The Difference Between Excess and Umbrella Insurance: Which Is Right for You?

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Understanding the Differences Between Excess and Umbrella Insurance in Austin, TX

Excess and umbrella insurance are both designed to provide additional coverage beyond standard policies, but they have distinct purposes and scopes. Understanding the differences between the two can help you determine which option is best suited to your needs in Austin, TX.

Excess Insurance

Excess insurance provides coverage above and beyond the limits of a specific underlying policy, such as auto, home, or boat insurance. Unlike umbrella insurance, which covers multiple types of policies, excess insurance applies solely to one specific policy. If a claim exceeds the liability limits of your primary insurance, excess insurance kicks in to cover the remaining costs up to the limit of the excess policy.

This type of insurance is more affordable than umbrella insurance because it is narrower in scope. However, it only extends to the linked policy and does not offer broad coverage for other liability risks, such as those related to your home or rental properties.

Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance offers a higher level of coverage that extends across multiple policies. It acts as a safety net, stepping in once the liability limits of your primary policies are exhausted. Umbrella insurance is typically broader than excess insurance, covering a range of situations like personal liability, injuries, and lawsuits that may not be addressed under standard policies.

Umbrella insurance is often more expensive than excess insurance because it covers various risks. However, its flexibility and comprehensive nature make it a more suitable option for individuals with significant assets or those who are at higher risk of facing large claims.

The Policy Source Offers Insurance Policies for Your Needs

The Policy Source underwrites policies tailored to our customers’ needs. We serve Austin, TX, and the surrounding cities. Contact us today.

The Inspection Process – How It May Affect Your Rental Insurance Needs

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An inspection of your rental will determine if your living space is at risk of being burglarized. It will also determine the likelihood of a natural weather event or accident occurring and causing damage.

The Reasoning Behind An Inspection

An inspection of your rental will be in your best interest. An inspection will determine the current condition of the living space that you will be securing.

It will reveal any inconsistencies in the rental’s construction and provide invaluable information about the risk of criminal activity.

The Results of An Inspection

The results of an inspection can help you make educated decisions about the type and amount of renters’ insurance you need. You will need to consider many factors when choosing renters’ insurance products.

For instance, you should consider the location of your rental. If you are going to live in a region where crimes are committed frequently, it makes sense to acquire considerable theft and vandalism protection.

Suppose you plan on moving into a rental that is in a region where natural disasters are likely to occur. In that case, you may want to acquire renters’ insurance that will protect against natural disasters.

Personal Possessions

At the end of the inspection, you should assess all your possessions. You will need to determine if any items are especially at risk of being stolen, damaged, or vandalized.

Adding these items to your renters’ insurance policy will allow you to have them repaired or replaced if necessary.

Contact an Insurance Agent in Austin, TX

Now that you have reviewed some information about insurance coverage set up an appointment to consult with one of our agents at The Policy Source.

What Class of RV Insurance Do You Need?

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Recreational vehicles (RVs) come in various sizes, each requiring a particular RV insurance policy type. Understanding the different classes of RV insurance is crucial for getting the right type of policy for your RV or motorhome.

Classifying RV Insurance

RVs are categorized into three classes based on their size and type. Each of the three classes is identified by a letter:

  • Class A: This category includes the largest and most luxurious RVs, such as motor coaches and converted buses that can be up to 75 feet long. Due to their high value and extensive amenities, Class A RVs are typically the most expensive to insure.
  • Class B: This category is primarily used for camper vans and similarly sized motorhomes, such as converted short buses. Class B policies tend to be priced a little less because RVs typically cost less, less is typically kept inside them, and the easier maneuverability might make accidents less likely. 
  • Class C: These policies are for truck-based campers and fifth wheels. Class C policies tend to be the most affordable, but remember that you may also need auto insurance with these. A class C policy for a fifth wheel often won’t cover the truck that tows the trailer.

Choosing the Right Texas Insurance Policy

After determining which class of policy you need, there are additional considerations. You might need different protections if your RV is being driven across the country, set up at a lakefront location for the season, or parked next to your Austin, TX home. At The Policy Source, we can make sure you choose the class and coverages you need.

We at The Policy Source have helped many Austin, TX residents find insurance. Contact us today to get RV insurance for your motorhome.

Insurance Add-Ons for Your Motorcycle

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As a motorcycle owner, you should seek add-on protection. Additional insurance coverage can protect your investment while it is being operated, towed, or stored.

Unique Circumstances

Add-ons are often sought for unique circumstances. For instance, you may decide to tow your motorcycle on a routine basis. If so, you may be in need of additional coverage that will protect the equipment that is being used to tow your bike.

You may also decide to upgrade your motorcycle. If so, you may wish to obtain additional coverage that will protect chrome, leather, and other materials used to modify it.

Use Value

First, consider how you will be using your motorcycle. If you have decided to modify the manner in which you will be operating, towing, or storing your motorcycle, review some add-ons that will benefit you.

The use value of your motorcycle will help you determine the type of coverage that you will need. A motorcycle that won’t be operated often will not require as much insurance coverage as one that will be used on a routine basis.

Financial Value of the Motorcycle

Next, consider the financial value of your motorcycle. If your motorcycle was modified, review the cost of having the job done. Then, seek add-ons that will protect your motorcycle’s new bags and features.

Additional Equipment

Assess the additional equipment you use when operating, towing, or storing your motorcycle. Determine whether your motorcycle insurance policy should cover any of these items.

Texas Motorcycle Insurance Advice

One of our agents who serve Austin, TX can outline insurance add-ons that will benefit you. Contact one of our agents at The Policy Source Insurance Agency. The insurance agent will schedule an appointment for you.

Why Boat Owners May Need Umbrella Insurance

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High-net-worth boat owners residing in Austin, TX, and anywhere in Texas often need umbrella insurance.

Umbrella insurance offers liability coverage over and beyond the limits of standard policies. It can assist with legal expenses for defending your case and with judgments of $1 million, $5 million, or more, depending on the coverage you choose. Umbrella insurance covers you worldwide, and a policy written by your agent at The Policy Source can offer indemnification in some situations that other insurance policies don’t.

What kinds of hazards do boat owners require umbrella insurance for?

Any boat owner involved in an accident may be subject to a lawsuit claiming bodily injury or property damage, but the legal landscape in Texas tends toward "nuclear verdicts."

With distressing frequency, juries in Texas are making exorbitant awards – up to $105 million, in one Dallas County case – for catastrophic injuries. The chances of being found at fault for death, disfigurement, or permanent disability are meager, but a Texas court judgment for these losses can be very high.

At the Policy Source, we advise all of our clients with a net worth of $1 million or more, excluding the value of their personal residence, to consider umbrella coverage. Many clients no longer consider $1 million to put someone in the rich category. But it is precisely those who have "just a million" or a net worth of just a few million dollars who are especially vulnerable to aggressive litigation for damages in injury cases.

Umbrella insurance can cover you against all the expenses of defending yourself in a tragic situation. Whether you live in Austin, TX, or anywhere in the Lone Star State, call us today to get the assurance you deserve.

Umbrella Insurance: The Assurance You Need and Deserve

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People get insured for numerous reasons. However, regardless of the reason for getting insurance, the most critical aspect is that your coverage is available when needed. Regrettably, many people sometimes lack sufficient insurance, have the wrong coverage, or have inadequate policy limits, often leaving them exposed to risk or under-protected. Fortunately, umbrella insurance can assist with covering unexpected or substantial expenses that go beyond your standard policy limits. That’s why people in and around Austin, TX entrust their insurance coverage and protection needs to The Policy Source’s experienced and professional team.

The Assurance of Umbrella Insurance

Various situations or scenarios might require additional coverage. These potential risks are apparent in certain instances, but at times, they are not. This is where working with skilled and experienced agents can make a significant difference by helping you identify potential gaps in your coverage.

We obtain insurance not only for the protection it provides but also for the peace of mind it offers. Umbrella insurance ensures you have the coverage you need and the peace of mind you deserve. We may not have the ability to predict the future, but we can certainly be better prepared for it.

Umbrella Insurance Solutions for the Coverage You Need and Deserve

If you want to learn more about umbrella insurance or need an umbrella insurance policy, our professional, experienced, and friendly team at The Policy Source is here to assist. Contact us to learn why many Austin, TX residents opt for umbrella insurance and schedule an appointment today. Gain the assurance you need and deserve.

Should Landlords Carry Flood Insurance on Rental Properties?

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In Austin, TX, our team of insurance professionals at The Policy Source provides coverage to various people, such as business owners, individual proprietors, and landlords. As a result, we frequently advise different demographics on the types of insurance that best suit their needs. Landlords, in particular, often inquire whether a specific type of policy outside the general landlord’s insurance might effectively protect their properties and businesses. This article delves into flood insurance, explaining its benefits for landlords and its applicability in various situations.

What is Flood Insurance?

Flood insurance provides coverage for damage and liability arising from flooding. Regular homeowner’s and landlord’s insurance typically do not cover damage caused by flooding, and flood insurance is designed to fill this gap in coverage.

How Can Flood Insurance Benefit Landlords?

Flood insurance can assist landlords by covering the costs associated with repairing flood damage. Although not all types of flood damage may qualify for coverage, it’s beneficial to have this layer of protection if you can afford it. Every flood insurance policy is unique, so it’s crucial to consult with our team to understand which policy is best suited for your needs. For a rental property, you’ll need specialized flood insurance, referred to as "rental property flood insurance." Standard flood insurance policies may not adequately cater to your specific needs or furnish all the coverage you require to protect a property that generates rental income and doesn’t serve as your residence.

Should Landlords Purchase Flood Insurance?

Although the decision to carry flood insurance is ultimately up to the individual landlord, we strongly recommend it. It’s always better to be overprepared rather than caught off guard. Protecting a property with flood insurance can still offer considerable benefits, even if it is situated outside a floodplain.

To learn more about flood insurance in Austin, TX, feel free to reach out to The Policy Source!

Research Condo Remodeling Projects and Texas Coverage Upgrades

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Before a remodeling project takes place in your condo, seek condo insurance upgrades. Upgrades will protect the investments you make during the remodeling process.

Condo Insurance

Any common areas that you and neighboring condo owners share are likely covered by your HOA (homeowners association). If renovations to the common areas are scheduled to be made, you would not be liable for obtaining additional coverage.

When renovations are going to be made inside the dwelling that you own and live in, it is your responsibility to ensure that you have the necessary insurance coverage.

Dwelling Coverage

Completing a condo renovation will increase the value of your home. For this reason, you should seek an increase in the dwelling coverage that your condo insurance policy provides. If materials or possessions are damaged after the remodeling project is complete, the dwelling coverage will pay for the necessary repairs.

Liability Coverage

During the remodeling phase, you will likely have an active crew working in your condo frequently. It is important to seek liability coverage to protect against lawsuits.

If you hire a contractor, they will be responsible for having adequate coverage. If you are going to have friends or family help you complete the remodeling project, it will be your responsibility to purchase liability coverage. This type of coverage will pay for unexpected damage or injuries that occur during the remodeling project.

Contact Our Team!

Don’t begin remodeling your condo without seeking insurance coverage first. Contact one of our agents who serve Austin, TX. An agent who represents The Policy Source will review your remodeling plans. Then, they will recommend insurance products that will protect your interests during the remodeling process.

How to Get Ready for a Home Insurance Appraisal

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An insurance appraisal helps your agency provide the right type of coverage for your home and belongings. Preparing for the appraisal process beforehand will help things go smoothly, prevent mistakes, and ensure you get the right policy for your situation.

Paperwork

Austin, TX homeowners should be present during the appraisal process. Additionally, you’ll want to have all relevant documentation on hand to provide your appraiser with the information they will need to conduct an accurate appraisal. This documentation includes your current home insurance policy, your last home appraisal, and receipts for home improvements you’ve made since the last appraisal. If you plan on buying coverage for valuable personal belongings, you’ll also want to have purchase receipts and appraisals for each item you want covered.

Home Prep

You’ll also want to look over your home to see if it needs any repairs or upgrades before your insurance appraiser comes to visit. Serious problems such as faulty electrical wiring and foundation cracks need immediate attention, but even small repairs, such as fixing a leaky faucet, can make a difference. Additionally, it’s a good idea to boost your home’s value by improving curb appeal and making energy-efficient renovations, such as insulating the attic, installing energy-efficient windows, etc.

Get Help from The Policy Source

Are you an Austin, TX homeowner looking for top-tier insurance coverage at the best price? If so, The Policy Source can offer the professional assistance you need. Our team has more than fifty years of experience helping homeowners assess their options and find the coverage that’s the best fit for their personal situation. Contact us at your convenience to find out more about our services or to request a quote.

What You Might Be Doing Wrong With Your Auto Insurance

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Prevent Common Auto Insurance Mistakes

The Policy Source has been a trusted advisor for residents of Austin, TX, aiding in the quest for reliable insurance policies over the years. Our expertise is focused on auto insurance. If you’re searching for such coverage, it’s important to circumvent common blunders to secure the best possible policy.

Six Common Auto Insurance Gaffes

Many people find themselves guilty of these common mistakes. If you are among them, take heart – countless others have found themselves in the same situation. Here’s the good news – these errors are not irreversible.

  • Buying the First Policy You Find: Snap decisions often lead to disappointment. It is a common practice among car owners to opt for the first insurance policy they come across – a move that could be costly. Comparing various policies improves the chances of getting a better deal.
  • Underinsuring Your Car: While settling for basic coverage may seem appealing, it could be a huge mistake. The repercussions of insufficient cover can be severe.
  • Overinsuring Your Car: On the flip side, excessively insuring your vehicle is another area of concern. Certain types of coverage may be unnecessary, so ensure to choose wisely.
  • Ignoring Lifestyle Changes: Changes like starting a family can significantly affect your insurance policy. Be attentive to such events and adjust your coverage accordingly.
  • Mistakes in Your Insurance Application: Completing an insurance application can be complicated, and mistakes are easy to make. Let an insurance agent assist you in the process.
  • Overlooking Discounts: Car insurance companies frequently offer discounts that could make securing a suitable policy easier and more affordable.

At The Policy Source, we are committed to helping Austin, TX, residents navigate the complexities of car insurance. Contact us today, and we will develop a personalized coverage plan just for you!