Floods are frequent in some states in the U.S, and Florida is not exceptional. This is so because of the characteristic nature of Florida’s weather patterns, geography, and proximity to both inland and coastal waters. This often puts the state at risk for floods including the surrounding areas. Homeowners in Florida should take a flood insurance cover if they own any structure in high-risk flood areas. This insurance is also known as under the ground cover or water traveling along.  

How the policy works 

Even though renters and homeowners insurance doesn’t cover floods including surges, you can purchase a flood policy separately from private insurers like Altamonte Springs, FL based Blanchard Insurance or the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).  Just like in any state, the NFIP aims to reduce the demand of the state of Florida on federal disaster assistance for uninsured flood losses. Also, it helps enforce building codes, retain and restore wetlands to absorb floodwaters and encourage homeowners to live flood-wary.  

Policy sign up 

Signing up for the plan is a requisite when taking a mortgage loan if your property is located in the flood-prone zone. Besides, the policy is a reasonable consideration for residents living in lowly elevated grounds or places with high exposure to storms. While shopping for a flood insurance cover, you are likely to come across different private insurers who apply different rates. 

Would you like an insurer to help you underwrite a flood insurance policy? Altamonte Springs, FL based Blanchard Insurance agents will ensure you have all the support you need. Call us today we will partner together and mitigate the effects of any such future flood risks. 

 

Most people in Altamonte Springs, FL probably don’t get an umbrella insurance policy because they don’t think they need it. When you purchase standard auto, life, renter or property insurance through Blanchard Insurance, you only consider your direct needs.

However, an umbrella policy can protect you if you are ever the subject of a large liability lawsuit. Because the policy limits can be much higher, umbrella policies offer greater overall protection. They can also offer wider protection, like a real umbrella sheltering its holder.

Some Examples of What May Be Covered 

Whether you own a home or an automobile, you can have an umbrella policy which will limit your liability in case of an excessive judgment. One example is if you are liable for an accident where the other vehicle’s value exceeded your policy limits. Another example is if someone at your home falls or is bitten by a dog. An umbrella policy will effectively raise your rates to help meet the judgments. 

An umbrella policy will also protect you as a landlord if someone is hurt using your property. It can even cover your damages if you are sued for libel or slander. One of the best and most important parts of having an umbrella policy is that it will also cover the legal fees necessary to defend yourself in a lawsuit.

How Does It Work? 

The basic principle of an umbrella policy is that it will start offering you protection once you reach the limits on your other policies. So you need to start with a basic policy and then add this extra coverage. 

If you are wondering if an umbrella policy can help you in Altamonte Springs, FL, call Blanchard Insurance for free advice and a quote. 

At Blanchard Insurance, the agents are always looking out for the clients in Altamonte Springs, FL, especially when it comes to life insurance. It’s important to know just how much coverage you need. Even if you are passed the age of 65, there are life insurance policies that can benefit you and your family in the long run. Knowing what types of policies are available to you will help you make a wise decision.

How Late Is Too Late?

Even if you’re in your 60’s and 70’s, there are some shorter term life insurance policies you may qualify for. Permanent life policies are also available if you meet other requirements. No matter how old you are, it’s important to take into consideration what will happen to your family if you pass away without some type of policy that will help them pay your final expenses. If you already have your final expenses covered, then the proceeds from your policy can be used to clear away debt or pay off your mortgage.

There Are Always Benefits

Having an insurance policy in place will always allow for some type of benefit. If you are in your 50’s and sign up for a term life insurance policy that is due to mature in 20 years, you will have that much available to you when you retire. Aside from paying for your final expenses, your life insurance proceeds can be used for a variety of things. You can choose to cash the policy out or simply let it stay where it is and gain interest.

The residents of Altamonte Springs, FL can call Blanchard Insurance any time they have questions or concerns about their life insurance. Call today to get the answers you need!

The new “gig economy” has grown the numbers of independent contractors in Altamonte Springs, FL and all across the country since the Great Recession. While some industries have addressed the question of insurance coverage for contractors, others may need to take a second look at the potential insurance needs for themselves and their workers. Accidents and injuries can happen in any industry and profession. Whether you need insurance for your independent contractors (or whether you need insurance as an independent contractor) depends on the type of work involved and the amount of risk you are comfortable taking. 

Businesses and Independent Contractors: Why You Should Get Insurance  

If your independent contractor has no insurance, you could be held liable for their sub-par, code-violating work, accidents, or illegal conduct. Most of the time it is appropriate for both the independent contractor and the business to carry general liability insurance. This will help you, no matter which side of the fence you are coming from, in the event that you face a lawsuit. Independent contractors have the same liabilities as any other business.

General Liability Insurance 

GL insurance protects you in the event of injuries, equipment breakage, and property damage on the job site. It protects both the independent contractor and the business contracting with them.  

Errors and Omissions Insurance 

This insurance covers overlooked items and professional mistakes and is crucial in professional industries such as software development, law, medicine, and engineering. It generally protects you against claims for legal expenses in the event a lawsuit is brought regarding unacceptable work or work not performed, including: 

• Professional mistakes 
• Failure to deliver promised goods 
• Professional negligence 

Commercial Auto Coverage 

If your independent contractor drives on your behalf as part of a contractual project or job, you may be held liable in the event of an accident or collision. Commercial automobile coverage from Blanchard Insurance will protect both you and your independent contractor while they provide driving services in the course of their work.

Before buying a home insurance policy, consider the value of your home and personal belongings. If you own a lot of valuables, you may need more protection than what a standard policy has to offer. Talking to a  Blanchard Insurance agent will give you greater insight into coverage options and costs so you can get the protection your Altamonte Springs, FL home needs.

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

Homeowner’s insurance protects your structure, personal goods and liability claims, according to the limits on your policy. If your house or goods are damaged in a storm or fire, home insurance will help pay for their repair or replacement costs. If a friend were to have an accident on your property, your liability coverage would help cover his medical costs.

What about Valuables?

Most insurance policies cover valuables up to a certain amount. If your valuables exceed that amount, you’ll need to purchase additional coverage to fully protect these assets. By reviewing your policy with one of our agents, you can confirm what valuables are covered and the amount of coverage provided. You’ll then need to have your valuables appraised to determine their worth. If your policy doesn’t cover their actual value, you can obtain additional coverage, aka a floater, to safeguard you against their loss. 

Posh jewelry, furs, heirlooms, antiques or works of art are just a few examples of valuables that may need a floater to cover their repair or replacement cost. Your floater should protect your valuables against the same perils as your standard insurance to include theft and “mysterious disappearance” (loss of an item due to undetermined cause).

To learn more about floaters and the protection they offer, contact Blanchard Insurance, Altamonte Springs, FL. We can provide you with personalized home insurance coverage suited to your individual need.