Understanding When Add-Ons to Your Home Insurance Policy are Necessary

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Homeowners’ insurance policies don’t always offer the complete coverage your home needs. But you may have additional concerns you’ll need to manage with add-ons. Before you make any changes to your setup, you must understand when add-ons are necessary.

Consider Your Home’s Unique Needs

Take into consideration the potential risks that your home poses. Basements are a common source of concern, as they are either a continuation of your living space or often used for storage, and they are also a common place for flooding. 

Understand Potential Risks

Ensure your homeowners’ insurance includes flood damage, and, if necessary, use it as an add-on. Nobody plans for their home to flood, but that doesn’t stop it from happening. Therefore, taking precautions is crucial. 

Where are your utility lines located? If they’re underground, you’ll be held responsible if any damage occurs to them on your property. Issues caused by the age of the lines and even tree roots can lead to expensive problems that your homeowners’ policy might not cover. 

Over time, roofs become damaged and often need to be partially or fully replaced. Inclement weather and age are the biggest culprits. If you need your roof restored, you also might face that your insurance doesn’t cover matching, meaning that you will be left with mismatched sections if a perfect match for the materials isn’t available. 

Expert Guidance with Pizano Insurance 

At Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN, we know how stressful picking the best plan for your home can be. You have to make many considerations, and navigating it alone is overwhelming. That’s why we put our clients first, focusing on your needs so you can feel at ease.

To learn more about add-ons to your policy, call Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN at (763) 219-4114. 

Beyond the Basics: Understanding the Different Types of Auto Insurance Coverage

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Regarding auto insurance coverage, it’s essential to understand that many different coverage options are available. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned veteran in the Wayzata, MN area, you need to understand the different types of coverage available from Pizano Insurance.

Liability Coverage

Auto insurance is an essential tool for protecting yourself and your finances in case of accidents on the road. Liability coverage, in particular, is among the most fundamental types of auto insurance coverage available. This kind of coverage safeguards you from legal and financial obligations that may arise after accidents that result in bodily injury or property damage to a third-party. 

Personal Injury Coverage

Personal injury coverage is another type of auto insurance designed to protect you if you are injured in an accident. This type of coverage typically includes medical expenses, lost wages, and other related expenses due to an accident.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage is another sort of auto insurance coverage designed to protect you if your vehicle is damaged in a collision with another car or object. This kind of coverage generally covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle, regardless of who is at fault.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage is the final significant kind of auto insurance coverage designed to protect you if your vehicle is damaged in a non-collision-related event, such as theft, vandalism, or a natural disaster. This type of coverage often covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and may include coverage for things like rental car expenses and towing.

Understanding the different types of auto insurance coverage available to you in the Wayzata, MN area is an integral part of being a responsible driver. At Pizano Insurance, we are committed to helping clients find coverage options to suit their needs. If you have any questions or want more information about the different types of auto insurance coverage available, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.

How To Pick The Right Coverages For Your Vehicle

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No matter what vehicle you drive, whether a small electric car or a large truck, it’s always essential to think about picking the right coverages. Vehicle owners should consider what they need to be covered against and what they might not need. Ensuring you’re getting the right coverage is important whenever you’re considering getting a new policy.

At Pizano Insurance in Wayzata, MN, we help our clients understand what coverage they need. Here are a few tips for picking the appropriate coverage.

Think About The Expense Of Replacement

A critical factor for your vehicle insurance policy is the expense of replacement. You may carry a lower deductible and pay more monthly for your policy. If you were to have an accident that was your fault, you would have to pay the deductible. However, replacing your car could be costly. You don’t want to spend that much out of pocket if you could avoid it.

Understanding Collision And Comprehensive Coverage

You’ll also need to consider collision and comprehensive vehicle coverage. Collision coverage means that your insurance company can help pay for damage to your vehicle caused by a collision. Comprehensive coverage means that your insurance company will help pay for damage to your car other than a collision, such as vandalism or damage caused by a natural disaster.

Not carrying comprehensive coverage, for example, comes down to your risk tolerance because it’s not always required. For instance, if a flood damaged your car, you would pay for damages out of pocket if you didn’t carry comprehensive coverage. Other parts of your policy, like liability, medical payments, and uninsured motorist coverage, should also be discussed in more detail with your local insurance agent.

Contact Us About Auto Insurance In Wayzata, MN

Pizano Insurance can help ensure you get the proper lifestyle insurance. Call today to get a personalized estimate. 

How Often Should You Replace Your Roof in Wayzata, MN?

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One of the most important things to consider as a homeowner in Wayzata, MN is the age and condition of your roof. While roofs can last for many years, they eventually will need to be replaced. Knowing when and how often to replace your roof is essential to ensure your home stays safe and secure.

Asphalt Shingles 

People usually install asphalt shingles. They’re affordable and durable. However, It’s essential to inspect asphalt roofs regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as curling or cracking shingles, loose flashing, algae growth, etc. If you notice signs that your roof may be near its end, it’s essential to call a professional for an inspection. 

Metal Roofs 

Metal roofs are becoming more popular because of their durability and energy efficiency benefits. Metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years with minimal maintenance. The longevity of metal roofs is because of their resistance to corrosion, rust, wind damage, and other environmental factors like hail or snowfall accumulation.

To find out how metal roofs are covered with your home insurance policy, contact Pizano Insurance Agency.

Tile Roofs 

Tile roofs are another popular option in Wayzata, MN, because of their beauty and waterproof protection against heavy rainfalls or snowstorms. Tile roofs consist of clay tiles that last anywhere from 30 to 50 years with regular maintenance, such as sealing gaps between tiles or clearing out debris from gutters/downspouts during fall/spring cleanups.

It’s essential to keep your roof well-maintained. If you experience storm damage, the condition of your roof can affect how your home insurance company handles your claim. It’s important to get a professional inspection every few years and make repairs as needed to keep your roof in good condition. For questions about your roof and home insurance policy, contact Pizano Insurance Agency. We’re happy to help you make the best decisions for protecting your home and family.

Don’t Drive Without Auto Insurance – It’s Against the Law

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Do you live in the Wayzata, MN area? Pizano Insurance can provide the insurance coverage that is so important.

Why is it important? In 48 out of 50 states, personal auto insurance is required and provides financial protection if you are involved in an accident.

Car insurance is a binding contract between the policyholder and the insurer that guards against financial loss if theft or accident occurs. In exchange for the premium payment, the insurance company will pay for your losses as stated in the policy.

The coverage is as follows:

  • Property – damage or theft to your car
  • Liability – the legal responsibility to others for bodily injury or property damage
  • Medical – the cost of treating injuries and rehabilitation, lost wages, and funeral expenses

Policies are typically issued for a six-month or one-year period and are renewable. The insurance company will let you know when the policy is up for renewal.

Your policy will cover you and other family members listed on the policy. The policy will also provide coverage if a driver not on your policy is driving your car with consent.

Auto insurance requirements are different from state to state. When financing a car, the lender may have additional requirements. Every state requires by law for car owners to have the following:

  • Bodily injury liability will cover costs associated with an injury or death
  • Property damage liability will reimburse others for damage you cause to another driver’s car or property, such as a fence, utility pole, or building.

Many states also require the following:

  • Medical payments or PIP, which provides reimbursement for medical costs for any injuries to you or anyone in your car. It will also cover lost income and other expenses.
  • Uninsured motorist coverage will reimburse you if a driver causes an accident without auto insurance. Underinsured motorist coverage is also available.

Pizano Insurance can provide you with a quote or answers to your questions. Contact our team today.

Why should someone get home insurance in Minnesota?

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Buying a home in the Wayzata, MN area is often an excellent long-term option. If you decide to buy a home here, it is necessary to get insurance for it. There are various reasons to get this coverage when here. 

Receive Financial Protection

One reason to get home insurance is that it provides financial protection for unexpected losses from fire, natural disasters, or other covered risks. This insurance can help you repair or replace your home and personal items. This will ensure that your financial setback is limited if you incur a covered loss. 

Liability Support 

Property owners should not take their personal liability risks lightly. If there is ever an accident on your property, you can be liable for damages. In some cases, these damages can be significant. A great way to reduce this risk is by getting home coverage. When you have this insurance, it will provide the support you need to reduce your personal financial damage. 

Insurance is a Requirement

You also may find that home insurance is a requirement. If you have decided to take out a mortgage to buy the home, your lender will likely require that you carry insurance. In many cases, they will also require you to escrow payments. Those in a home association will also have specific insurance needs. With home insurance, you will remain in good standing with such requirements. 

If you are looking to protect yourself and your home better and you are in the Wayzata, MN area, it would be a great idea to call our team at Pizano Insurance. At Pizano Insurance, we pride ourselves on helping clients understand their needs and options for insurance. This will ensure you can build an ideal plan for your situation. 

Don’t Leave Your Home Unprotected – Get Homeowners Insurance

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Are you thinking of becoming a homeowner? Do you live in or near the Wayzata, MN area? If so, Pizano Insurance can help you with the coverage you need for your home.

Why is homeowners insurance important? First of all, if the homeowner carries a mortgage on the property, all lenders will require the home to be insured to protect their interests.

A typical policy will protect the homeowner against a lawsuit if someone is injured while on your property. If Fido bites someone, the insurance will cover it. Liability coverage pays the injured party’s medical bills and any property damage. The insurance will also pay attorney expenses if necessary.

Homeowners insurance will pay to replace or repair your home if it is destroyed or damaged by a weather event or other natural disaster, except floods. Always remember to purchase enough insurance to replace your home and its contents. Approximately 75% of homeowners do not have enough insurance coverage.

Insurance will reimburse you for the value of your property inside the home, including furniture, appliances, clothing, and other personal possessions.

Medical costs such as surgery, x-rays, ambulance rides, and hospital stays are covered if a visitor is injured on your property.

For most people, our home is the biggest single investment we will ever make. Homeowners insurance will protect the equity in your home, which is the difference between the value of the property and what is owed. As improvements are made to the home, the equity increases.

Make sure this investment is protected. Don’t risk losing your home to a weather event or someone becoming injured on your property. The peace of mind this coverage offers is worth the cost.

Pizano Insurance, serving the Wayzata, MN area, can provide answers to any questions you may have. Contact our team today. You will be glad you did.

When should I add my teen driver to my auto insurance policy?

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As a parent, you are likely aware that adding your teen driver to your auto insurance policy can be a costly experience in Wayzata, MN. But when? In this blog post, Pizano Insurance looks into this question.

When Should I Add My Teen Driver? 

If you plan on allowing your teen access to one or more vehicles, it will be important for them to be listed on the family’s policy as soon as possible. 

What Are My Options? 

Once you have decided that it’s time for your teen driver to join the family auto insurance policy, several options are available. Some standard options include non-owner liability coverage, which covers only liability; comprehensive/collision coverage, which covers personal property damage; and full coverage, which includes both property damage and bodily injury protection. You may also want to consider adding rental car reimbursement coverage or uninsured motorist protection if applicable. 

How Can I Lower Costs? 

Adding a teen driver does not necessarily mean that premiums will skyrocket overnight—there are plenty of ways for parents to keep costs down. Many insurance companies offer discounts for young drivers who take specific safety courses or get good grades in school. Additionally, many companies will offer multi-car discounts if multiple vehicles in the household are insured under the same policy.

Ultimately, when it comes time to add a teen driver onto an auto insurance policy, it’s important for parents in Wayzata, MN to understand their options and look into any potential discounts that might apply before deciding what type of coverage is best for their family’s needs. Do you still have questions? Contact Pizano Insurance today – we are here for you.

Safe driving tips for new drivers

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New drivers face several unique challenges on the road, from dealing with heavy traffic and confusing signs to learning how to adjust their driving habits for inclement weather. Whether you’re just starting out behind the wheel or are an experienced driver new to a different area, it’s essential to be aware of some basic safety tips that will help keep you and your passengers safe on the roads.

New drivers should first focus on practicing good defensive driving habits. Always stay alert when you’re behind the wheel and watch for any potential hazards in front of, beside, and behind your vehicle. Often, other drivers may not follow all the rules of the road or may be distracted, so it’s important always to expect the unexpected.

Another critical factor in safe driving is proper vehicle maintenance. This includes keeping your tires properly inflated, addressing any mechanical issues as soon as you notice them, and staying up-to-date with routine oil changes and other scheduled maintenance. Driving under or overinflated tires can be dangerous for new and experienced drivers, especially during inclement weather when roads are slick.

Finally, never drive impaired – this means avoiding alcohol or drugs before getting behind the wheel; even a tiny amount of alcohol can negatively impact your driving skills and reaction times. It’s also vital to ensure you get enough sleep before getting behind the wheel, as driving while overtired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence.

For more tips to keep new drivers safe, call Pizano Insurance today. We proudly serve new and experienced drivers in the Wayzata, MN area. 

Homeowners’ Insurance Protects Your Most Valuable Asset

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Are you a homeowner living in or around the Wayzata, MN area? If so, the professionals at Pizano Insurance can help you with all your homeowners’ insurance needs.

Did you know that lenders would require your property to be protected with homeowners insurance before providing a loan? Why? They want to ensure that their interests are protected in the event of a total loss.

This coverage will be the primary source of the funds needed to rebuild. It will also provide coverage for any legal action resulting from an injury to a guest. In the worst possible scenario, your entire investment could be lost. Make sure you can cover the costs of rebuilding or repairing your home in case of a covered loss.

The standard homeowners’ insurance policy will include coverage for your home or dwelling, other structures, such as a garage or storage shed, personal liability, and liability for the protection of visitors or guests,

The most common causes of insurance claims are both weather-related and non-weather-related water damage, wind, and theft. These causes make up 77% of all homeowners’ claims submitted. Don’t leave yourself open to this kind of financial disaster.

But there are some things that a homeowners’ policy will not cover. Coverage for valuable artwork, jewelry, collectibles, damage from a flood or earthquake, and identity theft protection are not covered.

If you have no homeowners’ insurance, it could violate the terms of your mortgage agreement. Your lender could force you into a lender-placed insurance policy, which is much more expensive, or send your loan to default. This will lower your credit score and increase your risk of losing your home to foreclosure.

Make sure you protect your home. Contact Pizano Insurance today. You will be glad you did.