SafeCo Insurance – Wildfire Response Benefit

Posted on by Ashley Ellis

SafeCo’s new Wildfire Response Benefit comes with no additional costs. Read on to learn more about this (free) benefit and what it means for you.

Enrollment

Enrollment is completely free. It does not expire unless the customer requests or the policy is cancelled. There is absolutely no impact to your premium (no charge or discount) for this program.

All homeowner and Landlord Protection® policyholders within the designated wildfire states will receive a letter and opt-out form. There is currently no electronic opt in/out form. If you did not receive a form in the mail, please click HERE to download or feel free to contact Ellis Insurance Agency if you have any further questions.

Benefit and Partnership

Chloeta maintains a map of policies-in-force within the benefit footprint and monitors the area to determine wildfire proximity and threat level. The vendor makes operational decisions on which eligible properties are serviced and the types of services provided during a wild land fire response. Once safe access is secured, mitigation vendor services may include:

  • Removing pine needles and leaves from gutters
  • Removing flammable vegetation and items from around your home
  • Deploying a temporary sprinkler system to protect your home
  • Updating you regarding the status of your property and actions being taken to protect it
  • Applying a water-based gel* or firefighting foam to your home
  • Returning any combustible items moved and washing any fire gel or firefighting foam away after the wildfire event

*What is a protective gel barrier? “It’s an industry-leading, fire-preventing, and heat-absorbing fire-retardant gel that personnel may use to help protect your home and property. The gel particles adhere directly to a house or structure and quickly extinguish any flames or burning materials that come into contact with the gel. It creates a gelled water barrier that effectively helps protect a home or structure for several hours and may prevent internal combustion. It can be rehydrated to extend effectiveness, as needed. The gel is used as a last resort when fighting a fire. It is proven to be effective as it adheres to smooth surfaces such as glass.”

Questions?

To learn more about the partnership, benefits, vendors, and/or policy, you can reach out to SafeCo’s Customer Service or visit https://www.safeco.com/products/homeowners-insurance/wildfire

Don’t forget that you can always reach out to Ellis Insurance Agency for ANY questions about your policy and/or benefits.

How Do I File An Auto Insurance Claim?

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If you have auto insurance and a peril covered under the policy occurs, you need to file a claim to receive a settlement. However, it’s critical that you file your claim correctly because failure to do so can result in the claim being rejected by the insurer. Ellis Insurance Agency provides this guide on how to correctly file your car insurance claim in San Antonio, TX. 

Filing An Auto Insurance Claim: What You Need To Know

1. Call the 911 and Your Insurance Company

Depending on what has happened, the first thing you should do after an incident that is covered by your car insurance policy occurs is to call 911 and your insurance company. If it’s a criminal incident like theft or vandalism, your first call should be the police, then your insurer. If it’s an accident, call the police and emergency services so that anyone injured can receive timely medical attention, and then call your insurer. If the incident is damage to your vehicle due to a natural disaster, all you have to do is call the insurer.

2. Collect Evidence of the Incident

At Ellis Insurance Agency, we recommend that during your call with your insurer, you inquire what evidence they would need of the incident to assess your claim. In the case of an accident, vandalism, or damages by a natural disaster, use your smartphone to take detailed photos of the damage to your vehicle. Ensure that also capture wide-angle images of the location of the incident. In the case of theft, capture pictures of where the car was when it was stolen and get a police report.

3. Submit Your Claim With Evidence

Fill out the claim form from your insurer and submit it with the evidence you collected. Your auto insurer will review your claim, and if everything matches up with the terms of your policy, your claim will be approved.

Contact Us Today

Do you need auto insurance in San Antonio, TX and the surrounding areas? Call Ellis Insurance Agency today.

Hurricane Season

Posted on by Ashley Ellis

Hurricane season is June 1st through November 30th. NOAA forecasters are predicting a 65% above-normal hurricane season this year. 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!

The Importance of Reviewing Your Commercial Insurance Policy Regularly

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As a business owner, you know that having the right insurance coverage is essential. But did you know that it’s also important to review your policy regularly? Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX helps you understand why. 

The Importance of Reviewing Your Commercial Insurance Policy Regularly

1. Your Business Is Constantly Evolving, So Should Your Coverage

It’s important to review your commercial insurance policy regularly to make sure it still meets your needs. Your business is constantly evolving, and your coverage should evolve with it. As your business grows, you may need more coverage or different types of coverage. For example, if you add a new product or service, you may need to add product liability insurance. Or, if you hire new employees, you may need to add workers’ compensation insurance.

2. Reviewing Your Policy Helps You Understand What’s Covered – and What Isn’t

It’s easy to forget what’s included in your commercial insurance policy. A regular review will help you understand exactly what’s covered – and what isn’t. This can be especially important if you’ve had a claim denied because your policy didn’t cover it. If you don’t understand why a review can help you make changes to your coverage so that it doesn’t happen again.

3. You May Save Money by Reviewing Your Policy

As your business grows, you may be eligible for discounts on your commercial insurance. For example, you may qualify for a loyalty discount if you’ve been in business for a few years without any claims. Or, if you’ve added safety features to your workplace, you may qualify for a safe workplace discount. A review of your policy can help you take advantage of these discounts and save money on your coverage.

4. Reviewing Your Policy Gives You a Chance to Ask Questions

When you review your commercial insurance policy, it’s a good opportunity to ask questions about your coverage. If you don’t understand something in your policy, this is the time to ask. Your insurance agent can help you understand your coverage and ensure you have the right amount of protection for your business.

As you have seen, there are many good reasons to review your commercial insurance policy regularly. Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX can help you understand your policy and ensure you have the right coverage for your business. Give us a call today to get started.

 

What Home Owners Should Know About Home Insurance

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Purchasing a home is a big deal. You will want to make sure everything is perfect in your new place. As you are busy getting things set up, don’t forget about homeowner’s insurance. This important type of coverage will ensure that your home is protected. At Ellis Insurance Agency serving San Antonio, TX and the surrounding areas, we are here to help answer your insurance questions. Keep reading to learn more about home insurance. 

Who Needs Home Insurance?

Home insurance is often required if you have a mortgage on your home. Even if you do not have a mortgage on your home, though, home insurance is the best way to protect the money you have invested in your home. Your house is more than just a house. It is both an investment and a safe place for you and your family to grow. Having the proper insurance in place brings you peace of mind. 

What Does Home Insurance Cover?

Home insurance is a type of insurance product that is designed to pay if your home is damaged because of fire, natural disaster, or burglary. With the proper insurance in place, you will not have to worry about paying for these expenses out of pocket. 

Home insurance offers coverage for the following areas:

  • Property Damage- If the home is damaged or lost, the policy will kick in to repair or replace your home. This gives you the peace of mind of knowing that you will always have a home for yourself and your family. 
  • Liability Coverage- If someone is hurt in your home or on your property, liability coverage will pay for any medical bills or legal fees that may result. 

If you would like to learn more about our services, please contact us at Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas. 

 

 

Renters Insurance Policy Overview

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Ellis Insurance Agency serves the San Antonio, TX community and the surrounding areas. For over 30 years, we have provided service to our clients built on trust and reliability. We recognize that each of our clients has unique circumstances. We sit down with our clients to help them find policies specifically tailored to their needs.

Renters Insurance Policy Overview 

If you reside in one of the many appealing rental properties in the San Antonio, TX area, consider adding renters insurance. While the property owner may have coverage, it likely only covers any damages to the interior and exterior of the property. Your personal items are not their responsibility. That’s why renters insurance is an asset. Renters insurance covers your personal items if something happens to them. This can help alleviate some stress in the event that your possessions are stolen. Consider taking inventory when you move in so that you’ll be aware of your personal item’s true value. If you’re traveling out of the state to go on vacation, the policy covers your items while away from home.

Liability coverage is another important part of the policy. Perhaps you enjoy inviting guests over to have a good time. If one of your friends or an invited guest suffers an injury, liability coverage steps in to protect you. Liability coverage also covers accidental damage to your neighbor’s property. Perhaps you have a pet whose having a bad day and scratches your neighbor’s wall or causes a dent in their property. Liability coverage will protect you. If a natural disaster moves through Texas and damages your rental property, you can add alternative living coverage, which helps you find another place to stay while the property is restored.

Ellis Insurance Agency Will Help You Cover Your Assets

Contact us today to learn more information about renters insurance.  

Why RV Insurance is Needed

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Whether you are embarking on a cross country road trip to see all the national landmarks or use it as a personal residence, RV usage is on the rise. Given the expense required in purchasing, maintaining, and owning an RV you’ll want to be sure that you have adequate insurance coverage. In Texas, you are only required to carry minimum liability insurance which is unlikely to be enough if you are involved in an accident given the likely cost of repairs to an RV and the totality of damage it could cause to a third party. 

RVs are an investment and an expensive one at that so insurance provides valuable peace of mind while you are on the road. At Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX, we want to help you with your RV insurance needs. When shopping for insurance, you’ll first want to know what classification of RV you own because this can have a large impact on the type of coverage you’ll want to purchase and the cost. An RV can cover anything from trailers to motorhomes to truck campers to fifth wheelers. 

Similar to your auto insurance policy, a typical RV insurance plan will include collision, comprehensive, uninsured/underinsured motorist, liability, and medical payments. Additionally, you may want to consider optional coverage such as towing, roadside, and contents insurance which pays to replace your belongings if they are damaged or stolen in a covered incident. Contact Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX to schedule an appointment with one of our professional and knowledgeable insurance agents so that we can help customize an RV insurance policy that best meets your needs.

Winter Freeze Safety Tips

Posted on by Ashley Ellis

Are you ready for the big chill? Please follow these guidelines to ensure you keep your family, your home, and your animals safe!

Here are some DO’s and DONT’s to help keep you safe this winter:

DO:

  • Make sure you have enough food, water, and prescription medication to last 3-4 days.
  • Bring all outdoor pets inside.
  • Use cat litter or salt for icy driveways if you must leave.
  • Remove debris from your gutters to prevent stagnant water that could freeze.
  • Have battery powered flashlights available.
  • Wear a tightly woven, preferably wind-resistant coat or jacket; inner layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.
  • Bring potted plants inside or clump together; cover outdoor plants.

DON’T:

  • Don’t use an oven or stove to heat your home.
  • Don’t leave pets outside.
  • Don’t overexert yourself – stay hydrated if you are working outside.
  • Don’t place a space heater on top of furniture.

We all hope you stay safe and find these winter safety tips helpful!

Why Motorcycle Insurance Is Beneficial

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Ellis Insurance Agency serves the San Antonio, TX community. We are committed to helping our clients find the coverage they need to protect their assets. For over 30 years, we have provided quality service to the local community. Our success was built on treating our clients with respect and integrity. We hope to build trust with you so that we can provide your coverage needs as you deal with life’s challenges.

Why Motorcycle Insurance Is Beneficial

Many San Antonio, TX residents enjoy riding their motorcycles during warm summer days. While motorcycles are fun and exciting, they are relatively high risk assets. It only takes a split second for you to lose control of your motorcycle. Motorcycle insurance covers you if an incident happens. There are multiple benefits to insuring your motorcycle.

Liability Protection

Perhaps you are operating your motorcycle on a wet road, and you lose control. Maybe you see something in your peripheral vision, which causes you to crash. If you accidentally crash your motorcycle and injure someone or damage an object, liability coverage protects you. Liability coverage protects your assets by covering the damages and offering a safety net if the injured party pursues legal action.

Personal Injury Coverage

Personal injury coverage protects you if you are injured while riding your motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents often cause severe injuries. You are covered while you receive medical treatment. Your rehabilitation is also covered so that you can focus on getting healthy.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is beneficial because it protects your motorcycle in unique ways. You are covered if your motorcycle is stolen. You are also covered if your motorcycle breaks down while you are on the road. You can add urgent roadside assistance.

Ellis Insurance Agency Will Help You Protect Your Assets

Visit our website to learn more information about motorcycle insurance.   

Boat Insurance Basics

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San Antonio, TX, is a delight for boat owners. Following the San Antonio River, this city offers many opportunities for watercraft enthusiasts to enjoy themselves. But before you hitch up your boat, make sure that you have the right boat insurance for your needs by speaking to the friendly insurance agents at Ellis Insurance Agency serving San Antonio TX.

Breaking Down the Basics

To some extent, your homeowner’s policy will provide financial cover for your boat, but this is only for physical damage or loss, subject to the way the policy is structured. Comprehensive boat insurance should provide financial cover in two ways.

Physical Damage or Loss

Does your policy afford you financial protection against the possibility of accidental loss, damage, or theft of your boat? You will structure this area of your boat insurance policy in one of three ways.

Replacement Cost

Pay to repair or replace your boat.

Actual Cash Value

This type of insurance also pays to replace or repair your boat against accidental damage or loss but at a depreciated value.

Agreed Amount Value

You insure your boat for a set maximum value.

The type of policy you select depends on your financial obligations and your needs and should be reviewed at the time of renewal annually.

Liability

Liability is always a big one. Boats are fun, and good fun is often shared with friends and family. A boat insurance policy with liability cover provides financial assistance, depending on your policy wording, with injuries, disability, and death if you are legally responsible.

Don’t let this one sail by you; contact the Ellis Insurance Agency serving San Antonio, TX, today! And make sure you are covered adequately with insurance for your boating assets.