Author Archives: AgentInsure

Making sure your home is prepared for an emergency

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Emergencies come in a lot of forms. It can be a fire, strong summer storms, heavy winter snows, or the flooding rains of spring and fall. No matter what the emergency, it is important that your home is prepared to survive and provide the protection you and your family need. In Wayzata, MN, Pizano Insurance is here to provide the choices you need when it comes to home insurance. We will work to make sure you get the perfect coverage for your needs. 

When an emergency hits, it is important to have an emergency plan in place. Every member of the family should be aware of the plan and if it includes evacuating your home, you should have rehearsals so that even the youngest members know where they should be and the route they should take. 

Your home should be equipped with smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. If your escape route is from a second-story window, you need to have an approved ladder for a safe escape from your home. 

Your home should have a supply of food and water that can keep you for a few days in the event of a weather emergency. When a weather emergency hits, it is not uncommon for the power to be out. In order to keep things running in your home, having a generator is a good way to prepare for an emergency. Be sure to have fuel to keep it running for at least a few days. 

Make sure any important papers you have are stored in a container that is both fire and flood proof, including your home inventory and home insurance policy. This will make any insurance claim much easier. 

Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN is your one-stop insurance agency for all your home insurance needs. Stop into the office or give us a call for a no-obligation quote. 

Is getting an auto insurance plan in Minnesota necessary?

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When you are in the Wayzata, MN area, having a consistent way to get around the community is very important. A way you can ensure that you will be able to get to and from work and complete other tasks is by owning a vehicle. Along with a car purchase decision, another important choice to make is to get a proper insurance plan. An auto insurance plan should be considered a necessity for several reasons. 

Legal Requirement

A key reason to have an auto insurance plan in this area of Minnesota is so you can stay in compliance with your legal obligations. A motorist in this state is required to carry liability insurance at all times, which ensures a driver is able to cover any damages that they could cause in an accident. If you are not covered, you could face various penalties. 

Auto Lender Requirement

You may also be required to carry this coverage if you have an auto loan outstanding. Taking out a car loan is a good idea to ensure you can purchase a vehicle that you want to drive. If you have taken out a loan, your lender will want you to maintain a full insurance plan. They may require you to provide evidence of coverage from time to time. 

Choosing an auto insurance plan in the Wayzata, MN area is always very important. If you are looking for a policy in this part of the state, it would be a good idea to call Pizano Insurance. There are a lot of choices to make when you are looking for this coverage and Pizano Insurance can make the process easier for you. They are able to help you carefully assess your needs and options to choose a plan that is right for your situation. 

Home Insurance Add-ons to Consider

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When you buy home insurance from Pizano Insurance, you expect it to protect you against all perils lurking in your home. Unfortunately, home insurance has limitations. However, the good news for Wayzata, MN homeowners is that there are riders (add-ons) you can consider boosting your home insurance policy. Let’s look at a few.

Flood insurance

While home insurance covers water damage resulting from leaky pipes and faulty appliances, it doesn’t cover water damage from overland flooding. As such, you need a stand-alone food insurance policy to protect your home from floods. Even if you don’t live in a flood plain area, it’s recommended you purchase flood insurance since floods can strike anywhere.

Umbrella insurance

Umbrella insurance is extra liability coverage that comes into play when your liability coverage runs out. For instance, if someone slips in your home and suffers severe head injuries, home insurance can only stretch as far. It will cover medical expenses and possible lawsuits but may run out. Fortunately, umbrella insurance picks from what your home insurance leaves off. 

Sewer and drain backup

Water damage from a sewer backup is a constant pain for homeowners. These problems occur when your sewer lines are clogged, become old and weak, or when tree roots seep into the lines, causing damage. Unfortunately, this risk isn’t covered by your typical home insurance. For this reason, you should invest in a sewer and drain backup endorsement to avoid you counting losses when water damage strikes. 

Scheduled personal property

While home insurance protects high-value items like art and jewelry, the protection is limited. If loss or damage were to occur, you would incur out-of-pocket expenses to replace your property. Thankfully, valued possession coverage can help protect your valuables from breakage and theft. 

Boost your home insurance today!

Would you like to get more out of your home insurance? Contact Pizano Insurance of Wayzata, MN to help you boost your home insurance coverage with appropriate riders/endorsements.

Does My Auto Insurance Cover Against Damage Cause By Hail?

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Living in Wayzata, MN does not prevent you from issues regarding your car. Fortunately, Pizano Insurance has your back, as it focuses on providing all the insurance care you need. Finding the right insurance cover for your vehicle is a priority before you hit the road. Numerous issues may lead cause destruction to your car. Such include hail, and it is prudent to find out if your insurance coverage will protect your vehicle in such situations.

Basic Features of Auto Insurance

Your standard auto insurance is your caregiver whenever physical damages occur. It foots the charges incurred during repair work after hail damage. What more, it may also offer you a care replacement if the damage was extreme. However, your insurer will only go to that extent if you had purchased comprehensive insurance.

How Do I Claim Compensation?

When pursuing compensation after severe weather damages your car, the insurer will need you to pay the deductible fee if you own comprehensive insurance. The cover safeguards you from issues that other policies leave out. They include theft, vandalism, and hail. That said, you need to purchase a comprehensive insurance policy to safeguard your car from hail damages.

Most hail claims happen during spring, as the weather tends to be unfriendly. That way, it is advisable to park your car safely during such seasons. Your comprehensive insurance cover will protect you from hail destruction throughout the year, as long as your premiums are up to date. 

Understanding Hails Destruction Cover

When filing for a hail destruction claim, your insurance will request comprehensive cover. The agency proceeds to assess the level of damage before deciding the way forward. As the insurance fixes your car, you pay the deductible fee totaling the balance you have. Your agency pays you an amount equal to the value of your vehicle if it is beyond repair. That way, you can get a replacement for your damaged car.

Contact Pizano Insurance today by visiting our site, especially if you stay in Wayzata, MN, to access all insurance services.

Preparing your home for the summer season

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The weather is heating up, and it’s time to start thinking about preparing your home for summer. Summer involves a lot more time outside and entertaining. It involves lots of sunshine and the need to stay cool and protected. Owning a home involves lots of upkeep and the summer is no exception. At Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN we are here to lower your stress level with one-stop insurance shopping. As an independent agency, we provide our customers with access to multiple carriers which allows them more choices. 

Service your AC

When the temperature rises, it’s time to turn on the air conditioning. If you have a central ac unit, it’s time to get your yearly check-up. Nothing is worse than having your system stop working in the steamy heat. Yearly maintenance can keep your system operating at peak performance and extend the life of your unit. 

Trees

If you have trees on your property winter can be tough on them. Look for damage, if you find some it is time to get an Arborist in to check the health of your trees. You may need some limbs trimmed or removed. Falling branches pose a safety hazard to you, your guest, and your property.

Make sure gutters are clear

Summer can bring heavy rain, and it is important that your gutters and downspouts are running freely. Check to make sure that the water is being directed away from your home to avoid foundation issues. 

Service your lawn moving equipment 

If you maintain your own lawn, preparing for summer means getting out the mower and the weed whacker and making sure they are working well and that you have enough line for the whacked. 

Summer is a time to relax and enjoy the outdoors, if you need to discuss your home insurance give us a call at us at Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN. 

Auto insurance additions you may want to consider

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Auto insurance is not just one type of coverage, it is several types of coverage. Some of them are mandated by the state and others by lenders. Some are additions that may be added to your policy if they can be of benefit. At Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN, we are an independent agency that provides our customers with the benefit of our years of experience. We offer many choices of carriers which allows us to get the best possible rates. 

Gap coverage– Gap coverage will pay the difference between the depreciated value of your vehicle and the amount you owe on your auto loan. Vehicles depreciate very quickly and if your accident or theft happens within a few months of purchase you could be way underwater. 

Roadside assistance– Many people have roadside assistance coverage through companies like AAA. These cost quite a lot more than a similar overage that may be available through your insurance carrier. It includes towing as well as other services such as tire changing and jumping your battery if your car won’t start. 

Car rental insurance– If your vehicle is damaged in an accident, you will need to have something to drive in the interim. With car rental insurance you will be able to rent a vehicle while your vehicle is in repair or until it is determined to be a complete loss. 

Full glass replacement-Glass coverage may be included with your comprehensive coverage but if it is not, it is worth having. No one wants to have to drive around with a damaged windshield or broken window. This coverage is provided without a deductible and the repair people can even come to you at home or at your job. 

If you are looking for a new carrier or a new agent in Wayzata, MN, Pizano Insurance has an exceptional team that can help you. 

4 Things Covered by Home Insurance

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If you own a home in Wayzata, MN, it’s a smart choice to understand home insurance to ensure that your hard-earned investment is protected against perils like theft, fire, vandalism, lightning, and so forth. While homeowners’ needs are different, home insurance from Pizano Insurance is likely to cover you in the below areas.

Structural coverage

If your home is destroyed by fire, hurricane, lightning, hail, or any other covered peril, home insurance pays for damages or the cost of rebuilding your home. Detached structures like gazebos and sheds are also covered in case of damage.

However, typical home insurance may not protect your home against flood and earthquake damage. As a result, talk to your agent to purchase separate covers. 

Personal belongings coverage

If stolen or destroyed, home insurance pays for the loss or damage to personal assets like electronics, clothing, and furniture. In light of this, conducting a home inventory is vital to ensure that all your valuables are included in the home insurance coverage plan. 

However, home insurance offers limited coverage to high-value items like jewelry, fur, and silverware. That said, talk to your agent to acquire extra protection.

Liability protection

Suppose your dog bites a neighbor? Or perhaps your son causes bodily injury to your neighbor’s child? Without home insurance, you could be facing expensive financial liabilities. The liability coverage in your home insurance pays for legal costs, medical costs, and property damage for losses caused to other people. 

Pro-tip: If you want more liability coverage than what is offered in your home insurance, consider umbrella insurance for broader coverage.

Additional living expenses (ALE) coverage

If a covered peril destroys your home and becomes inhabitable, home insurance ALE coverage pays for costs above your average living expenses. These expenses include hotel meals and accommodation. 

Next steps: Are you about to own a home in Wayzata, MN? Don’t forget to purchase home insurance from Pizano Insurance. Contact us today for an affordable home insurance plan.

What is Full coverage Car Insurance?

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As a car owner in Wayzata, MN, you’ve probably come across the term full coverage insurance. Generally, there is no auto insurance cover that covers everything. It is just a term that is used to describe a combination of coverage that protects you against the state requirements and personal insurance needs. According to Pizano Insurance, there are a few insurance requirements that are usually considered as full coverage car insurance.

Liability Insurance

Liability insurance is a third-party policy that covers all the damages and injuries caused to the other person. In this case, if you cause an accident, you’re liable for medical and repair expenses caused to the other driver. You cannot drive on most American roads without liability insurance because it is a requirement of almost every other state. 

Collision Insurance

Collision insurance is specifically meant for you. It helps in covering your car in case of an accident. This policy helps you in instances where you’re are at fault in an accident. The other party will not be required to pay for the repair expenses you’ll incur. Collision insurance also expands to other repair requirements. It may cover damages caused by objects other than vehicles on the road where you’re at fault.

Comprehensive Insurance

This is one of the most robust insurance policies out there in the country. It covers everything. In essence, comprehensive insurance can be regarded as full coverage auto insurance. Unfortunately, most auto owners do not have a comprehensive insurance policy. It is a costly cover that many people may not be able to sustain.

Can You Get Full Coverage Auto Insurance?

In Wayzata MN, Pizano Insurance can help you get an auto insurance policy that covers everything you may need. However, it will be challenging to get a cover that can address all your auto insurance requirements.

Are you looking for full coverage auto insurance in Wayzata, MN? Contact us for immediate assistance.

The importance of keeping a home inventory

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The importance of keeping a home inventory 

While buying home insurance seems to be one of the best ways to protect your home and valuables, creating an inventory makes filing a claim much easier and efficient. For instance, if thieves broke into your Wayzata, MN home and made away with several items. How will you convince your insurance provider that you owned them? It can be tedious and time-consuming, which is why Pizano Insurance recommends creating and updating your inventory.

It makes filing a claim faster and easier

The last thing you want is a back and forth game with your home insurance company after a disaster strikes your home. What you need and deserve is a smooth transition that will help you get back to your normal life as soon as possible. Without an inventory, your insurance company may have a difficult time believing your word of mouth.

It helps you buy the right amount of insurance

 How will you buy the correct amount of home insurance if you don’t know what you have? When you shop around for a home insurance policy in Wayzata, MN, very few companies can accurately estimate your home insurance value without calculating the value of your belongings. Therefore, you may end up over-insuring or underinsuring your home. Some companies can also take advantage of that fact and add coverages that you don’t need. However, when you have a correctly updated inventory, you can have a more productive conversation with your insurance company.

An inventory helps when applying for financial assistance

Following a catastrophic event, there is only one way to determine whether you qualify for disaster assistance or tax break—substantiating your financial losses. An updated inventory can be quite helpful in such a process.

Not sure where to start? Pizano Insurance can help you analyze your insurance needs and help you determine how to protect your possessions effectively. Call us today!

Auto Insurance Requirements in Wayzata, MN

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If you live in Wayzata, MN, you should be familiar with auto insurance requirements in the state of Minnesota. Insurance professionals, such as the ones who work with Pizano Insurance, can potentially help you if you are seeking information.

As is the case in most states, if you live or drive in Minnesota, you need to have auto insurance coverage. This is necessary if you want to register and drive a vehicle anywhere in this state. You will need to have coverage for the following: bodily injury to others, property damage liability, uninsured motorists, and underinsured motorists. There are minimum amounts of coverage that you are required to have, but the majority of people will opt for higher amounts, in order to provide themselves with all the protection they need in the event of an accident or mishap. You also need personal injury protection or PIP. The car insurance requirements in Minnesota are relatively extensive when compared to other states.

There is also an alternative for people in Minnesota who have been denied auto insurance on the open market. If this has happened within the past 60 days, they can apply for coverage via the Minnesota Automobile Insurance Plan. This is a network of insurers that is meant to be of assistance to high-risk drivers. It helps them secure coverage at price levels that have been firmly established. This can be a very useful option to people who do not have the ability to obtain car insurance another way in the state of Minnesota.

If you live in the city of Wayzata, MN and are interested in learning more about auto insurance, you should contact the professionals at Pizano Insurance. They will be able to answer questions that you may have and potentially point you in the right direction in terms of choosing an auto insurance policy for yourself.