-Do I have coverage for my side sewer and any buried utility lines to my house? In the last 3-5 years, most companies have rolled out special coverage for this (hello, Seattle homeowners with a 100 year old house!). Usually it is not included automatically, but needs to be added.
-Do I have water back up coverage? Sewer and Water back up is usually not included but can be added. Don’t let a yucky situation be yuckier but not having this coverage!
-Do I have coverage for water seepage and leakage? Traditionally, Homeowners policies would not cover a water leak as that has been viewed as a maintenance issue (the key words with insurance claims are usually “sudden and accidental”) but in recent years, companies have rolled out add-on coverages like the “seepage and leakage” which gives a limit of coverage to something like a leak that has been going on behind your shower that you discover when you rip it out to start a remodel.
-What payment discount options do I have? Most carriers offer pay in full discounts, or even discounts if you are on automatic payments. This is definitely worth discussing with your agent!
-How is my Homeowners premium impacted if I change my deductible? With the insurance market as tough as it is right now, we usually recommend a $2500 deductible as a minimum deductible. Back in the day, a $500 deductible was standard and although we see those occasionally, we recommend a higher limit because your rate would go up if you filed a low claim. Plus, the premium will be reduced with the higher the deductible.
-Do I have glass coverage for my car? Sometimes you can pay a little extra to have windshields included, or it is subject to your Comprehensive deductible.
Julie Janowicz
Insurance Advisor
P: 425-361-2584 x312
E-mail: Julie@dcigi.com