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Does Flood Insurance Cover Mold Remediation?

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Floods can wreak havoc on communities and the homes within them. Water gushes through doorways, saturating everything throughout the house. It’s common to see basements full of several feet of water. Once the water is gone, mold often remains due to the previously damp environment.

How Common is Mold After a Flood?

Unfortunately, mold is prevalent after a flood. Mold spores are everywhere. Once a flood creates a damp environment, the mold spores have the necessary environment to thrive. Often, the water must be cleaned up within 48 hours to prevent mold, but that’s rarely the case during a flood. Removal companies are often overwhelmed, and homeowners must wait for insurance companies before clean-up can begin.

Flood Insurance Is Crucial

Standard homeowner’s insurance policies in San Antonio, TX, usually don’t cover every natural disaster. Most policies exclude floods and flood damage, including mold that results from floodwaters. However, homeowners can get add-on coverage to protect their property in the event of a flood. Here at Ellis Insurance Agency, we can help you determine if you’re high-risk and need flood insurance.

Will Flood Insurance Cover Mold Removal?

Flood insurance often covers the removal of water and may also cover property and structural damage. However, most policies don’t automatically cover mold remediation. Some will cover mold removal if there is a specific reason for the mold, such as authorities deeming the building unsafe to enter. Companies may also offer additional coverage to remove mold from your home. This differs depending on the company.

Every company is different in terms of what damage is covered after a flood. An experienced agent at Ellis Insurance Agency can help you learn everything that’s covered by your policy. We can also help you determine if you need additional coverage. Contact us to learn more today. We’re currently serving the San Antonio, TX, area.

Does Condo Insurance Cover Flooding in San Antonio?

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Living in San Antonio comes with many perks and benefits. However, this Texas town is no stranger to unpredictable weather that can cause significant property damage for local auto and homeowners.

Learn if your condo insurance policy covers flooding in San Antonio from the insurance professionals at Ellis Insurance Agency.

Does Condo Insurance Cover Flooding in San Antonio, TX?

The first step towards ensuring you have flood insurance coverage is to review your condo association’s Master Policy to determine if your unit’s damages are covered.

Their associations’ Master Insurance Policy covers most condo owners. This foundational insurance policy acts as a blanket shield that helps cover the costs of damages, liability claims, and accidents that occur in condo communities’ common areas.

Once you have determined the coverages for common areas and the exterior of your unit, talk to a licensed local insurance agent to learn if your condo insurance plan includes flood insurance.

In most cases, local condo owners will need to implement a condo insurance policy with a separate flood insurance policy to cover the costs of extensive flood damage.

A condo insurance policy can offer basic protection for water damage from broken pipes or a leaky roof but is typically unlikely to cover damages from extensive floods caused by the following events:

  • Flash Flooding Caused by Severe Storms and Heavy Rainfall
  • River or Creek Overflows
  • Hurricanes and Tropical Storms
  • Storm Drain Backups
  • Sewer Backups

An adequate condo insurance or flood insurance policy can mitigate risks of flood damage caused by flash floods, severe storms, or interior plumbing issues.

Contact a licensed agent at Ellis Insurance Agency to learn about which policy is right for you, get a quote, and protect your Texas condo from floods today!

Should I Consider Auto and Umbrella Insurance?

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We purchase home, auto, and other insurance to protect against the financial consequences of unexpected events. Insurance policies usually cover these liabilities because the policy limits exceed the damage. However, sometimes, the liabilities exceed our policy limits, leaving us responsible for the remainder. That’s where umbrella insurance steps in to ensure our financial well-being. If you have questions about an umbrella or other insurance, contact our team at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX.

Covering Your Potential Liabilities

Most auto accidents are relatively minor; the vehicles are repairable, and everyone involved walks away from the incident. However, some accidents cause disabling injuries or worse, resulting in liabilities exceeding the amount the insurance company is obligated to pay, based on the policy limits. Suppose you are found liable for a catastrophic accident. In that case, you may be responsible for paying the difference between the total award and the amount paid by your insurance, potentially putting your savings, home, or other assets at risk. That’s when umbrella insurance steps in.

A core purpose of umbrella insurance is to pay the liabilities exceeding your base auto (or home) policy’s limits. Since umbrella insurance only activates in "worst-case" situations, umbrella insurance payments are uncommon, and the rates are low. The combination means you can affordably obtain the extra layer of protection and peace of mind that comes with umbrella insurance while ensuring the assets you accumulated are not at risk due to an unlikely but catastrophic event.

Working With Ellis Insurance Agency

Umbrella insurance protects families and businesses. If you live in or near San Antonio, TX, and want to discuss your umbrella, auto, or other insurance needs, the Ellis Insurance Agency team is ready to help. Please stop by or call (210) 866-8683 today.

Can Roommates Share Renters’ Insurance?

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Insurance companies generally permit renters to share insurance policies, with the primary benefit being the ability to split the cost. However, sharing a renters’ policy isn’t suitable for everyone and can sometimes be disadvantageous, so it’s important to consider your options before making that choice. If you need answers concerning renters’ or other types of insurance, contact our team at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX.

Roommates Sharing a Renters’ Insurance Policy

Roommates sometimes share renters’ insurance policies to save money and for convenience. There’s only one monthly payment, and the roommates share the insurance costs. However, the cost savings are relatively minor since renters’ insurance is relatively inexpensive in Texas. It averages $14.42 monthly for $30,000 in personal property and $100,000 in liability coverage with a $500 deductible.

The problem with shared policies is that they can complicate matters. One issue arises when a roommate moves out. You must remove that roommate from the policy, possibly transfer the payment, and make decisions about who pays future premiums.

While these changes are inconvenient, a more significant issue arises when someone makes a claim. If you’re a party to a shared insurance policy, claims against the policy become part of your seven-year insurance record, meaning your roommate’s claim enters your long-term insurance record.

These issues may not be a concern if you know your roommate well, but that’s not always true. Shared insurance policies bring shared legal obligations, so paying slightly more may be better to maintain legal separation.

Insuring with Ellis Insurance Agency

Ellis Insurance Agency serves the San Antonio, TX, area. We can help you develop an insurance plan that meets your needs, so call us at (210) 979-9000 or stop in to protect yourself and your possessions.

Mold and Water Damage in RVs: What Your Policy Should Cover

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Recreational vehicles (RVs) are subject to unique risks, including mold and water damage. These issues can arise from leaks, condensation, or flooding, leading to costly repairs. Ensuring your RV insurance policy provides adequate coverage for these risks is essential for safeguarding your investment in San Antonio, TX.

Understanding Water Damage Risks

RVs often experience water damage from roof leaks, plumbing failures, or improper sealing around windows and doors. Over time, even minor water intrusion can lead to mold growth, structural weakening, and damaged interiors. Due to their compact and multi-material construction, RVs are particularly susceptible to extensive damage from small leaks.

Most RV insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as from a burst pipe or storm-related leaks. However, gradual damage due to maintenance neglect is typically excluded. It’s important to perform regular inspections and repairs to ensure claims are not denied due to owner negligence.

Mold Coverage Considerations

Mold resulting from water damage is a growing concern for RV owners. While some policies include limited mold coverage, others exclude it entirely. If mold coverage is available, it usually applies to mold caused by a covered peril, such as storm damage, rather than long-term exposure or poor maintenance.

RV owners should consider add-on endorsements for comprehensive protection against water damage and mold remediation. These endorsements provide additional coverage for costly cleanup and repairs, offering peace of mind in case of severe damage. Combining thorough maintenance with the right insurance coverage can help protect your RV from costly and disruptive damage, ensuring your travel plans stay on track.

Contact Ellis Insurance Agency for Your Insurance Needs

Ellis Insurance Agency underwrites policies to meet customers’ needs. We serve San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding cities. Contact us today.

Why Your Motorcycle Insurance Should Be Separate From Auto Insurance

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If you own a motorcycle and one or two cars in San Antonio, TX, you might wonder why you can’t place them on the same policy. Although these vehicles essentially serve the same purpose, getting you from one place to another, each has a unique dynamic of risk and protection. Ellis Insurance Agency can help you choose an appropriate policy for your bike to keep you fully covered.

Motorcycles are More Vulnerable to Risks

There is a significant difference between motorcycles and autos in terms of weight. Autos weigh considerably more, causing more damage during crashes, while lighter motorcycles are more susceptible to road hazards, conditions, and weather. Motorcycles also require a higher level of skill to operate. This vulnerability, especially in terms of what motorcyclists experience while riding, is central to why you need a separate policy for your bike.

Motorcyclists Experience More Severe Injuries

The larger size and weight of sedans and SUVs, even subcompact models, better protect their occupants. When a motorcycle is involved in a high-speed accident, the rider is more likely to suffer severe or life-threatening injuries, requiring higher medical coverage. Medical payment coverage often addresses this issue and is a key difference between auto and motorcycle policies.

Other Considerations

Several other differences also come into play for motorcycle policies. These include:

  • Differences in accident rates
  • Repair costs
  • Motorcyclist demographics
  • Accessory coverage
  • Differences in value

In addition, many riders only use their bikes for leisure purposes and frequently store them in garages during cold and inclement weather. Drivers use their autos almost daily for commuting and errands.

If you recently purchased a motorcycle, contact Ellis Insurance Agency to learn about the differences in coverage in San Antonio, TX. Call our agents today to get started on your customized policy.

If Watercraft Insurance is Not Required in Texas, Why Should I Get It?

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Just like when you’re driving a vehicle, unforeseen situations can arise, leading to accidents. While your car insurance provides peace of mind, watercraft insurance is not required in Texas, leaving you unprotected.

Texas Watercraft Coverage

Although Texas does not require watercraft to be insured, owners can purchase coverage. The types of watercraft that owners often inquire about include powerboats, canoes, kayaks, jet skis, fishing boats, cabin cruisers, and sailboats.

When you contact our agents at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving the San Antonio, TX community, we can answer any questions you may have about watercraft coverage, such as the types of insurance available and additional options. You can also request a quote using our convenient online form.

Benefits of Watercraft Coverage

There are many unexpected situations where having your watercraft insured can make a significant financial difference. Insurance can help if your watercraft is involved in an accident, damaged due to fire, stolen or vandalized, or affected by weather-related situations such as lightning, or if you and property damage cause injuries to others.

When you speak with our agents, we can discuss different policies, such as collision, comprehensive, property damage liability, personal property coverage, medical payments, bodily injury liability, and incidents involving uninsured and underinsured boaters.

Contact Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio

If you need information about watercraft insurance in San Antonio, TX, contact our customer-friendly team at Ellis Insurance Agency. Our staff stays up-to-date on what customers need to know about coverage for watercraft. With this information, you will be better informed about what type of coverage suits your needs while providing protection.

Household Member Extended Coverage in Umbrella Insurance

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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.

Why Flood Insurance Is A Hot Topic

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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. 

How Condo Insurance Differs from Homeowner’s Insurance

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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.