An Overview of Homeowners Insurance Coverages in Hanover, Pennsylvania

February 17th, 2012

Most homeowners know they need homeowners insurance, but few really know the ins and outs of their coverage. And it is important to know what is and is not included in your standard policy.

Did you know that most homeowners insurance policies include four types of coverage? It’s true. These coverages include:

Coverage for the structure of your home: If you home is damaged or destroyed by fire, hurricane, hail, lightning, or some other natural disaster (other than floods, earthquakes and a few other exclusions), your homeowners policy should cover the repairs.

Remember, it is important to have enough coverage to rebuild your home in the event of a major disaster.

Coverage for your personal belongings: Your homeowners policy will cover your personal belongings in the event they are stolen or destroyed by fire, hurricane, or other insured natural disaster. Personal belongings include furniture, clothes, sports equipment, and other assorted personal items.

Most companies provide coverage for 50% to 70% of the amount of insurance you have on the structure of your home. Ask your insurance agent how much personal item coverage your policy includes.

You should consider purchasing a special property endorsement, also known as a floater, to fully insure more expensive items like jewelry or furs.

Liability protection: This covers you against lawsuits for bodily injury or property damage that you, a family member, or your pets caused. The liability portion of your policy pays for both the cost of defending you in court and any court awards—up to the limit of your policy.

Additional living expenses: If you are unable to live in your home because of a natural disaster, additional living coverage pays for expenses such as hotel bills, restaurant meals, and other living expenses.

Remember, every insurance policy is different. To find out the full extent of YOU homeowners insurance policy, contact your insurance agent.

If you have any further questions about Homeowners Insurance Coverages, please contact the insurance experts at Barrick & Associates, Inc. to learn more. Call 1-800-548-9810 or click here today!

We offer quality protection and affordable pricing… click here for a free, real-time insurance quote.

Whether you’re looking for business insurance or auto, home, life, or health insurance in Hanover, PA, our qualified and knowledgeable staff will help you find the right policy to best suit your needs. And we do much more than just help you purchase a policy. We also assist in submitting claims and customizing programs for your business. We specialize in providing customized insurance protection for Automobile Dealers, Auto Service Centers, Auto Body Shops, Contractors, Farms and Restaurants, as well as Personal insurance policies. And with all of our insurance services, Barrick and Associates offers a “Money Back Guarantee.”

We are the leading provider of insurance in Hanover, PA.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

What Coverage is Included in a Standard Homeowners Insurance Policy?

Saving Money on Auto Insurance in Hanover, Pennsylvania

February 10th, 2012

Did you know that the price you pay for auto insurance can vary by hundreds of dollars, based on several key factors? It’s true! Here are a few tips on how to save money on your auto insurance policy.

Compare Cars: Auto insurance premiums are based on a car’s price, the average cost of repairs, a car’s overall safety record, and the likelihood of theft. So, before you buy your next car, do your research. You can get information from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (www.iihs.org).

Increase Deductibles: A deductible is what you pay, out of pocket, before your insurance policy goes into effect. By raising your deductibles a few hundred dollars, you can lower your collision and comprehensive coverage by as much as 30%. But be sure you have enough money set aside to cover your higher deductible.

Less Coverage = More Savings: For older cars, it may not be worth purchasing collision and/or comprehensive coverages. The basic rule of thumb is that if your car is worth less than 10 times the premium, purchasing the coverage may not be cost effective.

Bundle Coverages: You can typically save money by purchasing your homeowners insurance and auto coverage from the same insurance agency. Ask your insurance agent if this makes sense for you.

Look into Other Discounts: Many insurers offer specialty discounts. These may include:

• Antitheft Devices

• Auto and Homeowners Coverage with the Same Company

• College Students away from Home

• Defensive Driving Courses

• Drivers Ed Courses

• Good Credit Record

• Good Student

• Higher deductibles

• Low Annual Mileage

• Long-Time Customer

• More than 1 car

• No Accidents in 3 Years

• No Moving Violations in 3 Years

• Student Drivers with Good Grades

Contact your insurance provider and ask if they have any of the above discounts and if you qualify.

If you have any further questions about auto insurance claims, please contact the insurance experts at Barrick & Associates, Inc. to learn more. Call 1-800-548-9810 or click here today!

We offer quality protection and affordable pricing… click here for a free, real-time insurance quote.

Whether you’re looking for business insurance or auto, home, life, or health insurance in Hanover, PA, our qualified and knowledgeable staff will help you find the right policy to best suit your needs. And we do much more than just help you purchase a policy. We also assist in submitting claims and customizing programs for your business. We specialize in providing customized insurance protection for Automobile Dealers, Auto Service Centers, Auto Body Shops, Contractors, Farms and Restaurants, as well as Personal insurance policies. And with all of our insurance services, Barrick and Associates offers a “Money Back Guarantee.”

We are the leading provider of insurance in Hanover, PA.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

How Can I Save Money on Auto Insurance? Insurance Information Institute

Auto Insurance in Hanover, Pennsylvania: How to File an Auto Insurance Claim

February 3rd, 2012

So you tediously looked at every insurance company out there, you did your research, and you selected an auto insurance policy that fit both your needs and your budget. Now you can go on living your life. The last thing on your mind is auto insurance.

Then, disaster strikes! You are in an accident. What now?

Filing an Auto Insurance Claim

  1. Don’t Panic
  2. Call your insurance agent as soon as possible and ask that all-important question: “Am I covered?”
  3. Ask your insurance representative about how to proceed. What forms need to be filled out? What documents are needed to support your claim?
  4. Fill out the claim form as carefully as possible and provide your agent with any other information they request.
  5. Get the names and phone numbers of everyone you speak with and copies of any bills related to the accident.
  6. Follow up with your agent to make sure everything is on track.

Other Important Questions to Ask Your Agent

• Does my policy contain a time limit for filing claims and submitting bills?

• Is there a time limit for resolving claims disputes?

•If I need to submit additional information, is there a time limit?

• When can I expect the insurance company to contact me?

•Do I need to get repair estimates for the damage to my car?

• Will my policy pay for a rental car while my car is being repaired? If so, how much?

If you have any further questions about auto insurance claims, please contact the insurance experts at Barrick & Associates, Inc. to learn more. Call 1-800-548-9810 or click here today!

We offer quality protection and affordable pricing… click here for a free, real-time insurance quote.

Whether you’re looking for business insurance or auto, home, life, or health insurance in Hanover, PA, our qualified and knowledgeable staff will help you find the right policy to best suit your needs. And we do much more than just help you purchase a policy. We also assist in submitting claims and customizing programs for your business. We specialize in providing customized insurance protection for Automobile Dealers, Auto Service Centers, Auto Body Shops, Contractors, Farms and Restaurants, as well as Personal insurance policies. And with all of our insurance services, Barrick and Associates offers a “Money Back Guarantee.”

We are the leading provider of insurance in Hanover, PA.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

How Do I File a Claim?

Attention Drivers of Hanover, Pennsylvania: Here Are Several Factors That Affect Auto Insurance Premiums

January 20th, 2012

Auto insurance agencies take a lot of factors into consideration when determining your auto insurance premium. These factors may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Driving Record: It’s quite simple; the better your record, the lower your premium. Any accidents or traffic violations will likely increase your premium.

Miles: If you use your vehicle for work or drive it a long way to work, you will pay more. Basically, the more you use your car, the higher your premium.

Delivery: Also remember that delivery of things like pizza or newspapers are not covered under most personal auto’s policies.

Location, Location, Location: Where you live and where you park your car can have a huge affect on your insurance premium. Because of this, urban drivers often pay more for car insurance than those in small towns or rural areas.

Age: Studies have shown that mature drivers have fewer accidents. This is why young people below the age of 25 pay higher auto insurance premiums.

Car: Insurance agencies take many variables into consideration when it comes to the car you drive. These include:

  • Likelihood of theft
  • Cost of the car
  • Cost of repairs
  • Safety equipment
  • Overall safety record of the car
  • Engine sizes

Some cars simply cost more to insure than others.

Credit: Credit-based insurance scores are based on information like payment history, bankruptcies, collections, outstanding debt and length of credit history.

Auto Insurance Coverage: Obviously the type of auto insurance you buy will affect your premium.

If you have any questions about auto insurance premiums, please contact the insurance experts at Barrick & Associates, Inc. to find learn more. Call 1-800-548-9810 or click here today!

We offer quality protection and affordable pricing… click here for a free, real-time insurance quote.

Whether you’re looking for business insurance or auto, home, life, or health insurance in Hanover, PA, our qualified and knowledgeable staff will help you find the right policy to best suit your needs. And we do much more than just help you purchase a policy. We also assist in submitting claims and customizing programs for your business. We specialize in providing customized insurance protection for Automobile Dealers, Auto Service Centers, Auto Body Shops, Contractors, Farms and Restaurants, as well as Personal insurance policies. And with all of our insurance services, Barrick and Associates offers a “Money Back Guarantee.”

We are the leading provider of insurance in Hanover, PA.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:
What Determines The Price Of My Auto Insurance Policy?

 

Winter Storms and How They Affect Homeowners Insurance in Hanover, Pennsylvania

January 13th, 2012

In 2011 alone, winter storms were the third most costly type of natural disaster, accounting for over $2 billion in insured losses. Only tornadoes ($25.8 billion) and tropical cyclones ($5.5 billion) were more costly. So you have to ask yourself the following question: Am I insured if my home is damaged during a winter storm?

To answer this question, we will go through the average homeowners policy on a case-by-case basis.

 Direct Loss due to Hail, Wind, and Snow

 A typical homeowners policy will provide broad coverage for these disasters. But check to make sure you are happy with the amount of coverage you are receiving, especially if you are in an area that experiences harsh winter weather. If you are unhappy with the amount of coverage you are currently receiving, consider purchasing higher limits.

 A Visitor Slips on an Icy Sidewalk

 If a fall or accident occurs on your property, your homeowners insurance policy will pay for damages, legal costs, and medical expenses. Standard liability protection is $100,000. If you feel you need more, contact your insurance provider.

A Tree Falls on Your Home During a Storm

 Under most homeowners policies, you are both covered for the damage to your home and the cost of the tree removal, generally up to a $500 limit.

So are you properly insured?

Most homeowners policies cover a wide range of disasters – tornadoes, windstorms, fire, lightning, and even winter storm damage. But MOST homeowners policies are not ALL homeowners policies. It is important to check with your insurance provider to find out if your current policy covers you in the event of damage caused by the weight of ice, snow, or sleet.

Don’t wait until your roof collapses after the first big snow storm this winter to find out if you are covered. If you have any questions, please contact the insurance experts at Barrick & Associates, Inc. to find learn more. Call 1-800-548-9810 or click here today!

We offer quality protection and affordable pricing… click here for a free, real-time insurance quote.

Whether you’re looking for business insurance or auto, home, life, or health insurance in Hanover, PA, our qualified and knowledgeable staff will help you find the right policy to best suit your needs. And we do much more than just help you purchase a policy. We also assist in submitting claims and customizing programs for your business. We specialize in providing customized insurance protection for Automobile Dealers, Auto Service Centers, Auto Body Shops, Contractors, Farms and Restaurants, as well as Personal insurance policies. And with all of our insurance services, Barrick and Associates offers a “Money Back Guarantee.”

We are the leading provider of insurance in Hanover, PA.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Winter Storms

Am I Covered?

Rising Crime Rates in the United States: Finding the Right Homeowners Insurance Agency in Hanover, Pennsylvania

December 29th, 2011

A burglary is defined as the unlawful entry into a structure such as a home or business. And according to the FBI, of the 2,159,878 burglaries that occurred in 2010, 74% were home burglaries. So you have to ask yourself: “Am I properly covered?”

Your standard homeowners policies provides four main types of coverage:

•           Coverage for the structure of your home.

•           Coverage for your personal belongings.

•           Liability protection.

•           Additional living expenses in the event you are temporarily unable to live in your home because of a fire or other insured disaster.

In this instance, we are only concerned with “Coverage for your personal belongings.”

So how much coverage does your property receive? Well, most homeowners insurance policies provide 50-70% of the amount of insurance you have on the structure of your home. This means that if your policy is covers $100,000 for the structure of your home, then you would receive $50,000-70,000 worth of coverage for your personal property.

Is this enough? Sometimes, the answer is simply no.

Expensive items like jewelry, silverware, and furs are only partially covered. Most homeowners policies will only cover between $1,000-2,000 for ALL of your jewelry and furs. Is that enough? If not, you will need to purchase a special personal property endorsement – also known as a floater – to insure these items for their full value.

Still a little confused? We don’t blame you. So to find out what insurance policies you need to purchase, simply contact the insurance experts at Barrick & Associates, Inc. by calling 1-800-548-9810 or click here today!

We offer quality protection and affordable pricing… click here for a free, real-time insurance quote.

Whether you’re looking for business insurance or auto, home, life, or health insurance in Hanover, PA, our qualified and knowledgeable staff will help you find the right policy to best suit your needs. And we do much more than just help you purchase a policy. We also assist in submitting claims and customizing programs for your business. We specialize in providing customized insurance protection for Automobile Dealers, Auto Service Centers, Auto Body Shops, Contractors, Farms and Restaurants, as well as Personal insurance policies. And with all of our insurance services, Barrick and Associates offers a “Money Back Guarantee.”

We are the leading provider of insurance in Hanover, PA.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Crime Insurance Information Institute

What coverage is included in a standard homeowners insurance policy? Insurance Information Institute

Commercial Auto Insurance in Hanover, Pennsylvania

December 22nd, 2011

News Flash: Your Businessowners Policy (BOP) does not provide coverage for any vehicles.

So if your business involves any type of automobile – whether it is a work truck for a construction business or a van customized to sell ice cream – you probably need commercial auto insurance. Similar to your personal auto insurance policy, a commercial policy provides liability, collision, comprehensive, personal injury protection, and uninsured motorist coverages.

Yet, while the major coverages are the same, commercial auto insurance policies differ from personal policies in many technical aspects. Ask your insurance agent to expound on these differences and explain all of your available options.

Your insurance agent will ask you the following:

  • Who will be driving your business vehicle(s)?
  • Do you own, rent or lease your business vehicle(s)?
  • Who is more likely to drive your business vehicle(s)m you, your employees, or both?

The answers to these questions will indicate the types of coverage you need. Your commercial auto policy can be either broad or narrow depending on your choice of options.

In general, you have three options for which vehicles you choose to cover.

  • Autos your business owns
  • All autos your business owns, hires or leases
  • All autos used for the business, including those that your business does not own, hire or lease

The choice is yours.

If you have any questions, please contact the insurance experts at Barrick & Associates, Inc. to learn more and find out what coverages you actually need. Call 1-800-548-9810 or click here today!

We offer quality protection and affordable pricing… click here for a free, real-time insurance quote.

Whether you’re looking for business insurance or auto, home, life, or health insurance in Hanover, PA, our qualified and knowledgeable staff will help you find the right policy to best suit your needs. And we do much more than just help you purchase a policy. We also assist in submitting claims and customizing programs for your business. We specialize in providing customized insurance protection for Automobile Dealers, Auto Service Centers, Auto Body Shops, Contractors, Farms and Restaurants, as well as Personal insurance policies. And with all of our insurance services, Barrick and Associates offers a “Money Back Guarantee.”

We are the leading provider of insurance in Hanover, PA.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

Do I need a commercial auto insurance policy? Insurance Information Institute
Business Vehicle Insurance Insurance Information Institute

What is an Annuity?

December 16th, 2011

In its simplest sense, an annuity is a contract between you and a life insurance company that states the terms of an agreement for one person or organization to pay another a stream or series of payments. Annuities can be classified by one or several of the following categories at once:

•   Nature of the underlying investment: fixed or variable

•   Primary purpose: accumulation or pay-out (deferred or immediate)

•   Nature of pay-out commitment: fixed periodfixed amount, or lifetime

•   Tax status: qualified or nonqualified

•    Premium payment arrangement: single premium or flexible premium

Annuities have the following features:

Tax deferral on investment earnings: The investment earnings (capital gains and investment income) in annuities are not taxable until the money is withdrawn.

Investment options: There are a variety of investment options, including:

•  Fixed annuity, which would credit a specified interest rate.

•  Variable annuity allows you to invest your money in stocks, bonds, or other mutual funds

Tax-free transfers: There are no tax consequences if you change how your funds are to be invested.

Lifetime income: A lifetime immediate annuity converts an investment into a stream of payments that last as long as you do.

Benefits to your heirs: A “guaranteed period” with the immediate lifetime annuity commits your insurance company to continue payments even after you die.

We know that this can all start to get a little confusing. So if you have any questions, please contact the insurance experts at Barrick & Associates, Inc. to learn more and find out what coverages you actually need. Call 1-800-548-9810 or click here today!

We offer quality protection and affordable pricing… click here for a free, real-time insurance quote.

Whether you’re looking for business insurance or auto, home, life, or health insurance in Hanover, PA, our qualified and knowledgeable staff will help you find the right policy to best suit your needs. And we do much more than just help you purchase a policy. We also assist in submitting claims and customizing programs for your business. We specialize in providing customized insurance protection for Automobile Dealers, Auto Service Centers, Auto Body Shops, Contractors, Farms and Restaurants, as well as Personal insurance policies. And with all of our insurance services, Barrick and Associates offers a “Money Back Guarantee.”

We are the leading provider of insurance in Hanover, PA.

Check us out on Facebook and Twitter as well!

Sources:

What is an Annuity? Insurance Information Institute