4 Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Condo

It may come as a surprise, but buying a family home is not the same as buying a condominium. One of the critical factors to consider include condo insurance. TruePoint Insurance serving Savannah, GA, provides affordable and effective options to choose from. Some of the crucial factors condo buyers should consider before purchase are:

Amenities

They include extras such as a swimming pool, gym, guest suites, party room, visitor parking, etc. You need to consider how you will make good use of them when you are the new owner. Instead of leaving the swimming pool water or gym space to get dirty since you don’t need it, it would be wiser to go for an option without those unnecessary extras.

Insurance

Condo insurance covers personal property, interior damage, housing displacement, master policy coverage limits, and guest liability. Having your insurance helps you avoid complicated situations that may arise due to an accident in the condo.

Review Condo Rules

Since most condos are close to one another, there will be rules and restrictions on residents. For example, pet restrictions are pretty popular in most condos, while others only allow small-sized dogs. In other settings, condo owners are not allowed to make any renovations without permission. Such rules exist to tame annoying neighbors who don’t care about others’ welfare.

Location

Depending on how your things progress, you may not spend your entire life living in a condo. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the location as it plays a significant role in its resale value. If the area your target condo is in is developing rapidly, it could help boost the property’s value.

Buying a condo can be a relatively straightforward process if you consider important factors such as the ones above. Consider reaching out to TruePoint Insurance serving Savannah, GA to get advice and offers on the right condo insurance coverage. Call to speak to an insurance expert for vital advice.

How much motorhome insurance should I buy?

If you’re buying a motorhome soon, you might be wondering what you need to operate it safely.  The Savannah, GA law requires that all motorhome owners carry motorhome insurance, particularly liability coverage. Motorhomes are generally more expensive to insure than most RVs as they cost more to replace than travel trailers and other RVs. At TruePoint Insurance, we recommend assessing your needs before purchasing motorhome insurance to maximize helpful coverage. Here are some of the factors that determine how much insurance you will need.

Motorhome usage

How you use your motorhome greatly affects how much insurance you will need. If you’re always on the roads, your insurance company may need you to have vacation liability and enough bodily injury and property damage liability. If you use your motorhome for recreation purposes, let your insurer know approximately how many days in a year you use your motorhome to adjust your rates.

Driving experience and record

Handling a motorhome is a completely different experience than driving a normal car. You have to know how to negotiate corners, keep the length and height of your motorhome in mind and drive carefully to maintain a clean driving record: the cleaner the records, the better the rates.  Additionally, too many claims indicate risk on the road.

Your location

Where you live or store your motorhome in Savannah, GA, matters as populated areas are at higher risk of accidents, which can increase your motorhome insurance costs. Regions prone to catastrophic weather may also cost more to insure. Motorhomes are large, expensive vehicles and a big target for car thieves. Consider storing them in a spacious locked garage or taking them to a storage company for additional safety.

At TruePoint Insurance, we can help you get a motorhome insurance policy that truly reflects the factors that will go with your motorhome.  Check out our website for more information and hesitate to call us if you have any questions.

Is renters insurance a necessity?

If you are renting an apartment in Savannah, GA you will need an outstanding insurance policy to safeguard your possessions. Landlords insurance property insurance protects the building itself, whether an apartment or a house. Your belongings and certain liabilities are covered only through a renter’s insurance policy that you have to scout and pay for. Regrettably, few tenants procure renters coverage with a notion that their landlord’s policy covers them. Connect with our agents at Truepoint Insurance, and they are ready to explain the following benefits of renters insurance you accrue as a tenant.

It covers losses to personal property.

A salient renters insurance policy covers against losses to your personal belongings such as clothes, jewelry, computers, furniture, and electronics. Even if, as a tenant, you don’t possess much, it can quickly accrue to a lot more than you realize. Renter’s coverages protect your personal property against imminent perils like:

  • Explosion
  • Falling objects
  • Fire or lightning
  • Smoke
  • Theft
  • Vandalism or malicious mischief

Provides liability coverage

Liability coverage protects someone if they are injured while on your premises or if you or another covered party injures someone else. It also pays any court judgments inclusive of legal fees up to your policy limit.

Provides coverage for additional living expenses

If your rented apartment gets uninhabitable in Savannah GA as a result of covered perils, your renter’s insurance coverage will cater to additional expenses like hotel bills and food costs.

Your landlord may require it.

It’s prudent to be aware that your landlord’s insurance caters to the structure itself devoid of your belongings. A sizeable number of landlords in Savannah GA might require tenants to procure their renter’s insurance coverages. They will expect to see a proof before allowing you to rent or occupy their building.

When selecting a formidable renters insurance, ensure to choose an insurance company that satisfies your needs or budget. Get In touch with us at Truepoint insurance in Savannah, GA  for comprehensive information about renter’s insurance. 

What Does RV Insurance Cover in Savannah Georgia?

If you like traveling with your family in an RV, camper or trailer, then you need liability insurance on your vehicle. If your RV, camper, or trailer are financed, you will need full coverage to protect your finance company’s assets. Different types of insurance can be confusing and at Truepoint Insurance we are here to help you.

What is the Minimum Liability for RVs in Savannah, GA?

In the state of Georgia, the minimum amount of insurance for an RV is 25/50/25. This means that you have $25,000 in property damage coverage per each accident, $50,000 for bodily injury per each accident, and $25,000 for property damage liability. This is the minimum amount you need if your RV is paid off and you own it outright.

What are the Other Types of RV Coverage?

Full coverage includes both comprehensive and collision insurance. Collision covers damage to your RV resulting from an accident and comprehensive damage to your RV for non-collision-related items such as wind damage or hail damage.

Vacation liability insurance covers costs of others’ property or for their injuries. This is different than the standard liability insurance needed for an RV in Savannah GA that you drive in that it will cover you when you hurt someone else or cause damage to their property when your RV is being used while you are on vacation instead of just driving down the road.

Roadside assistance is a great item to add to your RV insurance policy because you never know when something will go wrong. It can help you to tow your RV to a shop and allow you to get a rental car if repairs will take some time. Then you can get back on the road for your family adventures.

At TruePoint Insurance, our knowledgeable experts can help you to determine how to effectively insure your RV to recoup any losses if you incur damage. You can call us or come by our office near Savannah, GA in Pooler, to get all of the information you need.

Georgia Boat and Watercraft Insurance


TruePoint Insurance

As the Captain, your job is to manage risk constantly. While the safety of your passengers and crew is your number one concern, risk management for your vessel is also an ongoing problem.
That’s where we come in. TruePoint Insurance provides Coastal Georgia boatowners with access to many of the top boat insurance options. With locations in Pooler and Wilmington Island, TruePoint is making it easier than ever to find the proper insurance coverages for Savannah boatowners.

Boat insurance for Coastal Georgia

We provide coverage for the following types of watercraft:

  • Air Boat
  • Bass Boat
  • Bay Boat
  • Bowrider
  • Cabin Cruiser
  • Catamaran
  • Center Consoles
  • Cuddy Cabin
  • Deck Boat
  • Fishing Boat
  • Game Boat
  • High-Speed Boat
  • High-Value Boat
  • Houseboat
  • Jet Ski
  • Offshore Fishing Boat
  • Personal Watercraft
  • Pontoon
  • Runabout
  • Sail Boat
  • Ski Boat
  • Sport Boat
  • Yacht
  • and more…….


Whether you’re purchasing your first boat or just checking around for a better value, reach out to one of our Georgia boat insurance specialists. We’ll take the time to find the right coverages for your unique situation.

Give us a call at (912) 330-1265,

or Click Here to learn more about TruePoint Insurance.

Georgia Restaurant Insurance



Restaurants and Pubs

Managing a Restaurant or Pub is hard work. Finding the correct insurance for your endeavor shouldn’t add to your headaches. Obtaining the coverages at the right price should be the responsibility of a reliable and trusted insurance professional.

Insurance for Pubs and Taverns
Insurance for Georgia Pubs and Taverns

Different cuisines, Franchises versus Mom and Pop, and the processes utilized for cooking are just a few of the factors that may influence a restaurant’s premium. Other factors can have a more dramatic impact on premiums. For example, alcohol sales, entertainment (such as live music or karaoke), and dance floors may make it harder to secure adequate and reasonably priced insurance.

That’s where we come in. With two locations in Savannah, GA, our insurance agency is helping restaurant owners in Coastal Georgia, and many other Georgia locations navigate the specific insurance needs of the industry. TruePoint Insurance has aligned with many of the top carriers providing insurance for Georgia restaurants and pubs. So while you focus your energy on staffing, menus, and other operations-critical issues, we will be behind the scenes searching for the appropriate insurance coverages that meet your unique needs.


Give us a call now at (912) 330-1265

or Click Here to learn more about TruePoint Insurance

Georgia Garage Liability Insurance

The coverage, it’s in the detailing

Insurance for Auto Dealers and Garages

What is Commercial General Liability

Whatever business you’re in, it is likely, that you will need general liability coverage. Commercial General Liability also referred to as CGL, protects your Georgia business in the event of third parties claims.

Liability insurance; the cost of staying in business

Insurance claims come in many forms.  If you’re an auto dealer, garage, or body shop in Coastal Georgia you are definitely aware of the damages that can be inflicted by a windstorm.  Property coverage is an essential portion of your risk management process.  The need for property and many other types of insurance coverage can be easily quantified.  Both the magnitude of the potential loss and the associated insurance premium are a given.

The cost/benefit analysis for liability insurance is another story.  Today, seven-figure liability claims are not unheard of. Magnitude is the reason that your Commercial General Liability policy is essential.

CGL Insurance provides very broad coverages, however it is critical that Georgia business owners be aware of the many exclusions.  Professions that work with customers vehicles have specific liability insurance needs.

Insurance for Mechanics

Mechanics, auto body repair shops, and other’s need what is known as Garagekeepers Liability Insurance.

Vehicles not owned by the insured are not covered by under the CGL or the Commercial Auto Policy.  To fill this gap, many businesses need a Garagekeepers Liability Policy.  This policy provides the insured with coverage for incidents that occur on the premises. On-premises is key. It is important to remember that this coverage does not extend beyond the place of business.

Garage Liability is often confused with Garagekeepers and vice versa

Earlier we noted that Garagekeepers insurance may not cover on-site incidents. If you own or operate a Georgia auto dealership, or if your business drives non-owned vehicles off premises, then you most likely need a Garage Liability policy.

Garagekeepers or Garage Liability,  as clear as spent motor oil

Business Liability insurance can get confusing. That’s why it is important for business owners to do some work on their end. It’s wise to invest some time on the front-end finding a good agent. Working with an independent agent increases your chance of success.

Working with an independent agent is even more important for businesses. The group combines to write nearly 85% of the insurance written in the US. 85% of the market makes it difficult for anyone other than an independent to agree their case. Garage Liability insurance coverage.

Identifying the right independent agent might be a little tough. Don’t be afraid to quiz them. Use your understanding of General Liability, Garagekeepers, and Garage Liability coverages. Put prospective agents to the test by asking them to suggest coverages.

The finish line is in sight. Choose the right path for you and your business to secure the necessary coverage.

Don’t feel bad if you’re still feeling a little confused. Many in the insurance industry have trouble with this topic. Who needs Garage Liability?

CAN YOU HAVE BOTH?

It’s not uncommon for businesses in the auto industry to carry both Garage Liability and Garagekeepers coverage.  If your business falls into one of the following you more than likely need on, if not both of these coverages:

Auto Mechanics

Auto Dealerships

Car Wash

Farm Equipment Dealers

Auto Body Shops

Parking Lots

Valet Parking

Mobile Auto Service

Tire Dealers

Driveway Contractors

Towing

ATV Sales & Service

…….and many more auto-related industries

Is Motorcycle Insurance Required in Georgia

With the wind in your hair and access to some of the best adventures in Georgia and nationwide, it is easy to see why owning a motorcycle is becoming increasingly popular. Just as you are required to have insurance for your personal automobile in Georgia, the same logic applies to a motorcycle with the state mandating separate insurance. At a minimum, motorcyclists must carry the following coverage:

  • $25,000 in liability insurance per person for injuries or death
  • $50,000 in insurance per accident for injuries or death
  • $25,000 in property damage liability per accident

Keep in mind that these figures are just the minimum coverage required to be in compliance with Georgia law and that many motorcyclists purchase additional coverage to better protect their assets, loved ones, and themselves. Failure to carry insurance while operating a motorcycle in Georgia carries hefty penalties including fines and revocation/suspension of registration. When shopping for insurance, bear in mind that liability insurance does not protect the rider and instead offers compensation and support for any victims of an accident caused by the motorcyclist. Given that motorcycle injuries are generally severe, additional coverage that should be considered includes collision insurance to pay for repairs or replacement of the motorcycle, comprehensive insurance to cover damages caused by theft, vandalism, hail, and more, and uninsured motorist coverage. 

In addition to insurance requirements, Georgia motorcyclists must also have a valid Class M License or Class M Instructional Permit which can be obtained through the completion of an accredited Motorcycle Safety Program Course or passing a vision test, written exam, and riding test administered by the Georgia Department of Driver Services. 

At TruePoint Insurance in Savannah, GA our friendly and dedicated team of insurance professionals is ready and willing to answer all your questions so give us a call today to learn more.

The Commercial Property Policy

Commercial Property Insurance Policy

No matter the size or type of business, tangible property is a major asset. A national standard for insuring such property is the Insurance Services Office (ISO) Commercial Property Program (CPP). The CPP may be written as a single policy (covering only buildings and property) or as a package that provides property, liability and, other important protection for your business.

The Parts of A CPP

A Commercial Property Policy is flexible because it consists of several basic parts:

·        Declarations Forms – these tell you who is covered, the amount of insurance, the type of coverage written, other information about the business and other identifying details.

·        Conditions Forms – these documents contain sets of conditions that control how the policy operates such as the customer’s duties when a loss occurs, the method used for settling a loss or what steps to take when the customer and the insurer disagree over the amount of a loss.

·        Coverage Forms – these include descriptions of the type of property that is covered or excluded and it explains items such as coverages, insurance limits, definitions, deductibles and other important provisions.

·        Causes of Loss Forms – as you might expect, these forms describe the causes of loss (perils) that are insured against and any exclusions.

·        Policy Cover or Jacket – this is, literally, a cover designed by the company providing the policy and it usually includes a table of contents or an index.

The above can be modified o better fit different types of businesses by adding a wide variety of optional coverage forms called endorsements.

Causes Of Loss Forms

The following Causes of Loss Forms are available under the CPP:

BASIC – protects against Fire, Lightning, Explosion, Windstorm, Hail, Smoke, Aircraft or Vehicles, Riot or Civil Commotion, Sprinkler Leakage, Vandalism, Sinkhole Collapse, and Volcanic Action

BROAD – adds several additional covered causes of loss over the Basic Form, including Breakage of Glass, Falling Objects, Weight of Snow, Ice, or Sleet, and Water Damage.

SPECIAL – provides coverage on an “all risk” basis which essentially covers anything not otherwise excluded.

EARTHQUAKE – covers earthquake shocks or volcanic eruptions that occur within any 168-hour period.

What CPP Covers

A Commercial Package Policy covers building, completed additions, fixtures, permanently installed machinery and equipment, personal property that is used to service or maintain the building or premises, and, under certain circumstances, construction equipment, material and supplies.

Under personal property, the CPP covers furniture and fixtures, machinery, equipment, stock, all other personal property owned by the insured and used for business, labor, materials, or services furnished or arranged by the insured on the personal property of others, any improvements and betterments made by or acquired by the insured (when a tenant), and any leased personal property the insured has a contractual responsibility for. The CPP, under limited circumstances, also covers property located outside or in vehicles.

What CPP Does Not Cover

Like any insurance policy, there are items that are not covered. A CPP does not provide coverage for accounts, bills, currency (and similar property), animals, automobiles held for sale, bridges, roadways, walks, patios, or other paved surfaces, contraband, property being transported by air or over waterways, land, crops, underground property, most vehicles, expenses related to replacing company records and other property.

Again, this is just a very brief discussion of the CPP. If you need more information, help is nearby. Contact an insurance professional to talk about coverages and your coverage needs.


COPYRIGHT: Insurance Publishing Plus, Inc.2017

All rights reserved. Production or distribution, whether in whole or in part, in any form of media or language; and no matter what country, state or territory, is expressly forbidden without written consent of Insurance Publishing Plus, Inc.

General Contractors

General contractors (GCs) are the playmakers for any significant construction project, taking responsibility for all key operations such as construction assignments, job site supervision, and activity coordination. Typically, GCs have their own construction specialty (example: malls, restaurants, office buildings, stadiums, arenas, parks, etc.). GCs are often larger concerns with a tremendous amount of expertise in their area of specialty. The level of experience is critical since it permits a construction project to be led efficiently and more successfully.

GCs may assign/award work in a variety of ways, such as:

·        supplying all of the specialty contractors for an entire project, such as the excavator, electrician, heating contractor, cement contractor, plasterer, and so forth

·        using their own, permanent employees for certain jobs, and

·        subcontracting the remaining tasks to other, smaller construction specialists

After land has been purchased and the design/architectural work has been done, the general contractor proceeds, usually beginning with site preparation, through excavation, foundation-laying, framing, and finishing until the building or project is completed. The general contractor provides the materials and equipment according to the applicable design specifications (usually provided by the architect). The GC must comply with all local and state ordinances, codes and zoning requirements. This includes purchasing the necessary permits and obtaining the necessary surety bonds.

GCs may either be hands-on operators, who actively take part in construction, or they may be “paper” operators, overseeing the actual work of other contractors. The general contractor may rent, lease or borrow equipment (including equipment operators) for use by subcontractors. Since the general contractor is responsible for the job site, he/she should be aware of the proper use of the equipment during construction. Is the equipment being used as it was designed to be used? Is the equipment’s load capacity routinely exceeded? Finally, GCs have many contractual and administrative obligations such as making sure that critical project deadlines are met, that payroll is handled, materials and equipment are obtained and that the project’s budget is followed (avoiding cost overruns).

GCs face a myriad of loss exposures that vary substantially according to the type of construction project. Their insurance needs may range from a simple, low limit package of coverage to a huge wrap-up program, involving multiple lines of business, different insurers and reinsurers with various layers of coverage. Firms involved as general contractors must work with insurance professionals who are equally adept at handling large tasks.


COPYRIGHT: Insurance Publishing Plus, Inc. 2017

All rights reserved. Production or distribution, whether in whole or in part, in any form of media or language; and no matter what country, state or territory, is expressly forbidden without written consent of Insurance Publishing Plus, Inc.