Tips for Choosing the Right Condo Insurance

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Condo living simplifies life in many ways but can complicate the insurance process. However, none of it is difficult if you follow a few tips outlined below. The insurance process is also made easier by working with an agent you trust, like our Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. team, serving the Richmond, VA area.

Condo Insurance Tips

Condo insurance generally covers the dwelling, personal/medical liability, personal property, and loss of use (if you need to live elsewhere during any repairs), but you still have choices. A key tip is to review your HOA’s master policy coverage, specifically whether it is "walls-in" or "all-in." Your insurance policy must cover whatever portion of your condo and contents the HOA doesn’t handle.

Other condo insurance tips include:

  • Value Your Belongings: Condo owners often underestimate the total value of their possessions. Be sure to inventory your belongings, including appraisals for jewelry and other valuables, so your insurance covers their total value.
  • High Deductibles: You can save money by choosing higher deductibles. However, make sure you have the cash available to cover the deductibles.
  • Exclusions: Richmond has felt the effects of past hurricanes. Review your policy’s severe weather and other exclusions and add coverage needed to protect yourself.
  • Umbrella Coverage: Your condo and auto policy have liability limits. Consider umbrella coverage to increase your protection, particularly if you are retired and past your peak earning years.
  • Landlord. You should obtain a landlord rider if you sometimes rent your condo to others.

Working with Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc.

Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. proudly serves the Richmond, VA area. We look forward to helping you structure an insurance plan, including your condo. Call us or visit the office today to ensure you are adequately protected.

Home Insurance Coverage You May Not Know You Have

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Most people have their home insurance policies for many years, and they often don’t look into all the details of their coverage until a serious loss occurs. Your home insurance policy may cover some risks that you may not be aware of, and understanding this coverage can help save you money when an incident occurs. We at Cary-Wheeler & Associates can explain a few of the risks you may not know that your Richmond, VA insurance will cover.

Home Insurance Coverage You May Not Know You Have

Kitchen Fires

A sudden fire in the kitchen can happen to anyone. You may not be aware that the damage caused by these fires is covered by your home insurance policy. This coverage can help to get your kitchen back in full operation more quickly.

Dog Bites

Generally, a dog biting someone on your property is an uncommon event, but it does happen occasionally. Your homeowners’ insurance will cover a dog bite under the personal liability coverage and medical payments up to a certain limit. A dog bite doesn’t have to occur on your home’s property to qualify for this coverage.

Water Damage From Sudden Broken Pipe

If you have a sudden water line breakage that causes damage to your home, you will be covered for the incident. Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage that originates outside the home. However, if it occurs within your home’s structure, it will generally be covered under your policy.

Choose Us For Your Home Insurance Coverage

Our experienced agents can provide detailed answers to help you understand the finer points of your insurance coverage. Contact Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA today for a no-obligation quote on home insurance that can provide coverage for a variety of unexpected losses.

I run a small online consulting business. Would I benefit from commercial insurance?

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Commercial insurance carries many benefits for business owners, regardless of the type of business. This insurance is designed to be adapted to the unique needs of any given business. Our team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. knows that understanding commercial insurance can be difficult. We’re here to help eliminate the confusion and help Richmond, VA business owners get the coverage they need. 

What is Commercial Insurance?

In short, commercial insurance is simply business insurance. Commercial insurance is designed to provide coverage and protection for many different things. If you have employees, commercial insurance can include worker compensation. If you drive vehicles for your business, commercial insurance can include commercial auto insurance. Commercial insurance is versatile enough to be structured to fit the unique needs of your business, regardless of the type of business you run. 

I run a small online consulting business. Would I benefit from commercial insurance?

Yes. Commercial insurance is designed to meet the unique needs of many different types of businesses, both online and offline. Your online business benefits from insurance protection just like an offline business. However, it’s clear that your needs will differ in some ways from the needs of an offline business. For example, as an online business owner, you need cybersecurity protection. Commercial insurance can provide protection from cyber-attacks.

You may also need commercial insurance to protect the offline areas of your business. If you sell products online, you may need protection for the safe delivery of your products. If someone gets hurt or sick from the use of your products, liability protection is helpful. General and product liability or common forms of commercial insurance for people with online businesses.

Schedule A Consultation Today

If you have questions about commercial insurance, call us at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA. We’d be happy to answer all of your questions. 

I Rent, Someone Got Hurt, Who Gets Sued?

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It’s an annoying thing that renters have to deal with. The landlord wants their rent and Heaven help you if the property isn’t as pristine as it was when you moved in. When something happens to the property that’s not your fault, they’ll try to twist it into a "you" problem that they don’t have to handle.

Renter’s insurance alleviates this situation. So, what happens if someone gets hurt at a property you’ve rented? This could be a delivery person slipping on a sidewalk or stairs. Or a meter reader hit by a shingle or branch. Or your visiting brother-in-law said, "Hold my beer and watch this!"

What To Do

Firstly, get medical attention taken care of immediately. Not only will this get physical damage on the road to recovery, but the scope of the injury will be documented. Follow your doctor’s orders. Collect as much documentation as you can along the way. This includes bills, pay stubs, and receipts. Photos and videos will also be helpful for when you file your claim. Once you’ve handled that, time to lob the ball into your landlord’s court. They should contact their insurance provider promptly. Otherwise, you can bring forth a lawsuit. Most of these claims end in a settlement rather than a trial. 

Is Your Landlord at Fault?

Let’s look at the examples from earlier. Slippage from walks and stairs in bad repair can be the landlord’s fault. If falling objects are due to the landlord’s neglect, they’ll have to pay. The result of your brother-in-law’s antics may be his own fault, though. 

Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. Serving Richmond, VA 

If you are in the Richmond, VA area and need renter’s insurance, we at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. are here to help. We are dedicated to providing you with fair treatment and a good deal. 

Protect Your Bike With a Comprehensive Motorcycle Policy

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Richmond, VA area residents turn to the team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. for all of their insurance needs. If you’re wondering if your current motorcycle policy meets your requirements, or if you’re thinking about getting a bike, rely on us for your all your motorcycle insurance needs. 

Benefits of a Comprehensive Bike Policy

There are many basic motorcycle policies available, but you might be wondering if they provide enough protection. When you’ve been riding for a while and know how often you plan on getting out on the road, you might consider upgrading to a comprehensive policy. There are a number of different benefits that come with comprehensive motorcycle policies.

The most important one is an increased coverage level of liability insurance. This increase helps to protect you from financial distress due to damages that are awarded to a passenger or other injured party following an accident. You’ll also enjoy having protection in the event of the theft or vandalism of your bike. 

Comprehensive policies are always a good idea for anyone who has financed their bike with a loan. This will help to reduce the risk of having to pay off a loan for a bike that’s been totaled. Now’s an ideal time to sit down with your local insurance agent to thoroughly review your needs. This will allow you to make an informed decision when it comes to selecting your bike policy.

Choosing a comprehensive bike policy is an effective way to protect your motorcycle and your future.

Call or stop by our office today!

Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. is here to serve the insurance needs of residents in Richmond, VA and the surrounding area. Contact us with all of your insurance questions and issues, we’re here to help!

Reasons to Take a Defensive Driving Course

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There are many benefits to participating in a defensive driving course. Regardless of whether you are required to take one or decide to take one on your own, you can learn a lot through these courses. Read on to learn why we at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., an auto insurance provider in the greater Richmond, VA area, recommend everyone participate in one of these courses.

Why Take A Defensive Driving Course

Improved Driving Skills

Defensive driving courses provide valuable knowledge and skills to help individuals become safer and more responsible drivers. Participants learn defensive driving techniques, hazard awareness, and how to anticipate and respond to potential dangers on the road. These skills can enhance overall driving abilities and reduce the risk of accidents.

Potential Insurance Discounts

Many insurance providers offer discounts to drivers who have completed a defensive driving course. By completing the course, you can demonstrate that you’re committed to safe driving practices, potentially leading to lower insurance premiums.

Ticket Dismissal or Point Reduction

In some jurisdictions, taking a defensive driving course may enable drivers to have traffic tickets dismissed or reduce points on their driving records. This can help prevent license suspension, maintain a clean driving record, and avoid increased insurance rates.

Court-Mandated Requirement

In certain situations, individuals may be required by a court to complete a defensive driving course as part of a traffic violation or to fulfill legal obligations. Taking the course can fulfill these requirements and demonstrate a proactive effort to improve driving habits.

Keep Your Insurance Updated

Defensive driving courses can help minimize your chances of being involved in an accident. However, you cannot prevent all accidents, which is why it’s important to have great insurance. If you need auto insurance in the greater Richmond, VA area, reach out to the team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc.

Reasons to Take a Defensive Driving Course

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There are many benefits to participating in a defensive driving course. Regardless of whether you are required to take one or decide to take one on your own, you can learn a lot through these courses. Read on to learn why we at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., an auto insurance provider in the greater Richmond, VA area, recommend everyone participate in one of these courses.

Why Take A Defensive Driving Course

Improved Driving Skills

Defensive driving courses provide valuable knowledge and skills to help individuals become safer and more responsible drivers. Participants learn defensive driving techniques, hazard awareness, and how to anticipate and respond to potential dangers on the road. These skills can enhance overall driving abilities and reduce the risk of accidents.

Potential Insurance Discounts

Many insurance providers offer discounts to drivers who have completed a defensive driving course. By completing the course, you can demonstrate that you’re committed to safe driving practices, potentially leading to lower insurance premiums.

Ticket Dismissal or Point Reduction

In some jurisdictions, taking a defensive driving course may enable drivers to have traffic tickets dismissed or reduce points on their driving records. This can help prevent license suspension, maintain a clean driving record, and avoid increased insurance rates.

Court-Mandated Requirement

In certain situations, individuals may be required by a court to complete a defensive driving course as part of a traffic violation or to fulfill legal obligations. Taking the course can fulfill these requirements and demonstrate a proactive effort to improve driving habits.

Keep Your Insurance Updated

Defensive driving courses can help minimize your chances of being involved in an accident. However, you cannot prevent all accidents, which is why it’s important to have great insurance. If you need auto insurance in the greater Richmond, VA area, reach out to the team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc.

Don’t Believe These Myths About Umbrella Insurance

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There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding umbrella insurance in Richmond, VA. The team at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. dispels some of these misconceptions.

Umbrella Insurance Myths

Myth #1: "I don’t need umbrella insurance because I don’t have any assets."

One of the most common umbrella insurance myths is that it’s only necessary for people who have significant assets. However, this is not true. Even if you don’t have many assets, a lawsuit can still financially ruin you.

Myth #2: "I don’t need umbrella insurance because I’m a careful person who’s unlikely to be sued."

Even if you’re a careful person who takes precautions to avoid accidents and lawsuits, you can still be sued for unexpected events that are beyond your control. For example, if someone slips and falls on your property, you could be held liable even if you did everything you could to prevent the accident.

Myth #3: "Umbrella insurance only covers me if I’m sued for something related to my home or car."

While umbrella insurance does provide additional coverage for your home and auto liability, it also offers protection against slander, libel, and defamation.

Myth #4: "I don’t need umbrella insurance because I have a high liability limit on my home and auto insurance policies."

While having high liability limits on your home and auto insurance can provide some protection, it may not be enough in certain situations. If you’re sued for an amount that exceeds your liability limits, you may have to pay the remaining costs out of your own pocket.

Reach Out To Us

Umbrella insurance is an important type of insurance policy that can provide valuable protection in Richmond, VA against unforeseen liabilities and lawsuits. If you have questions, Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. is here to help.

Condo Insurance 101: What You Need to Know About Coverage

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Navigating the world of condominium ownership can be exciting, but it also comes with unique insurance considerations. To help you make informed decisions, at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc. in Richmond, VA, we have created this Condo Insurance 101 guide. With essential information on coverage types and expert advice from our insurance professionals, you’ll be better prepared to protect your investment. 

Condo Insurance Explained

Owning a condominium comes with unique insurance needs. Condo insurance, also known as HO-6 insurance, provides coverage for your personal property, liability, and the interior structure of your unit. It complements what’s provided by your condo association’s master policy, which typically covers the building’s exterior and common areas.

Personal Property Protection

Condo insurance safeguards your belongings against theft, fire, and water damage. Having adequate coverage for your possessions is vital, as replacing them can be expensive. Create an inventory of your belongings and their value to determine the appropriate amount of personal property coverage.

Interior Structural Coverage

This aspect of condo insurance covers damage to your unit’s interior walls, floors, and ceilings. It’s crucial to understand the extent of your condo association’s master policy, as it will help you decide how much interior structural coverage you need. For example, some master policies cover the original built-in fixtures and finishes, while others may only cover the bare walls.

Liability Coverage

Liability protection is another component. It covers you if someone is injured within your unit or if you accidentally cause damage to another resident’s property. Liability coverage also provides financial protection for legal expenses if you are sued for an injury or damage.

Loss Assessment Coverage

Sometimes, your condo association may levy a special assessment on unit owners to handle expenses not covered by the master policy. Loss assessment coverage helps pay your share of those costs, protecting you from unexpected financial burdens.

Take the Next Step and Contact Our Agents

Condo insurance is important in preserving your property, possessions, and financial well-being. Contact Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., serving the Richmond, VA metroplex, to discuss your condo insurance options and secure the protection you need today.

3 Reasons You Need To Buy A Home Insurance Policy

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Owning a home is an excellent reason to learn how to preserve it. After all, isn’t your home your castle? The first step in keeping it safe and secure is to analyze the reasons for purchasing a home insurance coverage. Here at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., we have helped many homeowners just like you in Richmond, VA with all of their house insurance needs.

Here’s a quick rundown of three compelling reasons to purchase home insurance:

You Never Know What Could Happen

Even if you merely get the most basic home insurance policy, your property will be protected against a variety of potential threats. Most basic home insurance policies cover vandalism, tornadoes, hail or wind damage, fire, and other perils. Regardless of how hard you try to keep your home safe from disaster, Mother Nature may be cruel at times. However, having home insurance in place can provide you with peace of mind.

Protects Your Liability

What happens if someone enters your property and is injured? Who will pay for your medical expenses and any property damage? Even if someone has trespassed, you could be held liable if they are wounded on your property. Your liability is safeguarded by home insurance.

Some Lenders Require

If you have a mortgage on your house, the lender you used to secure the loan will almost certainly require you to get home insurance until the loan is paid off.

Reach Out To Us

Want to learn more about important reasons to protect your home in Richmond, VA or do you need help finding a home insurance policy for you? Here at Cary-Wheeler & Associates Inc., we have ample experience helping insure and protect homeowners in Richmond, VA and are happy to help you find a policy that meets your needs today! Give us a call so we can create your quote.