insurance. However, if your vehicle is inexpensive or you are confident in your ability to replace it, you can only need liability coverage.

 

How To Reduce Your Business Insurance Cost

/in , , , , /by

Saving money on business insurance is not always an easy thing many companies to do. You have many options regarding insurance agents and insurance companies that at times can be confusing. We specialized in the entertainment industry that is all we do. We have a proven track record of providing the right combination of pricing and coverage, along with experience and responsive service.

There are a number of ways to reduce your business insurance cost without jeopardizing coverage. Here are a few

1. Use a broker who knows and understands your industry. Having an understanding of the risks, and what markets best are suited for your risks, can result in lower costs. Have us shop your insurance. We have access to many insurers, this allows us to offer many options.
2. Provide driver’s training- having educated and trained drivers can reduce your business auto insurance cost up to 5%.
3. Have proper safety equipment.
4. Use special markets. There are insurers that specialize in your industry. .
5. Increase deductibles. Insurers often will provide good credits if you increase your deductibles on property or auto physical damage.
6. Reduce your risk, Talk with your insurance agent about how you can help prevent insurance losses. You may be able to reduce your exposure to fires, work-related accidents, disasters or lawsuits. Reducing these risks may lead to fewer claims, which may lower your insurance premium.
7. Keep up to date with current liability trends; liability claims tend to be the most significant claim with most aspects of insurance.

Having insurance premiums reduced by cutting corners is not the ideal way to deal with high insurance premiums. That’s a case of addressing the symptom – not the problem. Lowering premiums by reducing the risks posed and faced by your business is a far healthier solution.

Personal Umbrella Insurance

/in , , , /by

Many people are unsure what an umbrella policy is or what it covers. When you are outside, and there is a light rain or breeze, you generally don’t need or want an umbrella. However, if it is pouring down rain with high winds, you take your umbrella. An Umbrella Insurance policy works much the same way.

Umbrella Insurance provides extra protection or limits above the liability insurance you currently have. Just as an umbrella protects you from heavy rain, an Umbrella Insurance policy protects you from losing the entirety of your wealth and assets in the event of a claim. Umbrella Insurance can provide limits above your personal auto and home policies. Umbrella insurance is also competitively priced.

It is true that Umbrella Insurance may not be for everyone, but if you are building financial resources for your future, are a professional, own your home, boat or recreation vehicle, you should consider an Umbrella Insurance policy. Insurance offers Umbrella Insurance with very competitive rates. Having the added protection of an Umbrella Insurance policy is coverage no one should go without.

Umbrella insurance provides broad insurance beyond traditional home and auto. It provides additional liability coverage above the limits of homeowners, auto, and boat insurance policies. It can also provide coverage for claims that may be excluded by the primary policies.

When You May Need An Umbrella Policy

  • Having rental property
  • Owning a Boat, RV, or ATV
  • Have a high net worth
  • Owning a business
  • Having teen drivers
  • Own a swimming pool, trampoline, or swing-set

In addition, the umbrella may cover things like volunteer activities, statements made online, and certain business activities that a homeowner’s or auto policy might not cover.

Why Work With Our Insurance Agency?

  • We know and understand your risks
  • We are a full-service independent insurance agency
  • Our goal is to provide the best possible combination of coverage, price, and service.

 

How To Make Your Insurance Work For You

/in , , , , , /by

Every year people make resolutions to improve their financial position. Part of that process means looking at your business and personal insurance program and determining if it still works for you. We pride ourselves on attempting to provide the best quality insurance for all of our clients. But the truth is, proper insurance coverage and healthy financial habitats are in large part due to the actions of the clients. Here are a few lessons we have learned to help you make your insurance work for you.

Personal Insurance Tips

  1. Make a home inventory of all your personal property and place a replacement value on it.
  2. Replace your hot water heater if it is old.
  3. Clean our gutters annually.
  4. Meet with your agent to have an annual insurance review. As your life changes, so should your insurance.
  5. Have your roof checked on a regular basis.
  6. Make sure to check washing machine hoses and dishwasher hoses in case they need to be replaced.

Commercial Insurance Tips

  1. Check your workers’ compensation rates and classifications.
  2. Make sure you have written agreements with all contractors.
  3. If you rent or lease equipment, let your agent know.
  4. As your business changes, it is essential to communicate with your agent so proper coverage can be reviewed.

We Believe…

  • in the dignity and importance of people.
  • that every person and business should have the best insurance protection they can afford.
  • that the Independent Agency system will offer the best selection for all people with their various needs in the changing world we live in.
  • in responsive customer service and ongoing education for our agents. This allows them to best serve the customer with the proper protection and appropriate amounts of insurance.

What Does Your Agent Talk To You About?

/in , , , , , , /by

When you meet with, or talk to, your insurance agent, what are the topics of conversation?  Do you only talk about your bill, or why your premium has increased?  Is the only time you hear from your agent when they try to sell you additional coverage? Some agencies even try to dissuade you from talking to your agent!

We are here to provide a different approach.  We recommend talking to your agent at least once a year—or even more if needed.  Communication is the key to all good relationships. We will reach out to you and talk to you about the following:

  1. How is your claim being processed?  Can we assist you with the process?
  2. Did you receive a copy of your policy?  Do you have any questions?
  3. Have you made any major purchases like a new car, boat, or other high-end items?
  4. I know you have a wine collection; did you purchase any new bottles that need to be insured?
  5. Your son Travis is heading off to college; we might want to review your auto coverage.
  6. How is your new job going? Do they offer life insurance, or would you like to look at some options?
  7. Have you thought more about identity theft coverage?
  8. These days, many people are driving for a ride-sharing company, is there anyone in your house doing this?

These are just some examples of what our conversations might look like. Of course, we always start our conversations with “Good day it is great to connect,” and end with “Thank you for your business, we value our relationship and love serving you.”

In 1989, Oakwood’s founder, Bruce L. Sogn, set out to establish a business that would give him the opportunity to serve the community and to fulfill a need in the marketplace. Today as an independent insurance agency, Oakwood does just that.

After researching the insurance industry, he found that by becoming an independent insurance agent, he could offer a comprehensive range of insurance products and services to his clients. By maintaining focus on competitive products, Oakwood has kept its commitment to service, professionalism, and the highest integrity.

Why An Personal Umbrella Policy Is Right For You

/in , , /by

Why An Personal Umbrella Policy Is Right For You

Let’s face it, most of us have limited budgets when it comes to our insurance.  And most people feel insurance is an expensive item. Generally, auto, homeowner’s, RV, and boat insurance policies cover liability for injuries or property damage suffered by a third party. Personal insurance policies are designed to cover accidents for which the insured person may owe tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. However, sometimes the person may be responsible for an accident so catastrophic that the damages are $1,000,000 or more.

When You May Need An Umbrella Policy

  • Having rental property
  • Owning a Boat, RV, or ATV
  • Have a high net worth
  • Owning a business
  • Having teen drivers
  • Own a swimming pool, trampoline, or swing-set

In addition, the umbrella may cover things like volunteer activities, statements made online, and certain business activities that a homeowner’s or auto policy might not cover.