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If you do not currently bundle all of your business insurance policies with one carrier, you may want to revisit your coverages. Insurance carriers realize the many benefits of offering additional lines of coverage to an existing customer, but what’s in it for the customer?
Bundling commercial insurance policies is highly beneficial to customers. Similar to how bundling your personal home and auto policies may give you a discount, bundling your business policies can provide discounts and benefits way beyond just cost savings.
Simplified bookkeeping
Most businesses require a number of insurance policies to make sure their operations are properly insured, including:
- General Liability: In Ohio, General Liability Insurance, often referred to as Business Liability Insurance, forms the foundation of protection for most businesses and their insurance portfolio. This policy protects businesses from most liability exposures, with the exception of auto and professional services.
- Commercial Property: This policy protects commercial property from such perils as fire, theft and natural disaster. This type of insurance is carried by a variety of businesses, including manufacturers, retailers, service-oriented businesses and not-for-profit organizations.
- Professional Liability and E&O: In Ohio, Professional Liability Insurance, also known as Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance, is liability insurance designed to protect those individuals and businesses providing professional advice. In the insurance world, General Liability Insurance exists to pay for the bodily harm or property damage a business is responsible for causing while Professional Liability is protection in the event the business causes harm because of the advice or guidance provided. Depending on your type of business, you could need one, or both of these coverages.
- Commercial Auto: A Commercial Auto Policy can be used to insure vehicles for liability to protect the business owner in the event of an at-fault accident, physical damage to the vehicles owned by the business, or both. With the exception of auto dealerships, auto repair operations, trucking firms or other auto-related businesses, the Commercial Auto Policy addresses the needs of most businesses.
- Business Interruption: Also known as Business Income Insurance, this policy is designed to cover the loss of income a business suffers after a disaster. It’s important to note that whatever disaster causes the business to lose income must be a covered claim before Business Income Insurance will respond.
- Cyber Liability: These policies cover a business' liability for a data breach in which the firm's customers' personal information, such as Social Security or credit card numbers, is exposed or stolen by a hacker or other criminal who has gained access to the firm's electronic network.
- Directors and Officers: In Ohio, Directors & Officers Liability Insurance (sometimes referred to as D&O Insurance) is designed to protect the directors and officers of an organization. In addition, D&O insurance can also help protect the organization in the event of a lawsuit.
Keeping up with so many policies isn’t an easy task for business owners. Therefore, bundling multiple policies with the same carrier simplifies things for bookkeeping purposes. Besides having fewer bills to keep track of every month, it also makes it easier come renewal time if the bundled policies renew at the same time each year.
Your HR department will also appreciate having one number to call when you’re hiring a new employee, have claims questions, are adding a location or making any other business decisions that impact your insurance.
One point of contact
Properly insuring your business requires explaining to your insurance agent exactly what your business does and the exposures that come with it. But without bundling your policies, you have more agents to educate, which takes time. The fewer agents you have to work with, the better equipped they’ll be to help identify and address your exposures.
In addition, if you want to file a claim, make a change to a policy, ask questions about your policy, etc. you have one person that you can contact who is familiar with your policies and business.
Assurance that your policies work together
There may be circumstances when two of your business insurance policies have to work together. For example, you may assume that something not covered by your commercial auto policy would be covered by your commercial umbrella policy. However, many umbrella policies will only extend above an auto policy if the insurance company offering it has a specified financial strength rating. If your carrier’s rating falls below a certain grade, your umbrella policy may not cover an auto loss. That’s just one type of problem that could arise if you keep your policies under separate roofs, with separate agents.
Less security risk
When obtaining insurance, business owners are required to divulge sensitive personal information about their employees, as well as financial information about the business itself. When dividing your policies among multiple agents, you’re basically providing all that information to more people than you would have to if you’d bundled your policies with one agent. And in doing so, you’re increasing the risk of highly sensitive information ending up in the wrong hands.
Better pricing
Bundling your business’s insurance policies allows your insurance professional to give you access to multiline discounts that help boost your bottom line. Contact Hill & Hamilton Insurance to see if any of your insurers offer multiline discounts. We can give you estimates for bundling your policies with each of our carriers, as well.
Conclusion
It’s important to choose the right insurance company to help you make these complex decisions about protecting your business.
You’ve probably realized by now. We're pretty big believers in doing what’s best for our clients. After all, H&H has been obsessively protecting and caring for its clients since 1920. We believe that people are more important than policies, and that’s how we think our clients should be treated. We care deeply about our clients, and about protecting everything that’s important to them.
If this sounds like your cup of tea, we’d love to connect with you.
Embarking on the exciting journey of living independently is a hallmark of Gen Z's coming-of-age experience. As you settle into your new rental space, it's crucial to think about safeguarding your belongings and securing peace of mind. In this blog post, we'll delve into why renters insurance is a must for all renters and introduce you to Pearson & Company Insurance, your trusted partner in Meridian, MS, for comprehensive coverage. Don't leave your newfound freedom vulnerable—protect it with Pearson & Company Insurance. The Gen Z Approach to Renters Insurance: Gen Z is known for its practicality and resourcefulness, and when it comes to protecting your assets, renters insurance is the way to go. It's not just about covering the cost of your belongings; it's an investment in your lifestyle and the memories you're creating in your rented space. Affordable Coverage Tailored to You: Pearson & Company Insurance understands the financial challenges young adults face. That's why they offer affordable renters insurance policies that can be customized to suit your needs. At the cost of a few streaming subscriptions, you can ensure that your belongings are protected from unforeseen events. Local Trust, Global Reach: Based in Meridian, MS, Pearson & Company Insurance brings a local touch to insurance services. This personal connection ensures that you're not just a policyholder; you're a valued member of the community. With a global reach and extensive industry expertise, Pearson & Company Insurance provides the perfect blend of hometown warmth and professional excellence. Easy, Digital Solutions for a Digital Generation: Lifestyles today are all about efficiency and technology. Pearson & Company Insurance stays ahead of the curve by offering user-friendly digital platforms and mobile apps. Managing your policy, filing claims, and obtaining quotes are just a few taps away. It's insurance that keeps up with your fast-paced lifestyle. Tailored Policies for Every Lifestyle: Pearson & Company Insurance understands that every individual is unique. Whether you're a minimalist with a capsule wardrobe or a tech enthusiast with the latest gadgets, their policies can be tailored to fit your specific lifestyle. Choose the coverage that aligns with your needs and priorities. Call for a Quote Today: Ready to take the next step in securing your space? Call Pearson & Company Insurance at 601-482-6699 for a personalized renters insurance quote. Their friendly team is ready to guide you through the process, ensuring you get the coverage you need without breaking the bank. Conclusion: As you embrace the freedom and excitement of living independently, don't overlook the importance of renters insurance. Pearson & Company Insurance in Meridian, MS, is your dedicated partner in securing your space and protecting your belongings. Give them a call today at 601-482-6699 to explore affordable and customized renters insurance options. When it comes to safeguarding your future, Pearson & Company Insurance has you covered.
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Thanks to an unusual convergence of market trends, ushered in by the pandemic and followed by other disruptive events, you may see a bigger change to the cost of your home and auto insurance than usual when it comes time to renew your policies this year. Insurance rates are based on what an insurer thinks it will cost to make you whole in the event of a loss – whether it’s roof damage during a windstorm or a vehicle totaled during a traffic accident. As you’ve likely noticed, pretty much everything costs more than it did even a few years ago. What’s driving higher home insurance costs If you’ve shopped at Home Depot or Lowe’s lately, you’ve certainly seen that the price tags on building materials have gotten pretty expensive. Last year, the cost of building materials rose 4.7%, reflecting a particularly strong uptick in prices on things like asphalt shingles (16.2%), concrete blocks (18.5%) and drywall (20.4%). To make matters worse, the home-building industry is facing a shortfall of more than 300,000 skilled laborers, which is driving up construction-related labor costs. Combined with the high cost of construction materials and historically low housing inventory, this has been making home claims much more expensive for insurance companies. What’s driving higher auto insurance costs Ongoing supply chain issues are driving a shortage of car parts and equipment, which were 22.3% more expensive at the end of 2022 than they were two years earlier. The overall cost of maintaining and repairing vehicles increased 18.4 % over the same timeframe – exacerbated by a growing shortage of car repair technicians. The same issues depleted the supply of new and used cars during the COVID-19 pandemic, and inventories have not yet recovered. As a result, the average price of new cars has risen 20% since 2020, while used car prices have skyrocketed 37%. Rising medical costs are another key factor. While the number of injuries and fatalities from car accidents has somewhat declined from its peak in 2021, the rising cost of medical care continues to drive higher claims costs. Between 2020 and 2022, the overall cost of medical care in the U.S. increased 6.8%. Focus on value as you explore ways to save Keep in mind that savings come in many forms. The value of the coverage you choose today may save you more in the long run than the lowest possible premium. Contact us to review your current coverage We’ll help you explore opportunities for discounts that could offset higher rates when it comes time to renew. Give us a call at 601-482-6699. Sources: National Association of Realtors, Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, Home Builders Institute, CoreLogic, Consumer Price Index, TechForce Foundation
The bThe Basics of Insurance Insurance is a contract between an insurance company and a policyholder. The insurance company agrees to pay for any losses that the policyholder incurs, up to the limits of the policy. The policyholder agrees to pay a monthly premium to the insurance company. There are many different types of insurance, but the most common types are home insurance, car insurance, and life insurance. Home insurance protects you financially if your home is damaged or destroyed by fire, theft, or other covered events. Car insurance protects you financially if you are in an accident and cause damage to another person's property or injure another person. Life insurance provides a financial benefit to your loved ones if you die. If you are considering getting insurance, it is important to shop around and compare different policies from different companies. You should also make sure that you understand the terms of the policy and what is covered. Here are some of the benefits of having insurance: • Financial protection: Insurance can help you financially if you are injured or if your property is damaged. • Peace of mind: Insurance can give you peace of mind knowing that you are covered in the event of an unexpected event. • Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like having a clean driving record or for bundling your insurance policies. Here are some of the drawbacks of having insurance: • Premiums: Insurance premiums can be expensive, especially if you are young and have a clean driving record. • Deductibles: You will usually have to pay a deductible before your insurance company will start to pay for your losses. • Exclusions: Some insurance policies have exclusions, which are things that are not covered by the policy. Overall, insurance can be a valuable asset for protecting yourself financially. If you are considering getting insurance, it is important to shop around and compare different policies from different companies. You should also make sure that you understand the terms of the policy and what is covered.
Auto insurance deductibles refer to an amount of money that a policyholder is required to pay out of pocket before their insurance provider covers the rest of the expenses in a claim. In general, the higher the deductible amount, the lower the insurance premiums. However, there are several factors to consider when choosing a deductible for your auto insurance policy. Here are some of the different aspects of auto insurance deductibles and how they affect your coverage and premiums: Impact on premiums: As mentioned earlier, the higher the deductible, the lower the insurance premiums. This is because a higher deductible reduces the insurer's risk exposure and therefore lowers the cost of the policy. However, it's essential to choose a deductible amount that you can comfortably afford to pay out of pocket in case of an accident. Factors to consider when choosing a deductible: There are several factors to consider when selecting a deductible for your auto insurance policy, including your driving habits, the age and condition of your vehicle, and your financial situation. For instance, if you drive frequently or in high-risk areas, you may want to consider a lower deductible to avoid the risk of paying a large sum out of pocket in case of an accident. Impact on coverage limits: It's essential to note that deductibles can affect your coverage limits – the maximum amount your insurance provider will pay out in a claim. For instance, if you have a $500 deductible and a maximum coverage limit of $5,000, you'll only receive up to $4,500 in coverage after paying out your deductible. Deductibles for comprehensive and collision coverage: Deductibles for comprehensive and collision coverage typically range from $100 to $1,000. Comprehensive coverage involves damages to your vehicle due to non-collision incidents such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters, while collision coverage covers damages caused by collisions with other vehicles or objects. In conclusion, auto insurance deductibles play a crucial role in determining both your insurance premiums and coverage limits. It's essential to choose a deductible amount that strikes a balance between affordability and maximum coverage.
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If you have rental coverage on your auto insurance policy, you are eligible for a rental car while your car is in the shop being repaired from a covered claim. Rental coverage does not extend if your car is in the shop for repairs not related to a covered claim. Your policy offers rental coverage at a set amount (see your specific policy) for the length of time your car is in the shop with a 30-day maximum. In 2020, the average length of time a customer needed a rental car was 11 days. Today, due to supply chain issues for parts and labor shortages, many body shops are backed up and we're seeing customers max out their 30 days of coverage for their rental car. Our advice, if your car is drivable then do not get your rental car until your body shop has your replacement parts on hand. Once they have your parts on hand, you can drop off your car and pick up a rental car. We don't want our customers having to pay out of pocket for rental expenses so please keep this 30-day limit in mind before you pick up your rental car. Another thing to consider is that the cost of a rental car has increased. If your policy only covers $25 a day, that will not pay the full amount of a rental car any longer. We recommend our customers carry at least $50/day for rental coverage. If you need your rental car to be a pickup truck or a larger SUV, you should carry $100/day. Unsure of your coverage? Email Hallie@Pearson-Insurance.com or Mandy@Pearson-Insurance.com to check your limits.
That wonderful Season of Christmas is upon us once again! Doesn't it seem like we just put away the dishes from Thanksgiving? Maybe you're already busy with the preparations...pulling out old family recipes, getting the decorations from the attic, or making that all-important list and checking it twice, so I won't keep you. I just wanted to be among the first to wish you and your family the happiest of Holiday Greetings! I've included two of my family's favorite recipes for your enjoyment. One is irresistibly delicious; the other brings the delightful scents of the season into your home. I hope they'll become your favorites, too! Sincerely, Hallie Swindoll Agent, Pearson & Company Insurance Simple Christmas Potpourri ½ lemon, halved ½ orange, halved 3 cinnamon sticks 3 bay leaves ¼ cup whole cloves 1 qt water Combine all ingredients in saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer as long as desired. Be sure to check often, adding water as needed. Mixture may be stored in refrigerator several days and reused. Your home will smell great! Christmas Snack Mix 1 jar dry roasted peanuts 2 bags red and green candy coated chocolate candies 2 bags red and green candy coated chocolate covered peanuts 1 bag chocolate covered peanuts 1 jar wheat germ nuts snack Toss all ingredients together and serve or store. This festive mix also makes the perfect gift when layered in decorative containers.
What Most Homeowner's Insurance Doesn't Cover Your homeowner's insurance protects you from what are known as perils-the things that might cause damage or loss. A good homeowner's policy is set up to provide coverage for the most likely perils that affect homeowners, such as fire, theft, and vandalism. However, there are some perils that are specifically excluded from the average homeowner's policy, and depending on where you live, these exclusions could be serious. Earthquake Coverage Most homeowner's policies do not provide coverage for damage caused by an earthquake. If you live in an area where earthquakes are common and a serious earthquake is a real risk. Check with your agent to see if you need a separate earthquake policy, or if it can be endorsed (added) to your current home policy. Flood And Water Damage Water damage is a tricky area when it comes to homeowner's insurance. Some types are covered, while others are not. The most commonly excluded type of water damage is from a flood. This usually means a natural flood, from rain or rising water. For anyone who lives near a river or other body of water where flooding is a possibility, flood insurance is a good idea. Water damage that is caused by negligence is also usually excluded. If you knew your pipes were leaking and did nothing to repair them, the resulting water damage will likely be excluded and not covered. On the other hand, if a pipe suddenly bursts with no forewarning, your homeowner's insurance should kick in and take care of the damage. It's best to verify these grey areas with your insurance company or agent. Mold Exclusions Many insurance companies do not provide coverage for mold, because it is considered to be the result of negligence. This is another grey area where some types of mold may be covered and others may not. If there is coverage, it is often limited to a few thousand dollars. Again, this is a good one to discuss with your insurance company. Maintenance Issues Homeowner's insurance is there to get you back to normal after a loss or damage. It doesn't provide you with free maintenance on your home. Any damage to your home caused by your failure to properly maintain it will not be covered by homeowner's. Thus, roof repair for wind damage is covered, but a roof that has simply gotten old will not be. If that were the case, homeowner's insurance would be very expensive indeed, with everyone getting repairs done to their home every time something wore out. It's important to know what your policy covers and doesn't cover, so that you are not stuck paying big bills for a catastrophic event. Ask your agent or read your policy, and obtain extra coverage when you can.
If you're not in a high-risk area, you probably don't spend a lot of time worrying about water damage to your home or property. But the fact is, approximately one quarter of all flood loss occurs in areas considered at a low to moderate risk for flooding. No matter how safe you think you are, houses in every type of location suffer flood damage. And recent changes in weather patterns have triggered numerous highly publicized cases of rivers and lakes overflowing and leaving supposedly “safe” zones deep underwater. In fact, did you know that floods are the most costly natural disaster in the U.S. every year? Flood losses total more than a billion dollars annually. Thousands of families have not only lost their home but suffered utter financial ruin due to flooding. Many mistakenly believed their homeowners policy would protect them, only to find out the hard way that the typical homeowners policy doesn't cover flood damage at all. Pearson & Company Insurance specializes in providing homeowners and renters with high quality, affordable flood insurance. We have many carriers to quote with, making sure you’re getting the best rates. Don't let a flood drown your finances. Give us a call today at 601-482-6699, and let's get you covered!