What Does Flood Insurance Cover?

The simple truth is that a flood can be devastating to a family. Not only can it ruin the contents of your home, a bad flood can lead to foundation problems. The cost can be astronomical. For that reason, you should consider getting flood insurance if you live in a flood zone or even just a place where damaging storms roll through the area. Your homeowners’ insurance will not cover damage due to flooding. You will need to purchase additional insurance in order to be protected. 

If you get flood insurance, you may be wondering what it covers. Here are some things that flood insurance covers. 

It covers any damage that occurs due to partial or complete flooding over normally dry land. 

It will also cover damage due to mudslides due to flooding. 

There are two policies when it comes to flood insurance. One covers your home, while the other type covers your personal property that is inside your home. 

Your flood insurance should cover any mold that may occur. If you do everything that you can to prevent mold after flooding, and it still happens, your flood insurance will cover the damage. 

One good thing about flood insurance is that you don’t have to wait for a disaster to be federally declared in order to get your claims paid. If you are dealing with flood damage, you can submit your claim. It is also important to know that you won’t have to pay back your claims. Unlike federal aid, you won’t have to repay the money that you get from your claim.   

If you are unsure about whether you need flood insurance, you should contact us at Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc in Pismo Beach, CA. 

Why condo insurance is so important

Pismo Beach, CA residents can count on Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc for all of their insurance needs. If you are looking at purchasing a condo, don’t forget to find the right condo policy too! Our team is here to answer any questions that you may have.

The importance of condo insurance

When it comes to protecting your home, the same rules apply whether you are living in a home or a condo. There are some unique factors that you may have to consider for either option, but having the right policy in place is always a great idea, no matter what type of home you choose.

A comprehensive condo policy can provide the coverage that you need. It is important to have the right policy in place because your condo board’s insurance policy will not cover your unit. Any damage or loss that occurs within your until will be your sole responsibility. 

While a condo board may have a policy that protects the overall structure and building and damage that occurs in the common areas, that will not cover all of your needs. Make sure that you review all of your needs and then choose the policy that is right for you.

Condo insurance covers all of the basics, including theft, liability, and other similar situations. A basic policy may meet some of your needs, but it is worth the time to take a careful look at all of your available options. 

Learn more about condo insurance today!

If you are a condo owner in the greater Pismo Beach, CA area, give Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc a call to learn more. There are a number of fantastic condo insurance policy options available in our area. Call or stop by today!

Home Insurance: What Is It and Why Do I Need It?

Your home is designed to protect you from outside elements, but at the same time, it is an investment that you need to protect. If a disaster were to strike, you probably wouldn’t be able to afford to repair or replace it. Therefore, it is imperative to understand what home insurance is and why you need it. Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc shares some information Pismo Beach, CA residents need to know about home insurance.

What Exactly Is Home Insurance?

Home insurance specifically protects your home’s physical structure as well as anything within the interior of the home if it suffers damage or is destroyed. You also have liability coverage, which protects you against legal action and medical expenses if someone were to suffer an injury while at your home.

A home insurance policy will cover the repair or replacement costs when your home suffers damage as a result of a covered peril like wind, fire, lightning, vandalism, or theft. Keep in mind that a standard home insurance policy doesn’t normally cover damage that results from an earthquake, backed-up sewer, or flood.

Why You Need to Purchase Home Insurance

While homeowners insurance isn’t required by law, it is generally required by mortgage lenders if you are paying on the house. Even after paying off your mortgage, though, it is always wise to maintain home insurance coverage so your home is properly protected in the event of a catastrophe. This type of peace of mind can go a long way.

If you would like to learn about your options for home insurance in Pismo Beach, CA, schedule a consultation with an insurance agent at Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc.

Buying Auto Insurance? Consider These 3 Things

There are some important questions to ask yourself when you purchase auto insurance. These questions will help you in determining the type and amount of coverage needed. To assist you in this process, Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc, serving Pismo Beach, CA, shares some of the most important factors to take into consideration when you are purchasing car insurance.

State Minimum by Law

Each state has its own minimum car insurance coverage that is required. The minimum in the state of California is 15/30/5, which means $15,000 for bodily injury coverage per person up to $30,000, in addition to $5,000 for property damage coverage.

Just because this is the state minimum, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t purchase additional coverage. There is always the possibility of being involved in an accident that the state minimum car insurance coverage will not sufficiently cover, which would leave you paying out of your own pocket.

Value and Age of Automobile

If you have a relatively new vehicle that was expensive to purchase, you will likely want to invest in full coverage auto insurance, which includes both collision and comprehensive damage coverage. This ensures you’re reimbursed in the event of a loss due to theft or vandalism as well as damage to your vehicle if you are found at-fault. If you have an older vehicle that likely doesn’t have a value that would be returned in the event of an accident, it may be recommended to drop full coverage.

Amount of Risk You Want to Avoid

You will also want to take into consideration how much risk you want to avoid. If you would prefer to protect your vehicle at all costs over saving a little bit of money, you may want to keep your full coverage, lower your deductibles, and increase your liability coverage limits. However, if your overall goal is to pay out as little as possible each month, you may want to only choose liability coverage, lower your liability limits, and raise your deductibles. Just don’t forget to maintain the minimum amount of coverage required in the state of California.

Hopefully, this information has helped you with determining what you need in terms of auto insurance. If you still have questions and need help, Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc, serving Pismo Beach, CA, can assist you in designing an auto insurance policy that fits your needs and budget. Contact us today!

How does umbrella insurance protect my business?

Every business in Pismo Beach, CA that plans on remaining competitive in any industry needs to have umbrella insurance. The policy offers extra protection from liabilities that could threaten the stability of your business. The policy extends over other policies such as general liability, professional liability, commercial auto insurance, etc. If you’re wondering whether you need to buy umbrella insurance for your business, Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc will answer all the questions you might have.

Commercial property

While any business can benefit from umbrella insurance, businesses that run on commercial properties can benefit more from umbrella insurance. Commercial property means inviting other people into the business property. If someone gets injured on this property, you risk getting sued for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering by the victim. Your general liability might not be adequate to cover all the medical expenses, and that’s where commercial umbrella insurance comes in.

Employees

If you or your employees work on people’s property, such as renovating homes or businesses, your business is at risk of getting sued for accidental property damage or injuries. Without adequate liability coverage, you might be forced to pay the funds out of pocket.

Government contracts

If you’re a contractor in Pismo Beach, CA, you might miss out on some government contracts if you do not have umbrella insurance. This policy helps provide assurance to your clients that you will be responsible for any damages or injuries that might result from your business operations.

Risky business

 You need umbrella insurance more if you run a risky business. Almost all businesses carry a form of risk unless it is a home-based sole proprietorship without direct contact with clients, employees, or subcontractors.  Even if this is your case, you can still be sued by your clients, and professional liability or general liability may not always be adequate to cover the legal fees.

To learn more about commercial umbrella insurance, contact Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc, and we will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Why is Auto Insurance Necessary when in California?

People that are in the Pismo Beach, CA area will likely want to own a car. With a vehicle, it will be much easier to get around the community and other areas. When you are shopping for a car, it is important that you assess your insurance needs. This coverage is necessary in the state of California for various reasons. 

Needed to Comply with Requirements

A reason that drivers in the state of California need to have auto insurance is that it is required to comply with requirements. Drivers that want to use any public road are going to be required to carry liability insurance whenever they are out driving. Also, if you have taken out a car loan, you will need a full collision and comprehensive plan until the loan is repaid. Having coverage will keep you in compliance.

Insurance Provides Helpful Coverage

You also will want to have an auto insurance plan because it can offer helpful protection. Those that are going to purchase a car will want to know that it is covered against risks that could result in a loss. Further, they will want to know they have support if they are found at fault in a vehicle accident. With auto coverage, you can have the coverage needed to have comfort that you and your car are protected.

People that are shopping for a car in Pismo Beach, CA will need to assess their insurance needs. If you are looking for an insurance plan here, calling Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc can be beneficial. The team with Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc will give you and support that is needed to build a plan that can protect you, your vehicle, and ensure you remain in compliance with various requirements.  

Preparing Your Motorcycle for the Off Season

Although Pismo Beach, CA is usually warm, it gets cold enough in the winter that riding a motorcycle can be too chilly for some. If you’re not going to be riding, Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc recommends winterizing your motorcycle with these steps.

Change out Your Oil

Older oil collects contaminants that corrode the interior of a vehicle. Frequent oil changes should be a part of any vehicle’s maintenance, but doing it as part of winterizing keeps your motorcycle from sitting in as many corrosives.

Fill the Gas Tank

Many of the active elements of gas will evaporate in just a month or two. This leaves behind gas that doesn’t do its job and a residue that clogs the interior. Filling up the tank and adding a fuel stabilizer prevents that from happening, plus you don’t have to stop by the gas station in the spring.

Remove and Charge the Battery

Even though it’s extra work, charging your battery over the winter will improve its performance and lifespan.

Give Your Bike a Thorough Cleaning

Before you stick your motorcycle in the garage, treat it to a wash. Dirt and other inconspicuous residues can damage paint, tarnish chrome, and cause rusting. Once you’ve got the motorcycle clean and in its resting location, cover it up to preserve your work.

Check Your Insurance

When you don’t plan on driving your motorcycle, you don’t need the same level of insurance. Check with your insurance to make sure you have a reduced rate and to see if they have a lay-up policy that covers hazards like fire and theft without temporarily unneeded road coverage. Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc in Pismo Beach, CA is happy to help our customers with any questions about their policy or help new customers find one that works for them.

California Flood Insurance: Maintenance Tips to Help Flood Proof Your Home

When you live in California, flooding can be on your mind. Flood insurance is a good way to ease some of that pain.  You can also take some measures to floodproof your home so that you won’t have to make a claim.

At Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc., we want Pismo Beach, CA residents to manage their homes so that when floods arrive, the crisis isn’t as big as it looks.

Use these tips to floodproof your home.

Elevate Your Boiler

When you have boilers and air-conditioning units in lower levels of your home, invest in ways to elevate them. These are areas that flood damage will find first. Build a platform or bring the elements higher so that risk is minimal with flood damage. 

Install a Sewage Water Backup System

A sewage water backup system will prevent a major and costly disaster. This will prevent any sewage damage from entering your basement. When a basement floor backs up, this device could save you. This will often get you some reductions on your home insurance premium as well.

Exterior Changes

You can add swales and depressions to runoff areas outside your home in order to prevent floods and backup. A contractor that is experienced in exterior flood protection can help you, and this investment will be worth the cost. This is an investment that only needs to be made once, with maintenance every year, and it will pay for itself in time.

Get a Quote

When you have a home in California, flood risks are on your mind. Flood insurance can help you in this crisis when home maintenance tips can not. At Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc., we want Pismo Beach, CA residents to have the coverage they need in order to feel more secure in these crises. 

Condo Insurance & Water Damage

If you live in a condo, there is always the chance that you could experience water damage at no fault of your own. When your home is connected to other homes, this is simply a fact of life. You can plan for these potentialities by getting the appropriate condo insurance.

Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. serves the area of Pismo Beach, CA by providing a variety of insurance options. If you are concerned about water damage, here’s what you need to know.

Condo Insurance Helps Owners

When you own a condo, you need to know that your property has the most protection possible. This includes protection against water damage. While coverage may help you with a variety of damage types, it is important to know that most condo insurance policies do not include flood damage.

Burst Pipes

If a pipe bursts in your condo, your policy can provide financial protection for the items destroyed in the process. Your policy may also help you with the repair and replacement costs for the damage itself so that you can prevent this problem from happening again in the future.

Water Flowing From Common Areas

Living in a condo means dealing with common areas that may experience damage of their own. While the building owner may cover the damage to common areas, water could seep into your condo. Fortunately, insurance may cover this damage.

No Two Policies Are Exactly the Same

Keep in mind that all policies are different. Make sure to read the condo insurance documents you received to ensure you have adequate protection for your home.

Get Condo Insurance Today

Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc., which helps residents of Pismo Beach, CA, can help you get the insurance you need. Contact an insurance agent to learn more about your condo insurance options.

4 Reasons Your Business Needs Lability Insurance

Owning a business in Pismo Beach, CA, is exciting and rewarding, but it comes with a fair of liabilities. While you can observe due diligence to mitigate third-party claims, you need business liability insurance to cushion your business when liability claims come calling. 

Unfortunately, since liability insurance isn’t mandatory in California, many business owners may push it on the wayside. However, this could turn catastrophic when the unthinkable happens. In light of this, be wise and purchase liability insurance from Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. for the below reasons.

A single event can wind down your business

Do you know it only takes one single event to put your business in jeopardy? Whether it’s an omission in a contract, employee injury, or a customer slipping while on your premises, it takes one event to compromise the sustainability of your business. However, with the appropriate liability insurance, you can protect your business against claims that come your way.

Life is unpredictable

You can put all the safety measures to protect your customers and employees, but mishaps can still happen. However, you can have peace of mind with liability insurance, knowing that you are protected against unpredictable events.

Lawsuits are common

Since we live in a litigious society, you need liability insurance to protect your business when legal suits come raining. One legal claim can be significant enough to ruin your business finances. As such, you need liability insurance to protect your business against lawsuits when you are accused of property damage, advertising, or bodily injury.

For peace of mind

Why worry when liability insurance can take care of your stress? Take comfort in liability insurance instead of living on the edge, wondering what kind of liability will strike your business.

Buy business insurance today!

Are you looking for an affordable business insurance policy in Pismo Beach, CA? Why don’t you contact Neff & Associates Insurance Services Inc. for a competitive quote?