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DID YOU KNOW? Wind Mitigation Report: Understanding the Key Factors

In this video, Agent & Owner Matthew Jones guides you through the important aspects of a wind mitigation report. He discusses the requirements for roofs built after 2002, the significance of roof deck attachment, the role of trusses in securing the roof, the impact of roof geometry on insurance premiums, the benefits of secondary water resistance, and the importance of hurricane-rated glass. Paying attention to these factors can lead to significant savings on insurance premiums. Please watch the video to gain a better understanding of wind mitigation and how it can benefit you.

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I just dealt with Angela who works in the office of the Jones Agency. I have to tell you I’m still smiling! I only called to pay for my new insurance policy but we talked and laughed for 20 minutes. Talk about a personal touch. We didn’t just talk about insurance. We got to know each other a bit. Boy, I feel at home with this group. Seriously, treat yourself to an awesome experience with these folks and check with them before you renew any policy you might have.

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DID YOU KNOW? How to save on Flood Insurance

In this video, Owner & Agent Matthew Jones explains the process of transferring a flood insurance policy and how it can help you save on premiums. He discusses the changes made by FEMA in 2021 and the new rating system called Flood 2.0. He also shares a real-life example of a client who saved over $900 a year by transferring their policy. If you’re buying a home in a flood zone, this video will provide valuable information on how to keep your flood insurance premium down and benefit from the old rating system.

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The Rising Costs of Auto Insurance in Florida

Americans have been dealing with inflation costs since 2021, from food, gas, housing and now auto insurance. Unfortunately for Floridians, Florida has the highest rate of auto insurance right now according to an article that was written by the Washington Post. It also stated that Florida has seen an 88 percent increase since 2013. Agent and Owner Matthew Jones expands on the rising costs of auto insurance in Florida.

What causes auto insurance rates to rise?

The main causes for rising auto insurance rates include several factors such as accident frequency, litigation, fraud, and severe weather. When it comes to Hurricanes everyone thinks about their homes and how the insurance world is going to impact home insurance, but we forget that everything else is affected too including auto and boats. There were at least 40,000 auto claim lawsuits filed each month in Florida this year! 

Due to the flooding damage caused by Hurricane Ian in 2022, Florida insurance companies were forced to raise auto insurance rates to compensate for the cost of claims of more than 14 percent, which is the highest nationwide. Right now, the average cost of auto insurance is about $3,100 annually. That is 50 percent higher than the national average average, of $2,000. 

So how do we get our auto rates to decrease? 

  • If we are married, make sure the person with the best credit score is put first on the policy.
  • Ask your agent if the carrier is offering an device discount. 
  • Pay your premium in full.
  • Pick a deductible that is best for your pocket, if you can afford a $1,000 deductible, select that and don’t pick $500.
  • Ask about a low mileage discount.
  • Most importantly shop your auto insurance. Carriers change rates all the time based on what they have on the books as far as liability in the area. So, it’s important to stay ahead of the rates and always ask your agent to shop for you.

These steps may lower your premium, but not take you lower then what you use to pay as there’s no guarantee. These steps will help you achieve the best possible policy for you and your family.

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Understanding Flood Insurance Requirements in Florida

Living in Florida, with its tropical climate and proximity to the coast, residents are familiar with the potential risks of flooding and need for flood insurance. To protect homeowners and businesses, the state has implemented flood insurance requirements. As traditional homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood damage, getting flood insurance is crucial in safeguarding one’s property and financial well-being.

Relevant Statistics:

  1. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Florida accounts for approximately 37% of all flood policies in the United States.
  2. FEMA reports that Florida has experienced more than $9 billion in flood losses between 1978 and 2018, making it the highest-ranking state in terms of flood damage.
  3. Only one in three Florida homeowners located in high-risk flood areas actually have flood coverage. This leaves many at risk of substantial financial losses if a flood occurs.

When discussing flood insurance requirements, there are items to consider:

  • Flood insurance is not covered by most home policies.
  • It covers your building and personal possessions, but does have some restrictions.
  • Coverage limits may vary based on the type of structure (residential vs. non-residential).
  • There are federally defined flood hazard areas on the Flood Insurance Rate Map which fall under the 100-year flood zone.

When residing in Florida, having flood insurance is a crucial step in protecting your home or business from potential damage and financial loss. The statistics show the significant risk of flooding, and although there are diverse perspectives on the affordability and necessity, it remains an important safeguard.

We can help you obtain a flood policy that will protect your investment and budget. Our agents are happy to educate you on flood zone areas and specific coverages that may be needed based on your unique circumstances. For more information on getting a policy that will work for you, contact us today!

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Do you need umbrella insurance?

Of course, you don’t need to insure your umbrella. But as an umbrella keeps off the rain, umbrella insurance helps keep off lawsuits from any liability claim once your policy is exhausted.  How I like to explain it is that you can stuff as many policies with liability under an umbrella (auto, home, boat, etc.) to shield you from the suit. If you own a business it can add another layer of protection there as well. If you’ve got a lot to lose, this kind of coverage may be the most affordable way to protect yourself. See below what else it may cover for you. It’s a lot of coverage for very little money. 

Extra Liability Insurance
Liability limits on typical home and auto policies are fairly modest when compared to the value of new homes and cars. Clients can purchase umbrella insurance in increments for the right amount of extra protection at the right price.

Legal Defense
You have a legal right to defend yourself against claims of injury or loss, but lawyers are expensive. Not only will umbrella insurance help you pay claims, it can help pay for legal defense.

Extra Coverage
Some umbrella insurance policies can get modified to cover more unusual risks that are not typically mentioned in an ordinary policy.

Contact Us
Do you have a house, retirement fund, and other assets that could be vulnerable to a liability claim? If so, contact us at your earliest convenience to discuss the reasons you need umbrella insurance.

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Why are home insurance rates rising?

Florida, known for its sunshine and sandy beaches, is facing a less glamorous reality as homeowners grapple with the escalating costs of home insurance. Floridian’s have seen premiums go up by more than 40 percent, 3.5 times the nation’s average and they are likely to keep rising due to a variety of factors. Homeowners with a mortgage required to have insurance – don’t have many options other than to pay or leave.

Increasing Frequency and Severity of Natural Disasters:

Florida is no stranger to hurricanes, floods, and other natural disasters. The severity of Hurricane Ian in southwest Florida and others throughout the state and recent year have led to a much higher number of insurance claims. Insurance companies, in turn, raise premiums to offset the increased risk and potential payouts.

Rising Sea Levels and Climate Change: 

Florida faces the brunt of climate change, with rising sea levels and increased temperatures. These environmental changes contribute to more intense storms and flooding, amplifying the risks associated with insuring properties in the state. Insurers factor in these long-term climate trends when calculating premiums, further impacting homeowners.

Building Code Upgrades: 

After the devastation caused by hurricanes, most recently Ian, and previously like Andrew and Irma, Florida has implemented stricter building codes. While these measures aim to protect homes from severe weather, they also mean increased costs for construction and repairs. Homeowners bear the brunt of these expenses through higher insurance premiums.

Litigation and Assignment of Benefits (AOB) Abuse:

Florida has been plagued by a surge in litigation and AOB abuse in recent years. AOB allows policyholders to assign their insurance benefits to a third party, often contractors, which can lead to inflated claims and legal battles. The associated legal costs are passed on to homeowners through elevated insurance premiums. Reforms passed last year by lawmakers have begun to limit lawsuits which should improve the situation, as if litigation costs go down, premiums should also go down.

Market Dynamics and Competition: 

The insurance market in Florida has become increasingly competitive, with fewer companies willing to underwrite policies in high-risk areas. After Hurricane Ian, seven insurance companies became insolvent. This reduced competition allows insurers to raise prices without fear of losing customers to competitors. As a result, homeowners are left with fewer options and higher premiums. Five new insurance companies have been approved to begin writing policies in Florida. However, homeowners will not see relief in the near future. 

As the state continues to adapt to a changing climate and regulatory landscape, homeowners are left grappling with the financial burden of protecting their homes in the face of increasing risks. However, there is new legislation SB2-A that was passed in the special session December 2022 which has begun to swing the pendulum. Yes, the costs are still high but the legislation has allowed more companies to be entertained and have started to open up their guidelines as well as we’ve seen new carriers open too. It may take a couple of years but I do see insurance premiums becoming more favorable to the insureds. Contact a Jones Family Insurance to review and quote your current policy with our line of carriers and also discuss bundling opportunities for your needs to save on premiums.

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Q&A What are 3 Common Home Insurance Myths?

How much do you know about homeowner’s insurance coverage? If you are like most people, you have a policy but aren’t quite sure what it covers

Unfortunately, this lack of knowledge by the general public has caused some ugly misconceptions about insurance to spread — myths that could cost you and your family a ton of money. Here are three myths about homeowner’s insurance and their respective truths.

Myth #1: Your Homeowner’s Policy Covers Your Home-Based Business

Do you run a business out of your home? Maybe you sell vitamins, makeup, jewelry, or something completely different through a marketing program. Perhaps you handcraft items to sell at festivals or offer services to clients who visit you at your residence. Either way, you might believe the myth that your homeowner’s insurance covers your business endeavors.

This is a myth! Most homeowner’s insurance policies specifically exclude home businesses. This means that if you have an inventory of product stolen or a client becomes injured at your residence, you may not be covered. This problem is pretty widespread, too. According to Independent Agents and Brokers of America, nearly sixty percent of home-based business owners do not have appropriate insurance coverage.

Contact us for a complimentary consultation to discuss your business insurance needs.

Myth #2: Earthquakes and Floods Are Covered

Another fallacy is that a homeowner’s insurance policy will protect you against damage due to an earthquake, flood, or other natural phenomenon. The truth is that sadly many natural disasters are not covered under your standard policy. While some circumstances such as a hailstorm or a tornado are sporadic enough to warrant coverage, others that create widespread damage are not.

This is where having specialty flood coverage comes into play. These are special policies that are underwritten by a private insurer and backed by the government to fully protect your home and belongings against any damage due to named perils. Purchasing one of these policies is usually quite affordable and only takes a phone call to us to start the process.

Myth #3: Your Insurance will Cover Everything in the Event of a Disaster

One more myth that many people seem to believe is that homeowner’s insurance will cover everything you own in the event of a disaster. The truth to this myth is that having a policy only covers a portion of your belongings. Riders often need to be added to expand coverage for expensive electronics, guns, jewelry, and furs. If you own any of these items, it is worth talking to your agent about to ensure you have the coverage you need.

Do any of these scenarios apply to you? For more information or to discuss your unique situation, please contact us today.

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What are the auto insurance requirements in Florida?

In Florida, all drivers are required to have two types of auto insurance coverage:

  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Florida is a “no-fault” state, which means your own insurance company will cover your medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who is at fault in an accident. The minimum PIP coverage required in Florida is $10,000.
  • Property Damage Liability (PDL): You must have a minimum of $10,000 in Property Damage Liability coverage, which covers damage to someone else’s property (e.g., their vehicle, a building, or a fence) if you are at fault in an accident.

These are the minimum auto insurance requirements to legally operate a vehicle in Florida. However, it’s important to note that these minimums may not provide adequate protection in the event of a severe accident.

Many drivers opt for higher coverage limits or additional types of coverage, such as Bodily Injury Liability (BIL), Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage (UM/UIM), and Comprehensive/Collision coverage, to ensure they are adequately protected.

Before purchasing auto insurance in Florida, it’s a good idea to consider your individual needs and consult with an insurance agent to determine the best coverage for your situation. 

Additionally, it’s important to stay updated on any changes in Florida’s insurance requirements, as these regulations may evolve over time.

Current requirements may be verified through us or the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV).

We would love the opportunity to discuss your insurance needs, please give our team a call at 941.205.0191 in Charlotte County or 239.552.4111 in Lee County.

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4 Ways the Holidays Might Affect Your Homeowners Insurance

4 Ways the Holidays Might Affect Your Homeowners Insurance

These four holiday risks could impact your coverage – and cause claims. Are you prepared?

There’s No Place Like Home (owners Insurance) for the Holidays

Whether you consider yourself jolly or grinchy, it’s important to know that the holiday season brings several unique risks that could affect the coverage in your homeowners insurance policy (or even lead to a claim). Here’s a look at four of those risks and how to keep your home protected.

#1: Expensive Presents (Hint: Get a Personal Property Endorsement!)

Your home insurance policy typically covers the stuff you own under what’s called Coverage C (personal property). But that coverage may exclude high-value items like fine jewelry, furs, art, and antiques.

If you’re planning on giving (or end up receiving) a gift that’s on the more expensive side this holiday season, call your insurance provider to make sure it’s covered. What they’ll likely do is write an endorsement, which essentially means add some extra coverage, to ensure that the high-ticket item is protected.

#2: Engagement Rings

Ever heard of “Engagement Season?” Turns out, it’s the same as the holiday season.

Because of the spirit of gift-giving and the chance to be with families, engagements tend to cluster around the holidays. If you or someone in your household is likely to get engaged this holiday season, make sure you dial up your insurance provider to add the ring to your homeowner’s insurance policy. Otherwise, there’s a chance that it won’t be covered in the event of disaster.

#3: Eggnog

Here’s the deal: parties are a wonderful part of the holiday season, but if you’re hosting and serving alcohol, you may be exposing yourself to a lot of risk, thanks to social host liability.

Essentially, social host liability means that if someone drinks at your party and then hurts themselves or someone else (e.g., by driving home), you could be held liable for damages if they decide to sue.

So if a drunk guest leaves your party, drives home, and hits a pedestrian, you could be partly liable for that pedestrian’s hospital bills, should they bring a lawsuit. That’s pretty scary, given how expensive hospital bills can be.

But there are a few important qualifiers here:

  1. Not every state has social host liability laws. (Check your state’s laws here.)
  2. Even in states without social host liability, though, you could be held liable for an injury that happens in your home (even if the injury happened in part because the injured person was intoxicated).
  3. It is illegal in every state to serve alcohol to those under 21. If you do that, you could face criminal charges (which would not be covered by your home insurance policy).

So if you’re hosting a party where drinks will be served, do a little research. If your state does allow social host liability, check with your insurance provider to make sure you’re covered. Many homeowners policies offer this coverage as part of the personal liability coverage (Part E).

And remember, too, that it’s within your power to minimize your risk: you can hire a bartender to control who drinks what, encourage the use of designated drivers (or taxis and rideshares), serve food, and stop serving alcohol an hour or so before everyone leaves.

#4: Fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the holidays are a busy time for fires. For example, while candles account for just three percent of house fires per year, the four biggest days for candle-related fires are New Year’s Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and Christmas Eve.

Other top holiday fire triggers? Christmas trees, lighting equipment, cooking, and decorations.

Obviously, nobody wants their home to burn down. And really nobody wants it to happen over the holidays. So while your homeowner’s insurance policy almost certainly offers coverage for fire-related damage, be extra-alert as you deck the halls to make sure you and your loved ones are safe this holiday season.

4 Ways the Holidays Might Affect Your Homeowners Insurance — Learn more about us at www.JonesFamilyIns.com – Serving North Port, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Cape Coral and Fort Myers Florida.

 

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Does my auto insurance cover me when I am on Holiday Vacation? 

Does my auto insurance cover me when I am on Holiday Vacation?

With the holidays coming on strong, you’re probably thinking of taking trips to visit family or just enjoying some time off. You might wonder if your auto insurance covers you even when you’re out of town. Driving out of the state is always questionable when it comes to insurance policies. Whether you’re renting a car to do some sightseeing, or driving a family member of friend’s car while you’re away, it’s smart to do some research before you put any risks on the line.

For the most part, you don’t have anything to worry about if you already have car insurance, and can spend your holiday stress-free with your family. Generally, your auto insurance will cover you for any accidents even if you are out of state. You may not realize it, but your car insurance policy will protect you even if you are driving a rental vehicle. That’s why it’s okay to turn down rental car insurance from the rental company, especially if you have a credit card that also offers car rental insurance coverage. *Always check with both your insurance policy and your credit card company to make sure that you are covered before you make any decisions.

However, there are some situations when your car insurance won’t cover you if you get into an accident out of state. For example, if you are moving to another state and plan to stay there for an extended period, your insurance policy will only cover you for a short term. You need to talk to your insurance representative as soon as you can to update your policy and get the coverage you need according to the state you’re moving to. Every state has different insurance requirements, so it’s important that you meet the ones in which you are living.

Your insurance policy may not cover you if you travel south of the border into Mexico, or in international areas. If you do drive into Mexico, you should buy a different type of insurance for the duration of your travels. Ironically, most insurance companies will cover you if you drive north of the border into Canada.

Regardless of what policy you have, you should always check what you’re covered for before you head off anywhere. Call your insurance agent to get specifics on what you should or shouldn’t worry about. It’s a simple and easy step that might make a huge difference in protecting your family down the line.

Does my auto insurance cover me when I am on Holiday Vacation? Contact us at Jones Family Insurance. Serving North Port, Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Cape Coral and Fort Myers Florida.

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Jones Family Insurance | 312 Mary Street. Punta Gorda FL. 33950

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Phone: (941) 205-0191

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Phone: (239) 552-4111

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Phone: (239) 227-2349

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