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Home Insurance for Homeowners Who Have Tenants and Roommates

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At Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia in Kingwood, WV, we know many homeowners opt to share their homes with roommates to lower their living expenses or help out folks who may prefer to live in a house rather than an apartment. No matter what brings roommates into your home, you may wonder if it will affect your home insurance or if your home insurance will cover your roommate’s belongings and liability expenses. To answer these questions, we’ll talk about what you can expect as a homeowner with roommates from your home insurance policy below. Since every home insurance policy differs, speaking to our insurance agents for more detailed information on this topic is important.

Does Home Insurance Cover a Roommate or Tenant’s Belongings?

If your home experiences a theft and your roommate’s belongings are stolen, you might wonder if you can submit a claim to your homeowner’s insurance for their stolen valuables. Unfortunately, most homeowner’s insurance policies will probably not cover the roommate’s belongings. As a result, we recommend the roommate or tenant purchase renter’s insurance to cover those items and protect against liability.

What If You Don’t Live in the Home?

If you no longer use the house where the roommates or tenants live as a primary dwelling, homeowner’s insurance isn’t the appropriate policy for your situation. If you have another primary dwelling, you should get landlord’s insurance to protect yourself and the property. If you share a vacation home with roommates or tenants, second home insurance could be your best option. One of our insurance professionals can help you decide which insurance policy is right for your circumstances.

To protect your home, call our Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia team in Kingwood, WV.

Renters Insurance: For Those Who Don’t Own Their Homes

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Today, more people are renting than ever, and there are also many reasons. From the convenience of being able to pick up and move easily to having the luxury of property management services (because nobody likes to mow their grass on 90-degree days), renting is becoming more popular daily. That also means that the need for protection, such as renters insurance, is also becoming more important, which is why people in and around Kingwood, WV turn to the trusted and proven agents at the Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia for all their insurance needs.

Protection for Renters in Kingwood

West Virginia isn’t only a beautiful place to call home, it is also home to many beautiful rental properties. That is good news for renters, and so are the options that renters have today with renters insurance protection. Renting a home or apartment doesn’t make anyone less susceptible to risks like fires, theft, flooding, and more. The bottom line is that it doesn’t matter if you rent or own your home because your first line of defense against damage, loss, and the unexpected is insurance.

In many cases, the property owner will have (or should have) insurance to cover property damage, such as roof and structural damage, but what about your personal property? What about your computer, jewelry, clothing, or furniture? These are all concerns and questions your agent can help you figure out and, more importantly, protect with the right insurance plan.

Renters Insurance in Kingwood, WV

If you live in or around the beautiful Kingwood, WV, area and are looking for renters insurance, the friendly and professional team at the Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia is here to help. Contact us to learn more about how renters insurance can help protect you and your valuables and get the coverage and protection you need and deserve today. 

Three Frequently Asked Questions About Umbrella Insurance

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You can usually tell what’s covered by an insurance policy by the policy name. Homeowners insurance covers your home. Auto insurance covers your car.

But what is umbrella insurance? What does it cover? The professionals at Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia, servicing Kingwood, WV, are here to help. If you have questions about umbrella insurance, we can help. 

1. What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance offers extended liability coverage that goes beyond the liability coverage offered by another policy, like a homeowners insurance policy. Umbrella insurance is designed to offer an extra level of protection if you are likely to be sued.  

2. Who Needs Umbrella Insurance?

Many people don’t even realize they could benefit from umbrella insurance. If you own a home or have many assets, such as an investment portfolio or a retirement savings account, you could benefit from umbrella insurance.

Generally, your liability coverage should be as much as or more than your assets. You could benefit from umbrella insurance if you can add all your assets together; the total is more than your liability insurance. 

3. How Can I Get the Best Umbrella Insurance Policy for Me?

The best way to get an umbrella insurance policy is to talk to a trusted insurance agent. The Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia professionals servicing Kingwood, WV are here to help. We work with many carriers to ensure our customers have many choices and can find the right policy. 

If you want umbrella insurance, call today to speak with one of our experienced insurance professionals. 

Wading Through Risk: How Flood Insurance Protects Your Most Prized Possessions

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Flash floods caused by natural disasters like severe thunderstorms and coastal storms can occur unexpectedly. Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia, located in Kingwood, WV, offers local residents peace of mind through comprehensive flood insurance.

Why Flood Insurance Matters

Many homeowners in the US are unaware that floods are the most common and costly natural disasters. Worse, standard home insurance policies usually exclude flood damage coverage. Without the right protection, homeowners can be burdened with substantial repair and replacement costs.

Common Causes of Home Flooding

While natural disasters are an obvious cause of home floods, there are several other potential culprits, including:

  • Plumbing Failures
  • Sewage Backups
  • Appliance Malfunctions
  • Improper Drainage
  • Landscaping Issues
  • Foundation Cracks

Consulting with a local licensed insurance agent can help you evaluate your individual needs and select the best flood insurance coverage.

Protect Your Possessions

Investing in a comprehensive flood insurance policy is an excellent way to protect your valuable possessions from loss in a devastating flood. With the ever-changing climate and increasing frequency of extreme weather events, flood insurance is a necessity for homeowners who want to safeguard their homes and property.

Secure Your Future with Flood Insurance

It is crucial to proactively ensure the safety of your home and family from potential flood damage. Don’t wait until it’s too late and the unexpected happens. Contact a trusted insurance agent at Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia in Kingwood, WV, and get your flood insurance quote today!

Small Business, Big Risks: Insurance Essentials for Entrepreneurs

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Navigating Commercial Insurance Essentials in Kingwood, WV

Embarking on the entrepreneurship journey is exciting, yet it’s vital to protect your investment from unforeseen hurdles. At Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia, we understand the unique risks faced by small businesses in the broader Kingwood, WV area. Here are eight commercial insurance essentials every entrepreneur should think about:

1. General Liability Insurance:

It protects your business from claims of bodily injury, property damage, or advertising injury and is a fundamental coverage for most businesses.

2. Commercial Property Insurance:

Safeguards your physical assets like buildings, equipment, inventory, and furnishings from perils such as fire, theft, and vandalism.

3. Business Interruption Insurance:

Offers financial assistance if your business operations are disrupted due to covered perils, helping cover lost income and ongoing expenses.

4. Commercial Auto Insurance:

Provides coverage for vehicles used for business purposes, protecting against accidents, theft, and vandalism.

5. Workers’ Compensation Insurance:

In most states, this mandatory coverage offers benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses, including medical expenses and lost wages.

6. Professional Liability Insurance:

Also known as errors and omissions insurance, it protects professionals against claims of negligence or inadequate work resulting in clients’ financial losses.

7. Cyber Liability Insurance:

It covers your business from the financial consequences of data breaches, cyber-attacks, and other cyber crimes, taking care of expenses like legal fees and customer notifications.

8. Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI):

Covers your business against claims related to employment practices such as discrimination, wrongful termination, or harassment.

Securing the right commercial insurance coverage is vital for the success and longevity of your small business. For personalized guidance and exploring your insurance options, contact Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia. We are at your service in Kingwood, WV. Don’t take a risk with your business. Insure it with Smith!

Auto insurance FAQS

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Residents of Kingwood, WV, and the surrounding area can benefit from the knowledge our team of independent agents at Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia provides. If you have questions about auto insurance, we are here to help. 

What auto insurance is required in West Virginia?

In the state of West Virginia, all drivers are required to have liability insurance coverage to protect other drivers from an accident they may be responsible for. You must carry your insurance card in your vehicle at all times. You are required to have 

  • $25,000 for one accident, one injury
  • $50,000 for one accident, two or more injuries
  • $25,000 for property damage

If you cancel your auto insurance, you are required to turn your license plate back into the DMV, and if you drive without the proper insurance coverage, you are subject to having your driver’s license suspended. 

Why should I have collision and comprehensive coverage?

If you have an auto loan or are leasing a vehicle, you are required to have collision and comprehensive coverage. But beyond that, can you survive without your car? Do you have the money to repair or replace it without insurance? If you answer yes, then you don’t need this coverage, but for the average person, it is a necessity unless your vehicle has little value. 

What documents should I carry with me in my vehicle?

Your vehicle registration and insurance card must always be in your vehicle. You must also carry your driver’s license in the car, either on your person or in the glove box. You could potentially be fined for not having them with you. 

Contact Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia in Kingwood, WV, when you are ready to review your current auto coverage or have questions to ask our experienced agents. 

Preparing your West Virginia home for winter

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West Virginia is known as the mountain state and can be quite ferocious in the winter. Ensuring that your home can stand up to the rough weather is essential in preserving the value of your investment. At Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia in Kingwood, WV, we provide our customers the personalized service they deserve from an independent insurance agent. 

Make sure your home is insulated.

Insulation is important to help your home keep the cold out and warmth in. It can be in the attic, between the walls, and under the floors. It makes whatever hearing system you have more efficient. 

Get a furnace tuneup.

A yearly tuneup helps your furnace to work better and use less fuel. It is also designed to catch anything that might be wrong before it leaves you out in the cold.

Stock up.

It is always a good idea to be prepared for the winter weather, and that means getting sand and salt, stocking up on water, and food that is easy to store and requires little or no cooking. 

Clean out the gutters.

Leaves and other debris can accumulate in the gutters, leading to damage to your roof. It can be dangerous to clean them yourself, so never climb a ladder alone; if you can afford it, get someone else to do it. 

Plug the leaks.

Caulk is inexpensive and can save you a lot of money on heating by plugging any leaks around your windows. Weatherstripping on your doors can take care of any leaks where drafts may be creeping in.

Contact Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia in Kingwood, WV, to make an appointment to discuss your home insurance needs. We can be reached by phone, via email, or in person. 

Four Common Renters Insurance Mistakes in Kingwood, WV and How to Avoid Them

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Renters insurance in Kingwood, WV protects your personal belongings and liability. However, there are many mistakes people make when it comes to renters insurance that we here at Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia would like you to be aware of.

1. Not Obtaining Renters Insurance

We believe that if you rent in any capacity, you should consider renters insurance essential. You can consider renters insurance as a form of homeowners insurance for people who rent. The property owner likely has insurance, but never assume that insurance covers your personal belongings or liability. It typically doesn’t.

2. Waiting Too Long to Obtain Renters Insurance

You don’t need anyone’s permission to obtain renters insurance. The sooner you have coverage, the better. Accidents can occur at any time and for a variety of reasons. You’ll want that peace of mind that comes with coverage instead of the stress that can come from not knowing if you’ll be able to replace your belongings or pay for an accident that occurred on the property.

3. Not Counting All Your Property for Renters Insurance

Renters insurance often requires you to estimate the value of all your belongings. Don’t skip this step. Take a detailed inventory and keep it updated. You can avoid being underinsured if you need to use your insurance coverage.

4. Not Using Your Renters Insurance When You Can

Even if your loss is a few articles of clothing, you can contact your insurance company to make a claim. Protecting your belongings is what renters insurance is all about. Contact your insurer if someone expects you to pay for damage or even a minor injury.

Also, pay attention to what your renter’s insurance policy covers. Not all insurers offer the same exact policy. Your insurance may cover things beyond the bare minimum, and knowing precisely what your policy entails is a good idea.

If you want to learn more about renters insurance in Kingwood, WV, how it works, and what it can do for you, contact us at Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia.

Umbrella Insurance: When Pretty Sure Isn’t Sure Enough

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Insurance is a proven form of security and protection for people and businesses across the greater Morgantown and Kingwood, WV area. One of the most common questions policyholders have, however, regards what is and isn’t covered. That is also where the expertise and help of agencies like the Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia can help.

Regarding insurance coverage, it isn’t sure enough for many home and business owners. That is also where umbrella insurance policies can bridge the gap and help ensure coverage for policyholders.

Additional Coverage Where You Need It

One of the most helpful features of umbrella insurance is its flexibility to extend coverage limits across various liability situations. That includes protection against potential liabilities such as injuries, property damage, lawsuits, and other scenarios.

If you have questions about what your insurance policy does and doesn’t cover an experienced and professional insurance agency can help. At the Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia, we help people from in and around Kingwood, WV, with all their insurance coverage needs. 

That means that when pretty sure isn’t good enough, umbrella insurance is often the solution by providing the coverage you need. Additionally, umbrella insurance functions like a supplement to current policies, so policyholders can choose which umbrella policies work best.

Umbrella Insurance for Morgantown and Kingwood, WV

If you live in or near Morgantown or Kingwood, WV, and want to learn more about umbrella insurance or if it could benefit you, we can help. Contact us at the Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia to learn more and to ensure you have the coverage you want, need, and deserve.

Do You Need Flood Insurance for Your West Virginia Home?

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Our agents at the Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia serving the Kingwood, WV area want you to know and understand why flood insurance is an important policy for homeowners.

West Virginia is a state that experiences a variety of different types of weather each year, and some weather events can cause flooding, even in areas that are not prone to flooding. Nothing is worse than watching the water rise inside your home and feeling helpless to stop it. With proper flood insurance, at least you can take solace in knowing that you can quickly replace and repair many of your items after the water recedes.

Do You Need Flood Insurance for Your West Virginia Home?

With as many unusual weather events that have happened lately, it is a good idea to have flood insurance. Flood insurance will help you replace items lost due to flooding from a storm or if the flooding is caused by sewer backup that directly results from flooding.

Flood insurance will help you recoup items lost in a flood, such as your furnace, central air, clothing, and even your water heater and other items. You never know when a flood may occur in your home, so it is imperative that you have a policy in place to be on the safe side.

Contact the Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia

Our Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia agents, serving the Kingwood, WV area, are ready to assist you with all your insurance needs, including your flood insurance coverage. Call today for an appointment and get your flood insurance policy in place before the next storm.