Showing posts with label Chandler AZ. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chandler AZ. Show all posts

Friday, June 1, 2012

Not All Insurances Policies are Created Equal: Chandler AZ Homeowners Insurance Is Different

We have a tendency to buy our insurance policy as we buy most things in life, and that is by shopping around for the lowest price or best deal. After all, half of what the policy says is a mystery to us, and we just want to make sure that we are”covered.” We also want to make sure that we do not look too ignorant in the presence of the insurance company representatives. But, how covered are we? The insurance policies are written for a reason; it is to protect the company and the people who have put their faith in that company. You would be shocked by the number of people who are denied assistance because it is not spelled out in their policy.

A woman once explained her flood insurance. With a straight face and very seriously, the woman said that if the water came into the house from above, she was not covered. However if the water came in from the ground things were different; she was covered. There was a flood that year, and her house was flooded, Thank goodness the water falling from above (the rain) entered the house through the garage door making her covered. Now suppose this same person had a water heater in the attic and it went bad. Let's make it worse and have the water fall on her new computer. Where does she go for help? Nowhere. She has to figure out how to deal with it.

No one wants to be caught off guard, that is why Arizona Homeowners Insurance is the best place to start when you want real protection. Chandler Arizona Homeowners Insurance works for your best interests. They allow you to speak with them, ask questions, and then they go to work for you to find the best package and most complete coverage possible. Yes, they try to save you some money by bundling, but more importantly they help to make sure that you are fully covered no matter what happens.

This is very important for people living in Arizona where a multi-year drought has made cities like Tucson and Phoenix , hotbeds for wildfires. Just last year the Wallow fire in Arizona destroyed hundreds of business and homes. Some people were fully covered and, while they were saddened by their loss, they still had hope. Some people, on the other hand, found out that they were under-insured which meant that they had to find other means to cover what their insurance did not.

How do you really know how insured you are? Ask the Arizona Homeowners Insurance agents, they will be able to tell you. The truth might be shocking, but there is an old saying that is quoted quite often and that is, “You get what you pay for;” it is so true. If you are going to pay insurance why not go to the pros and have them help you, so that, in case of a disaster, you know there is a silver lining no matter how black the cloud.

We all make mistakes along the road of life, however, one of the worst mistakes we can make is to fall for insurance companies that look like they offer the world and then are only too happy to point out the clause in the policy that states “it is not covered.”

If you have questions about what is covered on your Chandler AZ Home Insurance policy please give our insurance agents in Chandler Arizona a call!

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Create a Home Inventory to Determine Your Chandler AZ Homeowner's Insurance

Chandler AZ Home Insurance Inventory

Does your Chandler AZ homeowners Insurance adequately cover your personal possessions?  Most homeowner’s insurance policies will cover between 50 and 70% of the replacement value of your home.  However, this may not be enough to replace your prized possessions after a disaster, particularly priceless items such as art or jewelry. Performing a home inventory can help you determine your homeowner’s insurance needs.  Here are some tips on how to get started:
  • List. Begin by making a list of all your possessions.  Record serial numbers of electronics such as televisions or computers.  List clothing items by category: shoes, pants, purses, shirts, etc.  Store any receipts or appraisals you have with the list.
  • Tools.  A simple computer spreadsheet might be all you need, but there are also programs that will assist you in making a complete home inventory. The New York Times has reviewed some of the better home inventory programs and apps available.  Many insurance companies also offer online tools or home inventory checklists for their customers.  Your insurance agent can tell you what tools are available.
  • Valuables.  High-value items such as art, jewelry, furs or collectibles may need separate coverage. List these items and discuss them with your insurance agent to evaluate your needs.
  • Outside.  Don’t forget to list items outside your home such as patio furniture, tools or vehicles.  Also remember to include items in your basement, attic, garage, or tool shed.
  • Record.  Take photos of each room and note important items such as furs, artwork, antiques, or collectibles. Also include high-dollar items such as tools or electronics. Store the photos with the list either as hard copies or on a flash drive.  Alternatively, use a video camera to take a video tour of your home and narrate the contents of each room as you go.
  • Store.  Be sure to keep a copy of your list and documentation off-site.  You could keep a copy of your inventory at the home of a friend or relative, or in a safety deposit box at your bank.  This insures that you have a copy of your information if your home is destroyed.
  • Persevere.  The idea of listing all your possessions might be overwhelming, especially if you have lived in your home for years.  Begin by listing your most recent purchases, then take the rest of your home room by room.  Creating a thorough home inventory can be a time-consuming task, but it will be worth the investment if the information is needed.  Once the initial list is created it should be a fairly simple task to keep it current.

Don't Wait to Get your Chandler AZ Homeowners Inventory

A complete home inventory ensures that you have the documentation needed to replace your property and verify your claim in case of property loss or damage.  According to the I.I.I., “Having an up-to-date home inventory will help you get your insurance claim settled faster, verify losses for your income tax return and help you purchase the correct amount of insurance.”  Contact any one of our Arizona insurance agents for assistance in creating a home inventory and to make sure your personal possessions are adequately insured.