Benefits of a North Carolina renters insurance policy

Moving to the Matthews, NC area is a popular option for many people due to the range of professional opportunities and recreational options. When you are moving here, you will have a variety of housing options. One great option to consider would be to rent your own property. If you are going to rent a property in this area of the state, you need to make sure that you get a quality renters insurance policy. There are several benefits that come when you get renters insurance.

Coverage for Liability

If you are renting your home and have a guest over, you will be taking on liability risk at all times. Due to this risk, it is important that you get proper insurance in place. when you have a renters insurance policy, it will include a provision for liability coverage. Due to this coverage, most landlords will require that you carry this insurance at all times. 

Provides Coverage for Assets

While you may not own your home when you rent a property, you will still have a lot of personal assets within your home. If your home is damaged by a fire or vandalism, you could end up losing some of these assets. When you get a full renters insurance policy, you will receive the coverage that you need to repair or replace all of your personal belongings. 

There are a lot of benefits that come when you get renters insurance in the Matthews, NC area. If you are shopping for insurance here, you should call the team at Jim Boyce Insurance to further discuss your needs and options. The team at Jim Boyce Insurance can help you to determine what type and level of renters insurance coverage is ideal for your situation. 

3 Topics To Consider Before Buying Flood Insurance

Many homeowners assume that their homeowner’s insurance covers flood damage. However, the truth is that most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover damage caused by floods. In most cases, flood insurance is a separate insurance policy that must be purchased. At Jim Boyce Insurance, serving Matthews, NC, we love to take the opportunity to inform our clients and future clients on topics such as these. Keep reading to find out 3 things you need to know before purchasing flood insurance. 

Understand Your Risks

The reason that flood insurance is not often included in a homeowner’s policy is that the risk of flooding varies so drastically from state to state and even from region to region within a state. This makes it necessary to customize a flood insurance policy to each region’s individualized risk factors. In order to understand what type of risk you are at, you will need to speak to an insurance representative. 

Only Purchase What You Need

With something as unpredictable as flooding, the temptation is to purchase more insurance than is necessary. Take your time to research your risk factors for your area. This way you can feel confident about purchasing the right amount of insurance. 

Review Coverages Closely

It is very important to review the coverages of a flood insurance policy. You will want to make sure that the policy is providing coverage that is relevant to you, your home, your property, and your possessions. If the coverages you are seeing will not cover an important topic for you, be sure to discuss this with your insurance representative. In some cases, a policy can be customized to meet your needs. 

If you would like to learn more about flood insurance, please contact our friendly staff today. The knowledgeable insurance representatives at Jim Boyce Insurance, serving Matthews, NC are ready to answer your questions. 

Full-Time RV Living and Insuring the Dream

We understand the need for automobile insurance, and home insurance has long been a standard feature of any homeowner’s financial picture.  What happens for homeowners looking to live outside the proverbial “box,” however? Owing to an increased search for innovative living solutions, downsizing in general, or seeking a life of adventure out on the road, more and more people are wondering how that lifestyle might be insured.       

Meeting Your RV Insurance Needs in Matthews, NC

Making the choice to “take the show on the road” is rooted in a sense of adventure, but prudence suggests that you should not go it alone on your travels.  That’s why purchasing a full-time RV insurance policy is such a good idea for Matthews, NC residents infected with a sense of wanderlust.

An RV insurance policy provides crucial protection for full-timers that include such provisions as:

  • Medical payments for expenses of those injured while visiting your RV
  • Personal Belongings Coverage recognizes the fact that all your personal effects are onboard
  • Personal Liability acts like a “vacation liability” and covers injuries and around your RV
  • Emergency allowance should food and lodging be required

There is a myriad of potential options when it comes to designing your fulltime RV insurance, so sitting down with a trusted and honest broker, such as Jim Boyce Insurance, is your first step in mapping out the insurance aspects of your new full-time lifestyle.

Contact our Team at Jim Boyce Insurance Serving Matthews, NC.

Should you be wondering how to best protect your new on-the-road lifestyle, we invite you to contact our friendly staff to discuss your insurance needs to cover your full-time RV lifestyle.  You need to protect your vehicle, home, and all its content when it is contained entirely within your recreational vehicle.  Reach out to our knowledgeable and friendly insurance agents for a free, no-obligation quote.  You get more than just peace of mind when you work with Jim Boyce Insurance.

Three types of motorcycle coverage you need

As a motorcyclist, you need to carry adequate insurance coverage both to protect yourself financially and to meet legal obligations. At Jim Boyce Insurance, we offer motorcycle insurance policies that include a variety of different coverage options. 

There are numerous types of motorcycle insurance coverage you need to look into to ensure that you’re adequately covered while riding your bike in Matthews, NC. The following are three types of motorcycle coverage you’ll want to have. 

Liability coverage

The most basic type of coverage you need is liability coverage. Liability coverage is required by law for motorcyclists and motorists in almost every state. 

Liability coverage will cover resulting expenses if you cause physical or property damage while riding. Each state has minimum liability coverage amounts you’ll have to meet to drive legally. 

Collision coverage

Collision coverage is important to cover the costs of any damage that your own bike or property experiences.

If your motorcycle is damaged in an accident and you’re at fault, you’ll have to pay for the damages out of pocket if you don’t have collision coverage. You’ll have to cover the costs of damages even if you’re not at fault if you get in an accident with a motorist without adequate liability coverage. 

Guest passenger liability coverage

It’s a good idea to invest in guest passenger liability coverage if you frequently ride with a passenger. This addition on your motorcycle insurance policy will provide added coverage for medical costs if your guest passenger becomes injured while you’re riding. 

Some states require guest passenger liability coverage. However, you should invest in this type of coverage even if your state doesn’t require it to protect your passenger. 

Are you interested in learning more about the motorcycle insurance coverage available in Matthews, NC? Get in touch with us at Jim Boyce Insurance to explore our coverage offerings. 

What Coverage Is Included With Umbrella Insurance?

We have seen cases where our client’s coverage limits are not enough to cover the cost of damages incurred. Despite buying an insurance policy, they still ended paying out of pocket because they have exhausted their limits. That’s why at Jim Boyce Insurance in Matthews, NC, we decided to introduce what is known as umbrella insurance.

When you exhaust your insurance limits, your umbrella insurance will kick in. Also, if a certain situation occurs and it is not covered by your policy, you can file a claim against your umbrella insurance policy and we will respond as quickly as possible. So, what exactly is included in umbrella insurance?

Personal liability

This coverage protects you from indirect liabilities. For example, if someone slips and falls in your tenant’s patio, the person could file a lawsuit against you and your tenant. Your umbrella insurance will refund your payment for legal services.

Legal liability

Your umbrella insurance will cover you against certain lawsuits (not all lawsuits). For lawsuits like false detention, false improvement, wrongful arrest, slander, libel, mental anguish, and malicious prosecution, your umbrella insurance will protect you. Remember, most insurance policies do not cover these types of lawsuits. 

Injuries

If you cause someone to get injured by your negligence, you’re legally obligated to pay for the person’s treatments. For instance, if your dog chases someone aggressively because you didn’t put it on a leash and the person trips and falls while fleeing from your dog, you should be responsible for the treatment. With your umbrella insurance, you don’t have to pay out of your pocket. This coverage will make the payment available. 

Damage to property

If you mistakenly damage someone’s property, you can file a claim against this coverage and you will be paid the repair cost. For example, if your apartment gets flooded because you forgot to turn off a tap and it affects the apartment below yours, you’ll have to fix the apartment. This coverage will do that for you.

For more information on umbrella insurance, contact Jim Boyce Insurance located in Matthews, NC. 

What does renter’s insurance cover?

Many renters are under the false assumption that if there is a fire or other disaster at their residence, the landlord’s homeowners’ insurance policy will cover their personal belongings, furniture, and appliances but that is simply not the case. All renters should obtain a renters insurance policy to cover those items and more.

Renters insurance, sometimes known as tenant insurance, covers those unexpected events that none of us can plan ahead for, such as theft, fire, or tornado. A renters insurance policy will give you the peace of mind of knowing that if a disaster occurs, your personal belongings are covered but what exactly does renters insurance policies cover?

Personal Property

A renters insurance policy will cover the cost of repairing or replacing your belongings, including your clothes, furniture, and electronic devices. The amount of coverage will depend upon the limits that are set forth in your policy and you may have a deductible to pay upfront. You and your insurance agent can decide upon those details when you create your policy.

Liability Repairs

Liability coverage will cover you if you accidentally damage someone else’s property or if a guest to your home incurs medical bills due to an accident you caused. The amount of this coverage is also up to you and your agent.

Additional Living Expenses          

If there is a fire or other disaster that prohibits you from living in your house or apartment for a period of time while repairs are completed, the additional living expenses portion of your policy will cover things like a stay at a hotel. Your landlord’s property insurance will cover the damages to the actual structure but at least you will have a place to stay while your residence is uninhabitable.

The trusted and knowledgeable agents at the Jim Boyce Insurance agency in Matthews, NC can assist you in obtaining a renters insurance policy to give you the peace of mind you deserve.

3 Tips for Buying Classic Car Insurance in Matthews, NC

Classic cars are their own special breed, and that means classic car insurance is too. Insurance carriers work with each classic car owner on a case-by-case basis since many variables go into a classic car’s coverage, such as how it is stored. Whether you’re looking for a new policy or want to upgrade an existing one, the team at Jim Boyce Insurance has put together a quick list of the best ways to get started.

1. Start with a Reputable Agent

Your first task should be connecting with a reputable insurance agent. These knowledgeable professionals know the ins and outs of the classic car insurance world and can pass along this information to you. They are available to answer your questions, compare quotes, and help point you in the right direction to secure the best policy for the right price.

2. Bundle Your Classic Car Insurance Policy

An easy way to save money right from the start on your classic car insurance premiums is to bundle your new policies with existing insurance policies under one carrier. There are many insurance companies who love to reward their customers with discounts. Your reputable insurance agent will help you narrow these down.

3. Compare Several Quotes

Classic car insurance policies contain a lot of detail. While this may seem cumbersome, it’s important to examine each document to determine the different coverage and costs of each policy. Again, a reputable insurance agent will be by your side helping you every step of the way.

Ready to protect your classic car with the perfect policy? Then contact the team at Jim Boyce Insurance to get started today. 

Investing in life insurance at a young age

Life insurance can be an important investment for most people, and the earlier that someone begins to pay into a policy, the better their rates will be. There are agents available from Jim Boyce Insurance who serve customers in Matthews, NC with life insurance coverage. 

Starting to pay for coverage early

Life insurance is essentially a kind of substitute for a will or other document that describes how to handle a person’s finances and assets after death. The main difference is that life insurance policies payout with the company’s money rather than the deceased individual’s assets, which can be a huge expense. Obviously, as people begin to age and possibly develop health problems, the risk of them dying increases. This is why life insurance companies offer better rates to younger customers. Life insurance companies also consider that they may never have to pay out a claim to a younger customer, especially on policies with term limits that may expire before the customer reaches an advanced age. 

Keep in mind that insurance is generally a risk mitigation tool and younger people are at lower risk for health issues and death. This decreased risk also becomes a benefit to the consumer who invests in the policy early. 

Learn more about life insurance with the help of an experienced agent 

If you want to know how to start investing in a life insurance policy now, contact Jim Boyce Insurance. Their agents serve Matthews, NC and surrounding areas with excellent policies that provide adequate coverage. They can give you a comprehensive life insurance policy that meets all of your needs, regardless of your age when taking out coverage. 

What Is The Worker’s Compensation Law in North Carolina?

Running your own business in and around Matthews, NC often means you must hire employees. Jim Boyce Insurance supports our local entrepreneurs. Which is why we want to educate new business owners about the state’s law about worker’s compensation, so you can feel confident that you meet the law’s requirements and understand if your business is exempt from carrying this type of insurance.

Who Is Required To Carry Worker’s Compensation Insurance In North Carolina?

Any business that employs three or more individuals is required to carry this type of insurance. This includes businesses run as sole proprietorship, limited liability companies, and corporations. Even if you call your employees "independent contractors" you may still be found responsible for such individuals as an employer. Such distinctions are ruled by the Industrial Commission. Subcontractors that do not have their own worker’s compensation insurance could also become your liability. 

Who Is Exempt From Carrying Worker’s Compensation Insurance?

Some exceptions to this law include casual employees, certain farm workers, or household servants. Some railroad employees and those who work for the federal government in the state of North Carolina can be excused from having to carry worker’s compensation. Additionally, the trucking industry has its own special insurance requirements different from what’s expected by other industries.

What Happens If I Fail To Carry Worker’s Compensation Insurance?

Depending on the severity of your failure to comply with this law, you may incur large fines, criminal misdemeanor or felony charges, and possibly face prison time. 

Understanding your insurance responsibilities as an employer can be a confusing process. If you’re a small business owner near Matthews, NC, let Jim Boyce Insurance answer your questions and make sure you have the right business insurance for worker’s comp and beyond!

Is It Covered?

Whether it is home insurance, auto insurance, or renters insurance, knowing what your insurance policy covers is important. Be aware of the limits of your coverage so that you will not be caught off guard in Matthews, NC. 

What Is Typically Covered by Homeowners Insurance

While policies may differ, most homeowners policies cover damage to your home due to storms or fire. Most of the time, the personal property that is inside your home is covered too, so if your furnishings are ruined due to storm damage, your policy may pay toward their replacement. The same thing applies to burglary.  If your home is damaged by burglars, your policy will pay for the repairs, as well as replacing items that were stolen. Not only is your house and personal property covered by your homeowner’s policy, but structures on your property are also likely covered. So if a storm knocks trees onto your backyard fence, your policy may pay out toward repairing the fencing. Additionally, you are also covered for liability if someone is injured on your property. Therefore, if someone is hurt at your home, you are protected by your homeowner’s policy from a lawsuit. For specific coverage limits, you can read your insurance paperwork or contact your insurance agent.

What Is Not Typically Covered by Homeowners Insurance

Knowing what your policy does not cover is crucial as well. In some cases, you can buy additional insurance riders from Jim Boyce Insurance to help cover these problems that you may face in owning a home. Most of the time, things like sewage backups and the damage from them will not be covered by your homeowner’s policy. Most people do not realize it, but a basic homeowner’s policy does not pay out for damages due to floods, earthquakes, mudslides, or sinkholes. If you live in an area where these things may occur, you might want to look into buying additional insurance.

To discuss your insurance coverage and options for buying insurance riders in Matthews, NC, you can contact Jim Boyce Insurance today.