Category Archives: Renter’s

What to do if you need to file a renter’s claim

Filing a renter’s claim is not all that different than filing a homeowners claim. The key to both is advance preparation. So let’s rewind and discuss what you should do before damage happens. Once you have purchased homeowner’s insurance review the claim process with your agent. Most insurance companies provide information to the homeowner with instructions for filing a claim. Review this information and put it in a place where you can easily find it in case something does happen.

This is important because insurance companies all have different procedures. But they all have some things in common. First, file your claim as soon as possible. Delaying this step could lead to issues. So, if your insurance provider has a 24-hour hotline, call as soon as possible. This will put the claim wheels in motion and lead to a faster resolution.

You will be assigned a claim number and agent. The claim agent may come to your home to assess that damage and ask for more details about the incident. Be prepared to have receipts or any supporting details that the claims agent asks for. The claims agent will assess the damage and help with the process of repairs. Often times claims agents have preferred vendors that will repair the damage. Using these preferred vendors often provides many benefits. They are generally very responsive, and they guarantee with work.

The more prepared you are before an accident occurs, the better prepared you’ll be to file a claim and provide the information required to process your claim. That means understanding the claims process for your insurance company. Review the process with your agent and ask questions. You’ll be glad you did.

To learn more about renters insurance and the claims process for your insurance carrier, contact your independent Provident Insurance agent. We serve Plainfield, Greenwood, Avon, Brownsburg, Indianapolis, Carmel, Zionsville and the entire central Indiana area. Stop in one of our convenient locations to discuss your insurance needs today.

Renter's Insurance

Do I need renters insurance?

If you rent a house, apartment or condo you should definitely consider renter’s insurance. The landlord is usually never responsible for your personal possessions if there is a loss from theft or damage, such as flood or fire. Like homeowner’s insurance, it’s important to insure the replacement value of your possessions including furniture, clothes, jewelry, electronics, etc.

It’s also good to know what would happen if you have to live somewhere else temporarily. For example, what happens if there is a flood? Does your landlord provide temporary housing? If not, your renter’s insurance should cover that too.

Renter’s insurance also protects you from damage you cause. Let’s say you leave the stove on and it causes a small fire, resulting in $5000 damage. Since it was your fault (even though it was accidental), you are responsible for the damages. The idea of coughing up five grand is serious business. If you had renter’s insurance you’d only be responsible for the deductible – usually $250 – $1000, whichever you choose.

So, as with all insurance, renter’s insurance does 2 things. It pays to replace your stuff and it protects you from large, painful payments for damage you cause. If you want to know more about renter’s insurance contact your independent Provident Insurance agent. We serve Plainfield, Greenwood, Avon, Brownsburg, Indianapolis, Carmel, Zionsville and the entire central Indiana area. Stop in one of our convenient locations to discuss your insurance needs today.

Protect Your Home

Do I really need homeowner’s insurance?

Yes, no and maybe. That’s not meant to confuse, it just depends. You see, unlike driving a car, you can legally own a home in Indiana without insurance. But this only really applies if you own your home outright – meaning there is no mortgage on the home. If you do have a mortgage, then your lender will likely require you to have home insurance to protect their investment. They actually own your home until it is paid off, so any significant damage that isn’t repaired can impact the value, and ultimately, their investment.

Lenders may also require additional insurance if you live in an area that is prone to flooding or earthquakes. In fact, the Federal Emergency Disaster Agency (FEMA) actually created flood zone maps of the entire U.S. to help determine homes at the most risk for flooding and, subsequently, those homes that are legally required to have flood insurance.

Condo’s, Townhomes, Apartments.
If you own a condominium or co-op, your board may require you to buy condominium insurance or home insurance. Be sure to check with your board to see what type of policy is required.

If you’re looking to insure a townhouse and your townhome association has a master policy (which typically covers the structure and common areas), you’ll get renters insurance. If your association does not have a master policy, you’ll get homeowners insurance.

Homeowner’s insurance can also be used to protect others. Visitors to your home who are injured or even neighbors property can be covered by your policy, but it varies by policy to policy, so be sure to ask your agent for details. For example, say a relative is visiting your home and a tree branch falls on their car. Your homeowner’s policy may cover that damage. Likewise if a tree in your yard falls onto your neighbor’s house, it may require your insurance to cover damages. Again, it varies by policy.

Your independent Provident Insurance agent is trained to help guide you through all the decisions that will provide you with the best coverage at the best price. We’ll make sure you are insured adequately for your assets and your budget.

To learn more, contact your independent Provident Insurance agent. We serve Plainfield, Greenwood, Avon, Brownsburg, Indianapolis, Carmel, Zionsville and the entire central Indiana area. Stop in one of our convenient locations to discuss your insurance needs today.