Home Insurance

Three Questions to Ask Your Insurance Agent When Getting Home Insurance

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When getting home insurance, it’s important to ask the right questions. The professionals at Goodman Insurance Inc., servicing Shelton, CT, provide information for customers trying to find the best policy for their needs and budget. Below, we’ve listed three important questions to ask your insurance agent before getting an insurance policy.

1. How Much Will It Cost?

Cost is always a primary consideration for people shopping for home insurance. One of the benefits of working with an independent insurance agent from Goodman Insurance Inc. is that we can get quotes from several insurance carriers. This makes shopping around easy. We’ll help you understand the different options, including the levels of coverage with each policy.

2. Are My Contents Insured for Replacement Value?

If your contents are insured for replacement value, the insurance policy will pay to replace your belongings if they are lost during a covered event.

If your policy only covers the actual cash value of your personal belongings, the policy will pay far less if a covered event occurs. To ensure that your policy will replace your belongings following a covered event, talk to your insurance agent to get a policy that offers replacement value coverage.

3. How Can I Determine How Much Coverage Is Needed For My House?

It is important to choose a policy that provides enough coverage for your home. Your insurance agent at Goodman Insurance Inc., servicing Shelton, CT, can help with this. We have years of experience assisting customers in finding the right coverage and policy for their needs.

Do you have other questions about home insurance? We can help! Call today to get started shopping for your home insurance policy.

Three Things That Mean It’s Time To Replace Your Roof

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As a homeowner, you’re probably wondering when you should patch your roof and when it’s time for a full replacement. Below are three signs that your patching days are over and you need to move forward with a new roof.

1. Curling and Dry-Rotted Shingles

One of the first signs that your roof needs replacement is the curling of shingles all around it. If it were in just one place, it could be patched, but when it’s all over the roof, it’s time to have them all replaced. If you have to replace over 25 percent of your shingles, it’s time to go ahead and get a new roof, as you’ll be paying that same amount in another year to do another large section and put your home at risk.

2. Moss Growth On The Roof

While a new roof should be able to manage excess moss growth, those roofs that are older and breaking down will harbor more moss than others. This is because water is getting through, potentially causing water leaks in the home. If you’ve noticed lots of moss growing around your roof, the moss has some water beneath the shingles, allowing it to have a healthy environment, which means you need a new roof.

3. Energy Getting Out

In the winter, the insulation in the roof is supposed to keep the heat in, and in the summer, keep the cool air in. If you’ve noticed that you’re using a lot of electricity, and your roof is at least 20 years old, then it isn’t managing energy properly in your home. This is a sign that it’s time to go ahead and get a new roof. Otherwise, utility expenses and roof patches will cost you more over time.

If you need a home insurance quote in the Shelton, CT, area, contact Goodman Insurance Inc. for more information.

Insuring Your Older Home

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Classic or Historic, Your Old Home Needs Protection

The Shelton, CT area and Fairfield County are known for their older and historic homes. At Goodman Insurance Inc., we provide homeowners insurance tailored to the needs of these classic residences alongside standard policies for newer properties.

Factors Affecting the Insurance of Older Homes

Owning an older home comes with certain unique considerations, from regular upkeep to insuring the property adequately. Here, we discuss aspects of coverage you should be mindful of, as they can influence your premiums and even your eligibility for insurance coverage:

  • Aging Roofs: Roofs are frequently involved in homeowners insurance claims, largely because of their limited lifespan. A well-maintained roof can endure for 25 years or longer in the Northeast. However, as your roof nears the end of its lifespan, your insurance company might require a replacement before extending coverage.
  • Outdated Electrical Systems: If your older home hasn’t seen an electrical upgrade, you may face challenges when securing home insurance. Such systems can pose risks to both your property and its inhabitants. Upgrading your electrical wiring can make your home safer and potentially lower your insurance premiums.
  • Aged Plumbing and Pipes: Older homes often come with dated plumbing systems that may no longer meet today’s rigorous standards. Such setups may be prone to failure and code violations. A professional plumbing inspection can identify areas in need of an upgrade.

The Value-Add of Home Upgrades

Investing in upgrades such as roof replacement, electrical system improvements, and plumbing updates could lead to more affordable home insurance premiums. Certain safety and security upgrades related to general home maintenance and enhancements might qualify your older home for further discounts.

Reach Out for a Customized Quote

If you’re seeking competitive, respectful coverage for your older home in Shelton, CT, contact us at Goodman Insurance Inc. We would be delighted to conduct a home insurance review or provide a price quote custom-tailored to your specific needs. We look forward to serving you soon.

Residential Land Improvements To Keep Your Property Secure

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The lack of security features outdoors makes your residence prone to theft and vandalism. Review the security guidelines that follow. Contact one of our Goodman Insurance Inc. agents who serve Shelton, CT to update your existing home insurance policy.

Risks

Before any land improvements are made, determine the risk of theft and vandalism that could occur on your property. In addition, consider natural weather events that could pose a threat to your property.

Any risk you determine could indicate that you need to make some improvements to your property to keep it more secure.

Enclosure

A fence and gate will prevent trespassing. These types of upgrades can also improve the beauty of your property. If you have children or pets who spend time outdoors, adding a fence and gate will ensure that your kids and pets are safe and secure when they spend time outside.

Grading

Grading your land will improve the appearance of your property. It will also prevent water from pooling on your land. Use grading equipment to level the surface of your property. Add gravel or mulch to improve the drainage of your land.

Storage

Keeping high-priced items out of view will minimize the chance of having someone attempt to trespass onto your land. Seek a storage solution for any items of value. If you decide to store items in your garage or shed, invest in a locking system that will protect the items.

Policy Modification

Contact one of our Goodman Insurance Inc. representatives to discuss the land improvements that you have made. An agent who serves Shelton, CT, will modify your home insurance policy for you.

Does My Home Insurance Policy Cover My Work-From-Home Business?

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If you work from home, you should know that home insurance policies usually provide limited coverage for work-related tools and equipment. However, you have several options for gaining additional coverage. If you live in or near Shelton, CT, our Goodman Insurance Inc. team will happily create the home and business insurance coverage that works for you.

Home Insurance and Working From Home

Generally, home insurance covers personal assets and activities, not business assets and activities. Employees who work from home can expect their company’s insurance to cover their business assets when employees work from home, but it is best to confirm their policies.

If you run a small firm and work from home, your home policy often covers only $2,500 in business assets, so additional coverage is needed. Adding a business property endorsement to your home policy may be enough for the self-employed or freelancers. Still, many small businesses have assets exceeding the $5,000 limit standard to these policies.

In-home business insurance is another option for businesses with few employees and less than $250,000 in revenues. These policies include increased property coverage, liability protection, and other elements of commercial insurance coverage.

Home-based businesses with revenues exceeding $250,000 can opt for a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP). BOPs can package the commercial insurance elements needed for particular companies, including Workmen’s Compensation and liability coverage for colleagues or customers injured at your residence. 

Discussing your specific situation and business needs with your agent to confirm whether and how your home policy covers work-related assets is highly recommended.

Working with Goodman Insurance Inc.

Goodman Insurance Inc. proudly serves homeowners and businesses in and near Shelton, CT. So, call or stop in today so we can help protect your personal and business assets.

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

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The experienced and knowledgeable home insurance agents at Goodman Insurance Inc. serving the Shelton, CT area know that your home is where your heart is, and you will do anything to protect it. The best way to protect the investment of time, money, and energy you have put into your home is to have adequate home insurance. This is important even if you no longer have a mortgage on your home and are required by a lender to have a home insurance policy.

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

Nearly all basic home insurance policies cover the structure of your house and its contents, including your clothing, furniture, appliances, personal belongings, electronics, and more. You can add to your policy to cover any outbuildings or other structures on your property, such as decks, garages, porches, sheds, and even privacy fences.

Home insurance policies are created to assist you in replacing or repairing your home if it becomes damaged by some horrible event. Those events usually covered include natural disasters, fires, burglaries, and acts of vandalism.

Home insurance will also come in handy if a guest to your home falls and injures themselves or is injured in some other way. Your home insurance policy will help cover their medical bills and possibly even their lost wages if they have to be off work for a certain period. Your home insurance policy can keep you from being sued since you can cover a person’s medical bills upfront.

It is good to keep in mind that most home insurance policies do not include flooding or earthquakes. You can add these policies to your central home insurance policies as addendums.

Contact Goodman Insurance Inc.

To create an excellent home insurance policy for your situation, contact the home insurance agents at Goodman Insurance Inc., serving the Shelton, CT, area today!

How To Make a Home Inventory for Homeowner’s Insurance

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A home inventory is a big piece of protecting your investment and ensuring that your homeowner’s insurance covers everything. Goodman Insurance Inc., located in Shelton, CT, is eager to help you learn how to create a complete list of your possessions for your policy. By keeping a detailed inventory, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that we have what’s needed if you have to make a claim.

Getting Started

After looking around your place, creating a home inventory may seem like an overwhelming job. However, it can be done rather easily with little planning and organization. We recommend you follow these steps to streamline the process and make things as stress-free as possible:

  • Choose a method: First, decide whether you prefer to create a physical list, use a digital spreadsheet, or take advantage of one of the many home inventory apps. 
  • Start with high-value items: Begin by documenting your most valuable possessions. Things like jewelry, electronics, and artwork should be at the top. Ensure you include a description, the make and model, serial number, purchase date, and an estimated value.
  • Move room by room: Go through each room, listing every item and its details. Don’t forget to include items in closets, attics, basements, and garages.
  • Please take photos or videos: Take pictures or video footage to provide visual proof of their condition and the fact that you have them. This can be particularly helpful for items that are difficult to describe or have unique features.
  • Keep receipts and appraisals: Store any related documents, like receipts or appraisals, with your list. The information helps validate claims and speeds up the process.
  • Update regularly: Make sure to update your home inventory whenever you get new items or dispose of old ones. It is also a good idea to review your list at least once a year,

Safeguard Your Inventory

Once your home inventory is complete, store it securely, such as a fireproof safe or a digital cloud storage service. Share a copy with our insurance agent at Goodman Insurance Inc. in Shelton, CT. We will review it and ensure you have enough coverage for everything on your list.

Make an Appointment Today

Take the first step toward protecting your most prized possessions and all of your belongings by creating a detailed home inventory list. Contact Goodman Insurance Inc. in Shelton, CT, today to discuss your homeowner’s insurance protection needs. Let our experienced team guide you through the sometimes challenging process. We’re happy to help!

Home Insurance: What It Does and Does Not Cover

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If you own a house, you probably understand that protecting it is crucial. One of the best ways to do it is to purchase home insurance. Its purpose is to protect you and your home from the unexpected. However, before buying any home insurance policy, you should know what home insurance covers and does not cover. 

What Is Covered By Home Insurance?

It is essential to know that home insurance is divided into two parts – property coverage and liability protection. 

Property protection covers the following:

  • Dwelling
  • Personal property 
  • Loss of use or additional living expenses
  • Other structures
  • Additional coverages

Here is what liability protection covers:

  • Personal liability 
  • Liability 
  • Medical bills

What is NOT Covered By Home Insurance?

Unfortunately, home insurance has certain limitations and does not cover everything. Here is what is usually not covered by standard home insurance:

  • Flood damage
  • Earthquake damage
  • Home insurance and mold
  • Volcano coverage
  • Landslides

If you think you may face these risks or you live in an area prone to the risks listed above, you should consider buying additional special coverage. 

Goodman Insurance Inc. in Shelton, CT – The Insurance Company That You Can Trust

If you are lucky and you have a property in Shelton, CT, or any other nearby area, it is important to have proper and sufficient home insurance to protect your home. If you are searching for an insurance agency to purchase a home insurance plan addressing your needs, do not look any further – Goodman Insurance Inc. will gladly assist you. Our experienced insurance specialists will answer all your questions and provide detailed information about the insurance types we sell. 

Protect Your Biggest Asset With Home Insurance

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If you’re like most homeowners, your home is your largest asset and your biggest investment. When you own a home, it’s important to protect that asset by having a home insurance policy. Not only does this insurance cover your home, but it can also protect your finances and your possessions. To get your home insurance policy, call us at Goodman Insurance Inc. in Shelton, CT, and protect yourself and your home. 

Dwelling Coverage

One of a home insurance policy’s most important types of coverage is the coverage for the actual dwelling. This protects every part of your home against a wide range of risks that it could face. Incidents that can damage your home include calamities, accidents, and disasters, and your policy will cover you against many of them. The exact incidents that are covered will be spelled out in your policy. If one of those should happen and your home is damaged or destroyed, the home policy can pay for it to be either repaired or rebuilt, depending on the need. This can save you an enormous amount of money after a damaging incident. 

Possessions Coverage

Another form of protection you get from home insurance is coverage for all your possessions in your home. This coverage can be nearly as valuable as your dwelling protection. When you add up what all of your items are worth, it often adds up to hundreds of thousands of dollars. To protect this investment, you need home insurance to cover it. When items get ruined in a covered incident, your home policy can pay for you to replace them. 

Protect Your Investment

It would be best if you had a home insurance policy to protect your home and what’s in it. Call us at Goodman Insurance Inc. in Shelton, CT to get one.

What to Do When Your Home Insurance Policy Expires

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Home insurance is one of those things that you don’t think about until you need it. But when your policy expires, it’s essential to take the time to understand your options and choose a new policy that meets your needs. In this post, we’ll discuss what to do when your home insurance policy expires and how to choose a new policy that fits your needs. We’ll also provide tips on what to look for in a new home insurance policy. By the end of this post, you should have a good understanding of the home insurance process and be well on your way to finding the right policy for you.

1. Examine Your Coverage Needs

When your home insurance policy expires, the first thing you should do is take a look at your coverage needs. If you’ve experienced changes in your life since you last bought home insurance, your coverage needs may also have changed. If you’ve moved to a new home, you’ll need to ensure that your coverage meets the needs of your new property. And if you’ve made any significant renovations to your home, you’ll need to ensure that your home insurance policy covers those.

2. Compare Home Insurance Policies

Once you know what coverage you need, you can compare home insurance policies. There are a few things you’ll want to compare when you’re looking at home insurance policies:

  • The coverages offered: Make sure that the policy you’re considering offers the coverages you need.
  • The deductible: Try and find a policy with a deductible that you’re comfortable paying. However, remember that a lower deductible usually means a higher premium.
  • The premium: Make sure you can afford the policy you’re considering. Remember that the price isn’t the only thing that matters – you also need to ensure that the policy provides the coverage you need.

3. Choose a Policy and Purchase It

Once you’ve compared home insurance policies and found one that fits your needs, it’s time to purchase it. You can usually purchase home insurance through an insurance agent, broker, or insurance company. If you’re buying the policy through an agent or broker, they can help you understand the coverage and answer any questions.

Get Home Insurance in Connecticut

If you’re looking for home insurance, Goodman Insurance Inc. is a great option. We offer a variety of home insurance policies to meet your needs, and our experienced agents can help you find the right policy for you. Contact us today to get started.