Insurance 101

How can I lower my Auto Insurance Rates?

Check into all of your options. There are several auto insurance companies offering coverages at varied costs. Be sure to verify that the company you settle on is financially stable. You can check the financial health of the company by visiting either of these two rating companies online: www.ambest.com and www.standardandpoors.com/ratings

If you are car shopping, you should know that the cost of insurance may be different for the same coverage based on the vehicle you settle on. Some vehicles may be rated better for safety and protection providing better discounts on your auto insurance premium. To be better informed of these features, you may get some more information from the Insurance Institure for Highway Safety (www.iihs.org).

Bundle or package your other insurance coverages with your agent or the companies they represent.

Be responsible with your credit. Most companies are using credit information to price auto insurance policies.

Consider higher deductibles in exchange for a discounted premium.

How can I lower my Home Insurance Rates?

Check into all of your options. There are many home insurance companies offering coverages at varied costs. Be sure to verify that the company you settle on is financially stable. You can check the financial health of the company by visiting either of these two rating companies online: www.ambest.com and www.demotech.com

Take the steps to ensure that your home is protected and resistant to windstorms and natural disasters. With reinforced roof installation and materials or hurricane shutters, you may be eligible for significant premium discounts.

Home security systems often qualify you for anywhere from 10-20% in premium savings.

Bundle or package your other insurance coverages with your agent or the companies they represent.

Be responsible with your credit. Most companies are using credit information to price home insurance policies.

Review all of your coverages with your agent once a year to identify any coverage gaps or additional coverages that are included that may not be needed. You may consider higher deductibles, or remove certain coverages that may not apply to your circumstances.

What can I do to protect my home?

Basic Preventative Maintenance Steps - Leak Prevention

Maintain gutters and Downspouts
*Clean gutters and downspouts 2xs a yr. in the spring and fall. This will prevent clogs that can cause water damage to your roof.
*Keep the trees trimmed and away from the roof to prevent leaves from clogging gutters.*If there is standing water, make adjustments so they the gutters slope toward the downspout allowing the water to drain.
*Ensure downspouts funnel water away from the building to prevent water from accumulating at the foundation.

Check wall air conditioners
*Ensure the size of the internal drain pipe is adequate and water is flowing freely.
*Ensure there is proper caulking and weather stripping around the unit.
*Ensure the unit is installed with a 1/4inc (2-degree) bubble tilt toward outside.

Seal your roof deck
*High winds can rip off the cover of your roof, allowing rain to seep between the gaps in the wood and enter the attic and walls inside your home. Sealing your roof deck can prevent this type of water entry.

Reducing flood damage risk to your home

Know your Flood Zone
https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home

Find out what your Base Flood Elevation is
https://disastersafety.org/glossary/#B
If your home is below the Base Flood Elevation, you should consider elevating the structure to reduce the flooding risks. Homes should be at least 3 feet ABOVE the Base Flood Elevation to account for the higher than expected flood levels.

Buy Flood Insurance
If you are not sure if you can afford the insurance, you cannot afford not to have this valuable protection.
There are more companies offering flood coverage than ever before. Where there was once only one option available, there are now many companies that are offering this protection on a stand alone policy or by adding the coverage to your home insurance policy. Be sure to ask your agent about all options available.

Raise electrical components
Hiring a licensed electrician to raise your electrical components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers and wiring) at least 12in above the BFE will help prevent damage to the electrical system and reduce the chance of fire from short circuits in flood systems.

Raise or floodproof HVAC
A contractor can move your heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) equipment to an upper floor or build a floodproof wall around the equipment to prevent damage.

Check slope
Make sure the slope of the land directs water away from your home.

Anchor fuel tanks

Install sewer backflow valve
Have a licensed plumber install and int/ext sewer backflow valve to prevent sewage back up.

Check sump pump
Make sure they are fully operational and batteries are fully charged.

Inspect wells
Have a licensed well-drilling contractor inspect your well. Take the needed steps to protect it from floodwater contamination.

Move valuables
Secure your valuables away from flood prone areas.

Prepping for Hurricane Season
https://disastersafety.org/hurricane/get-your-home-ready-for-hurricane-season/

Review your insurance policy

Secure soffitts

Inspect your roof and resolved leaks

Trim your trees

Select a wind rated garage door

Purchase hurricane shutters

Get a whole house generator

What should I do if I think I have a claim?

Filing a Home Insurance Claim:
http://www.ldi.la.gov/docs/default-source/documents/publicaffairs/consumerpublications/consumer%27s-guide-to-homeowners-insurance-2016.pdf?sfvrsn=428e7c52_48

When you call your insurance company or producer about your claim, keep a record of the conversation, including the person’s name and the date and time of the call. The company will then submit a loss form and an adjuster will be assigned to your claim. If you are unable to stay in your home, let your insurance company or producer know where you can be reached. In most cases, you may need to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your property from the weather or from looting. This would include boarding up windows and placing plastic over the roof if it is leaking. If you make temporary repairs, keep a list of all work done and save receipts for all materials used. Do not sign any deals with contractors until you have spoken with your insurance company.

Filing an Auto Insurance Claim:
https://ldi.la.gov/docs/default-source/documents/publicaffairs/consumerpublications/consumer's-guide-to-auto-insurance-2016.pdf?sfvrsn=c0907c52_47

If you have been involved in an accident, call the police immediately. Make sure you get the other driver's name, address, telephone number, license plate number, driver's license number and insurance information. Give the other driver the same information about you.