Exploring Home Insurance: Will it Cover Foundation Repairs?

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No issues arise when your home is on a stable and sturdy foundation. But when you see cracks on the wall, the lines point downward to the foundation. An unstable foundation worsens over time, impacting the home’s structure above it. Homeowners expect home insurance to fix the problem, but at Agency Advantage Insurance, we know the reality is very different.

Will your home insurance policy cover foundation repairs?

It depends on the cause of your foundation’s failure. Home insurance will cover the cost of foundation repair if the insurance policy covers the cause of damage. Fires, explosions, falling objects, vandalism, car crashes, lightning, thunderstorms, hail, windstorms, and tornadoes are acceptable causes in West Bloomfield, MI. Home insurance carriers will not cover foundations caused by wear and tear, pet damage, poor construction, tree root damage, foundation movement, or neglect. Earthquakes, sinkholes, and flooding are insurable with an add-on rider or separate insurance policy.

How can you increase your chances of securing home insurance coverage for foundation repair?

Increase your chances of coverage by:

  • Take photos and videos of the damage. Add the date you filmed or photographed the area. 
  • Hire a home inspector to survey the foundation. 
  • Protect your foundation from further damage with tarps or other materials. Keep and mention the receipts to us to receive compensation. 
  • Talk to an agent at Agency Advantage Insurance about the incident so we can get started with the claim. Our insurance adjuster will review the foundation and learn the cause of damage. 

Filing a foundation repair claim without preparation means you depend heavily on the insurance adjuster’s assessment, which may or may not be a good thing.

We will do what we can to secure home insurance coverage for foundation repair, but results vary. If you are successful, we will issue the claim ASAP. If the carrier denies your claim, our team will work hard to find alternative methods to fix foundation repairs. Contact our office in West Bloomfield, MI for more information.

Operating a Business? Consider an Umbrella Insurance Policy

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If you’re operating a business in the West Bloomfield, MI, area, or thinking about starting one there, you should consider umbrella insurance. Our dedicated agents at Agency Advantage Insurance can help with that, so you get the information you need and quotes from multiple insurers. Then, you can choose a policy you feel good about, so you don’t have to worry about whether your business is protected.

How an Umbrella Policy Protects You

When you have umbrella coverage, it goes beyond the other policies you have, to pick up where they leave off. That means you have more protection in the event of a claim against your business, and that may make all the difference during a stressful time. Depending on the size of your business and the other policies you have, you can choose from several coverage limits for your umbrella policy.

Finding the Right Policy Matters

One of the best ways to feel confident as you operate your business is to know that you have the proper insurance coverage. Taking the time to find the right policy means you’ll have security for the present and the future. Then, you can move forward with the plans you have for your business, and worry less about what could potentially go wrong. You don’t have to settle for less.

Get the Policy You Need From Us Today

Contact us at Agency Advantage Insurance today if you’re in the West Bloomfield, MI area and looking for umbrella insurance. Your business deserves to be prepared, and a quality insurance policy is among the best ways to do that. Our trusted agents can help you get the quotes and knowledge you need, so you can find a great policy that gives you strong protection and more peace of mind.

Can You Choose Your Car Repair Facility?

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If you’re a Michigan driver, you must purchase auto insurance. Drivers near West Bloomfield, MI are encouraged to come to our office and discuss their insurance options. Our team at Agency Advantage Insurance will talk with you about state requirements and help you choose an auto insurance policy that meets your needs.  We’ve been working with Michigan drivers like you since 2006.

Can You Choose Your Car Repair Facility?

If you are involved in an auto accident, you will want to get your car repaired.  You might wonder if the driver of a car damaged in an accident can choose whichever car repair facility they want to use.  According to Joye, your insurance company may provide you with a list of car repair facilities that they prefer. However, you are not required to use any of those car repair facilities. 

The car repair facilities that are on the insurance agency’s list have a business relationship with the insurance company. According to Joye, if you prefer to use a different car repair facility, the insurance company still must pay for the damage to your car. However, if the facility you choose charges a higher repair rate than the rate charged at the insurance company’s garage, the insurance company is only obligated to pay the lower cost. Any difference in repair cost will have to be paid by you.  

Call Us Today for Your Appointment 

Don’t take a chance by driving without auto insurance. Our team at Agency Advantage Insurance can help you find the auto insurance coverage you need at a price you can afford. Drivers in the West Bloomfield, MI area have learned they can rely on us for excellent customer service. Contact us today for your appointment, and let us help you get safely on the road. 

Can I Have Standard Insurance for My Classic Car or Do I Need Specialized Insurance?

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Classic Car Insurance and You

If you are considering buying a classic car in West Bloomfield, MI, one of the things to consider is insurance coverage. The question arises whether the car can be added to your current auto policy, or, because it is a classic, it needs a separate policy. At Agency Advantage Insurance, we can go over your options to ensure your classic ride is properly "insured" to protect your investment. 

Standard Classic Car Insurance

In Michigan, you may be able to add a classic car to your standard auto policy, but a specialized policy designed especially for classic vehicles is recommended. One of the reasons is that a classic car will be insured at its Actual Cash Value based on the current market value and depreciation is deducted. 

Specialized Auto Insurance

When you choose specialized insurance for your classic vehicle, it will be covered based on an Agreed Value with no depreciation. This means if the vehicle is a total loss, the policy will pay out at the value agreed upon when the policy was initiated. 

While a standard auto insurance policy is designed for vehicles that are used on a daily basis, specialized insurance is for classic vehicles that are minimally used for driving, such as in a parade, or at a car show or other event. The car is not used for daily commuting and is usually protected by being stored in a secure location.

The policy may also include coverage for original replacement parts versus aftermarket parts. It may also include coverage for repairs done by a classic car specialist. It may also include towing services that use techniques and tools that will not harm a vintage vehicle.

Contact Us

West Bloomfield, MI classic car owners can rely on our staff at Agency Advantage Insurance to focus on protecting your classic car investment. Call us today. 

Does My Bike Require Coverage: A Look at Non-Traditional Motorcycles

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If you plan on riding a motorcycle, the topic of motorcycle insurance seems relatively straightforward. But what if you plan on buying something that’s not a traditional motorcycle and riding it around? Do you need motorcycle insurance? Do you need insurance at all? Will traditional insurance policies suffice? If you’re looking at non-traditional motorcycle options, here’s what you need to know about covering your bike. If you need help finding the right motorcycle insurance policies for your bike, you can start shopping for motorcycle insurance here at Agency Advantage Insurance in West Bloomfield, MI. 

What Kind of Bikes Require Coverage? 

While you might think of a basic motorcycle that you can buy near you when you think of motorcycles, there are other options. For example, let’s imagine that you own a dirt bike you want to ride around. You wouldn’t need traditional motorcycle insurance for this kind of bike, generally because you’d be riding it around land rather than on roads. All you’d need is a specialized dirt bike policy that meets your needs. If you have a street-legal bike that you do plan on using as a form of transportation, however, you will need motorcycle insurance. Let’s imagine that you’re getting a high-end, classic motorcycle instead. Will you need a traditional motorcycle insurance policy for it? If you plan on riding it frequently, yes. However, if it’s mainly going to be sitting in a garage, you’ll want something that’s better suited to keep your motorcycle protected, such as classic motorcycle insurance. Put simply, motorcycle insurance is the best fit when you’re going to be driving your bike on the road frequently. 

Find Motorcycle Insurance With Agency Advantage Insurance

The team here at Agency Advantage Insurance is always ready to help you with your insurance needs. If you’re looking for a quality motorcycle insurance policy in West Bloomfield, MI, on your budget, get in touch with us today!

What to Review During an Annual Umbrella Policy Checkup

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Your umbrella insurance policy isn’t something you should set and forget. Like any important financial protection, it needs regular attention to ensure it still meets your needs. Agency Advantage Insurance in West Bloomfield, MI recommends conducting an annual review to keep your coverage aligned with your current situation and changing circumstances.

Coverage Limits and Asset Growth

Start by evaluating whether your current coverage limits still make sense for your financial situation. If you’ve acquired new assets, received a promotion, or seen your investment portfolio grow significantly, you might need higher liability limits. Calculate your total net worth including your home, vehicles, savings, and retirement accounts. Your umbrella policy should provide enough coverage to protect these assets from potential lawsuits and financial judgments.

Policy Exclusions and Changes

Insurance companies occasionally update their policy terms and exclusions throughout the year. Review any communications from your insurer about changes to your coverage carefully. Pay special attention to exclusions that might affect your lifestyle or business activities. If you’ve started a home-based business or picked up new hobbies that involve risk, make sure these activities are still covered under your current policy terms.

Premium and Deductible Adjustments

Compare this year’s premium to previous years and understand any increases or decreases. Sometimes raising your underlying auto or homeowners deductibles can lower your umbrella premium while still providing excellent protection. Also consider whether you qualify for any new discounts based on changes in your driving record or home security improvements.

Regular umbrella policy reviews ensure you’re getting the best protection for your investment. Don’t leave your financial future to chance. Contact Agency Advantage Insurance in West Bloomfield, MI to schedule your annual umbrella policy checkup and keep your coverage current.

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent When Choosing Health Insurance For Your Business?

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The health insurance you choose for your business matters. Selecting the right health insurance can help meet your business’s needs and your employees’ needs. This is why many people turn to Agency Advantage Insurance, servicing West Bloomfield, MI, when they’re selecting health insurance. Our independent insurance agents are here to provide you with the information you need to make the right selection for your business and employees.

Independent vs. Captive Insurance Agent

A captive insurance agent is someone who only sells insurance through one insurance carrier. An independent insurance agent works with multiple insurance carriers. Independent insurance agents are able to shop around to help their customers find the best insurance policy for their needs. This makes it easier to ensure your insurance policy serves your business and employees well.

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent When Getting Health Insurance?

There are many reasons to choose an independent insurance agent when you’re getting health insurance. Here are some of the benefits to consider:

  • Independent insurance agents can shop around for their customers, saving them time and money.
  • Independent insurance agents have access to a wide range of insurance products and can offer customers a range of options.
  • Independent insurance agents are loyal to their customers and can help their customers find the best insurance products for their circumstances.

How to Get Started in Your Search for an Insurance Agent

Finding the right insurance policy for your company starts by working with an insurance agent you can trust. The professionals at Agency Advantage Insurance, servicing West Bloomfield, MI, can help. We work with many carrier partners and can help you find the right health insurance policy. Call today.

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent When Choosing Health Insurance For Your Business?

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The health insurance you choose for your business matters. Selecting the right health insurance can help meet your business’s needs and your employees’ needs. This is why many people turn to Agency Advantage Insurance, servicing West Bloomfield, MI, when they’re selecting health insurance. Our independent insurance agents are here to provide you with the information you need to make the right selection for your business and employees.

Independent vs. Captive Insurance Agent

A captive insurance agent is someone who only sells insurance through one insurance carrier. An independent insurance agent works with multiple insurance carriers. Independent insurance agents are able to shop around to help their customers find the best insurance policy for their needs. This makes it easier to ensure your insurance policy serves your business and employees well.

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent When Getting Health Insurance?

There are many reasons to choose an independent insurance agent when you’re getting health insurance. Here are some of the benefits to consider:

  • Independent insurance agents can shop around for their customers, saving them time and money.
  • Independent insurance agents have access to a wide range of insurance products and can offer customers a range of options.
  • Independent insurance agents are loyal to their customers and can help their customers find the best insurance products for their circumstances.

How to Get Started in Your Search for an Insurance Agent

Finding the right insurance policy for your company starts by working with an insurance agent you can trust. The professionals at Agency Advantage Insurance, servicing West Bloomfield, MI, can help. We work with many carrier partners and can help you find the right health insurance policy. Call today.

Does Flood Insurance Cover Mold Removal?

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Floods create wet, humid environments that mold spores need to thrive. These spores can quickly multiply, causing significant damage to your home and posing risks to your health. It’s essential to understand whether flood insurance in Erie, CO, can help cover the high costs of mold remediation services.

Covered Perils

Insurance companies, such as Advantage Service Insurance, evaluate several factors to determine whether an event qualifies as a flood. Policies typically cover damage caused by rising water from rainfall or other weather-related events. For instance, if you live near a river, heavy rainfall could cause the river to overflow and flood your home.

However, most policies do not cover damage from other water-related issues, such as a leaking roof or a burst pipe. It’s crucial to consult with an insurance agent to confirm whether your specific situation is covered.

Mold Remediation

Whether mold removal is covered by your policy depends on several factors and circumstances. Insurance agencies may consider the following:

  • Whether you delayed cleanup after being allowed back into your home
  • If hazardous conditions prevented cleanup, leading to mold growth
  • Policy coverage limits
  • Policy exclusions

For example, a company may provide coverage for mold remediation if your area was deemed unsafe and residents were prohibited from returning to their homes. However, they may deny your claim if you were allowed back into your home but delayed cleanup for weeks because you were staying elsewhere.

It’s always important to speak with an agent at Advantage Service Insurance to learn more about your Erie, CO, policy. Our experienced representatives will listen to your situation and explain how your policy can help cover the cost of damage. Contact us today to learn more about your coverage options.

Can You Include Modifications Onto Your Auto Insurance Policy?

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Car enthusiasts love personalizing their rides with custom wheels, performance upgrades, or premium sound systems, but many drivers don’t realize how these modifications affect their insurance coverage. Standard auto policies typically cover your vehicle at its original factory value, leaving expensive aftermarket parts unprotected. Agency Advantage Insurance, serving West Bloomfield, MI, wants to help you understand your options for covering those custom upgrades.

What Standard Policies Actually Cover

Most auto insurance policies cover modifications only up to a small percentage of your car’s actual cash value, often around $1,000 to $1,500 total. If you’ve invested thousands in a turbo kit, custom paint job, or high-end audio equipment, you’re likely underinsured. Even basic modifications like aftermarket wheels or performance tires might not receive full coverage under standard terms.

Options for Modified Vehicle Coverage

Custom parts and equipment coverage can be added to your policy through endorsements or riders. This coverage typically requires documentation like receipts, photos, and professional installation records. Some insurers offer agreed value policies for heavily modified vehicles, where you and the company establish the car’s worth upfront. Performance modifications might require specialty insurance through companies that focus specifically on modified or classic cars.

Important Considerations Before Modifying

Always notify your insurance company before making significant modifications. Some changes, particularly performance upgrades, can increase your premiums or even cause coverage denial. Modifications that affect safety systems or structural integrity require special attention. Keep detailed records of all work performed, including receipts, photos, and professional certifications.

Don’t let your passion project become a financial nightmare after an accident. Contact Agency Advantage Insurance, serving West Bloomfield, MI, to discuss coverage options that properly protect your modified vehicle and its custom components.