Review Your Boat Insurance Now Before the Busy Summer Season

Boat owners in the greater Temecula, CA area are looking forward to boat season, and it will be here before we know it! If you are a boat owner who hasn’t reviewed their boat insurance policy lately, it’s time to get in touch with the helpful team at Friant Insurance Agency. Many boaters simply renew their policies year after year without taking a close look to ensure that they still meet their needs. Don’t find out that you don’t have the coverage you need after it’s too late, call us today!

What to Look for During Your Boat Policy Review

Your insurance needs can change from year to year, and it’s important that your boat insurance policy keeps pace with these changes. Many boaters like to add more robust liability coverage to their basic policies, while others discover that they don’t have the injury protection that they want. If you tow your boat each weekend, you will want specific insurance to cover your vessel and trailer when you go from land to water. Another option is enhanced protection for any theft or damage that occurs when your boat is in port. Boaters that store their vessels can benefit by increasing their coverage options to include dry dock damage or theft. Loss can occur both in and out of the water, at sea or in port, and a full review of your current boat policy will help you determine that you have the coverage you want and need!

Let’s make sure that you have everything in place before the busy boat season gets started in Temecula, CA. Contact the team at Friant Insurance Agency today and find out more about the many comprehensive boat insurance options that are available in California. 

Condo Insurance Basics

What is Condo Insurance?

Condo insurance is similar to homeowners insurance. It helps cover the cost of fixing or replacing items such as:

  • Personal property including clothing, furniture, and electronics
  • Interior walls
  • Liability in the event you are responsible for injury to someone elsewhere
  • Additional living expenses if your condo is uninhabitable due to an event that is covered by your policy

While the exact coverage you have depends on your specific policies, some common perils condo insurance typically covers are:

  • Vandalism and theft
  • Fire or lightning
  • Smoke
  • Falling objects
  • Wind or hail

There are many perils that you can have your policy cover according to what is available and your particular needs. If you are in the Temecula, CA area, give Friant Insurance Agency a call to discuss the various coverage options available.

Is Condo Insurance Required?

Condo insurance is not required by law. However, your mortgage company or homeowners association may require you to carry it. This will be expressly stated in your contracts.

What If My HOA Already Has Insurance?

HOA’s usually carry insurance, but it most likely only covers the common areas of the property. They typically do not cover the individual units, meaning you will be responsible for insuring your own property. Ask your HOA for clarification on what is already covered before you purchase your own insurance so you do not obtain too little or more than you need.

If you have any questions, need help to understand the coverage you need, or need help to insure your condo, give Friant Insurance Agency a call or stop by today. We look forward to helping Temecula, CA residents protect their homes and their investment.

 

3 Questions You Should Ask About Home Insurance

When it comes time to shop for home insurance in Temecula, CA, there are a few basic questions that need to be asked. Friant Insurance Agency is here to help. The qualified insurance agents that are on hand will be able to answer all of your queries in a timely and efficient manner. 

Here are three of the questions that must be asked before a home insurance policy is obtained:

1. What Are The Costs of a Total Rebuild?

This is a question that should be asked as early as possible. A quality home insurance policy will provide the necessary coverage and offer a homeowner the funding for a full scale rebuild. The best insurance agents are going to have the proper knowledge of the home, neighborhood and the cost of building materials. In general, these policies are typically designed to cover against any number of disasters.

2. How Much Liability Protection Is Necessary?

Any property damage or bodily injury that takes place on the property is the sole responsibility of the homeowner. A home insurance policy covers against these damages, as well as the damages that are caused by their pets. The home insurance policy must also cover the costs of court proceedings and hiring the proper legal representatives. 

3. Are Separate Policies Needed?

A home insurance policy does not always provide coverage for every issue that crops up in Temecula, CA. For example, the homeowner may need to purchase a separate policy to protect themselves from damages caused by earthquakes and floods. These are the types of perils that are often excluded from the typical home insurance policy. That’s why this topic must be covered during the initial consultation. 

If you have any additional questions about your current or future home insurance policy, be sure to visit the Friant Insurance Agency website as soon as possible. 

At what point does Boat insurance become a requirement?

For the people of Temecula, CA, the water is a popular place for gathering and engaging in fun activities. People buy or lease boats to enjoy the water. Friant Insurance Agency can help you determine what is best for your boat.

In most states including California, boat insurance is not a requirement by the law as it can be adequately covered by homeowner’s insurance.

If you are buying the watercraft through the bank

There are a few exceptions where boaters may be required to have some form of protection. For instance, if your bank is financing the purchase of your watercraft, you may require insurance. The bank will require proof of insurance for the boat and the policy will primarily need to cover the full cost of the watercraft.

Marinas and ports

Ports and marinas may request you to have your boat insurance before using their facilities. For example if need to moor your boat, you may need to carry a policy with  certain amount of value. 

If you do not have home insurance

Depending on the size, value, and make of the watercraft, most small boats can be covered under home insurance policy.  You can buy insurance for non motorized small boats like kayaks and canoes but if it is under home insurance, the policy can cover the boat if it is damaged around the home property. If it is in the water, it is not covered.

The use of the boat

If you are using the boat for commercial purposes like carrying goods or people, you may be required to have boat insurance to protect your passengers. It is also essential to point that commercial watercraft will also require commercial insurance.

Looking to buy boat insurance? Friant Insurance Agency can help you with that.  Visit us at Temecula, CA today.

What Coverage Do I Need With My Motor Home Insurance

Motor home insurance comes with many of the same requirements as automobile insurance. The coverage that is required for a Laguna Hills, CA resident is going to be determined by the class of motor home that they currently own. Class A coverage is going to differ from Class B coverage and Class C coverage differs from each of these. 

Class A models include the luxury motor homes that you will often see on the roadways, including converted buses and luxury coaches. Class B models include the smaller recreational vehicles. Meanwhile, Class C vehicles include fifth wheel vehicles and standard cargo vans.

So how much coverage does a motor home owner in Laguna Hills, CA need when they meet with Friant Insurance Agency? Their responsibilities are much the same as any automobile owner. Liability coverage, comprehensive coverage and collision are all needed. Additional protection should also be obtained by any motor home owner who is looking to safeguard the possessions that they currently have on board.

Depending on the amount of coverage that the motor home owner needs, they may have to consider a wide range of options. Total loss replacement coverage, underinsured motorists coverage, uninsured motorist coverage, emergency expenses and towing and roadside coverage are just a few of the policies that have to be considered at times like these.

If a motor home collides with another motorist and they are not insured, motor home insurance will cover the damages. A liability policy offers coverage to those who are at fault for an accident. When the motor home is disabled and needs to be towed, coverage ensures that these costs are covered.

In order to learn more about the ins and outs of motor home insurance coverage, a client must take the time to visit the Friant Insurance Agency website. The answers to all of your most important questions are just one click away. 

RV Safety Tips

Driving an RV in Laguna Hills, CA is becoming a popular way to travel. However, there are some safety tips you need to follow.

Learn How to Drive the RV You Plan to Use

If you are driving an RV out on the road for the first time in Laguna Hills, CA, learn how to drive it ahead of time. Driving an RV has more in common with driving a commercial big rig truck. Make sure you get some practice backing your RV up to fit in spaces.

Know the Weather

You can’t do much to change the weather but you can adapt to it. By knowing the weather forecast, you can be sure to avoid problems.

Pay Attention to the Electrical Load

You will want to plug in all your electrical devices while on the road but unlike homes, RVs aren’t wired to have them plugged in all at once. Most RVs are only wired for only 30 to 50 amps. For example, a toaster uses 14 amps.

Have Proper Weight Distribution

Weight distribution is important for these larger vehicles. You will need to decide how much water and fuel you should carry in order to stay under the weight limits for your RV. Fully loaded rigs will take longer for you to stop and have slower acceleration.

Have the Right RV Insurance

Your RV insurance should cover every aspect of your trip. An agent at Friant Insurance Agency can make sure you are covered so you aren’t just leaving your possessions in a trailer on the side of the road.

Maintain the Vehicle

A well-maintained vehicle is safe. Keep up with preventative maintenance and have regular inspections of the systems. Do an inspection of belts, headlights, hoses, towing equipment, and tires before you get behind the wheel. Tire blowouts contribute to the most RV accidents so double-check your tires.

Contact Friant Insurance Agency to get a quote on RV insurance.

What Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?

Motorcycle insurance is a necessity for all motorcycle owners who want to operate their motorcycle legally. State insurance requirements may vary from state to state. However, it is legally necessary to carry motorcycle insurance just as auto insurance is a requirement. Laguna Hills, CA motorcycle should explore the states minimum requirements before deciding how much insurance to purchase. Speaking with a Friant Insurance Agency representative can be beneficial in determining how much insurance to purchase.

What are the Minimal Coverage Requirements for Motorcycle Insurance?

Most states will require motorcycle owners to carry liability insurance. This insurance will pay for injuries to other people and other peoples property. The coverage amounts are usually the same as the minimum coverage amounts for car insurance. However, some states may have additional requirements as well. Specific requirements will vary from state to state. However, you may want to purchase more than just the minimum required liability insurance in the event that something unforeseen happens, for example, being sued.  The bare minimum amounts of liability insurance may not cover legal fees and claims. Your assets may be at risk if this happens. 

What is Covered Under a Full Coverage Insurance Policy?

Full coverage motorcycle insurance is similar to auto insurance in that it includes both collision and comprehensive. Full coverage insurance covers both moving and non-moving accidents. It also covers bodily injury and property damage liability, in the event that you are determined to be at-fault for an accident.  This insurance will help you repair or replace a damaged or stolen bike. However, the insurance requirements may vary from state to state and some states may require additional motorcycle coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Full coverage insurance also covers misfortunes like vandalism, theft, and falling objects.

Know the minimum insurance requirements of your state and asses the needs that your motorcycle may present. If you own a new motorcycle, it may be in your best interest to purchase full coverage insurance to cover any damage to your motorcycle, in the event of an accident. Full coverage insurance would also cover non-moving accidents as well. 

What Laguna Hills CA Residents Need To Know About Protecting Their Assets

When the standard insurance policy is exceeded in terms of liability coverage, and you are still responsible for fees and costs associated with a lawsuit, your assets could be next to be taken should you not have the money to cover the costs immediately. Below are the types of assets that can be taken when you are sued and how umbrella insurance can protect them. 

Know What An Asset Is And What Assets Can Be Taken

  • Home
  • Cars
  • 401k Savings
  • Bonds
  • Boats/RVs/ATVs

An asset is essentially anything that is of value and can be used to be sold and pay what is owed on your behalf. 

Umbrella Insurance Can Protect All Assets

When a homeowner seeks out adding umbrella insurance to their policy, they must determine the total value of their assets and make that number the minimum value of their policy. When your standard home insurance policy is exhausted, instead of you having to pay the difference out-of-pocket, you can make a claim against your umbrella insurance policy, which will cover the difference. Umbrella insurance can also include the amount you expect in future income. This policy is not a required policy, but it is highly recommended for homeowners to consider. 

Secure Your Assets Today

Our Laguna Hills, CA clients desire to protect their assets so that they can continue the lifestyle they enjoy, as well as provide a significant inheritance to their children and family members. If you live in the area and would like to protect your livelihood with a secure layer of protection, contact our agents at Friant Insurance Agency today to discuss an umbrella insurance policy that will cover the total value of your assets should you find yourself in an undesirable lawsuit or situation in the future. 

 

3 Reasons to Purchase Flood Insurance

While many people may believe their property and belongings are covered against flooding and other water damage, that is often not the case. For residents of Laguna Hills, CA, the following is a closer look at 3 reasons to purchase flood insurance today.

Legitimate Flood Protection

Although you may already have some level of flood coverage for your home or business, odds are, it is limited at best. However, by purchasing flood insurance, you can rest assured that your home and belongings are covered, no matter why or how the flood occurred.

No Need for Repayment

Although resources such as disaster-related assistance loans exist, if you have sufficient flood coverage, you won’t need to use them. Rather, by purchases a high-quality policy, you will have already paid for your coverage via your premiums, and you won’t have to spend months or years repaying an expensive loan.

Inexpensive Coverage Costs

Lastly, flood coverage is one of the most reasonably-priced types of coverage available. Especially given that flooding can all but destroy your home or business as you know it, finding low-cost ways to ensure your building and belongings are safe, is vital. Flood coverage is known for being very cost-effective. In fact, according to FEMA, premiums average $565 a year, nationally. A small price to pay to make sure your things are safe, purchasing flood insurance is one of the best ways to gain peace of mind.

Overall, for residents of Laguna Hills, CA, purchasing flood coverage is an excellent idea. If you are seeking premium flood coverage, Friant Insurance Agency is a great option. Just call, email, or stop by Friant Insurance Agency today to find out how you can start your low-cost policy as soon as possible. 

 

New Condo Owner? Why You Need Condo Insurance

Once you’ve finalized the purchase of your new condo in Laguna Hills, CA, the next step is getting condo insurance to protect your newly acquired investment. Your condo’s master insurance policy will protect your building and common areas. You are responsible for safeguarding your individual unit and its contents. An individual condo insurance policy from Friant Insurance Agency will ensure you have the protection you need. Here’s how condo insurance protects your interests:

Dwelling Coverage

Dwelling coverage will protect the interior of your unit to include cabinets, flooring, light fixtures, built-in appliances, and shelves, etc., against such perils as fire, vandalism, and inclement weather. If your cabinets are destroyed by a kitchen fire, your dwelling insurance will pay to have them repaired or replaced, as per the coverage on your policy. Your Friant Insurance agent can help you determine how much dwelling coverage you should get, taking into consideration the value of your condo.

Personal Property Protection

Personal property protection covers your personal goods such as clothes, jewelry, electronics, furniture, artwork, and other belongings. If you own costly goods, you’ll want sufficient coverage to replace your valuables in the event they’re stolen or totally destroyed. High-ticket items like original artwork may need more coverage than what a standard condo policy has to offer. If so, you can get an endorsement to fully protect these goods. 

Personal Liability Protection

Personal liability protects your assets if a visitor gets injured while on your property and sues you for damages. This coverage helps pay for your visitors’ hospital bills so you don’t have to. It also covers legal expenses if you’re sued for damages. If you entertain often, personal liability coverage is a must.

To learn more about condo insurance and all it has to offer, contact Friant Insurance Agency in Laguna Hills, CA.