Umbrella insurance delivers supplementary liability coverage beyond the confines of your standard home, auto, or other personal insurance policies. This is particularly beneficial for residents of San Antonio, TX. A standout feature of umbrella insurance is its extended coverage for household members, which amplifies protection for family members residing in your home. Given the frequent and popular litigation culture, this could be instrumental in warding off financial loss resulting from lawsuits.
Scope of Household Member Extended Coverage
Household member extended coverage applies to all household members, including spouses, children, and other family members who share the same address. This coverage stipulates that if one such member gets tangled in an accident or incident invoking a liability claim, the umbrella policy can take care of the costs exceeding the limits of their existing policies.
To illustrate, if your teenage child gets into an accident while driving and is held liable for damages exceeding the coverage scope of your auto insurance, your umbrella insurance can cover the remaining costs. This also extends to other scenarios, such as a family member being sued for accidental injury or property damage inflicted on someone else.
Significance for Families
Household member extended coverage is particularly relevant for families as it shields against financial risks associated with potential lawsuits or high-stake claims. With children, especially teen drivers or other dependents in the household, the probability of liability claims can escalate. In such situations, umbrella insurance can provide peace of mind by extending coverage beyond standard policies’ limits.
Reach Out to Ellis Insurance Agency for a Deeper Diving into Insurance
At Ellis Insurance Agency, we offer extensive insurance-focused knowledge. Serving San Antonio, TX, we can help you understand and choose the right insurance. Contact our team today for expert insurance advice.
Read below to learn more about New Texas Vehicle Inspection laws starting January 1, 2025, Hurricane Helene update and hurricane preparedness, and the difference between an Insurance Agency vs. Insurance Company.
New Texas Vehicle Inspection Law
Starting January 1, 2025, Texas will eliminate the requirement for annual safety inspections for most non-commercial vehicles, as part of House Bill 3297. This means vehicle owners will no longer need to visit inspection stations for annual checks. However, a $7.50 fee, known as the “inspection program replacement fee,” will still be applied during vehicle registration. The collected fees will support state funds such as the Texas Mobility Fund and the Clean Air Account.
Despite the elimination of the safety inspections, vehicles in certain counties, including Harris, Fort Bend, and Montgomery, will still be required to undergo annual emissions testing to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Commercial vehicles, however, are not affected by these changes and will still need to complete annual inspections.
Hurricane Helene made landfall on the night of September 26, 2024, in Florida’s Big Bend area as a powerful Category 4 storm. With sustained winds of 140 mph, the storm caused widespread damage, particularly along the northwestern coastline. Officials issued warnings about life-threatening storm surges, which resulted in catastrophic flooding, while hurricane-force winds knocked out power to nearly a million homes and businesses. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and other southeastern states declared states of emergency as the storm’s impact extended into Georgia and the Carolinas.
For detailed guidance on staying safe during hurricane season, check out our previous blog on hurricane preparedness. It covers essential tips and strategies to help you protect your home and family before, during, and after a storm.
Insurance Agency vs. Insurance Company
An insurance agency and an insurance company serve distinct roles in the insurance market. An insurance agency acts as an intermediary between customers and insurance companies. Agencies represent multiple insurers and work to find the best policies for their clients, tailoring coverage options to meet individual needs. They essentially sell and manage policies on behalf of insurance companies.
An insurance company, on the other hand, is the entity that underwrites and provides the insurance policies. It assumes the financial risk, collects premiums, and is responsible for paying out claims. While agencies focus on selling and servicing policies, insurance companies are the ones that create and back the coverage financially.
Referrals and Reviews
Referrals and Google reviews are key to our business growth by boosting credibility and expanding our reach. Referrals provide trusted, word-of-mouth endorsements, while positive Google reviews increase online visibility and showcase the quality of our services. Together, they build trust, attract new customers, and drive sustainable growth through customer acquisition and retention.
Flood insurance is often a hot topic because there is a lot of misinformation about this important type of coverage. Here at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas, we want customers to be well-informed so that they can make confident decisions based on facts, not fear. Here are a few things you should know about flood insurance.
Often Not Included in Homeowners’ Insurance
The first thing you need to know about flood insurance is that it’s often not included in homeowners’ policies. There are many reasons behind this, but it’s most important that you don’t assume you have coverage. You need to talk with the home insurance provider and find out everything you need to know about flood coverage.
There Are Different Types of Flooding
You also need to be aware that there are different types of flooding in the world of insurance coverage. There is naturally occurring flooding and indoor flooding. Indoor flooring is caused by problems with your plumbing or appliances. Naturally occurring flooding is caused by a natural disaster. Homeowners’ policies often cover indoor flooding but do not cover naturally occurring flooding.
Coverage Is Based On Many Factors
One of the reasons why flood insurance isn’t included in homeowners’ policies is because so many factors need to be considered. Each flood policy is very unique. To get a quote on flood insurance, you’ll need to sit down with knowledgeable insurance professionals to discuss all of your risk factors.
If you’d like to learn more about flood insurance, please contact us at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas.
Property insurance in Texas (and in most states in the US) continues to challenge the insurance industry – inflation, large weather-related claims, inconsistent weather patterns, material and labor increases have found their way into all our premiums. 2023 added another layer of complexity in Texas as many of the insurance companies tightened up restrictions on where and what kind of homes they want to cover. One of the biggest areas of focus (and rating factors) for property insurance is the age of our roofs. Many insurance companies are now requiring proof of roof age, this proof comes in several forms:
Roofing Permit or Certificate (typically from a licensed roofer and/or roofing company)
Paid receipt showing roof replacement (and scope of work done)
Pre-purchase inspection (hold on to these if you have recently purchased a home)
Roof Inspection completed within the last 6-12 months, including photos showing all sides of the roof
It is a common misconception that those downsizing from a single-family home to a condominium in San Antonio, TX, need the same type of policy to cover their dwelling. However, homeowner’s insurance and condo insurance have major differences. Ellis Insurance Agency can explain these differences and guide you to the appropriate policy.
Protecting Your Building
When you own a single-family home, you need to protect the entire building, meaning your insurance policy must cover the exterior, the roof, and the property surrounding it. This is not the case with condo insurance. Your homeowner’s association (HOA) master policy covers damage to your unit’s exterior, roof, building hallways, common areas, and the property surrounding the building. The one exception involves loss assessment fees. More HOAs are implementing this measure, charging their members a percentage of what the HOA must pay if there is a loss involving the common areas. You can add loss assessment coverage to your condo policy to cover this risk.
Your Insurance Responsibilities
Condo and townhome owners are still responsible for covering risks inside their units. This includes liability. While the association’s master policy insures accidents that happen in common areas, the liability portion of your policy covers what happens in your unit. Your condo policy will also cover your personal belongings, such as clothing, furniture, jewelry, electronics, and other valuables. Like a homeowner’s policy, you can schedule high-worth items to ensure they are covered if stolen, damaged, or lost. Familiarize yourself with your HOA policy and the terms of your condo policy to ensure full coverage.
If you’re wondering whether you have sufficient coverage for your condo, contact the experienced agents at Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX. Our staff will gladly review your policy and recommend any changes you need for full coverage.
When it comes to commercial insurance, our team has you covered. We are excited to introduce our newest member, Veronica, who brings a wealth of expertise to our team. Learn more about Cyber Security and its importance for your small business, as safeguarding your digital assets is crucial in today’s landscape. Additionally, explore whether your company requires commercial auto insurance to protect your vehicles and drivers. To foster a productive work environment, check out an article written by our friend and client, Levi Kirwin, on creating clarity and communication throughout your organization, where we discuss effective strategies to enhance transparency and engagement within your team. In our Client Center, we offer personalized assistance to address your specific needs, ensuring you get the most comprehensive coverage.
Meet Our Newest Commercial Lines Account Manager
Introducing Veronica Caesarez, our newest Commercial Lines Account Manager. With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge to our team. Learn more about Veronica and our other amazing team members HERE.
Do you need Commercial Auto Insurance?
Are you unsure whether your business needs commercial auto insurance? Progressive Insurance has published an insightful article that clearly outlines the differences between personal and commercial auto insurance. This resource can help you determine whether your business vehicles require commercial coverage to ensure you’re adequately protected on the road. Check it out to make an informed decision tailored to your specific needs.
Creating Clarity and Communication Throughout Your Organization
1 Point, 2 Minutes: Energize your teams through communicating consistent clarity of purpose.
Founders and CEOs need to answer six questions to create clarity and communicate clarity consistently throughout your organization (see Patrick Lencioni’s “The Advantage”)
Why do we exist?
“Because the world needs…” (fill in your WHY)
How do we behave?
Define core values, no more than five.
What do we do?
Your one sentence value proposition for prospects.
How will we succeed?
What are the unique(s) your product or service brings to the market?
What is most important, right now?
The time horizon should be from 3-12 months.
This choice you make should be exactly ONE thing that, if accomplished, will move your firm forward more than any other choice.
Outline one sentence as a thematic goal, and define objectives in clear steps as work tasks.
Connect these to your business goals for the year. Revenue, prospect pipeline strength, cost reduction, something else.
WHO must do WHAT to accomplish the most important choice you have identified?
This isn’t a prompt to Ctl-C, Ctl-V your org chart.
Instead, you are assigning each clearly defined work task to exactly one owner to accomplish “what is most important.”
Get your leadership team aligned and agreed on (1) – (6). Congratulations, you have created clarity! Now, communicate clarity. Create a short simple communication for (5) and (6) for each team leader to cover, each week, on progress to the goal. Repeat clarity. Every week.
You’re the visible leader and you set the rhythm of your organization; you set the pulse by your words and presence. You cannot, you CANNOT, repeat this enough in your daily interactions with your team. You will feel like you are repeating yourself in annoying ways. But each of your team only hears you a small fraction of his or her day. Your words frame the day, maybe the week, when your team hears you. Communicate what you want them to remember.
Clarity galvanizes your marketing strategy, your prospecting and sales processes, and your operational muscle towards one goal, one vision, One Point on the horizon to run towards. Help them keep their eyes on the prize. It’s your responsibility. Executing well is how you win the year.
Ready to create clarity for your team, prospects, and customers?
Levi Kirwin, founder of Nissi Revenue Generation, translates founders’ and CEO’s vision for conquest into marketing strategy, brand storytelling, and sales process execution.
Levi Kirwin | 813-424-7812 | nissirg@proton.me
Cyber Security and It’s Importance to Your Small Business
Last week’s CrowdStrike software update resulted in outages for millions of Microsoft Windows users, potentially costing the economy billions of dollars and triggering cyber policy claims for numerous businesses worldwide. Today’s businesses depend on technology to thrive. However, with the benefits of technology come increased risks. Now is the time to review your current cyber insurance coverage. Determine which policies provide coverage, check notice of loss requirements, limitations, and any other coverage considerations. Watch this video from Central Insurance to learn how to protect your small business from a cyber attack.
Inspection Recommendations
Inspection recommendations have become increasingly crucial as Excess and Surplus (E&S) carriers have tightened their inspection protocols. To ensure compliance and secure the necessary coverage, it’s important to adhere to these stricter guidelines. By following detailed inspection recommendations, businesses can avoid potential coverage issues and maintain the high standards required by E&S carriers, ultimately protecting their assets and operations more effectively. Watch this VIDEO by Fusco Orsini & Associates Insurance Services X 4C to learn more!
Ellis Insurance Agency Client Center
Did you know about our digital customer service? You can use our Client Center to view your insurance policies, make payments, print insurance ID cards, update your contact information, download documents, and more!
San Antonio is located deep in the Lone Star State, where rustic charm meets the hustle and bustle of city life. Local motorists know that navigating the city’s streets can sometimes feel like maneuvering through an unmarked obstacle course.
The professionals at Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX offer a few tips on how auto insurance can protect local drivers from some of the most dangerous intersections in the city in the guide below.
Examples of San Antonio’s Most Hazardous Intersections
Wurzbach Road and Fredericksburg Road: This intersection is known for having multiple lanes, which produce heavy traffic and pose a significant risk for auto accidents, especially during peak times and rush hour.
Loop 410 and Interstate 10: The junction where these two major highways intersect poses a high risk of accidents for distracted or speeding drivers.
Bandera Road and Loop 1604: The intersection of Bandera Road and Loop is known as a hotspot for traffic congestion, which causes frequent fender benders, sideswipes, and rear-end collisions.
How Auto Insurance Can Protect You
Having adequate auto insurance in San Antonio is one of the best ways to safeguard your auto against collisions that can happen in the city’s most dangerous intersections.
Liability Insurance: helps local drivers meet legal requirements for state insurance minimums and protects at-fault drivers from accident-related legal fees, medical claims, and property damage claims.
Collision insurance: can help motorists who have been in an accident to offset the costs of repairs to their vehicle – regardless of who is at fault. Comprehensive insurance can cover a wide range of incidents.
Contact the insurance professionals at Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio to learn more and get a quote today!
Renters insurance may not be required by law in San Antonio, TX, but we strongly believe in its importance at Ellis Insurance Agency. To learn more about the unique advantages associated with renters insurance, be sure to read on. There is no shortage of good reasons to obtain these policies; we are here to tell you why.
Access to a Wider Range of Housing
While it is true that San Antonio residents are not legally required to purchase renters insurance, several modern-day landlords do require it. Renters insurance is a must to gain access to a wider range of housing. The policyholder will have far more options when searching for a new place than those without renters insurance.
Personal Property Protection
Tenants often make the mistake of assuming that their personal property is always covered. In reality, the landlord will not be responsible for your personal effects. Sit down with an experienced insurance agent and learn more about the coverage you will need for all of your most valued possessions.
Assistance With Living Expenses
Times are complex, and it can be challenging to receive the necessary help when it comes to living expenses. This is especially true when unexpected problems arise. For example, if the residence cannot remain inhabited, a renters insurance policy provides the assistance you will need to avoid any major out-of-pocket costs.
When you meet with the experts at Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX, residents can learn everything they need about renters insurance. Contact our team today so that all of your questions can be answered as promptly and efficiently as possible.
School is OUT and Summer is HERE! Read on to learn more about Hurricane Season, the top car models stolen in 2023, and how your referrals and Google reviews help our business!
Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is June 1st through November 30th. Learn more about hurricane preparedness and what to do in the event of a flood/natural disaster.
Hurricane Preparedness
A hurricane can be a devastating force of nature whether you live inland or on a coast. Being prepared can potentially help save you, your family, and your home from permanent damage. Read on to see what steps you can take to prepare for this hurricane season.
Evaluate Your Risk
Living on the coast is a higher probability to being hit by a hurricane, but inland residents are also at risk. Heavy rains, winds, and storm surges can cause wind damage and flooding. Once you evaluate your location and review historical hurricane information, you can decide whats best for you to prepare.
Preparing Your Family
You and your family’s safety is essential. Follow this guide to ensure you have a plan in place in the event of a hurricane
Develop an evacuation plan.
Prepare for power outages. Flashlights, electric lanterns, and gas-powered generators are a great place to start.
Build an emergency kit. Click here to find a list of basic emergency supplies to have on hand.
Be sure to secure important documents in a fire/water proof safe.
Preparing Your Home
While preparing your family and their safety is most important, it is good to start preparing your house before hurricane season starts. Here are some tips for preparing the exterior of your home.
Check window and door seals. It’s important that these are in good condition to prevent water damage inside your home.
Install storm shutters (if you’re in a high-risk area) or have boards available to put over your windows.
Trim tree branches around your roof. High winds can cause trees and branches to damage your home.
Clean your gutters to help water flow and prevent roof damage.
Make sure you garage door(s) are secure.
Have sandbags available to divert water from your home if you are in a high-risk area.
Now that your home and your family are prepared, be sure to check with your insurance agent to review your home policy. Most homeowners insurance will cover wind damage, but not flood damage as flood insurance is a separate policy. Be sure to ask what the best steps will be in the event that you need to file a claim after a hurricane. You can track current hurricanes and tropical storms by visiting the NOAA tracking site. Stay prepared and safe!
Top Stolen Car Models in 2023
Hyundai and Kia: Among the Top 10 Most Stolen Cars in 2023
In 2023, Hyundai and Kia vehicles made headlines for an unfortunate reason—they were among the top 10 most stolen cars in the United States. This surge in thefts has brought significant attention to these popular brands, prompting concerns among car owners, manufacturers, and law enforcement agencies.
The Rise in Thefts
The increase in thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles can be attributed to several factors. A primary reason is the relative ease with which certain models can be stolen. Many Hyundai and Kia cars manufactured between 2011 and 2021 lack engine immobilizers, a standard feature in most modern vehicles that prevents the engine from starting without the correct key. This omission has made these vehicles particularly vulnerable to theft through techniques as simple as breaking a window and manipulating the ignition.
Social Media Impact
Another surprising catalyst for the spike in thefts has been social media. Videos demonstrating how to steal these cars have proliferated on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, providing would-be thieves with step-by-step instructions. This phenomenon has not only increased the number of thefts but also highlighted the vulnerability of these vehicles to a global audience.
Impact on Owners and Communities
The rise in thefts has had significant repercussions for car owners and communities. Many Hyundai and Kia owners have reported increased insurance premiums and difficulty securing coverage due to the high risk of theft. Communities, especially in urban areas, have seen a notable uptick in car theft-related crimes, straining local law enforcement resources and fostering a sense of insecurity among residents.
Manufacturer Response
In response to the surge in thefts, Hyundai and Kia have taken several measures to address the issue. Both companies have expedited the implementation of engine immobilizers in their newer models to enhance security. Additionally, they have provided software updates and security kits for older models to make them less susceptible to theft.
Moreover, Hyundai and Kia have collaborated with law enforcement agencies to raise awareness about the theft risk and educate owners on preventive measures. They have also offered steering wheel locks and other anti-theft devices to affected customers at no charge, aiming to mitigate the immediate risk while longer-term solutions are developed.
Legal and Regulatory Actions
The theft epidemic has also spurred legal and regulatory responses. Several cities and states have called for stricter regulations and standards for vehicle security to prevent such vulnerabilities in the future. There have been discussions about potential class-action lawsuits against the manufacturers for failing to equip their vehicles with adequate anti-theft technology, reflecting the growing frustration among consumers and policymakers.
Looking Ahead
While Hyundai and Kia have taken significant steps to address the theft issue, the long-term impact on their reputation remains uncertain. The companies’ swift response and commitment to enhancing vehicle security are positive signs, but restoring consumer confidence will likely require sustained effort and innovation.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the Hyundai and Kia theft phenomenon underscores the importance of robust security measures in vehicle design. For car manufacturers, it serves as a crucial lesson in the necessity of keeping pace with technological advancements and emerging threats to ensure the safety and security of their customers.
In conclusion, the inclusion of Hyundai and Kia vehicles in the list of the top 10 most stolen cars in 2023 has spotlighted critical vulnerabilities in vehicle security. Addressing these challenges head-on, both manufacturers and regulatory bodies must work together to prevent such issues from recurring in the future, ensuring safer streets and greater peace of mind for car owners everywhere.
Referral Program and Google Reviews
Referrals and Google reviews play a crucial role in boosting our business by enhancing our credibility and expanding our customer base. Referrals from satisfied clients provide powerful word-of-mouth endorsements that build trust and encourage potential customers to choose our services. Meanwhile, positive Google reviews improve our online visibility, making it easier for people to find us when searching for relevant services. These reviews also serve as testimonials to the quality of our work, influencing potential clients’ decisions and fostering a sense of community trust. Together, referrals and Google reviews create a virtuous cycle of customer acquisition and retention, driving sustainable business growth.
Thank you for trusting Ellis Insurance Agency – We love our clients!
If you’re traveling with an RV this summer, you need to ensure you have the right RV insurance policies. Should you need help selecting coverage, feel free to contact Ellis Insurance Agency, which serves San Antonio, TX, and other communities. Let’s take a closer look at why RV insurance is a must.
First, with only a few exceptions, most state governments require vehicle insurance. However, in many cases, the requirements only stipulate that you cover bodily damage (meaning injuries) and property damage for other parties. If you cause an accident and someone is hurt or their property is damaged, your insurance will cover some of the costs. If you should drive without such insurance, you can end up in serious trouble with the law.
You may not be forced to carry insurance to protect your RV or its property. If you should get in an accident or your RV is destroyed in a weather event like a tornado, you might be out a lot of money. RVs are expensive, and some cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. With so much at stake, taking out insurance is often prudent.
Finding the Right RV Insurance Policy
It’s smart to talk with insurance agents to see what is covered by any given policy. For example, not every RV insurance policy will cover property within the RV. You might be left footing the bill if someone breaks in and steals stuff. Thus, if you have a lot of valuables in your RV, you may want to select a policy or add-on to make sure the property is covered in such events.
Ultimately, owning an RV is a wonderful experience for many families. That said, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared before hitting the road. Among other things, that means making sure you have the right RV insurance coverage. If you need assistance with selecting RV policies, contact Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX, and other communities in Texas.