What to Look For in a Great Home Insurance Policy

Owning a good home in Lynnwood, WA is a dream of every person — after all, it’s a gateway to short-term and long-term financial success. Short-term, it unburdens you from incurring monthly rents, and long-term, it creates an “equity nest egg.” 

Since your home is a significant investment, it’s advisable to guard it against unpredicted perils by purchasing a home insurance policy. Whereas Washington does not require home insurance, this coverage gives you peace of mind knowing that your assets are as safe as you are. 

With this in mind, you may wonder what it takes to find the best home insurance policy. If this is your case, here is a brief guide by Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. 

Thinks About Your Home Contents

Before seeking a home insurance policy, you should evaluate the value of the contents of your new home. Avoid underestimating the value, as this can cause you to suffer financially when making claims. 

Check Claim History

You want to be 100% sure that the insurance company in question will settle your claims in case of perils. The best way to confirm this is by checking their claims history – it will give you a clue of what to expect.

Financial Strength of the Insuring Company

Don’t forget to consider the financial background of the insurance company in question. A company that’s likely to face financial constraints will probably cause you more suffering when making claims. 

Be Sure of the Details you Provide

Most insurance companies will require you to provide the correct details regarding the various aspects of your home when looking for insurance cover. Be sure to answer every question correctly, as wrong answers may see your claims being dishonored.

Buy home insurance in Lynnwood, WA today!

Unpredicted disasters like fire, hurricanes, lightning, and many others can cause extensive damages to your newly owned properties. However, with an excellent home insurance policy, you will get compensation for such damages. Don’t wait until it’s late — seek your home insurance policy by contacting Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. while you still have time. 

Does Home Insurance Cover Sinkholes?

In some states, home insurance providers may be required to cover "catastrophic ground collapse." But this isn’t the case in Lynnwood, WA.

In Washington, insurance companies generally will not cover your home in the event of sinkhole damage because the policy is written to cover the cost of rebuilding the home. With no land on which to build, that’s easier said than done.

You can have sinkhole protection added to your home insurance policy in any state. But it is worth considering whether that’s worth the effort and the cost.

If you live in a beach home, sinkhole protection might make sense. In Lynnwood WA, we do see sinkholes from time to time, but chances are they’re not a major threat on your property. We did see a rash of sinkholes opening up across Seattle some years ago, but for Washington residents, sinkholes simply aren’t as prevalent a problem as they are in, say, Florida or Texas.

Even so, if it’s a concern, it’s worth talking to your insurer about. We don’t exactly expect anything that’s covered to happen. We don’t expect riots, we don’t expect fires. But we have to be prepared. And that’s why we buy home insurance, to make sure that we’re protected against likely and unlikely events.

If you have any questions or if you’re looking to get covered in Lynnwood, WA, get in touch with Sound Choice Insurance Inc. Whether you’re looking for complete and total coverage against all sorts of hazards, or you just want something basic in case of burglary and fire damage, Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc is the sound choice when you want a good deal on a great policy.

First Time Homeowners Guide to Home Insurance

Purchasing your first home is one of the most pivotal moments in anyone’s life, but it can also be stressful and overwhelming. From having to pick a mortgage lender, to do an inspection and appraisal, to the actual closing home buying is both exciting and nerve-wracking. Luckily for you, we can make that process a little bit easier by continuing to read our first-time homeowners guide to home insurance. 

Although home insurance isn’t mandated by states, it is going to be required by your lender if you are financing the house purchase with a mortgage. If you are purchasing your home in cash, homeowners insurance is not required, but it is highly recommended to protect your investment. When comparing policies, it is important to pay attention to your deductibles. When choosing a policy, keep in mind that whatever deductible amount you select for coverages like the personal property you must pay that first before your insurance kicks in. 

Additionally, you want to select a policy that has adequate liability and personal property coverage. Liability coverage protects you if another person is injured while on your property and you are found to be liable. You’ll want to have a liability limit that covers your total assets. Conversely, if you own expensive artwork or furniture than having higher coverage for personal property will help protect these items from loss. 

At Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. in Lynnwood, WA our talented and friendly team of insurance experts are ready and willing to assist in helping you find the perfect homeowners insurance policy for your needs. Give us a call today to schedule a no-obligation consultation with one of our team members. 

Is It Time to Shop for New Home Insurance?

Your home is likely one of your largest investments financially, and it is definitely one of your most important investments emotionally. Your house is where you and your family spend time and make precious memories. You want to do everything you can to protect your home. One of the most important ways you can protect your home is by having sufficient home insurance. At Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc serving Lynnwood, WA we love helping our clients make sound insurance choices. Keep reading to learn more about shopping for new home insurance. 

Why Should I Shop For New Insurance?

Most people think that if they have an insurance policy in place, then why should they ever shop around for a new one? The truth is circumstances change over time, and your insurance policy may not be reflecting those changes. When your policy is not updated periodically it can cause you to be spending money on things you may no longer require, or you may find yourself underinsured. Either way, this can put your home in a vulnerable position. 

When to Shop for New Home Insurance 

Home insurance needs will change along with your home. If you have made any major improvements to your home, this will increase the value of the home. When the value of the home is increased, the amount of insurance coverage must increase as well. If changes have been made to your home or property which would increase your risks of liability, your insurance policy should be updated to reflect this as well. In order to understand all of the ways your insurance needs may have changed, it is best to sit down with an insurance representative to discuss such changes. 

If you would like to learn more about home insurance, please call our staff today at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc, serving Lynnwood, WA. 

Why do I need home insurance?

Those that live in the Lynnwood, WA area should consider purchasing a home. When you own a home here, there are a lot of long-term benefits that come along with it. While you can benefit in the long run by having home insurance, you do need to make sure that your property protected with insurance. There are several reasons why insurance could be needed. 

Needed to Protect Home

A primary reason that you will need to get home insurance is that it can protect your valuable asset. A home is a very big investment that you need to protect as well as possible. With a home insurance policy, you are going have support if your home is damaged or you are a victim of theft or vandalism. Additionally, you can receive a liability protection policy that will protect you in the event you are found liable for an accident. 

Needed to Ensure Document Compliance

You will also need to get home insurance to stay in compliance with a variety of different obligations. A full home insurance policy is going to be required if you take out a mortgage to finance the purchase of the home or if you live in a condo association. It is important that you understand the home insurance rules that you have when selecting a new policy.

Those that are shopping for a home insurance policy in the Lynnwood, WA area need to carefully consider their personal needs and options. If you are going to get a new home, it would be a good idea for you to call Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. The team at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc can give you all of the guidance and support that you need to pick a policy that offers you the right protection. 

Is it Time for a Home Insurance Review?

If you’ve had your home insurance policy for a long time and haven’t made any changes to it, it may be time for a review. At Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc, we can help customers in the Lynnwood, WA area get the insurance coverage they need to protect their homes. We will take a careful look at the coverage you already have, and make sure it’s right for your current needs. If it isn’t, we can help you make adjustments to coverage options or levels in order to get adequate protection. Then you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your insurance is right and you have what you need to care for your home the proper way.

When you come to us for a home insurance review we’ll cover all the areas where you already have insurance, and also ask you about any changes that might have been made to the home or the property. If you’ve made significant changes, your current insurance policy may not reflect that. In order to be sure you have the best possible coverage, updating your policy may be necessary. You can have updates made to your insurance policy as often as you need to, in order to be sure you’re keeping your coverage up to date in a way that works for you. If you’re not sure whether changes are needed, your agent can help you make that decision, too.

When you’re ready for an insurance review, reach out to us at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc today, so we can protect your Lynnwood, WA area home. We’ll take a good look at the policy you have, ask questions and answer yours, and make sure you have proper coverage for the present and the future. We’re here to help you, and make sure your home has the kind of protection it really needs.

Does Your Home Insurer Need To Know About Your Above-Ground Pool?

As a general rule, any time you are wondering if your home insurance provider needs to know about something or other, they need to know about it.

Now, if you follow the instructions on your above ground pool, if you set it up properly and situate it at least sixteen feet from the nearest building, you should be fine. It’s not that big an insurance liability as long as you practice a little common sense. If it collapses with nobody in it, and it is a safe distance from your home, you shouldn’t see any damages that the next warm day in Lynnwood, WA won’t fix.

The real concern is a liability. If you have a bunch of the neighbors’ kids in the pool and something happens, you could be looking at a lot of doctor bills to cover, and that’s when you’re going to be glad that you let your insurance provider know about your above-ground pool.

Generally speaking, your insurer is going to cover you for things like this as long as they don’t think that you were trying to keep a secret from them. If you host a house party and someone is injured, that’s not a big deal, unless you didn’t tell them you’d be having fifteen, twenty people over. The same goes for an above-ground pool. It’s not a major liability concern, but honesty is always the best policy in matters of insurance.

There’s no reason not to set up an above-ground pool at your Lynnwood, WA home, just make sure that you have the proper coverage. Give Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc a call. Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. can get you set up with a policy that will keep you covered.

Renovating Your Home in 2020? Don’t Forget to Update Your Insurance

The New Year often brings changes to people’s lives. If upgrading your home is one of those changes, make sure to update your insurance accordingly. Home renovations can alter your current home insurance coverage. By updating your home insurance policy from Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc in Lynnwood, WA, you can continue to receive the protection you need.

How do home renovations affect your home insurance?

Increase Home Value

Major home renovations like a kitchen remodel or a new patio can increase your home’s value. A substantial increase in home value could make your current dwelling coverage insufficient to protect your property. Your dwelling insurance should be enough to cover the cost of replacing your home in the event it’s totally destroyed in a catastrophe. By assessing the value of your home after the renovations are done, you’ll know if you need to increase your dwelling coverage to fully protect your property.

Alter Coverage

Home renovations will need to be added to your home insurance in order to be protected against unforeseen perils. Home renovations will alter your current dwelling coverage, making it necessary to update your policy.

Reduce Insurance Costs

Some home renovations such as upgrading your plumbing or electrical systems, installing energy-efficient windows or installing a new security system can help reduce your home insurance costs. A new plumbing and electrical system will reduce your risk of water and fire damage. A new security system can protect your home against theft, vandalism, and intrusion. By enhancing your home’s safety and security, you could qualify for a discount on your home insurance.

If home renovations are on your agenda for 2020, contact Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc in Lynnwood, WA about updating your home insurance to maintain optimal coverage. We look forward to meeting your home insurance needs.

Does My Home Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc offers homeowners insurance to residents of Lynnwood, WA. The coverage they provide covers a wide range of damages that are caused by storms. There are certain natural events that are not covered by your traditional home insurance policy. These events must be covered by a specific type of policy that is written for that unique form of damage.

Know What Your Home Insurance Covers

When you purchase your home and sign up for new homeowner insurance, it’s essential that you talk to your insurance agent to determine what type of insurance policies you need to be fully protected from financial disaster caused by a storm or other weather event. By working with your insurance agent, you can find the information you need so you can purchase the right types of insurance.

Hurricane and Flood Insurance

Homes that are in hurricane zones or floodplains will require specific policies that are written for those particular events. If you live in a floodplain but have not purchased flood insurance, your home will not be fully protected against water damage from storms or large amounts of precipitation. The same is true if you live in a hurricane zone. If your home receives damage caused by a hurricane-related storm, your home won’t be covered if you don’t have the right policy in place.

Homeowners who live in or near Lynnwood, WA are encouraged to call the agents of Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc. when they decide to upgrade their existing homeowners’ insurance or purchase a new policy altogether. By calling their office, you can find out what types of home insurance are needed to cover weather-related events in your area.

Does My Home Business Need Commercial Insurance?

These days everyone is looking to boost their income. One popular way to do this in Lynnwood, WA is through a home-based business. Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc encourages this spirit of entrepreneurship by extending our expertise to help home business owners understand commercial insurance and why it’s important. 

Does A Home Business Need Commercial Insurance?

Yes. It’s easy to assume that your regular home insurance would cover your business assets, but the truth is a standard home policy rarely provides enough. Sometimes, homeowner’s policies specifically exclude use as business insurance. This also goes for vehicles being used in majority business operations.

How Much Insurance Does A Home Business Need?

That depends on the business you run. Sometimes your insurance agent could find a rider or extension to add to your existing home policy to cover your business assets. In other cases, purchasing a wholly separate commercial liability policy might be your best option. When considering your options, you and your agent should look into the typical equipment you use and the common risk factors your business might experience. Coverages you might need include:

  • Personal property such as furniture and computers
  • Physical inventory of goods
  • Liability for injury and product faults
  • Business interruption

How Do I Find The Right Insurance For My Home Business?

If you operate in and around the Lynnwood, WA area, the agents at Sound Choice Insurance Agency Inc are on hand to discuss your options. We work with you to discuss your individual insurance needs to find the policy that fits you and your business. Whether you’re just starting up or have been established in the community for years, let us make sure your home business is insured for the future.