Whenever you talk about increasing insurance rates, you may hear the term Assignment of Benefits (AOB). What does that mean, though? Why would that impact my rates if I haven’t had a claim? These are all good questions, so let’s take a minute to review what these claims are and how they affect you and […]
Homeowners Coverages
Introduction to Your Homeowners Coverages Your homeowners insurance policy is a package of coverages. These coverages protect your home, your belongings, and your lifestyle if you cause an injury. What does each one mean, though? If you prefer to talk to an insurance expert, our team at Think Safe Insurance is here to help. For […]
Why Do I Have Other Structures Coverage on My Policy?
Many times people review their homeowners insurance policy and see Coverage B – Other Structures. Maybe you reviewed “Homeowners Coverages” so you know what it is. If not, this is for “Other Structures” which are detached from the main structure of the home – detached garages, sheds, utility buildings. It also includes fences, mailboxes, driveways, […]
What is Additions and Alterations Coverage? Do I Need It?
On your condo insurance policy, you may see Additions and Alterations. What is this? Do you need it? To understand that, let’s look at a standard, base condo policy first. Standard Condo Policy The standard condo policy is primarily based off the coverage C – Personal Property coverage. Coverage A – Dwelling will automatically be […]
What Is Condo Unit Owners Special Coverage A? Do I Need That?
Condo Unit Owners Special Coverage A – The Short Answer This is a great question, and it often isn’t very clear on your policy declarations page. A standard condo policy is what’s called a named perils policy. Condo Unit Owners Special Coverage A upgrades the coverage from named perils to open perils. OK, sure but […]
Open Perils vs Named Perils Policy
What is the difference on an open perils (all risks) vs named perils policy? It is a good, important question but can get into kind of boring insurance stuff. We will try to make it as easy to understand here. First, what are “perils” anyways? Perils are the things that cause the claim. Fire, wind, […]
Personal Property Replacement Cost vs Actual Cash Value
One of the most valuable coverages on your homeowners insurance is your personal property coverage. Personal property are the items that you own that aren’t part of the actual house. Imagine turning the house upside down and shaking it. The things that would fall out are personal property. Related: Homeowners Coverages The standard policy covers […]
Escrow – What Happens When I Pay My Insurance with My Mortgage?
When you are paying through escrow, your homeowners insurance is included in your monthly mortgage payment. You usually pay a year of insurance up front or at your closing. Then, your mortgage company collects insurance each month throughout your policy term. When the policy renews, they pay your premium in full with the amount they […]