Why basic insurance may be the wrong choice for you

Posted on September 29, 2023September 21, 2023 by agentinsure

Basic auto insurance is the insurance mandated by the state to comply when driving in that state. At CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO, we offer our customers personalized service and more choices. As independent insurance agents, we work for our customers, not for one insurance company.

In Colorado, basic auto insurance is 25/50/15. This is liability coverage only, and it requires $25,000 for the first person injured in an accident, with a total of $50,000 for all injuries and $15,000 for damage to property. If you have a car loan or are leasing your vehicle, you will be required to have coverage on the vehicle itself since the lender or lessor has a vested interest in it.

If your vehicle has very little value, or you would not want to repair it if damaged, then basic insurance can be right for you. But if you love your car, need your car, and have enough assets to make you an attractive candidate to get sued, then having more than basic auto insurance may be the right option.

Increasing your liability is probably desirable for most people with assets. When repairing or replacing your vehicle, you need to carry collision and comprehensive coverage.

Collision will repair or replace your vehicle if you have an accident you are responsible for or if you are the victim of a hit-and-run.
Comprehensive covers theft and vandalism to your vehicle. It also covers damage from things falling on it, flooding, and other weather events.

If you live in Wheat Ridge, CO, or nearby, you can count on our team at CO Insurance Specialist to provide a high level of service and the best possible price.

Coverage provided by condo insurance

Posted on September 21, 2023September 21, 2023 by agentinsure

Owning a condo is an excellent option for those not enthused about yard work and exterior home maintenance. It is also a way to break into what can be a complex housing market. At CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO, we are here to help you insure your condo and provide any other insurance you may need.

Property coverage

Condo property insurance is somewhat different from the property insurance on a freestanding home. With a condo, the condo association has a master policy that covers the exterior of the building, so things like porches, roofs, and common areas are not your responsibility. You are responsible for things within the condo, like the kitchen cabinets, bathroom fixtures, flooring, etc. Read your covenant to understand precisely where your coverage needs to begin.

Liability coverage

In the same way that the condo association covers the exterior of the building, they also have liability on the exterior, common areas, the parking lot, and the swimming pool or gym. You are liable for injuries within your unit or by family members away from your unit.

Content coverage

The content insurance covers all of your personal possessions. This includes clothes, jewelry, electronics, cooking implements, furniture, and decor. You can cover it for the current value or the cost to replace it; the choice is yours.

Loss of use

If your condo is damaged by a covered hazard and is damaged badly enough that you can’t live there, this insurance pays for temporary housing while repairs are underway. It helps relieve some of the stress.

If you live in Wheat Ridge, CO, or the surrounding area, we look forward to serving all your condo insurance needs at CO Insurance Specialist. Give our office a call or stop by for a no-obligation quote.

Flood Insurance for Condo Owners: What You Need to Know

Posted on August 30, 2023August 23, 2023 by agentinsure

If you live in Cincinnati, OH, you already know certain areas near the river can quickly flood, making proper insurance coverage necessary. But don’t make the mistake of thinking condos don’t need coverage just as surely as family homes do.

Advantage Insurance Network can answer all your questions and help you find the right policy. But in the meantime, here’s what all Ohio condo owners should understand about flood insurance.

Low-risk zone residents should still consider it.

To benefit from flood insurance, you don’t need to live in a high-risk flood zone. With weather patterns becoming increasingly erratic, anyone living near a large body of water would be wise to carry a policy. If the worst happens, you’ll be glad you have it.

Flood insurance for condos protects your belongings.

One of the significant differences between standard flood insurance for homeowners and similar policies for condo owners is what’s covered. Standard homeowners’ flood insurance covers the entire building. Condo flood insurance only covers any belongings and valuables inside the unit, making it much more affordable than replacing your things after a flood. (Your association covers the actual building.)

Standard condo insurance doesn’t cover floods.

Don’t think that your existing condo property insurance coverage has flood protection built in. Most people need to purchase flood coverage separately, so it’s important to review your current coverage and identify any gaps that could leave you vulnerable to loss, flooding included.

Ultimately, no Cincinnati, OH resident expects to experience a catastrophic flood in their lifetime. But staying prepared, just in case, protects you from the worst-case scenario and grants you priceless peace of mind.

Whether you’re in the market for a brand-new flood insurance policy or need help reviewing your current policy, Advantage Insurance Network has you covered. Call us today and let us know how we can help.

Burning Questions, Solid Answers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Dwelling Fire Insurance in the Buckeye State

Posted on August 23, 2023August 23, 2023 by agentinsure

If you’re an Ohio property owner who owns homes around the state you don’t live in for most of the year, you may need dwelling fire insurance. This specialized insurance can offer protection for properties you own but don’t spend much time in throughout the year.

If you have questions about choosing the best dwelling fire insurance policy to protect your Ohio properties, the licensed insurance experts at Advantage Insurance Network in Cincinnati, OH can help!

What is Dwelling Fire Insurance, and Why Do I Need It?

What is Dwelling Fire Insurance?

Many Ohio property owners are missing out on specialized coverage when they bypass insurance. Dwelling fire insurance is a specialty insurance designed to protect property in the event of a fire.

Focusing specifically on property damages and insurance claims related to fire in non-primary dwellings makes this unique insurance stand out from the crowd.

Why Do I Need Dwelling Fire Insurance in Cincinnati, OH?

If you are an Ohio property owner with more than one property, you’ll want to know about the best coverage options to protect your investment properties, vacation homes, townhomes, and other dwellings – even when they aren’t occupied.

Talk to a knowledgeable dwelling fire insurance agent at Advantage Insurance Network to learn about the fire-related risks covered in a typical policy.

Insurance experts can answer your burning questions about dwelling fire insurance and help you choose the best policy options to cover your Ohio-based properties.

Get a Fire Dwelling Insurance Quote in Cincinnati, OH

Please don’t wait until it’s too late to get a dwelling fire insurance policy in Ohio! Contact an experienced agent at Advantage Insurance Network in Ohio and protect your long and short-term property investments today!

FAQs about home insurance for seasonal properties

Posted on July 28, 2023July 21, 2023 by agentinsure

A seasonal property can provide an idyllic escape from your ordinary home. Whether you’re nestled in the mountains, beachside, or somewhere in the country, these properties create memories for years to come. At CO Insurance Specialist serving Wheat Ridge, CO, we get asked many questions regarding home insurance for seasonal properties. Let’s take a look at some of them below.

Is A Separate Policy Needed For A Seasonal Home?

A separate policy is typically needed for a seasonal home because it is considered a secondary or vacation property. Since seasonal homes are not occupied year-round, they have different risks and coverage needs compared to primary residences. The structure and contents inside need to be protected just like your ordinary home.

Is It Required From Mortgage Lenders?

Are you considering a loan for a seasonal property? Mortgage lenders will also require insurance on the property just like they would for a primary residence. This protects their investment in case of any damage or loss to the property. Lenders typically require you to provide proof of insurance before approving the loan.

What Are The Benefits Of Seasonal Home Insurance?

Your second home may not be your primary residence but is still vital and valuable. To avoid a significant financial loss in case of any damages caused by unforeseen events, it’s essential to take necessary precautions. Nothing can give you more peace of mind than knowing you have protection for your property, even if you’re not in it.

CO Insurance Specialist can help residents in Wheat Ridge, CO with insurance if they own a seasonal property. Feel free to get in touch with us if you need to get an estimate or have any other questions.

Tips to Avoid Car Accidents and Stay Safe on the Road in Colorado

Posted on July 21, 2023July 21, 2023 by agentinsure

Use these tips from CO Insurance Specialists to stay safe and limit insurance claims that can drive up your premiums in Wheat Ridge, CO. Following traffic rules, maintaining your car, and avoiding distractions are just a few ways to avoid a collision.

Tips for Safe Driving in Colorado

Whether you’re a teen or veteran driver, your attitude matters when you’re behind the wheel. Focus on driving and limit time spent looking at texts, GPS, and other electronic distractions. Additionally, it’s essential always to wear your seat belt. It’s tempting to unbuckle when driving to the grocery store or on short commutes. However, the safest way to drive is always to keep your seat belt on.

If you’re a teen driver or the parent of one, remember that practice makes perfect. Besides learning laws that apply in Colorado, it’s essential to have practical experience. Many driving schools handle the stressful job of making teens safe drivers, saving parents from the stress of doing the job themselves.

Rain, ice, and sleet can make the roads slick. However, you can practice these conditions by taking a defensive driving course and taking things slowly during storms and other weather events.

Leave your cell phone at home or tucked away. Only use it for emergencies. If you’re using GPS, consider turning on the audio to help keep your eyes on the road.

Make Sure Your Auto Insurance Covers Your Driving Habits

Want to provide your interests on the roadway? If you live and drive in the Wheat Ridge, CO area, choosing the right auto insurance policy to suit your lifestyle is important. Contact an agent at CO Insurance Specialist for a free review of your current policy and customized advice on auto insurance in Colorado.

Why do I need home insurance in Colorado?

Posted on June 30, 2023June 19, 2023 by agentinsure

Owning real estate in the Wheat Ridge, CO area has been a smart investment for a long time. When you buy a property here, you will have a stable place to live and an asset that has appreciated in value over the years. When getting a home, you also need insurance for it. A home insurance plan should be considered a necessity for many reasons.

Financial Protection

An important reason to get a home insurance plan in this part of Colorado is for financial protection. A proper home insurance plan can protect you in various ways. It will give you coverage for your home if the damage is due to fire or other situations resulting in a loss. You will also receive liability coverage that will be helpful if there is an accident on your property that you are held responsible for.

Comply with Requirements

A home insurance plan is also useful as it will help you comply with such requirements. If you buy a home, you will probably take out a mortgage, and you may also live in a larger home association. In either situation, you will be required to carry home insurance. With this coverage, you will remain in compliance with such requirements.

No matter where you live in the Wheat Ridge, CO area, you need to ensure you have the right insurance for your property. When you start looking for a new policy in this area, it would be a good idea to call our professionals at the CO Insurance Specialist. We know how important home insurance is here, and our team at CO Insurance Specialist can ensure you choose the right policy that protects your home and meets your needs.

What You Need to Know about Qualifying for Classic Car Insurance

Posted on June 19, 2023June 19, 2023 by agentinsure

Are you the proud owner of a vintage vehicle in Wheat Ridge, CO? Classic and collector car insurance policies are designed for cars considered rare, significant, and often only used for limited purposes. CO Insurance Specialist discusses the key criteria for determining whether a vehicle qualifies for classic car insurance.

Age and Condition

Age and condition are among the most important criteria for determining whether a car qualifies for classic car insurance. Generally, a classic car should be at least 25 years old and in good condition. There is no definition of "good condition," but it usually refers to a well-maintained vehicle, free from significant damage and with all its original parts.

Rarity and Historical Significance

Another essential factor to consider is the rarity and historical significance of the vehicle. Cars produced in limited numbers or with a unique history are often considered more valuable and thus may qualify for classic car insurance. For example, a Model T Ford from the early 1900s is considered rare and historically significant and therefore is more likely to be viewed as a classic than a 1985 Chevy Camaro.

Limited Usage

One of the defining features of a classic car policy is limited usage. These policies are designed for cars used only for limited purposes, such as car shows, exhibitions, or parades. Because these cars are typically driven less frequently, they often have lower premiums than standard policies.

To qualify for classic car insurance in Wheat Ridge, CO, your vehicle must meet specific criteria, including age, condition, rarity, historical significance, and limited usage. If you’re unsure whether your car qualifies, contact CO Insurance Specialist.

Required Auto Insurance in Colorado

Posted on May 31, 2023May 19, 2023 by agentinsure

In Colorado, it’s required by law to have auto insurance for all vehicles that you own. You need this insurance from the first day you own the vehicle and keep proof of insurance inside it. When you need auto insurance for a vehicle you’re buying or want to switch insurance companies, call us at CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO.

Bodily Injury Liability

To stay legal in Colorado, you must have a lot of bodily injury liability coverage. There is one amount that is required to be in place for one person who is injured. Then, there is another amount that is required for all of the people who are injured in the accident. Both of these amounts are relatively low, so it’s often recommended to raise the amount you get higher than what is required.

Property Damage Liability

One amount for this coverage is required to be in your insurance policy. This coverage pays for someone else’s property damage after an accident. This may be to another vehicle, building, or pole, among other things. This amount is also relatively small in Colorado, and getting more than the minimum required by law is often recommended.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist

This coverage is required to be in your policy when you first build your policy. However, it can be refused through writing. It’s often a good idea to keep this insurance in case a motorist strikes you without enough insurance or none at all. This insurance comes with an amount for one person who is injured and another amount for everyone in the accident who is injured. You can get as much of this coverage as you have in your bodily injury liability.

Get Auto Insurance

Call us today at CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO if you need auto insurance.

Facts About Condo Insurance

Posted on May 19, 2023May 19, 2023 by agentinsure

If you own or rent a condo, you need to ensure you have the right insurance policy. Anyone who fails to do so is leaving themselves exposed to potentially serious liabilities, while the right condo insurance policy can reduce risk. The same is true for renters’ insurance and other insurance programs. Contact CO Insurance Specialist, serving Wheat Ridge, CO, and beyond, to learn more about condo insurance policies.

A Closer Look at Condos and Condo Insurance

Millions of Americans live in condos, HOA units, and apartments. Data can vary from source to source, but the Federal government notes that roughly 5 million American households dwell in a condo. In New York, nearly a quarter of the population lives in an apartment-type unit, according to Statista. In Colorado, about 13 percent live in an apartment.

Often, folks living in apartments and condos fail to realize that they may need renters’ or condo insurance. With renters, for example, only about 55 percent have insurance and the property owner’s insurance policy may not cover vital liabilities. Unfortunately, if you don’t have the right insurance policies for your situation, there is a serious risk of exposing yourself and other loved ones.

A general insurance policy might cover a condo building. However, this policy may not cover everything, and your personal unit might be primarily uncovered. Often, an insurance policy for the condo building will only cover certain things, like public areas or damage to exteriors. Meanwhile, damage inside your unit, say, caused by a break-in, may not be covered.

Is condo insurance right for you? Before taking out an insurance policy, it’s essential to evaluate your needs closely. Then you can select an insurance policy based on said needs. Contact CO Insurance Specialist serving Wheat Ridge, CO, and beyond, and we can help you compare condo insurance policies.

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