tampa-bay-insurance

Does Florida Homeowners Insurance Cover Hurricane Damage?

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 20:57:09 GMT

Does Florida homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage? Learn what's covered, what's not, and how to protect your Tampa Bay home during storm season.

Why Every Small Business Needs Liability Insurance

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 18:34:00 GMT

Learn why liability insurance is essential for small businesses. Protect your company from lawsuits, accidents, and financial risks that could close your doors.

5 Ways to Lower Your Auto Insurance Premium Today

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 18:32:34 GMT

Discover five practical strategies to reduce your auto insurance costs without sacrificing coverage. Save money on your car insurance premium starting today.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Actually Cover?

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 18:22:53 GMT

Understand what your homeowners insurance actually covers and what it doesn't. Learn about dwelling protection, liability, and personal property coverage.

What to Do Before Buying a Car: How to Avoid Sticker Shock on Your Auto Insurance

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Introduction

Few things feel better than driving home in a new car.
But there’s one surprise that can deflate the excitement fast:

�� The insurance premium.

Many buyers assume that because newer vehicles have advanced safety features, their insurance rates will go down .
In reality, it often goes the other way — and for good reason.

Why Your Insurance Can Increase With a New Car

Let’s look at an example.

You trade in your $3,000 car for a $50,000 used model.
When you upgrade to a newer, more expensive vehicle, your insurance company is suddenly responsible for replacing a $50,000 car instead of a $3,000 one .

That’s a huge difference in potential payout — and your premium reflects it.

New Cars = More Tech = Higher Repair Costs

Modern cars are packed with complex technology:

sensors and cameras in bumpers
radar for adaptive cruise control
lane-keeping and collision detection systems

Even a small fender bender can cost thousands to repair because of all the components behind the panels.

Example:
Replacing a simple bumper on an older car might cost $400.
On a newer vehicle with sensors, that same repair could cost $2,500–$5,000 .

The more technology in your car, the higher the repair costs — and the higher the risk for your insurer.

Why Safety Features Don’t Always Lower Your Premium

Safety features help prevent accidents, but they don’t lower the cost of accidents when they happen.
Insurance rates are based on:

The total value of the car
The cost to repair it
Claim data from other drivers with the same model

So even with more airbags and cameras, a high-value car with expensive parts will still cost more to insure.

How to Avoid Being Blindsided: Get Mock Quotes Before You Buy

Before heading to the dealership, pick two or three cars you’re seriously considering and get mock quotes from your insurance agent.

Here’s what to send:

VIN (best option) — this gives the most accurate quote.
Or, if not available: exact year, make, and model of each vehicle.

At Tampa Bay Insurance, we can run side-by-side estimates in minutes — so you know your full costs before signing paperwork.

Smart Steps Before Buying Your Next Car

✅ Narrow your search to 2–3 vehicles
✅ Send us the VIN (or year/make/model) for mock quotes
✅ Review the insurance difference side-by-side
✅ Make your decision with total cost in mind — not just the car payment

Conclusion

Buying a car should be exciting — not stressful.
By getting your insurance quotes before heading to the dealership, you can plan your budget confidently and avoid that “wait, why did my rate go up?” moment.

Want us to mock-quote your next car?

�� Click here to request a quote

We’ll run the numbers for any vehicle you’re considering — fast, accurate, and transparent.

Understanding Citizens Insurance Depopulation: What It Means for Florida Homeowners

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Introduction

If you’re a Florida homeowner, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of Citizens Property Insurance Corporation — or maybe you’re even insured through them. What many don’t realize is that Citizens isn’t a typical insurance company. It’s a state-run, nonprofit insurer of last resort , created to provide coverage when private companies can’t or won’t.

But as Florida’s insurance market has tightened, Citizens’ policy count has grown to near-record levels — and that’s where the “depopulation program” comes into play.

Here’s what Citizens depopulation means, how it works, and what you should know if your policy is selected for takeout.

Why Citizens Exists

Citizens was created in 2002 by the Florida Legislature to ensure that homeowners could still obtain coverage when private insurers left the market after major storms.

In simple terms: Citizens was designed to be the backup option, not the first stop .

However, as insurance costs have risen and private carriers have reduced new business, Citizens’ policy count has expanded well beyond its intended purpose. The depopulation process helps move some of those policies back into the private market.

What Is Depopulation?

Depopulation is Citizens’ process of transferring eligible policies to private insurance carriers to reduce its overall exposure.

Here’s how it works:

Private insurers (known as takeout carriers ) review Citizens’ portfolio.
If they’re interested in assuming certain policies, Citizens notifies affected policyholders.
If the private carrier’s premium is within 20% of Citizens’ renewal rate , the policyholder must move to that private carrier. They cannot choose to stay with Citizens unless no private offer meets the threshold.

These private carriers are required to match the coverage provided by Citizens at the time of transfer, ensuring policyholders retain the same protections initially in place.

What to Do If You Receive a Depopulation Notice

If you get a letter saying your Citizens policy has been selected for takeout, don’t ignore it — but don’t make a quick decision either.

Here’s what to do next:
✅ Review the offer carefully. Confirm the carrier’s financial rating, coverage match, and any minor differences in deductibles or endorsements.
✅ Talk to your independent agent. At Tampa Bay Insurance, we’ll explain your options and help you evaluate the new carrier versus other private alternatives.
✅ Revisit your options later. We often recommend staying with the takeout company for one renewal cycle, then re-evaluating your coverage once the broader market stabilizes.

Why Depopulation Exists — and How It Can Help

The depopulation process helps Florida maintain a balanced insurance market. Citizens’ growth can strain the entire system — so encouraging private carriers to assume policies helps diversify risk and support a healthier marketplace.

For some homeowners, being moved to a private carrier can provide benefits such as:

Access to additional coverage options or endorsements
Potential eligibility for multi-policy discounts
A carrier relationship that may last beyond Citizens’ intended temporary role

However, it’s important to remember that all insurance carriers in Florida — Citizens included — must have their rates approved by the state . So while a takeout carrier might offer different coverage benefits or service models, no company can guarantee “stable” long-term rates in today’s evolving Florida market.

The Bottom Line

Citizens Insurance serves an important purpose: keeping homeowners insured when the private market can’t. But when a private carrier steps forward within 20% of Citizens’ premium, policyholders are required to move — a process designed to strengthen Florida’s insurance system overall.

If you receive a takeout notice or simply want to understand your options better, we’re here to help. Our team at Tampa Bay Insurance will walk you through every detail, compare carrier options, and ensure you stay protected through every transition.

�� Contact us today to review your policy and discuss your best path forward.

Hurricane Deductibles Explained: Why That 2% Isn’t What You Think

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Introduction

When Florida storm season hits, most homeowners know they have hurricane coverage — but few actually understand what their deductible means.

That “2%” or “5%” you see on your policy isn’t a small number taken off your claim. It’s a percentage of your home’s insured value , which can translate to thousands of dollars out of pocket before your insurance even kicks in.

At Tampa Bay Insurance, we’ve seen how confusing these terms can be for homeowners — especially after a storm. So let’s break down what hurricane deductibles really mean and how they impact your wallet.

What Is a Hurricane Deductible?

In Florida, a hurricane deductible applies specifically to wind damage caused by a named hurricane — not just any windstorm.
It’s separate from your standard homeowners deductible and is calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value (Coverage A) .

For example:
If your home is insured for $400,000 and you have a 2% hurricane deductible , you’ll pay the first $8,000 of hurricane-related damage.

If you opted for a 5% deductible , you’d be responsible for $20,000 before insurance pays a cent.

Why Many Homeowners Choose the Wrong Deductible

When renewing a policy, it’s tempting to pick a higher deductible to reduce your premium. And yes, a 5% hurricane deductible can lower your annual cost a bit.

But here’s the problem — that savings can backfire fast.

After a major storm, families often realize too late that their “affordable” policy leaves them with tens of thousands in repair bills they can’t cover. In our $400,000 home example, the difference between a 2% and 5% deductible is $12,000 out of pocket .

That’s a tough check to write when you’re also facing power outages, roof repairs, or temporary housing.

When Does the Hurricane Deductible Apply?

Florida law defines very specific triggers for when your hurricane deductible kicks in:

When the National Hurricane Center names a storm and it produces hurricane-force winds in Florida.
It applies to all covered hurricane-related losses that occur from the time a hurricane watch or warning is issued until 72 hours after it ends .

If a storm doesn’t meet those criteria, your standard wind or all-peril deductible applies instead.

How to Choose the Right Deductible for Your Home

Here are a few things to consider before setting your deductible amount:

✅ Know your financial comfort zone.
Could you afford $20,000 out of pocket tomorrow if a hurricane hit? If not, a 2% deductible may be worth the slightly higher premium.

✅ Review your coverage annually.
If your home’s value increases, your deductible automatically goes up too — even if your percentage stays the same.

✅ Ask for scenarios.
Your independent agent (that’s us!) can show you side-by-side comparisons so you understand what each deductible really means in dollars.

The Tampa Bay Insurance Advantage

As an independent, family-owned agency , we work with over 30 top carriers to help you balance coverage, cost, and peace of mind. We’ll walk you through real numbers — not just percentages — so you can make confident, informed decisions about your hurricane coverage.

Conclusion

A hurricane deductible isn’t just a line on your policy — it’s a crucial piece of your financial safety net. Understanding how it works before storm season could save you thousands when you need help most.

If you’re unsure what your deductible means or whether you’re properly covered:
�� Contact us today to review your policy with one of our licensed agents.

We’ll help you make sure your home — and your finances — are ready for whatever this hurricane season brings.

Government Shutdown & FEMA Flood Insurance: What to Know

Mon, 06 Oct 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Introduction

With storm season never far away, Florida homeowners know how essential flood insurance is to protecting their property and peace of mind. But what happens when the federal government shuts down ?

One of the most significant effects of a funding lapse is on FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) —the source of most flood policies across the U.S. During a shutdown, NFIP temporarily loses its authority to issue new policies or make certain updates, leaving homeowners and homebuyers uncertain about their options.

Here’s what you need to know if a government shutdown occurs and how Tampa Bay Insurance can help you stay protected.

1. No New NFIP Policies or Coverage Increases

During a shutdown, FEMA and the NFIP cannot issue new flood insurance policies or process coverage increases on existing ones.

What this means for you:

If you’re purchasing a home in a flood zone, your closing could be delayed without active flood insurance.
If you were planning to raise your coverage limits, that request won’t be processed until NFIP operations resume.

2. Renewal Notices Are Paused — But You Can Still Renew

No new renewal notices are issued during a shutdown. However, if your renewal notice was sent before the lapse , you can still make your payment within the 30-day grace period , and your policy will renew normally.

Key takeaway:
If your renewal date is approaching, don’t wait. Paying your premium early ensures your flood protection stays uninterrupted—even if the government temporarily closes.

3. Existing Policies Remain Active

If your NFIP policy is already in force, it remains active during the shutdown. Your coverage continues until your policy’s expiration date, and claims will still be processed and paid , depending on available funds in the program’s reserves.

This means that if a storm hits during a shutdown, you’ll still have the protection you paid for.

4. Claims Will Continue — But With Funding Limits

NFIP insurers will continue to handle and pay claims for existing policies, but FEMA cannot borrow additional funds from the U.S. Treasury during a lapse. That means claim payments depend on available balances in the National Flood Insurance Fund and Reserve Fund.

5. What Happens When NFIP Is Reauthorized?

Historically, when Congress reauthorizes the NFIP, it makes the renewal retroactive —meaning that new policies and renewals submitted before the lapse may still take effect after the shutdown ends.

However, each reauthorization is handled differently, and coverage gaps can occur. That’s why it’s smart to explore private flood insurance options if you’re buying a home or renewing soon.

6. Private Flood Insurance: A Reliable Alternative During a Shutdown

If you’re unable to secure FEMA flood coverage because of a government shutdown, Tampa Bay Insurance can help .

As an independent agency, we can write private flood insurance through top-rated carriers that:

Offer similar policy forms to FEMA’s NFIP coverage,
Are not affected by government shutdowns, and
Can often provide broader coverage options and endorsements than NFIP policies.

Private flood coverage can be a great option for new homebuyers needing insurance at closing or for homeowners looking to maintain continuous protection regardless of federal funding status.

Conclusion

A government shutdown may cause delays and uncertainty for FEMA’s flood program, but your protection doesn’t have to stop. Existing NFIP policies remain active, and claims will continue to be processed—but new policies, renewals, and increases can be affected.

If you’re preparing for a home closing or your renewal date is approaching, now’s the time to review your options.

At Tampa Bay Insurance , we’ll guide you through your FEMA flood coverage and show you private flood insurance alternatives to ensure you stay protected—no matter what happens in Washington.

�� Contact us today to discuss your flood insurance options and keep your coverage uninterrupted.

How Wind Mitigation Lowers Florida Home Insurance Costs

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Why wind mitigation matters in Florida

Hurricanes and tropical storms make Florida one of the most wind-exposed markets in the country. The single biggest lever most homeowners have to reduce premiums is a wind mitigation inspection and the credits it unlocks.

At Tampa Bay Insurance, we’re not home inspectors and we don’t perform inspections. But we do help you understand which home features typically qualify for windstorm credits and how to work with a licensed home inspector to document them properly for your carrier.

What is a wind mitigation inspection?

A wind mitigation inspection evaluates how well your home can withstand high winds and flying debris. A licensed inspector completes Florida’s standard form (OIR-B1-1802), documents qualifying features, and you submit that report to your insurer for potential premium credits . Savings vary by carrier and home, but many clients see meaningful annual reductions that compound over time.

7 wind mitigation features insurers reward

1) Age of roof

Newer roofs (especially those installed to recent Florida Building Code standards) resist uplift better.
Many carriers apply larger credits for roofs <10 years old (age thresholds vary by carrier).

2) Roof covering & underlayment

Code-approved shingles, tiles, or metal covering installed to spec can improve ratings.
Modern underlayment systems often perform better in wind events.

3) Roof-to-deck attachment

How the roof sheathing is fastened to the deck matters (e.g., 8d ring-shank nails and closer spacing typically rate better than staples).
Stronger attachment = less chance of decking failure in high winds.

4) Roof-to-wall attachment

Clips, single/double wraps, or straps tying trusses/rafters to the wall top plate reduce the risk of the roof lifting off.
Better attachment methods generally earn larger credits .

5) Roof geometry

Hip roofs (slopes on all four sides) are more aerodynamic than gable roofs , often qualifying for bigger discounts.
Mixed geometries may receive partial credit.

6) Secondary Water Resistance (SWR)

An SWR is a self-adhering membrane beneath the roof covering that helps prevent interior water damage if shingles blow off.
Verified SWR can unlock an additional credit.

7) Opening protection (often the biggest credit)

Impact-rated windows/doors , storm shutters, or approved hurricane panels that protect all openings (including garage doors, sidelights, and skylights) typically earn the largest premium reductions .
“All openings protected” is key—partial protection may receive smaller or no credits.

How to qualify for wind mitigation credits

Schedule a licensed inspection
Ask for a Florida wind mitigation inspection using the OIR-B1-1802 form.
Gather documentation
Roof permits, contractor invoices, manufacturer specs, and photos help your inspector verify features (SWR, clips/straps, impact ratings, etc.).
Submit your report
Send the completed OIR-B1-1802 to your carrier or to us—we’ll help you make sure all eligible credits are applied.
Plan improvements (optional)
If your report reveals gaps (e.g., no opening protection or older deck attachment), we can discuss which upgrades usually produce the best ROI in premium savings. Final decisions should be made with your inspector and contractor.

FAQs

How much can I save with wind mitigation?
Savings vary by carrier, year built, and features. Clients with multiple qualifying items—especially opening protection and hip roofs —often see the largest reductions.

How long is a wind mitigation report valid?
Many carriers accept reports for 5 years (policies differ). You’ll typically need a new report after major roof work or when the report expires.

Do I need to upgrade everything at once?
No. Many homeowners start with the highest-impact items (opening protection, roof upgrades during replacement) and revisit other features later.

Get help applying your wind mitigation credits

Want a second look at your policy and potential wind credits? We’ll review your situation and coordinate with a licensed home inspector if needed.

CTA:

Request a Florida Home Insurance Review
Or contact us via the site: Get a Quote »

5 Common Insurance Mistakes Florida Families Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Discover the 5 most common insurance mistakes Florida families make and learn how to avoid them. Tampa Bay Insurance helps you protect your home, auto, and family with the right coverage.

Introduction

When it comes to protecting your home, car, and family, the right insurance coverage makes all the difference. Yet too often, Florida families fall into the same insurance traps—leaving them underinsured, overpaying, or unprotected when disaster strikes.

At Tampa Bay Insurance , we’ve served families across Florida since 2001, and we’ve seen firsthand the costly mistakes that can be avoided with the right guidance. Here are the five most common insurance mistakes we see—and how you can sidestep them.

1. Not Carrying Flood Insurance

Many homeowners believe their standard homeowners policy covers flooding—but it doesn’t. In Florida, where heavy rain and hurricanes are common, skipping flood insurance is a risky move.

Why it matters: Just one inch of floodwater can cause over $25,000 in damage.
How to avoid it: Ask your independent agent to add a flood policy. It’s more affordable than you may think, and it gives you peace of mind during storm season.

�� Learn more: Request a free flood insurance quote today .

2. Choosing the Cheapest Policy (Instead of the Right Coverage)

We get it—saving money matters. But the cheapest policy often leaves big gaps in coverage. For example, a cut-rate auto policy may not cover uninsured motorists, which is crucial in Florida where many drivers are uninsured.

Why it matters: Choosing the cheapest policy may cost more in the long run when you’re left paying out of pocket after an accident.
How to avoid it: Work with an independent agency (like ours!) that can shop across 30+ carriers to find the right balance of coverage, service, and value .

3. Not Bundling Policies

Too many families keep their home, auto, and life insurance policies with separate companies. That not only creates more paperwork but often means missing out on bundle discounts.

Why it matters: Bundling can save hundreds of dollars a year.
How to avoid it: Review your policies annually with your agent to see if bundling makes sense for your family.

4. Forgetting to Update Coverage After Major Life Changes

Life changes fast—new home, new car, marriage, kids. But many families forget to update their insurance policies to reflect these milestones.

Why it matters: Outdated coverage can leave gaps that put your family at financial risk.
How to avoid it: Schedule an annual insurance review with your agent to make sure your coverage evolves with your life.

5. Not Working With an Independent Insurance Agent

Captive agents (like those at State Farm or Allstate) can only sell their company’s policies. Independent agencies, like Tampa Bay Insurance, have the flexibility to shop across multiple carriers to find the best fit.

Why it matters: You get unbiased advice, more options, and personalized service.
How to avoid it: Partner with a family-owned independent agency that puts your needs—not the carrier’s—first.

Conclusion

Avoiding these five mistakes can mean the difference between financial stress and peace of mind when life’s unexpected events happen. At Tampa Bay Insurance, our team treats clients like family. We’ll shop across top carriers, explain your options in plain English, and make sure you’re protected where it matters most.

�� Ready to review your coverage? Request a free, no-obligation quote today .

Life Insurance: Which is Better, Term or Whole Life?

Wed, 21 Nov 2018 23:00:00 GMT

Life Insurance can often be a tricky subject, no one likes to imagine the worst-case scenario, but thinking about life insurance is an important part of taking care of your family. When someone passes away, they can leave in their wake mountains of debt, funeral costs, and bills that are difficult to pay. Life insurance provides a solution for the potential financial burden that may arise in the event of unforeseen circumstances. By obtaining coverage, you can ensure that your loved ones will be supported. The big question that comes into play is deciding which type of life insurance policy to purchase, term or whole life?

Term Life Insurance

A term life insurance policy is the cheaper option for life insurance. A term life policy is applicable for only a specific amount of time. If you pass away prematurely during this period of time your family would get a pay out which would cover the costs of living without you. Most term life policies come in 10, 20, and 30 year terms. You should choose the one that best fits your families’ needs.

Whole Life Policy

As the name would suggest, a whole life policy covers a person for their entire life and does not expire after a certain amount of time. This type of policy also has a cash investment that grows tax -free over time. The premium will stay the same for the rest of your life, and no matter when you pass away your family will receive the death benefit.

Which is The Best Option For You?

There is no wrong option when it comes to life insurance. A term life policy would be better for someone that cannot afford to pay large premiums. If something unexpected were to happen to them then their family would be taken care of monetarily. Most likely though, they will pay a premium and the plan will expire while they are still living. Whole life will cost more money, but that is because it is guaranteed that when you pass your family will receive money. If you are simply looking for an insurance policy that is cheap and will take care of your family if something tragic happens to you then a term policy is for you. If want to make sure your heirs have something extra to pay of estate taxes, funeral costs, and potentially have extra inheritance money than a whole life policy is probably your best option. It is also important to note that may term life policies can be rolled over into a permanent policy if the person so chooses.

Note: Coverage examples and descriptions are not absolute and are for informational are sample purposes only. Please refer to your policy for specific coverages and exclusions.

Filing an Insurance Claim After a Hurricane

Thu, 08 Nov 2018 23:00:00 GMT

After a hurricane hits, there can be a large variation in damage to property across a region. Some areas may be completely devastated while others have minimal damage. Although it is a scary and emotional process dealing with post hurricane damage, having flood insurance means you can feel more comfortable that your claim will be handled with care and diligence. Despite the fact that you and your insurance company will work as a team to get you back to where you were before the storm, there are steps that can be taken to make this process go smoothly.

Stay Safe

The most import part of dealing with a hurricane and its damage is that above all you and your family stays safe. This means if there is evacuation order you leave with enough time to get out safely. This also means that when you return you take care to avoid what can often be a dangerous scene if there is extensive damage. Power lines may be down, sharp objects may be hidden among debris and floodwater, and chemicals may have spilled. Always take care of yourself first before worrying about your property.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Reach out to your insurance company and let them know that you have hurricane damage. They will send out an adjuster to evaluate the losses. This may take longer than usual due to the fact that many people will be making this same request. If your home is unlivable your policy may include payment for a temporary living arrangement.

Document Damage

Once you are able to get back to your property it is important that you document all of the damage. Take photographs of any damage that you see no matter how small or large. An adjuster will also be sent out to the property to document damage, but you know what everything looked like before, and what is missing more than the representative.

Start The Clean-up Process

After you have filed your claim with your insurance company you can begin the clean up process. This will prevent further damage from occurring. Again always do this in the safest way possible, and keep any receipts of repairs that you make. It can be an emotionally draining and frustrating situation, but remember that your insurance company is there to help get you back up and running. Call us today for the help you need. We’re here for you.

Note: Coverage examples and descriptions are not absolute and are for informational are sample purposes only. Please refer to your policy for specific coverages and exclusions.

Is Your Business Covered? What You Need to Know About Business General Liability

Fri, 19 Oct 2018 22:00:00 GMT

What Does General Liability Insurance Do?

General liability insurance, also referred to as commercial general business liability, is an insurance policy designed to help protect your company’s assets by covering the costs and expenses incurred during unexpected accidents.

You can expect your general liability insurance to provide coverage in the following instances:

Someone gets hurt on your business property
You or one of your employees causes property damages or injuries to others
You need to hire a legal defense
You must pay a settlement after losing a court battle
You cause damage to the property that you rent from a landlord

How to Determine Your Liability Coverage Needs

The nature of your business will determine your liability coverage needs. Some businesses are involved in industries that are more vulnerable to issues than others. Insurance companies evaluate coverage needs based on the type of business you are in and the perceived risk associated with it. For example, a building contractor needs higher liability coverage than a web designer.

When you select your policy, you’ll choose a plan based on the maximum amount your insurance company will potentially pay out against a liability claim. This is why it’s dangerous to choose a policy with very low coverage. Say your liability coverage goes up to $50,000. That might sound like a lot of money, but it’s possible for your business to be sued for $250,000 for the medical costs of an injured customer. Your business would be held responsible for the $200,000 difference, a price tag that could put you into bankruptcy.

Get the Professional Help You Need

Liability insurance is available in many types and amounts, and you can even choose to purchase excess insurance or umbrella insurance to increase your coverage limits. It’s helpful to work with an insurance agent who can help you evaluate your business needs and find an insurance solution for your business. Make sure your own business is sufficiently covered for the unexpected by calling (727) 372-5559 to get professional help from Tampa Bay Insurance.

Note: Coverage examples and descriptions are not absolute and are for informational are sample purposes only. Please refer to your policy for specific coverages and exclusions.

Protecting Your Home From Common Holiday Hazards

Tue, 09 Oct 2018 22:00:00 GMT

Pay Attention to Common Sources of House Fires

What conjures up the image of a cold December night more than a Christmas tree, a warm fireplace, and a scented candle? Unfortunately, all three are common causes of house fires. Make sure an unexpected fire doesn’t play a part in your holiday celebrations by following these tips:

Only use space heaters in clear, open areas
Inspect your fireplace and chimney before its first use of the season
Test your home’s carbon monoxide and smoke detectors
Don’t leave candles and fireplace flames unattended

Give Your Tree Some TLC

If you have a pine tree in your home this winter season, make sure you give it the care and attention it needs. Dry, dead trees are major fire hazards. If you neglect to water your tree, you’ll turn it into a giant piece of firewood. Use these tips to stay safe and enjoy the festive spirit your tree brings:

Cut two inches from the bottom of the tree trunk to help it absorb water
Use a safe, non-tip stand that is positioned far from any fireplace or heat source
Buy a freshly cut tree or cut one down yourself to ensure it is alive and moist
Make sure your tree always has water in its stand
Turn off tree lights before you go to bed or leave the house

Stay Safe in the Kitchen

Whether you’re cooking for two or twenty, making a holiday meal is demanding. One simple oversight has the potential to lead to a kitchen fire or broken appliance. Consider these tips to make your cooking experience as enjoyable (and safe!) as possible:

Don’t wear loose accessories or clothes while cooking
Never use a glass casserole lid on the stove or burner, as it can explode from heat
Keep pot holders and food wrappers at least three feet from warm surfaces
Deep-fried turkeys are delicious, but keep that fryer outside and away from all walls!

Make Sure Your Insurance Is Solid

Before the holiday season gets into full swing, brush up on the details of your homeowners insurance policy and make sure you are covered in the event of any fire or other hazard this winter. If you need help or want to find a better insurance policy, call (727) 372-5559 to get professional help from Tampa Bay Insurance.

Note: Coverage examples and descriptions are not absolute and are for informational are sample purposes only. Please refer to your policy for specific coverages and exclusions.

Water Damage Vs Flood: What’s Covered and What’s Not

Wed, 19 Sep 2018 22:00:00 GMT

What Qualifies As Flood Damage?

The National Flood Insurance Program defines a flood as a temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties. A flood must be caused by an overflow of inland or tidal waters, unusual and rapid accumulation of surface waters, mudflow, or the collapse of land along the shore of a body of water.

As a homeowner, this means that water damage on your properly only qualifies as flooding if it also affects at least one of your neighbors. Keep in mind that most flood insurance policies require a 30-day waiting period before the policy takes effect, so implementing a flood insurance policy the day before a hurricane arrives won’t help you minimize your losses.

What Is Water Damage?

Water damage is usually defined as any problems caused by water before it comes in contact with the ground:

A severe rainstorm that soaks through your roof and damages walls and floors
A pipe that bursts, saturates ceiling below
A toilet that overflows and soaks bathroom floorboards
A hailstorm that breaks windows and allows water to enter

Are You Covered?
Every policy is different, so the only way to know your coverage is to carefully read your insurance policy. Many insurance companies include a number of exclusions when it comes to covering water damage. If your water damage is caused by an issue that should have been fixed or prevented – like freezing pipes or a faulty toilet – you may have trouble convincing your insurance company to cover the repairs.

It’s also wise to carry additional flood insurance beyond anything your standard homeowners policy covers, especially in Florida.

For additional assistance with understanding your insurance policy and finding the most suitable coverage options, the team at Tampa Bay Insurance is available to assist. Call (727) 372-5559 to get started.

Note: Coverage examples and descriptions are not absolute and are for informational are sample purposes only. Please refer to your policy for specific coverages and exclusions.

Hurricane Preparedness: How to Help Protect Your Home This Season

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 22:00:00 GMT

Trim Overgrown Trees Now

Strong winds turn majestic shade trees into weapons of destruction. Take the initiative now to trim trees with large, high branches that pose a risk to you, your home, and your neighbors. Preventative action now will minimize damage during the next inevitable hurricane. It could even save a life!

Switch to Hurricane Windows

Standard windows cannot withstand strong hurricane winds. If you have some wiggle room in your budget, either replace your windows with hurricane windows or purchase commercially made storm shutters for extra protection. High-quality hurricane windows and doors are designed to stay in one piece even if shattered. This prevents injury and damage that would normally occur when wind, water, and debris enter your home.

Caulk Around Doors and Windows

Caulking is a simple and affordable yet powerful way to minimize water damage. Even small cracks or gaps will allow water to seep through, and it only takes one inch of water to cause severe and costly damage to your home. Caulking makes your windows and doors airtight to prevent damage and keep your home safe.

Assess Your Insurance Coverage

Hurricane season is the best time to evaluate your homeowners insurance policy and make the necessary changes to ensure you are financially protected. Do you need separate flood insurance? A personal article floater?

Making the most prudent insurance choices might feel intimidating, but it can be simple when you work with an independent insurance agent at Tampa Bay Insurance. Your agent will can help you wade through the multitude of insurance products available and find the best match for your needs. Call (727) 372-5559 to get started.

Note: Coverage examples and descriptions are not absolute and are for informational are sample purposes only. Please refer to your policy for specific coverages and exclusions.

Homeowners Insurance 101: The Importance of a Personal Article Floater

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 22:00:00 GMT

A standard home insurance policy will cover the major items in your home like appliances, furniture, and clothing. The exact specifications of your policy may or may not allow coverage for jewelry, electronics, and antiques. Many homeowners don’t realize the limits of their coverage until tragedy hits and their settlements do not cover the true costs of their damages.

You can prevent falling into this situation by purchasing a personal article floater.

What Is a Personal Article Floater?

A personal article floater allows you to cover the most valuable property in your home, including objects and belongings that require more coverage than provided by your basic homeowner insurance policy. If you own and treasure any of the following items, a personal article floater is a good idea:

Jewelry
Furs
Fine arts
Expensive electronics like cameras
Bicycles
Musical Instruments
China/Crystal
Collections
Guns

What Type of Protection Will Your Floater Provide?

By working with your insurance company, you can identify the right level of monetary protection to fit your needs. Most personal article floaters range from $5,000 to $50,000 in value. In order to purchase a floater and apply it to your belongings, you need to create a “schedule” of the property that will be covered, as well as an appraisal of value. Some items like jewelry require proof of appraisal in order to honor the amount of coverage you purchase.

Get Help Choosing Your Personal Article Floater

Note: Coverage examples and descriptions are not absolute and are for informational are sample purposes only. Please refer to your policy for specific coverages and exclusions.

Cars and Depreciation: Why You Need Gap Insurance

Sun, 09 Sep 2018 22:00:00 GMT

What You Should Know About Car Depreciation

If you buy a brand new car, it loses up to 30% of its total value the instant you drive it off the sales lot. This loss of value doesn’t stop, either. As of 2017, the average rate of depreciation of a vehicle between years two to six was 17.6%. Even if you buy a used car to avoid that initial 30% loss in value, you’re not shielded from depreciation in the future.

Why Depreciation Hits You Where It Hurts

If your car is totaled in an accident or stolen, your car insurance will not cover the amount of your loan or original car purchase price. Instead, it will only cover the value of your car at the time that it was damaged or stolen. If you owe $11,000 on your auto loan, but your car insurance only pays out a $6,000 value, you are in $5,000 worth of trouble.

How Does Gap Insurance Help?

Gap insurance is a supplemental insurance that increases the payout you receive from comprehensive or collision coverage in the case of your car being stolen or totaled. Some gap insurance plans even cover your insurance deductible!

If you can identify with any of the following situations, gap insurance will benefit your financial wellbeing:

You financed a car with a high rate of depreciation
You have financed your vehicle for more than 4 years
Your vehicle down payment was less than 20%
You drive more than 15,000 miles annually
You are a single car family

If you want to protect yourself from a potentially serious financial hardship in the future, consider gap insurance today. At Tampa Bay Insurance, we can provide assistance in finding a suitable policy to meet your specific needs. Call (727) 372-5559 to get started.

Note: Coverage examples and descriptions are not absolute and are for informational are sample purposes only. Please refer to your policy for specific coverages and exclusions.