Our office is closing early today. For immediate help, please contact your insurance company directly. Have a safe night!
What is Comprehensive Coverage?
Your Comprehensive, sometimes referred to as "Comp" covers the incidents that do not involve a collision. This could be fire, theft, vandalism and glass.
Read MoreDo I need Personal Injury Coverage?
Yes you do! This is not a standard coverage with most companies so it will need to be added - the cost is minimal. This protects you against false arrest, wrongful eviction/entry, privacy violation, slander, defamation of character and emotional damages. Having this coverage does not mean you can do it and will be covered. There are exclusions for willful, malicious and illegal activities. These types of claims, although uncommon, often come with a large price tag. The coverage may pay for defense costs plus the judgement or settlement to the injured person.
Should I have Gap Insurance?
Vehicles depreciate the minute they leave the car lot. Most vehicles lose about 20% of their value in the first year. When there is a loss to your car, the insurance company pays the current market value or the depreciated value. It is common to see the amount of the loan exceed the market value of the car. Gap insurance covers this deficiency or "gap" between what you owe and what the car is worth. Dealers may offer gap insurance and that can be an affordable way to go. Some car insurance companies will offer it as well. It is important to discuss this with your agent as the insurance company may have conditions such as only writing gap on brand new vehicles and limiting coverage to 25% of the vehicle's market value.
Why does my home insurance premium go up every year?
You may notice that your home insurance increases a little bit at each policy renewal. Most insurance companies build an inflation guard into their policy. This is in place to assist your policy in keeping up with increasing labor and material costs. It is good to review your Dwelling amount with your agent to ensure that your home is insured at its replacement value. If you upgrade or renovate your home, advise your insurance agent.
Also, advise your agent on any safety or special equipment such as central alarm, water detection, humidity detection etc. Many companies offer a discount for protective and preventative measures taken.
Swimming Pools and Your Home Insurance
The maintenance or wear and tear of a swimming pool is not covered by a typical homeowners policy. However the liability coverage of your policy needs to be reviewed. Thousands of people per year visit the emergency room for pool-related injuries. If a guest is hurt on your property, you may be responsible for the medical or legal expense. A base homeowners policy provides $100,000 of liability coverage- we recommend increasing the coverage to at least $300,000 or possibly $500,000. The cost is usually minimal, around $20-40 more per year. If additional liability protection is needed, consider a personal umbrella policy.
We do recommend a self-closing and self-latching gate around the pool. Children should always be supervised and they should be taught safety skills.
Look at a home warranty policy for assistance with covering the breakdown of pool equipment.
How are After Market Parts Covered on my Car Insurance?
Most auto insurance policies do not cover after market parts on a vehicle. These are additions to a vehicle that did not originally come from the factory such as wheels, rims, paint, stereo system etc. It is important to advise your agent of any parts, accessories and equipment that are added onto the vehicle. We also recommend keeping pictures and receipts.
Who is covered to drive your car?
Not everyone is covered to drive your car. Talk to your agent about who needs to be listed on your car insurance policy. Usually, if someone lives with you or regularly drives your car, they need to be listed as a driver on your policy.
Do I Need Water Back Up Coverage on my Home Insurance?
Yes you do! A backed up sewer can cost thousands of dollars to floors, walls, furniture and electrical systems. This coverage is typically excluded on home insurance policies but can be purchased for approximately $25 per year. Sewer back ups can be caused by an older sewer system, combined pipelines and blockages.
Are you an Uber driver?
If you are using your car for Uber, Lyft or other service please check with your insurance agent. These companies cover liability while you are on the app, however they do not cover physical damage for your car. It is important to discuss your coverage options with an agent so your claim is not denied.
Office closed for Nevada Day, October 30, 2015
Our office will be closed on Friday, October 30th in observance of Nevada Day. For immediate help, please contact your insurance company directly. Have a wonderful weekend!
Office Closed July 3rd, 2015 for Independence Day
Our office is closed on Friday, July 3rd 2015. For immediate assistance you may contact your insurance company directly. Have a wonderful and safe weekend!
Are You Using Your Car for Business?
Realtors, delivery drivers, Uber drivers, sales people make sure to discuss how your coverage protects you when using your car for business. Some personal auto policies have exclusions and limitations for when a vehicle is used for business purposes. If you are on the clock and using your car, that could be considered business use.
Trenchant Insurance is moving!
Monday, April 27th is the first day we will be in our new office at Downtown Summerlin. Our new address is: 1980 Festival Plaza Dr. Ste. 400 Las Vegas, NV 89135.
Rental Car Reimbursement Coverage
Don't forget to ask your agent about Rental Car Reimbursement Coverage. This pays a certain amount per day if you have to rent a car while your vehicle is being repaired.
When adding Rental Car Reimbursement talk to you agent about your options. Many companies will pay $20, $30, $40 or even $50 per day towards the rental. There usually isn't much price difference between the higher coverage amounts. Think about what type of car you want to drive around while your car is being repaired.