Fire, Wind, Vandalism: What Does a Condo Insurance Policy Cover in San Antonio, TX?

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As a condo owner in San Antonio, TX, you’ll need insurance to cover fire, wind, vandalism, or theft, along with a few other potential negative curveballs life can throw your way. 

Most policies cover the following things, but there are other considerations and things typically not covered in a basic policy that you’ll need to ask your insurance professional about before finalizing a policy and its coverage limitations. Learn more from the professionals at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving the San Antonio, TX area.

What Typical Condo Policies Cover in San Antonio, TX

  • Your condo’s interior. Walls, floors, and fixtures are all covered in most policies. The condo association’s master policy will also usually cover things that aren’t your specific unit, like the exterior of the building, connecting hallways or breeze ways, common areas, and more. 

  • Your personal property, including furniture, clothing, electronics and more. You may need a separate policy for things like jewelry and watches of higher value. 

  • You, if you are sued by someone else for damaging their property or if someone is hurt at another unit. 

  • Medical expenses of guests who are hurt while visiting your condo.

  • Hotel bills, restaurants, or other living expenses if a covered event like fire causes you not to be able to stay in your condo.

What Some Condo Policies May Additionally Cover in San Antonio, TX

  • Some insurance policies include some coverage for costs associated with identity theft.

  • Some policies include levies against the condo association for damage to common areas after a catastrophe like a flood or fire.

Some Condo Coverages You May Need to Add 

  • Not all policies cover damage from floods. You may need to add this or get a separate policy for this unfortunate potential event. 

  • Umbrella insurance. This is insurance that provides extra liability coverage on top of your existing policies.

  • Extra coverage for valuables like guns, jewelry, fine art, and other high-ticket items.

  • Not all policies cover smart TVs, cellphones, or other expensive electronics. You may need an addendum to cover those things.

Call us at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX and the surrounding area, for more information on condo insurance today.

Ellis Insurance Agency Gives Back in a Big Way with Safeco/Liberty Mutual

Posted on by Ashley Ellis

At Ellis Insurance Agency, giving back to our community isn’t just something we talk about; it’s part of who we are. Recently, we had the opportunity to partner with Safeco/Liberty Mutual in a unique and meaningful way, turning a business accomplishment into an unforgettable act of service.

As part of our ongoing collaboration, Safeco/Liberty Mutual challenged us to reach certain business goals. When we achieved them, instead of accepting the reward for ourselves, we decided to do something different. Something bigger. Something fun.

Introducing… the EIA Grocery Games!
With the support of Safeco/Liberty Mutual, our team brainstormed a creative and energetic way to give back: a Grocery Games contest! We split into two teams here at EIA and headed to our local H-E-B to shop for a cause, focusing on purchasing the items most needed on the SA Food Bank’s list.

The rules were simple:

Each team had to get as close to $500 as possible — without going over.

It was fast, it was competitive, and it was a blast.

In the end, both teams came incredibly close, and together we purchased $1,000 worth of food, totaling 480 pounds — all donated directly to the San Antonio Food Bank.

A First in Texas

We’re proud to share that Ellis Insurance Agency is the only agency in Texas to give back their business-goal reward in this way. Because of this, the Safeco/Liberty Mutual team joined us in-store, filming and photographing the entire experience. They plan to share a highlight reel soon, so stay tuned!

A Heartfelt Thank You

We couldn’t have done this without our amazing EIA family who brings passion and purpose to everything we do. And a huge thank you to our partners at Safeco/Liberty Mutual for embracing our idea and helping us make a real impact while having a whole lot of fun in the process.

Community matters. Creativity matters. And at EIA, we’re proud to continue leading with both.

Stay tuned for the video and thank you for supporting Ellis Insurance Agency!

Ellis Insurance Agency named 2025 Best Practices Agency

Posted on by Ashley Ellis

San Antonio, TX, August 2025 – Ellis Insurance Agency has earned the 2025 Best Practices Agency status, joining an elite group of independent insurance agencies from across the United States.

The Best Practices Agency designation is awarded to participants in the Best Practices Study, which analyzes and documents the business practices of the highest-performing insurance agencies in the industry.

This year, 1,146 independent agencies throughout the U.S. were nominated to compete for this coveted designation and only 348 agencies scored high enough to qualify as a Best Practices Agency.

“This is a testament to our dedicated team who spend countless hours providing the best service to our wonderful (and loyal) clients.  We are humbled by this honor and will continue to work hard for the clients we help protect.” – Lee Gamel, President

Since 1993, the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (IIABA or the Big “I”) and Reagan Consulting, an Atlanta-based management consulting firm, have joined forces to study the country’s leading agencies in seven revenue categories.

Best Practices Agencies are selected every three years through a rigorous nomination and qualifying process. Each agency must be among the 35-45 top-performing agencies in its revenue category to be awarded Best Practices status.

Best Practices Agencies retain their status annually during the three-year cycle by submitting extensive financial and operational data for review. 2025 is the first year of the current three-year study cycle.

Ellis Insurance Agency was founded in 1980 and can offer insurance products from a number of different companies you can see HERE.

For further information, please contact Lee Gamel of Ellis Insurance Agency at 210-979-9000.

Founded in 1993, Reagan Consulting provides M&A advisory, capital raising, valuation, growth consulting, perpetuation planning, and industry research to the nation’s leading insurance brokerages.

Founded in 1896, the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (the Big “I”) is the nation’s oldest and largest national association of independent insurance agents and brokers, representing over 25,000 agency locations united under the Trusted Choice brand. Trusted Choice independent agents offer consumers all types of insurance — property, casualty, life, health, employee benefit plans, and retirement products — from various insurance companies.

What To Teach Your New Teen Driver About Auto Insurance

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Having a teen driver means educating them about how to remain safe on the road, but you should not overlook the importance of teaching them how to purchase and maintain auto insurance. They need to know how to use their coverage, too.

At Ellis Insurance Agency, our team can help you purchase the proper auto insurance for your teen and provide them with the knowledge they need to use their policy when necessary. We serve clients throughout San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding area.

What Does Your Teen Need To Know About Auto Insurance?

Start with a foundation of what car insurance is, what the rules are for maintaining coverage, and what is and is not protected. It helps to break down the type of insurance they have. For example, comprehensive coverage can help pay for damage from fires, theft, or vandalism, while liability insurance only pays for bodily injuries and damage sustained by others if your teen causes an accident.

It also helps to teach your teen about what it means to file a claim and the impact of doing so. That includes when and how to report the accident, how to protect themselves after an accident by taking photos, and what getting a ticket could mean for their insurance coverage. Explain what to expect when filing a claim.

You can also educate your teem about how to buy auto insurance. That means considering coverage types, values, and risks. This helps prepare them to make big decisions when they need to do so later.

Let Our Team Help You Through the Process

At Ellis Insurance Agency, we work with you to purchase quality auto insurance that fits your needs. If you are in San Antonio, TX, and need coverage, contact us for guidance.

Can You Buy Renters Insurance If Your Name is Not on the Lease?

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Many people living in rental properties assume they cannot purchase renters’ insurance unless their name appears on the lease agreement. This common misconception leaves countless renters without essential protection for their personal belongings and liability coverage. At Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX, we regularly help people understand that lease requirements and insurance eligibility operate independently of each other.

Insurance Companies Focus on Insurable Interest

Most insurance providers prioritize your insurable interest in the property over your legal lease status. If you live in the rental unit and have personal belongings there, you typically qualify for renters’ insurance coverage. This means roommates, domestic partners, and family members can often secure their own policies even if only one person signed the lease agreement.

Different Coverage Options Available

There are several approaches available when your name is not on the lease. You can purchase your own individual policy to cover your belongings and liability, or you might be added to an existing policy as an additional insured. Some couples opt for separate policies to maximize coverage limits, while others prefer shared coverage. The best option depends on your specific living situation and coverage needs.

Documentation Requirements May Vary

While most insurers do not require lease documentation, some may ask for proof of residency, such as utility bills or mail delivery confirmation. A few companies might request permission from the primary leaseholder, but this varies significantly between providers. The key is to be honest about your living arrangement when applying for coverage.

Protect Yourself Regardless of Lease Status

Do not let lease technicalities leave your belongings and finances vulnerable. Contact Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX, today to explore renters insurance options tailored to your specific living situation.

What Counts as Usage Days to My RV Insurance?

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Usage days refer to the time you spend using your RV, and they help an insurance company determine the type of coverage you need. The more you use your RV, the greater the risks you take on, which can result in a higher premium. However, you may not know exactly how an insurance company defines usage days. That’s why the Ellis Insurance Agency is here to help you better understand the situation.

What Counts as Usage Days?

By definition, RVs are versatile. You can take one out for a few days a year or live in the same vehicle for years if you choose. To an insurance company, a usage day counts as the time you spend in the RV. For example, if you use it for trips just a few times a year, it’s typically classified as part-time use. If you’re in the RV full-time for 150 days per year, it might be classified as full-time use. (Note that the number of days per year may vary depending on the insurance carrier.)

Why Does It Matter?

Usage days in San Antonio, TX don’t just impact the price of your policy; they also affect the level of coverage you receive. If you’re using the RV full-time, you’re likely to bring some of your most expensive possessions into the vehicle, such as your laptop or favorite jewelry. If you misrepresent the number of days you use the RV, you could be denied a claim based on your coverage limits—or even face potential fraud allegations.

At Ellis Insurance Agency, we help RV owners in San Antonio, TX get a better handle on the type of coverage they need, no matter how they use their RV. Contact us today for a fast quote or to learn more!

Flood Insurance: What Every Homeowner and Business Owner Needs to Know

Posted on by Ashley Ellis

When most people think about their homeowners or commercial property insurance, they assume “flood” is automatically covered. Unfortunately, that’s not the case and learning this after water is rising in your living room or business can be a devastating (and costly) surprise.

Flood coverage is almost never included in standard homeowners or property insurance policies. Instead, it must be purchased separately, either through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or from a private flood insurer.

Whether you own a home, a business, or both, here’s what you need to know to protect yourself before the next heavy storm rolls in.

What Exactly Counts as a “Flood”?

In insurance terms, a flood isn’t just any water damage. It has a very specific definition:

A general and temporary condition where two or more acres of normally dry land—or two or more properties — are inundated by water or mudflow.

That means water damage from a burst pipe or a leaky roof is not considered a flood. But storm surge, heavy rain overflow, river swelling, or flash flooding from sudden downpours often meet the definition.

What is a Flood Zone?

Flood zones are geographic areas defined by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) to indicate different levels of flood risk:

· High-Risk Zones (A or V): These have at least a 1% annual chance of flooding (also called the “100-year flood”). Lenders usually require flood insurance here.

· Moderate-to-Low-Risk Zones (B, C, X): Flooding is less likely, but still possible. About 25% of flood claims come from these areas.

· Undetermined Risk Zones (D): Flood hazards are possible, but not mapped.

You can check your property’s flood zone using FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.

Why You Still Need Flood Insurance in a Low-Risk Zone

Many homeowners skip flood insurance because their lender doesn’t require it. But here’s the truth:

· Flooding can happen anywhere — it’s the most common and costly natural disaster in the U.S.

· Just one inch of water can cause $25,000 or more in damage.

· Federal disaster assistance is not guaranteed and often comes in the form of loans you must repay.

Questions to Ask When Considering Flood Insurance

1. Is my property in a FEMA-designated flood zone?

2. What’s the cost difference between NFIP coverage and private flood insurance?

3. Does my policy cover the replacement cost or actual cash value?

4. What are the coverage limits for my building and personal/business property?

5. Is there a waiting period before coverage starts? (NFIP policies typically have a 30-day wait.)

6. Are there exclusions I should be aware of? (For example, basements often have coverage limitations.)

7. Can renter’s purchase flood insurance? Renter’s can purchase flood insurance, but only in the NFIP. The NFIP offers a Contents-Only policy covering personal belongings (furniture, clothing, electronics) up to $100,000.

Key Details to Look for in a Flood Policy

· Coverage Limits: NFIP policies max out at $250,000 for residential structures and $500,000 for commercial buildings, plus limited contents coverage. Private insurers may offer higher limits.

· Contents Coverage: Check if it’s included or requires a separate policy.

· Deductibles: Understand how much you’ll be responsible for if you file a claim.

· Waiting Period: Factor in the time before the policy takes effect—don’t wait until a storm is approaching.

The Bottom Line

Flood insurance isn’t just for people living on the coast or near rivers. It’s for anyone who wants peace of mind that their home or business is protected from one of nature’s most damaging (and unpredictable) forces.

Don’t wait for the next big storm to start asking questions. Review your coverage now, understand your flood risk, and explore your options for protection.

Need help figuring out your flood risk or finding the right policy?

Ellis Insurance Agency can walk you through your options, compare NFIP and private flood coverage, and ensure you’re protected before the water rises.

The Role of Motorcycle Insurance in Hit-and-Run Accidents

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Being involved in a hit-and-run accident is frustrating, scary, and often confusing—especially when you’re on a motorcycle. The injuries can be more severe, and tracking down the driver isn’t always possible. At Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX, we understand how overwhelming these situations can be, and we’re here to explain how motorcycle insurance can help protect you when the unexpected happens.

When the Other Driver Disappears

In a typical accident, the at-fault driver’s insurance would cover the damages. However, in a hit-and-run, you’re left dealing with the consequences without that information. This is where certain types of motorcycle insurance coverage become essential. If you carry uninsured motorist coverage, your policy may step in to cover medical bills, lost wages, and bike repairs—even when the other driver cannot be identified.

Comprehensive Protection Matters

Motorcycle insurance isn’t just about protecting your bike from theft or weather damage. It also plays a vital role in situations like hit-and-run accidents, where you’re left picking up the pieces through no fault of your own. Some policies also offer medical payments coverage, which can help cover the costs of injuries regardless of who caused the accident. This can be a significant relief when you’re focused on recovery.

Don’t Leave It to Chance

Hit-and-run accidents often come with more questions than answers, but your insurance coverage shouldn’t be one of them. Having the proper protection in place before an issue arises can make all the difference.

Let’s Make Sure You’re Covered

Want to ensure your motorcycle insurance has you covered in every scenario? Reach out to Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX. We’ll walk you through your options and help you feel confident every time you hit the road.

Boat Insurance Gaps: Stranded & Stored Risks

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Owning a boat in San Antonio, TX, allows you to enjoy the beautiful waterways of Texas. However, it’s equally important to ensure you have the right insurance coverage to protect your investment. Various risks can arise, and your policy needs to address them all. At Ellis Insurance Agency, our agents can review your existing coverage and help you fill in any gaps to ensure you’re fully protected.

Stranded at Sea

Many boat insurance policies fall short when it comes to covering situations where you’re stranded at sea. If your engine suddenly fails, are you covered? This is a critical question to ask when reviewing your policy.

Being stranded can lead to towing expenses, emergency services, and even damage to your vessel. Additionally, if you’re outside a designated navigation area, your coverage may be limited. Filing a claim only to discover you’re not fully reimbursed can be costly. Addressing these gaps in your policy beforehand is essential.

Storage of Your Boat

Even when your boat is in storage—whether in a garage, marina, or dry dock—it’s not completely safe. Risks such as weather damage, theft, vandalism, or even rodent infestations can occur.

Is your boat covered against all these scenarios? Many policies have gray areas that could leave you responsible for unexpected expenses. Reviewing your coverage can help you avoid these risks.

Partner with an Agent Today

With so many potential risks, especially when it comes to being stranded or storing your boat, working with a licensed insurance agent is invaluable. At Ellis Insurance Agency, we’ve helped numerous clients throughout San Antonio, TX, secure comprehensive coverage.

We’ll take the time to review your current policy and recommend options to fill in any gaps. Let us navigate the insurance waters so you can enjoy the open waters worry-free. Contact us today to get started.

Common Situations Where Your Coverage Isn’t Enough

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We’ve seen far too many individuals in San Antonio, TX, come to us at Ellis Insurance Agency after they realize that their coverage wasn’t enough after something happened to their car or their home. This is why umbrella coverage exists. It helps cover you when the liability of your situation is more than the coverage indicated in your policy. When do you need umbrella coverage? These three situations are a great start.

1. You’re Hosting an Event

If you regularly host events on your property with a lot of guests, it is a good idea to add umbrella coverage to your insurance policy. The increased number of people increases the chance that one of them will get injured if something goes wrong during the event. In most cases, your traditional home insurance won’t cover you against this. You should especially consider this type of coverage if you have a pool.

2. You Have a Dog

Even if you can trust your dog, you can’t always trust other people around your dog. If your dog bites someone, you could be on the hook for a lot of money in medical bills. Any homeowner with a dog should add a rider that protects them if their dog injures someone or if someone else injures their dog. This coverage can also help offset the cost of veterinary bills.

3. Your Kids Start Driving

You would be surprised how many people aren’t properly covered on their auto insurance when their teenage children start driving. If your home is starting to fill with teenage drivers, reflect that on your auto insurance policy.

At Ellis Insurance Agency, we have been helping San Antonio, TX, residents get the appropriate level of insurance for their lifestyles for years. Contact us today to learn more about how we can save you money on insurance.