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Foley, AL 36535

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Am I Required to Get Renters Insurance?

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People who buy a home with a home loan are typically required by their mortgage lender to get homeowners insurance. Homeowners who drop their homeowner’s insurance may be forced to purchase insurance through their mortgage lender. But, if you’re renting an apartment, are you required to get renter’s insurance? 

The professionals at Southern Risk Associates, servicing Foley, AL, are here to answer your questions about renters’ insurance. If you’re shopping for a renter’s insurance policy, we can also help you find the right policy for your needs. Here’s what you need to know about getting a renter’s insurance policy for your home. 

Most Apartment Renters Are Not Required to Get Renters Insurance

Apartment renters don’t have a mortgage company telling them what to do, so many people who rent an apartment aren’t required to get renter’s insurance. However, landlords sometimes require renters to get a renter’s insurance policy.

If renter’s insurance is required, it will be in the lease you sign to get the apartment. If you’re currently shopping for an apartment, check with the landlord to see if this will be required for the property you’re considering.  

Benefits of Renters Insurance

Many benefits of renter’s insurance may lead you to want this type of insurance for yourself. 

  • Reduced financial liability if a covered event occurs. Your renter’s insurance policy can pay to repair damages in the event of a covered event, which reduces your financial liability. 
  • Peace of mind. Renter’s insurance can help you feel more comfortable knowing that you have some financial protection when a covered event occurs. 

Need Renters Insurance? Contact Us Today

At Southern Risk Associates, servicing Foley, AL, we can help you get renter’s insurance. Call today to make an appointment and learn more about our renter’s insurance policies.

What Businesses Need Umbrella Insurance the Most?

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Umbrella insurance policies provide Foley, AL businesses with extra liability that keeps them safe. But does every company need this type of policy? It’s usually a great idea if you work in any of the company types listed here. You can then work with Southern Risk Associates to get the support you need.

Businesses With Public Commercial Property 

If your company is located on a large and sprawling lot, you need to make sure that you have umbrella protection. These policies will keep you safe from serious lawsuits that may occur on your lot. For instance, retail stores with large square footage floor areas need umbrella policies to minimize their risk of financial loss if someone gets hurt on their property.

Companies Working On Other People’s Property 

When you work in industries that go on other people’s property, you need umbrella insurance. What kind of firms do we mean here? Well, we’re referring to companies like builders, contractors, painters, HVAC professionals, healthcare providers, and anyone else who visits a home. After all, if you cause serious damage to someone else’s house, you need umbrella insurance to stay safe from lawsuits.

Any Industries With a High Risk 

Do you work in a company that naturally has a high risk? For example, investment firms, healthcare companies, and travel companies all have high risk and need umbrella insurance. If your company falls into any of these headings, make sure that you contact us to get the support that you deserve. We’ll talk with you about your dangers and ensure that you find a policy that makes the most sense.

Contact Us Today!

With the help of Southern Risk Associates, you can find umbrella insurance policies in Foley, AL that suit you. We’ll do what we can to help you and find high-quality policies that make sense. No matter what your needs are, we’re here to provide the unique support that you deserve.

Can You Cover Your RV Under Your Auto Insurance Policy?

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Owning an RV can be a great way to travel while saving money on hotel costs. RVs also allow you to save money on food, as you can cook your own food instead of eating out at restaurants all the time. Some RV owners are confused when it comes to purchasing insurance coverage for their RVs, and some wonder if it’s possible to cover an RV under an auto insurance policy.

The answer is no, and here is an explanation why.

Your RV is a Hybrid

Since RVs double as a mode of transportation as well as a living space, it’s hard to classify an RV. This is why RVs are covered under their own unique type of insurance. RV insurance provides sufficient coverage for both aspects of your RV, and in a way, it’s like having homeowners and auto insurance combined. 

Auto Insurance Wouldn’t Provide Adequate Insurance

Again, your auto insurance wouldn’t be able to cover the uniqueness of an RV, so it’s best not to attempt to add it to your auto insurance policy. Even if an insurance company were to add your RV to your auto policy, if you needed to file a claim, the coverage likely wouldn’t cover all possible damages. If that were to happen, you would be stuck paying for the remaining repairs out of pocket. This could be quite pricey depending on the damage.

Consult With Southern Risk Associates

So, if you’re ready to purchase adequate insurance for your RV and you need a new insurance company, we’re accepting new customers at Southern Risk Associates. We cover customers in the Foley, AL area, and we go above and beyond to ensure you’re satisfied with Southern Risk Associates. So, if you’re a Foley, AL RV owner, give us a call, and we’ll provide you with a quote. 

Senior Rider Motorcycle Insurance: Riding into Retirement

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In and around Foley, AL, retirement often marks a time of newfound freedom and exploration, and for some seniors, that means hitting the open road on a motorcycle. While the thrill of riding can endure well into the golden years, senior riders need to consider the unique insurance needs of this phase of life. 

Unique Considerations for Senior Riders

As seniors embark on motorcycle adventures during retirement, several factors come into play:

  • Experience and Skill: Many senior riders have years of knowledge on the road, which can contribute to their skill and confidence. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge any potential changes in physical ability or reaction time that may come with aging.
  • Type of Motorcycle: The type of motorcycle can influence insurance premiums. Smaller, less powerful bikes may be more affordable to insure, especially if the rider is transitioning to a different motorcycle style in retirement.
  • Annual Mileage: Retirement often brings more flexibility in travel and leisure. Senior riders should consider estimating their annual mileage accurately to reflect their anticipated usage, which can impact insurance rates.
  • Safety Measures: Implementing safety measures, such as completing refresher courses or investing in advanced riding gear, can enhance the riding experience and contribute to insurance discounts.

Navigating Insurance Premiums 

While insurance premiums may increase with age, senior riders can take steps to manage costs:

  • Safe Riding Record: Maintaining a clean riding record contributes to lower insurance premiums.
  • Discount Programs: Many insurers offer discounts for completing safety courses or participating in mature rider programs.
  • Shop Around: Exploring multiple insurance providers allows senior riders to compare rates and find the coverage that best suits their needs.

Southern Risk Associates Can Help You

At Southern Risk Associates, we can help answer questions concerning motorcycle insurance. We serve the Foley, AL area. Contact us today. 

4 Reasons to Maintain Year-round Boat Insurance

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Alabama offers boat owners convenient access to some of the most beautiful waters in the south. Yet, even sunny Alabama isn’t ideal for boating year-round. Frugal boat owners may be tempted to forego carrying year-round boat insurance, but Southern Risk Associates serving Foley, AL advises otherwise.

Here are four reasons why you should maintain year-round boat insurance:

1. Lenders May Require It

If you’re making payments on your boat, your lender will require you to have year-round boat insurance coverage. Since the boat is technically still theirs until the loan is paid off, they want to be sure they can recoup their loss if anything happens. Letting coverage lapse during the off-season could put you in default, with financial or legal penalties.

2. There’s Risk on Land, Too

Even if you take your boat out of the water during the off-season, that doesn’t protect the boat against all risks. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and even freak accidents can damage even the most well-protected boat. It’s not worth losing your investment just to save a few premium payments.

3. Homeowner’s Insurance Isn’t Sufficient

Sometimes boat owners let insurance lapse, thinking that their homeowner’s insurance will cover the boat. However, homeowner’s insurance coverage will be much more limited, and there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself footing the bill for expensive repairs or replacements if you opt for this strategy.

4. You’ll Miss Out on Rare Opportunities

Without insurance, you can’t safely take your boat out. This means that you’ll miss out on those occasional times during the off-season when the perfect boating days occur. Instead, you’ll be at home wishing you had kept year-round coverage.

We Are Here To Help

Southern Risk Associates serving Foley, AL helps boat owners in the area to obtain and manage boat insurance all year round. Contact us to get started today.

What Questions Should You Expect to Be Asked When Buying Motorhome Insurance?

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Purchasing motorhome insurance is a critical step in protecting your home on wheels. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newbie to the RV world, understanding the questions you’ll encounter during the buying process is essential, and the team at Southern Risk Associates, serving the greater Foley, AL area, wants to ensure you know what to expect.

Vehicle Details

Expect questions about your motorhome’s make, model, year, and vehicle identification number (VIN). Insurance providers use this information to assess the risk associated with your specific vehicle. Be sure to provide accurate details to receive an appropriate quote.

Usage and Mileage

Insurers will inquire about how you plan to use your motorhome. Whether it’s for occasional trips, full-time living, or anything in between, your usage affects your coverage needs. Mileage estimates are also relevant, as more time on the road may increase your premiums.

Storage and Security

You’ll likely be asked about your motorhome’s storage location when not in use and the security measures you’ve implemented. Storing your RV in a secure facility and using safety features like alarms can lead to potential discounts on your insurance.

Personal Information

Insurance providers will need personal information about all drivers who will operate the motorhome. This includes driver’s license details, driving history, and any additional qualifications like completion of an RV driving course.

Reach Out To Us

When buying motorhome insurance, being prepared for the questions you’ll face can streamline the process and ensure you get the coverage that suits your needs. Being prepared to answer all these questions will help you navigate the insurance buying process smoothly. If you’re looking to purchase a motorhome insurance policy in the greater Foley, AL area, reach out to Southern Risk Associates to get started today. 

The flood is coming. Here are a few tips to prepare your house

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Floods can be a devastating natural disaster here in the Foley, AL area, so being prepared is key to protecting your home. Here are some tips from us at Southern Risk Associates on how to get your house ready for a flood: 

Flood Preparation Tips

1. Check your pipes and valves.

Make sure all of your pipes and valves are in good working condition so that they won’t burst under pressure from the flooding. Consider purchasing special valve covers or other tools that can help protect them even more. 

2. Elevate furniture and appliances.

Move any furniture or appliances that might be prone to water damage off the ground if possible. This will ensure that they don’t become submerged if the waters rise high enough. 

3. Install check valves on drains and toilets.

Check valves will help prevent the backflow of floodwater into your home through drains and toilets, helping to keep the inside dry. 

4. Keep sandbags around just in case.

Sandbags are an effective way to block water from entering through doorways and other openings in your home, so it’s smart to have some on hand when a flood is possible in your area. 

5. Have emergency supplies ready

Have emergency supplies ready ahead of time, such as bottled water, flashlights, batteries, first aid kits, blankets, etc., so you can be prepared if you need to evacuate quickly due to rising waters or power outages caused by flooding in your area. 

Consult With Us

Following these tips can help you get your house ready for a flood before it happens – preparing now may mean saved possessions and peace of mind later! For more tips or to explore a flood insurance policy, give us at Southern Risk Associates a call today. We proudly serve the Foley, AL area.

Things You Shouldn’t Do After a Car Accident

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If you live in Foley, AL and you’re ever involved in an auto accident, you’re likely to be shaken if not completely distraught. Despite this fact, you need to keep in mind that there are several things that you shouldn’t do following a car accident.

Here is an overview so you will know exactly what to refrain from doing:

Leave the scene

You should never, ever leave the scene of an accident, regardless of who is at fault. Even if you accidentally hit a parked car and the owner of the vehicle is nowhere around, you should call the police and wait for them to arrive. You should also wait for the owner of the vehicle, if feasible. If you leave the scene of an accident, you could be charged with a hit and run, especially if you were at fault. 

Admit Fault

Even if you’re absolutely sure that an accident was a result of your negligence, you should never admit fault to the police, the other driver, or any bystanders. It might be discovered that you weren’t at fault, but if you admit fault on the scene, then you could be charged. The police could give you a ticket, and the other driver could sue you. 

Argue or Threaten the Other Driver 

Regardless of how angry you might be at the other driver, you should always refrain from threatening anyone on the scene or starting an argument. Any emotions that you’re experiencing are likely normal, but it isn’t normal to allow a volatile temper to get the best of you. You need to remain as calm as possible as you speak with the police, as you don’t want to end up getting arrested.

Southern Risk Associates Is Here To Help

As you can see, there are certain things that you should refrain from doing if you’re ever involved in an accident in Foley, AL or any place else. If you need a new insurer for your car or truck, then we at Southern Risk Associates can provide you with a quote in case you’re interested in starting a policy. We go above and beyond to ensure all our customers are treated fairly and provided with high-quality coverage and customer service. 

Three details you shouldn’t overlook when you buy condo insurance

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Buying the right condo insurance coverage is important. Do you need to learn about your condo insurance options in Foley, AL? Southern Risk Associates can provide you with the information you need on condo coverage.

The following are three details you shouldn’t overlook when you buy condo insurance:

Discounts that are available to you

Condo owners should know that there may be numerous insurance discounts available to them.

You could enjoy discounted condo insurance by paying for your policy upfront rather than one month at a time. You might also get a discount for bundling your condo insurance with another insurance policy you have by purchasing your condo insurance from the same provider. 

Be sure to ask a representative from your condo insurance company about any discounts you might be able to enjoy. 

Coverage limitations

While condo insurance covers a lot of potential damage to your home, there are some limitations on standard condo insurance policies.

One of the most important limitations to be aware of is the lack of flood coverage on a standard condo insurance policy. You’ll need to invest in a separate flood insurance policy if you want flood damage to your condo to be covered by insurance. 

Optional coverages

Certain types of coverage are optional on a condo insurance policy. Some common optional coverage offerings include water backup coverage and scheduled personal property coverage. Be sure to consider these options to devise a policy that is optimized for your needs. 

We Are Here To Help

We’ll help you address all the most important considerations when you choose condo insurance. Let us insure your property in Foley, AL to protect your investment. Call Southern Risk Associates to get a quote on a policy today!

Will my homeowner’s insurance cover termite damage?

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Homeowner’s insurance covers many different situations for homeowners. However, there are some situations that aren’t covered by a typical homeowners’ insurance policy. As a homeowner, it may be wise to familiarize yourself with the areas on non-coverage. Our team at Southern Risk Associates takes pride in educating Foley, AL homeowners on homeowners insurance.

What is Homeowners Insurance?

In short, homeowners insurance is designed to provide coverage for your home’s internal and outer structure, as well as the foundation, any other structures on your property, your personal belongings, and more. Homeowners insurance also provides protection from liability claims.

This means that if you damage someone else’s property or someone is injured on your property, the liability coverage that comes with your homeowner’s insurance will cover these incidents. If your dog bites your neighbor, your homeowner insurance may cover the medical expenses your neighbor may incur. Also, if you hit your neighbor’s mailbox, your homeowner’s insurance typically covers this too.

There are other situations where your homeowner’s insurance provides coverage as well. The guidelines and eligibility requirements are typically clearly outlined in your homeowners’ insurance policy.

Will my homeowner’s insurance cover termite damage?

Not everything that goes wrong with your home is covered by your homeowner’s policy. Some things are considered preventable and occur because of negligence, according to many insurance companies. Termite infestation is one such situation. Termites can be eradicated before they do significant damage. As a result, termite damage isn’t covered by a typical homeowners policy unless otherwise specified.

Looking for Insurance in Foley, AL?

If you have questions about homeowners insurance, call us at Southern Risk Associates. We’d be happy to help you explore your options.

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