Why You Need Liability Coverage as Part of Your Home Insurance

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Home insurance comes with a lot of different coverage types. One that most people don’t think much about is liability coverage. While home insurance comes with liability coverage, it generally isn’t what people consider when they think about their home insurance. However, it’s an extremely important type of coverage to have in your home policy. No homeowner should ever be without it. When you are moving or changing home insurance, we can help you with a policy. Call us at Ottawa Insurance Agency, serving Zeeland, MI, to find out more.

What It’s For

If someone from outside your household is on your property, such as a worker or guest, and gets injured there, this is where your liability coverage comes in. It’s for the accidents that people have while in your home or on your property. Accidents can happen to anyone, even if you don’t have dangerous items around. Anyone can fall at any time, for example, and it’s essential to be prepared.

What It Can Pay For

It pays for the medical bills required to treat the injuries, but it doesn’t stop there. It can also pay for the wages lost by the injured person while they heal. Another thing it can pay for is legal costs related to the accident. It can also take care of therapies that the patient needs for ongoing medical problems caused by the accident. All of these would be extremely expensive to pay for on your own, and many people would be unable to pay for them by themselves. That’s why it’s so important to keep this insurance while you own your home.

Get Home Insurance

When you need home insurance, we’re here to help. To get started, you can contact us at Ottawa Insurance Agency, serving Zeeland, MI and the surrounding area.

Does Umbrella Insurance Work Side-by-Side With Your Homeowners Insurance or Separately?

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There are many types of insurance. Understanding how each type works can be confusing. This can be said for homeowners and umbrella insurance. Both types of policies protect your significant investment: your home. The question is how they work together. For inquiring minds, our agents at Ottawa Insurance Agency, serving Zeeland, MI, can answer that question and more.

Homeowners Insurance

As the name implies, this insurance is for the home. It covers:

  • The structure against risks such as inclement weather, fires, and lightning
  • Your personal items, such as clothing, furniture, and electronics
  • Other structures, like a detached garage
  • Injuries or property damage sustained by others on your property

Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance works as a back-up to your homeowner’s insurance, which is the primary source of coverage. If you have substantial assets, consider an umbrella, as the policy protects your personal assets against liability claims. It can cover the cost of property damage, medical bills, and legal expenses if you are sued. 

An umbrella steps in to cover costs once your standard homeowners policy has reached its monetary limits. When this happens, you may still have costs you are responsible for. Your umbrella policy picks up where Your homeowners policy left off, and covers costs until the limit of the umbrella policy is reached.

Without umbrella coverage, you’d be responsible for the additional expenses once your homeowners policy is maxed out.

Contact Us

If you are ready for a new homeowners policy, or you want to add umbrella insurance coverage for your home in Zeeland, MI, call Ottawa Insurance Agency. We’re focused on providing reliable insurance services to the community because all homes matter. 

Life Changes. Your Life Insurance Policy Should Change, Too

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Making financial decisions can be challenging for anyone. One of those important decisions may involve life insurance for you and your family. If you live near Zeeland, MI, our team at the Ottawa Insurance Agency will help you explore the benefits of buying life insurance. We’ve been working with clients like you since 1950.

Life Changes, Your Life Insurance Policy Should Change Too

When changes take place in your life, such as marriage, childbirth, or a death, your life insurance may need to be amended to reflect those changes. Working with an agent you can trust can help you make the necessary updates. According to the Michigan Department of Insurance Consumer Counselor, changes or cancellations to a life insurance policy should be made carefully.

For example, the same website cautions policyholders that although they may have good reason to cancel or change a policy, they should keep their old policy active until they understand the terms of their new policy and confirm that the new policy is now active. Life insurance can involve waiting periods, surrender fees, and cash values, so you’ll want to ensure your new policy is the right one for your needs. Ask one of our agents about Michigan’s “Free Look Period” for insurance policies.

Call Us for Your Appointment Today

None of us can predict the future, but when you purchase life insurance, you decide to help provide for your family after you pass away. Our team at Ottawa Insurance Agency understands the importance of this decision. Clients in the Zeeland, MI area have come to trust us for excellent advice and exceptional customer service. Contact us to schedule an appointment today and let us help you plan for your family’s future.

Will my auto insurance cover the damage my car incurred with the state’s minimum insurance requirements?

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All drivers are required to carry auto insurance, but auto insurance requirements vary from state to state. Most states mandate that drivers carry auto liability insurance, which protects other drivers if you cause an accident. However, auto liability insurance does not cover the driver who caused the accident. Auto insurance offers many different types of coverage that drivers can invest in. The state’s minimum auto insurance requirements are the first layer of protection, but drivers can choose to purchase additional coverage. Our team at Ottawa Insurance Agency is dedicated to helping Zeeland, MI, drivers get the insurance coverage they need.

Will My Auto Insurance Cover Damage to My Car?

No. The state of Michigan requires all drivers to carry personal injury protection coverage, property protection insurance, and bodily injury liability coverage. However, this type of coverage is not designed to repair damage your car might incur in an accident. Instead, it covers damage you cause to other drivers’ cars and property, as well as bodily injury. If you want coverage for your own vehicle, you will need to invest in collision insurance. Additionally, comprehensive coverage would protect against damage from non-moving accidents or situations, such as theft or weather-related incidents. An insurance agent can help you explore your options for coverage. While you can purchase insurance to meet the state’s minimum requirements, you also have the option to invest in additional coverage to protect against other potential accidents and situations.

Our Zeeland team at Ottawa Insurance Agency understands that auto insurance can be confusing when it comes to what’s covered and what’s not. This is why we’re dedicated to answering all of your questions and helping you get the coverage you need. Call us today. We’re here to help.

Why You May Need Professional Liability Insurance

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Does your business rely on your professional knowledge and expertise? If so, you may need professional liability insurance. Mistakes can happen during the course of professional work, leaving you vulnerable to issues like lawsuits. Having professional liability insurance can provide financial protection and offer peace of mind. If your work involves offering professional expertise to clients, contact Ottawa Insurance Agency in Zeeland, MI, to learn more about this essential coverage.

Why Mistakes Matter

Professionals, such as doctors, accountants, and lawyers, depend on their expertise to serve their clients. However, even the most skilled professionals can make mistakes, and these errors can lead to lawsuits. Whether it’s an omission of critical information or an unintended error, the consequences can be significant.

Professional liability insurance ensures you’re protected in case of a mistake. Even if you go years without a serious error, having this coverage is a smart precaution to safeguard your financial stability.

Understanding Errors and Omissions Coverage

Professional liability insurance is often referred to as errors and omissions coverage because it protects against both types of errors and omissions. An omission, such as forgetting to include important details, can lead to problems down the line. In some professions, this insurance is also known as malpractice insurance.

This coverage is ideal for professionals who rely on their training and expertise to perform their jobs. It provides a safety net in case an error or omission impacts a client.

Get Professional Liability Insurance Today

If you’re a professional without this critical coverage, now is the time to secure a policy. Without professional liability insurance, you may be exposed to lawsuits stemming from errors or omissions that affect your clients. To get started, contact Ottawa Insurance Agency in Zeeland, MI, and let us help you find the right policy for your needs.

Do You Need Home Insurance While Renovating a Home?

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Home renovations come with a variety of risks. If someone slips and falls on the job, you could face lawsuits. If something is installed incorrectly, your home could catch fire or experience flooding. Even minor accidents can set your project back and incur additional costs. One question you might find yourself asking is: Do you need home insurance while renovating a home? For example, if you purchased a home and are fixing it up, is home insurance a requirement? Here’s why home insurance can be helpful and how you can find the right policy with our support at Ottawa Insurance Agency, serving Zeeland, MI.

Should You Have Home Insurance While Renovating a Home?

Having home insurance while renovating a home protects you in the event of property damage or accidents. However, not all home insurance policies provide adequate coverage for renovations. A standard home insurance policy may offer limited protection, covering small property renovations or those with minimal impact on your home. For more extensive renovations, you’ll likely need builders’ risk insurance. Builders’ risk insurance provides an additional layer of protection by covering damages caused by fire, vandalism, or theft of materials used in the renovation. This coverage provides you with peace of mind, knowing that your renovations are protected. Additionally, ensure your contractors have their own insurance coverage to avoid legal repercussions later. Even during renovations, home insurance is essential!

Keep Your Home Safe During Renovations and Beyond With Ottawa Insurance Agency

If you need home insurance for upcoming renovations, you can trust Ottawa Insurance Agency, serving Zeeland, MI, to help you find affordable policies quickly. Compare quotes with us today!

Does Auto Insurance Cover Hitting A Deer?

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Auto insurance can help replace your car, pay for a rental, and cover medical bills when you’re in an accident. It can also cover property damage to the other person. However, whether auto insurance covers damages from hitting a deer can depend on several variables.

Type Of Coverage

The type of coverage you have usually determines whether the accident is covered. Liability coverage, which is typically required by most state laws, provides coverage for the other person’s medical bills and property damage. However, it won’t help you pay for damage to your vehicle if you hit a deer.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is usually available through most auto insurance companies, like Ottawa Insurance Agency. This type of coverage is designed for accidents and damage that isn’t caused by hitting another vehicle, and usually provides coverage if you hit a deer in Zeeland, MI. If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, your auto insurance will unlikely cover damages to your vehicle.

Collision Coverage

Most people mistakenly assume they need collision coverage, and that collision coverage will kick in any time there’s a collision. However, that’s untrue. Most collision coverage policies are designed to cover an accident with another vehicle, so they won’t help if you hit a deer.

Most people who live in rural areas will see a deer or two cross the road. However, missing them on foggy mornings and dark nights can be impossible. Deer whistles aren’t always effective. Instead, speak with your insurance agent at Ottawa Insurance Agency to make sure you have the necessary coverage before an accident happens. We’re currently serving the Zeeland, MI area.

The Difference Between Occurrence and Claims-Made Policies

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When you’re in the market for commercial insurance, comprehending your options is crucial for safeguarding your business. At Ottawa Insurance Agency, serving the greater Zeeland, MI area, we often help business owners understand the differences between occurrence and claims-made policies. While this topic may initially seem perplexing, breaking it down makes it easier to determine which one best suits your needs.

Defining an Occurrence Policy

An occurrence policy covers incidents that transpire during the active policy period, even if the claim is filed years later. For instance, if a problem emerges from work you completed while the policy was in force, and a claim is made long after the policy ends, you’re still covered. This type of policy is particularly beneficial for businesses seeking long-term protection without worrying about gaps after the policy expires.

Deciphering Claims-Made Coverage

With a claims-made policy, both the incident and the claim must occur while the policy is active. If your policy ends and a claim is filed later, you’re not covered—unless you’ve added what’s known as tail coverage. This type of policy can be more affordable initially, but it necessitates careful monitoring of coverage dates and renewals to prevent lapses in protection.

Choosing the Appropriate Policy

The choice between these two policy types depends on your business’s nature, your budget, and how far into the future you want your protection to extend.

If you’re unsure which policy structure is best for your business, Ottawa Insurance Agency, proudly offering insurance solutions to business owners in the greater Zeeland, MI area, is ready to assist. Contact our team today for expert guidance and tailored insurance solutions.

Does Home Insurance Cover Chimney Damage?

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A fireplace can be a delightful feature in any home, adding warmth and charm during the colder months. But what happens if your chimney gets damaged? At Ottawa Insurance Agency, proudly offering home insurance to residents in the Zeeland, MI area, we often hear from homeowners wondering if their home insurance policy will cover chimney repairs. The answer depends on what caused the damage and the specifics of your coverage.

When Does Insurance Cover Chimney Damage?

Home insurance is designed to protect against sudden and unexpected damage. If a strong storm causes a tree limb to crash into your chimney or if lightning strikes and cracks the structure, your policy will likely help cover repairs. Similarly, if a fire damages your chimney or surrounding areas of your home, you can typically expect insurance to step in.

What Isn’t Covered?

Chimneys, like any other part of your home, require regular maintenance. Over time, bricks can loosen, mortar can wear away, and creosote buildup can create safety hazards. Insurance generally does not cover gradual deterioration or issues caused by a lack of upkeep. Repairs will likely be your responsibility if damage results from long-term wear and tear rather than a specific event. Scheduling routine inspections and maintenance can help prevent costly problems down the road.

Review Your Coverage for Assurance

Not all home insurance policies offer the same level of protection, so it’s important to understand what yours includes. If you’re unsure whether your chimney is covered, we’re here to help.

At Ottawa Insurance Agency, serving the community of Zeeland, MI, we can review your policy and make sure you have the rproperprotection for your home. Contact us today to get the coverage you need with confidence.

The Difference Between Umbrella Insurance and Personal Liability Insurance

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Understanding the different types of liability coverage can be confusing, but it’s crucial to know how they work to protect you. Many people assume their homeowners or auto insurance policies provide enough coverage, but that’s not always the case. At Ottawa Insurance Agency in Zeeland, MI, we help our clients navigate the differences between personal liability insurance and umbrella insurance so they can make informed decisions about their protection.

What Does Personal Liability Insurance Cover?

Personal liability insurance is a standard part of most homeowners and renters insurance policies. It helps pay for legal expenses, medical bills, and property damage if you’re found responsible for an accident.

For example, if a visitor is injured on your property and decides to sue, your liability coverage can help with attorney fees, medical costs, and settlement expenses. Similarly, personal liability insurance can help cover repairs or replacements if you accidentally damage someone else’s property.

How Is Umbrella Insurance Different?

Umbrella insurance is designed to provide extra coverage beyond the limits of your existing personal liability insurance. If an accident or lawsuit costs exceed what your homeowners or auto insurance covers, an umbrella policy helps bridge the gap.

Imagine you’re involved in a serious accident where medical bills and damages surpass the limits of your auto insurance. Without umbrella coverage, you’d be responsible for paying the remaining balance out of pocket. An umbrella policy steps in to cover those excess costs, potentially saving you from significant financial hardship. It can also protect against lawsuits related to libel, slander, and other personal liability risks that standard policies may not cover.

When purchasing an umbrella insurance policy, contact Ottawa Insurance Agency, serving the greater Zeeland, MI, area.

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