Umbrella insurance coverage options in Buford, GA

It is easy to find yourself in a compromising situation where you’re in an accident, and your insurance cover isn’t enough to settle the whole mess. You are forced to either take a loan or use your savings to pay off the remaining amount to avoid lawsuits. That move could render you broke and can be a huge setback.

That is why Town & Country Insurance recommends that everyone purchase umbrella insurance. Umbrella insurance is an additional layer of coverage that provides extra coverage when the standard boat, home, renters, or auto insurance is depleted. It ensures that you don’t have to use your savings or take loans whenever your primary coverage is inadequate to cover all losses.

What can umbrella insurance cover?

Like we mentioned above, umbrella insurance only kicks in when your standard coverage is inadequate to cover for all the damage. Therefore, it is not self-sufficient as it cannot be used before the primary insurance policies.

That is also to mean that umbrella insurance is not limited to what coverages it can cover from home to auto and boat insurance policies. Examples include:

•    Bodily injury liability

•    Damage to property

•    Legal costs and Lawsuits

•    Medical expenses

•    Unforeseen situations like car accidents in another country

•    Negligent supervision of a minor

Umbrella insurance covers very many kinds of accidents including small everyday unexpected accidents that may not be in your home and auto policies like a friend falling and injuring themselves at your home, dog bites, a child getting hurt while playing in your compound and many other common accidents.

To learn more of what is covered under umbrella insurance, get quotes, or discuss new policies, visit us at Town & Country Insurance in Buford, GA today.

 

Does my homeowners policy cover personal items like clothes and books?

All homeowners policies are different in some ways, but there are many similarities. Your home in Buford, GA has multiple kinds of coverage if you obtained a policy from Town & Country Insurance.

How Much Coverage Your Home Needs

Probably the most important part of the policy is dwelling coverage, which will help you if the physical structure is damaged, such as in a fire. This is going to represent the largest value.

The amount of coverage you would get to protect your personal possessions will often depend on how much the home is worth, and what the dwelling is worth. The contents coverage will usually be between 50% and 70% of the total value of the house. So if your home is worth $100,000, you will probably get $50,000 in contents coverage.

What Is Contents Coverage?

Your home has many items which would need to be replaced in a total disaster. This includes furniture, carpeting, appliances, electronics, and other household items.

Contents coverage also includes personal items, like clothing and books. You will have just as great a need for your personal items as other items that need to be replaced.

Exclusions

There may be some exceptions and limitations, and those will be spelled out in your policy. One normal limitation is that jewelry or fine art usually has its own limit, meaning that an additional policy would be needed to protect such unique items. 

The most important thing to remember is that your policy limits, inclusions, and exclusions are spelled out in your policy. If you have any questions about which of your valuables are covered on your Buford, GA home, you can always call your agent or contact Town & Country Insurance so we can help.

Steps to Making Your Company a Safe Place

As a business owner, you are no doubt occupied with thoughts of how to improve your business and the work environment for your employees. Keeping a safe work environment not only increases your employees’ productivity, but it also saves you money in the long run. Expensive workman’s compensation cases and other types of liability can really put a business in jeopardy. Besides having sound commercial insurance, there are other steps you can also take to make sure your company is a safe place for both employees and customers. 

Careful Hiring Processes

Although you may feel pressured at times to fill up a vacant position so that productivity does not lag, be careful with quick hires. When the hiring process is rushed potential employees may not be properly vetted to ensure they are a good fit for a position. This can result in injuries or other liability for your company. Fight the temptation to hire too quickly so that you can make sure every position is filled with the right employee for the job. 

Clear Out Clutter

Clutter can be a huge contributor to accidents and even slow productivity. Just like at home, in the workplace more can get accomplished in a tidy environment. Encourage employees to keep work areas neat and make it a point to clear out old clutter that has accumulated in the workplace. 

Use Safety Materials

If your company has access to posters and other types of educational materials make sure to use them in the work area. Having potential hazard warning, safety policies and other reminders clearly displayed will help keep safety in the minds of your employees. 

If you would like to learn more about how to keep your company safe or you have questions about commercial insurance please give our friendly staff a call today at Town & Country Insurance in Buford, GA. 

What Is Recreational Insurance?

Buford, GA area residents who like to drive recreational vehicles may not always take the time to meet with Town & Country Insurance agents to learn about preferred insurance policies. There are many who allow themselves to believe that they do not need these types of insurance policies.

However, those who own and use recreational vehicles on a regular basis must take a closer look at their current policies. Those who ride ATVs, use utility trailers, drive motor homes or own a tent trailer will need to consider the importance of recreational insurance going forward. 

Recreational insurance provides coverage that is designed to keep the aforementioned vehicles safe. Damages, collision and theft are all covered. In addition to these helpful forms of coverage, those who purchase recreational insurance can also shield themselves from various liability concerns.

Specific programs are offered to those who are seeking recreational insurance, so that they are able to tailor their coverage to the vehicles in question. Someone who is planning to travel the country in a motor home once summer arrives is not going to need the same coverage as someone merely looking to obtain coverage for weekend ATV riding.

Recreational insurance is not always required by Georgia law, even though there are laws that have been passed to govern the usage of these vehicles. This insurance remains necessary, even if there are no laws on the books that require Georgia residents to possess it. Some of these purchases may also require recreational insurance before they can be financed by any sort of major banking institution. 

Those who reside in Buford, GA and the surrounding areas are urged to find out more about the necessity of a recreational insurance policy. Contact Town & Country Insurance as soon as possible, so that you can learn everything you need to know. 

What Is Better? Term Life Or Whole Life Insurance

Let’s say that a Buford, GA resident has decided to purchase a life insurance policy. However, it can be difficult to choose between whole life insurance and term life insurance policies. To find out more about each of these policies and how they can best be utilized, be sure to read on.

Term Life Insurance

Those who purchase term life insurance only receive benefits after death and they must die while the policy is in effect. It is an easier policy to purchase and the use of the phrase "term" has to do with the amount of time that is being covered (anywhere from 5 years to 35 years).

These policies become more costly as we grow older. In order to ensure coverage over the long haul, these policies must be renewed before the chosen term has ended. They can also be added to a permanent life insurance policy. Term life insurance is able to be converted to whole life. 

Whole Life Insurance

These policies provide lifetime coverage and allow the insured to build a cash value accumulation over its lifespan. Health examinations are required and can be purchased without exams, albeit at a slightly higher cost. It will take between 12 to 15 years for the cash value to build. 

Whole life insurance is best for estate planning and works well for those who are looking to withdraw during the policy. The premiums are more than term life insurance policies and more suited towards those with more to spend upfront. 

Term life is best for clients who are younger, have children to consider and are the primary earner of their home. Older clients who are looking to care for their loved ones after they have passed on tend to choose term life insurance as well. Whole life insurance comes with j

Buford, GA residents that would like to learn more about the differences between whole life insurance policies and term life insurance policies are urged to pick up the phone and get in touch Town & Country Insurance. Their experts will be more than happy to help. 

Types of commercial insurance

The potential risk of encountering legal compliance issues, lawsuits, hazards, and different forms of losses happen every day to any business. Therefore, every business needs commercial insurance to protect itself against these perils. Here is a look at different types of commercial insurance in Buford, GA you should consider.

Property

The purpose of property insurance is to protect your business’s buildings and the contents inside of them. Many carriers provide additional coverage for loss of rent and inflation guards. This means that you should purchase property insurance even if you’re renting your business premises. The property policy that you’ll purchase can have coinsurance, a total insurable, and value deductibles.

Workers’ Compensation

The law requires your business to carry Workers’ Compensation insurance for all employees. The policy provides lost wage benefit and medical for employees who get injured at the workplace. In fact, the insurance will protect your business against employee lawsuits. Your Workers’ Compensation policy from Town & Country Insurance pays for lost wages and medical expenses until the employee is fully reimbursed for his or her losses.

Liability

It is advisable to have general liability to protect your business in the event that you encounter a lawsuit. The liability coverage will cover defense costs and perhaps settlements up to the limit of your general liability policy. Typically, the policy is split up into aggregate limit, premises limit, and products operations limit. The aggregate limit is the maximum amount of payout to all the claims combined while the premises and operations limits are designed for paying individual claims or occurrences. In most cases, liability insurance policies have additional coverages for premises that your business rents, medical payments, and non-owned car liability.

Auto

This is a very crucial policy for property damage and automobile liability. The automobile liability protects your business against lawsuits that stem from the business’s use of vehicles. Property damage protects your business from any damage to the business vehicles and is subject to deductibles.

It’s important to protect your investment against unforeseen risks. Do you need help determining the type of commercial insurance suitable for your business? Contact us today, at Town & Country Insurance, for more information and guidelines on how to secure affordable commercial insurance.

 

Home Insurance: A Brief Primer For New Homeowners

Does home insurance intimidate you as a new homeowner?

If so, you’re not alone. Chances are, many of your neighbors in Buford, GA and beyond don’t understand the ins and outs of their homeowner’s policy either. This type of coverage is based on a lot of varying factors, and it has just as many components. Here’s what you need to know as a brand new homeowner.

Not All Policies Are Created Equal

There are at least 8 types of homeowner’s policies available, but not every one of them is designed for your home. For instance, the most common policy, HO3,, offers extensive coverage for your belongings as well as some liability and medical coverage. However, if you want coverage for items that aren’t specifically listed in your inventory of belongings, you may want to opt for HO4. If you own a condo, you’ll want to purchase an HO6 policy, which is specifically meant for homeowners who have a condo or belong to a homeowner’s association. Your agent at Town & Country Insurance can guide you to the option best suited for your type of home. You should be ready to decide how extensive your coverage needs to be in case of a disaster.

Your Payment Isn’t Based On Coverage Alone

Even if you and your next door neighbor have the same kind of homeowner’s policy, you’re likely not making the same kind of premium payments. The amount you pay is based on some factors other than the type of coverage you choose. These factors include:

  • Your credit
  • Whether you’re a first-time homeowner
  • Whether you’ve made a claim on a home insurance policy before
  • The terms of your mortgage.

In some cases, your mortgage lender will allow you to pay for your home insurance with your mortgage payment. If your insurance is rolled into your mortgage payments, you only have one predictable payment to keep track of from month to month.

Also, you may be eligible for some discounts based on your personal circumstances or some aspects of your home. For instance, if you install an advanced smart security system, some insurance providers offer you a discount. Likewise, you may be able to pay less if you’re a military veteran. Be sure to ask about discounts before finalizing your policy.

This quick overview should make you feel more confident about your homeowner’s policy in Buford, GA. Contact one of the friendly agents at Town & Country Insurance to discuss the details of your policy further.

What Happens If You Crash An RV Without Having Recreational Insurance?

Buford, GA and the surrounding area has a variety of campgrounds that make camping in an RV fun. However, we at Town & Country Insurance have noticed many of our customers are trying to drive these recreational vehicles without insurance. This is a huge mistake that will cost you if you get into an accident.

You May Be Breaking the Law

If you drive an RV without recreational insurance, there’s a good chance you are breaking the law. In Georgia, all vehicles that can be driven and which require registration must have insurance. So if your RV is driven, and not hauled, you’ll need insurance or you are breaking the law.

And since RV laws vary depending on the state, you may or may not need insurance for certain types of vehicles. It is a safe bet, though, that getting into a crash with an RV that you drive is going to be very problematic if you don’t have insurance.

Monetary Loses are Practically Guaranteed

Without proper recreational insurance, you are going to pay a lot of money in an accident. For example, you are likely to pay for medical coverage for those you have injured, repairs to their vehicle, the costs of replacing certain types of property, and much more.

These costs are only going to increase if you cause the accident. While your RV will be repaired by the insurance of another if they cause the accident, you may still get a ticket and have to pay a fine for failing to have insurance. It’s basically a lose-lose situation for you.

Getting the Help You Need

So if you live in the Buford, GA and want to protect yourself when driving an RV, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Town & Country Insurance. Our specialists will find a way to get you the high-quality recreational insurance you need to be protected and safe.

Top Things to Do When You Turn 20

For many people of older age, turning 20 seems like it was so long ago. And the truth is, turning 20 means you’re still fairly young. It also means you’re an adult and you need to take essential steps to set yourself up for a future that brings you peace of mind. From securing employment to going to college to investing in life insurance, there are several things you can do when you turn 20 that will help you obtain a peaceful future. Here at Town & Country Insurance, we’d like to provide you with a few reasons to make these critical decisions. 

Going to College

There has been a lot of debate lately regarding the cost and opportunity of going to college. For some people in Buford, GA, the cost of attending college and the available job opportunities doesn’t make financial sense. For others, though, going to college is the smartest move to make, especially for those going into the healthcare field. If you are thinking about going to college, it is imperative that you compare the cost of college and your expected salary once you graduate. 

Securing Employment

Whether you go to college or not, it’s a good idea to have a job when you’re 20. If you’re in college, then you may want to get a part-time job so you can have enough time and attention to direct toward your studies. Still yet, having a job while you’re young is an excellent way to gain valuable real-world working experience. 

Investing in Life Insurance

The younger you are, the cheaper life insurance is going to be. This is why all young people should purchase a policy as soon as possible. Not only does it help secure low premiums, but it also helps you sleep well at night knowing you are going to protect the financial future of your soon-to-be spouse and children. 

To learn more about the advantages of investing in life insurance, contact Town & Country Insurance serving the Buford, GA area. 

5 Things To Look For In A Good Homeowner’s Policy

Homeowners insurance protects from unexpected dangers and is always a requirement when seeking a mortgage loan. Policies come in many shapes and sizes, but there are several things the average homeowner should make sure they are getting, and are not getting, from their insurance policy. Here are five things to look for when considering a homeowner’s insurance policy.

Appropriate Coverage

When picking a homeowner’s policy, you’ll naturally have your own budget to consider. You can avoid paying for more than you need by understanding the different levels of insurance, and the perils they protect against. These include fire, windstorm, riots, explosion, damage from aircraft or other vehicles, lighting, and hail among others. 

Understanding Categories Of Coverage

Definitions of a homeowners insurance policy are broken up into multiple categories, usually defined as HO-2 through HO-8. Your insurance agent at Town & Country Insurance serving Buford, GA will have more details about the categories and which type of insurance is right for you.

Discounts

Discounts and the percentage of the discount vary between insurers. Many insurance companies offer a discount for combined policy, age, and other factors. Make sure you shop around for the best discount.

Deductibles

Deductibles are often overlooked, but when you need to file a claim, the last thing you need to do is count your dollars to make sure you can meet the deductible. Figure out what the highest deductible is that you can afford and consider that on average homeowners file a claim once every ten years.

Hidden Clauses

There are some things that you don’t want in your policy. So keep an eye out for these and make sure they aren’t a part of your policy. One example is called the anti-concurrent-causation provision, which when present in your policy means you may not be covered if two catastrophic events occur at the same time, like damage from wind and damage from flooding. In this event, the insurance company may deny coverage because flooding was not covered by their policy.

Be sure to reach out to your agent at Town & Country Insurance serving Buford, GA for friendly and knowledgeable service that will lead to the right homeowner’s policy for you.