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Featured Insurance Blog

Why Should I Purchase Boat Insurance in Texas?

While Texas doesn’t require boaters to have insurance, it’s worthwhile to have it because unexpected events happen. At Hastings Insurance Agency LLC, serving the greater Tomball, TX community, we can help you get the right boater’s insurance.

Coverage for Medical Expenses

A standard policy with a bodily injury clause will cover the medical expenses up to policy limits if your boat injures another boater, for example. You can also get coverage for medical expenses for you and your passengers should there be an occurrence on your boat that requires medical attention. 

Help With Fuel Spills and Property Damage

And property liability would cover you if, for instance, your boat damaged the fence around a shoreline home. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality says that the owner or operator of a boat or anyone who causes, allows or permits a fuel/oil spill is responsible for paying cleanup costs.

If you had a boat insurance policy with a spill endorsement, you might be spared the out-of-pocket cleanup costs minus your deductible. In another unwanted scenario, what if your boat was in a collision and it sunk? If you had a boat insurance policy with a clause governing recovery, you’d probably be spared most of the high cost of pulling your vessel from the water.

Boat Towing

And if your boat became disabled, a roadside assistance clause would allow for it to be towed to a repair shop. Perhaps you carry fishing gear, scuba/snorkeling or other equipment on your boat. With a personal effects clause, these items would be covered if they were damaged or stolen up to the policy limits.

Schedule A Consultation Today

Serving Tomball, TX, our team of insurance experts at Hastings Insurance Agency LLC is ready to help you with your boat insurance needs. Contact us today.

When it Rains, It Pours: Why You Need Umbrella Insurance

Tomball, TX is a vibrant community known for Southern charm, friendly residents, and beautiful landscapes. While life in Tomball can seem idyllic, unexpected accidents can happen to anyone.

Accidents and mishaps can lead to liability claims that can turn a peaceful existence into a financial nightmare. Umbrella insurance is a supplementary form of insurance that can provide a safety net to help protect your and your family’s assets and shield your financial future from unexpected storms. 

Well-informed agents at Hastings Insurance Agency LLC in Tomball, TX can help you choose an umbrella insurance policy to meet your needs. 

When It Rains, It Pours – Get Umbrella Insurance 

Get umbrella insurance for liability protection, asset protection, and peace of mind. Liability insurance protections can shield you from financial damages related to lawsuits or property damage claims. It can also protect your valuable assets, including your home, savings, and investments, in the event of a lawsuit. 

How to Get Umbrella Insurance

The first step to getting an adequate umbrella insurance policy is to evaluate your current insurance policies and calculate how much additional coverage you need. 

A licensed insurance agent can guide you through the process by helping assess your risk profile and offering a free umbrella insurance quote. 

An umbrella insurance quote contains important details about add-on insurance coverages that extend the limits of your existing home and auto insurance policies. Insurance agents can help you choose an umbrella insurance policy that meets your insurance needs and aligns with your budget. 

Reach Out To Us

Don’t get caught in the rain without an adequate umbrella insurance policy. Contact a knowledgeable agent at Hastings Insurance Agency LLC and get an umbrella insurance quote today! 

Is Southeast Texas Set to Have One of the State’s Highest Flood Risk?

Flood risks in Texas are rapidly rising as sea levels climb and the state’s population increases. Climate change results in heavier precipitation along with stronger hurricanes. Hastings Insurance Agency LLC in Tomball, TX serves southeast Texas residents and all of Texas by helping them secure flood insurance.

Our service area serves much of the San Jacinto region, which includes Galveston and Harris County. Southeast Texas which has 2.5 million people situated in a 100 or 500-year floodplain. These statistics indicate that southeast Texas is set to become a leading area for flooding in the state. Let’s explore historical and current statistics for floods and the storms that cause them.

Past Major Storms in Southwest Texas

This region sees a major flood due to acts of god like hurricanes, tropical storms subtropical cyclones, and heavy rains every at least every 2 years. Houston and the surrounding areas have experienced flooding since the 1800s, with the first major storm occurring in Galveston in 1900.

The 16-foot storm surge and 140 mph winds caused 6,000–8,000 fatalities and destroyed countless homes and buildings. The same situation demolished the Port of Houston in 1935. Hurricane Harvey in 2017 was the deadliest Southeast Texas hurricane in over 100 years and caused $125 billion in damages.

Reach Out To Her

At Hastings Insurance Agency LLC, we know your property is important, and protecting it is pivotal. With flooding being a possibility anytime, whether you’re in a flood zone or not, we’ll help you obtain flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program or a customized policy. We gladly serve Tomball, TX and surrounding communities. Contact us today for a consultation.

Condominium Insurance Gives You Extra Coverage For Living in Close Quarters

Condominium living has become a popular choice for those who want to do fewer home maintenance tasks and have more time for enjoyable pursuits. Condominiums require a different type of homeowners policy that takes into account shared spaces and individual insurance needs. At Hastings Insurance Agency LLC serving the greater Tomball, TX community we can answer your questions about the special needs of condominium owners.

Why You Need Specialized Coverage For Condominiums

Condominiums require specialized insurance because of the structural differences. Condominiums are attached in various ways to other units. Damage that occurs in an adjacent unit can easily affect your own unit. Condominiums also have “shared” areas, such as parking lots, swimming pools, and other types of common areas that are generally covered under a “master plan” of insurance, but this policy does not cover the individual personal possessions of the owners inside each unit.

What Condo Insurance Covers

Condominium insurance covers the personal possession inside your unit when damage occurs due to a peril named in your policy. This generally includes clothing, furniture, electronics, kitchen items, musical instruments, as well as jewelry and artwork to a certain limit. They also include liability coverage if someone is injured while in your unit. Policies generally cover additional living expenses while your unit is being repaired. Coverage is also available for the interior walls and other built-ins in your condominium, if needed, in addition to your condominium association’s master plan coverage.

Make Hastings Insurance Agency LLC Your Agent For Condominium Insurance

Our experienced agents in Tomball, TX can help you understand the details of your condominium coverage so your financial interests are adequately addressed. We offer a wide range of insurance products for personal coverage and for business. Contact us today for an appointment to learn more about how condominium insurance protects your investment.

If I Take My RV to Mexico, Will Recreational Insurance Still Cover Me?

Tomball, TX is a gorgeous suburb of Houston whose location offers its residents easy access to beautiful places, including being just a six-hour drive from the Mexican border. Mexico has a lot of fantastic RV camping spots to visit, including gorgeous and incredibly cheap beachfront campsites that you can’t quite readily find here in the USA.

But before you hit the gas on your RV, you should make sure you have the right recreational insurance, such as the expansive policies we offer at Great Southern Agency. 

Understanding What Type of Recreational Insurance You Need to Drive & RV Camp in Mexico

Generally, most basic recreational insurance policies will only cover domestic travel. This means that if you go over the Mexican border and get in an accident or experience a natural disaster that causes damage to your RV, you might find yourself unprotected altogether or only partially protected with a specialty high deductible.

The good news is that there are some great options you can get if you want to take your RV and other recreational items south of the border. Such options include:

  • Purchasing temporary Mexican insurance that will last for only the short period of time that you’l be traveling in the country.
  • Purchasing Mexican coverage as a permanent add-on endorsement through your recreational insurance provider.
  • Purchasing full international coverage that will extend your policy no matter where you go in North America.

Learn More With Our Team

Are you ready to take your Tomball, TX camper on the road and across the border? Contact our friendly team at Great Southern Agency today to learn more about recreational insurance and get the perfect policy coverage to meet your upcoming travel desires.  

Protect Your Possessions While You Rent

With the current high cost of real estate, many people are choosing to rent to save on housing expenses. However, your possessions are not covered by the insurance held by your landlord. Renters insurance has been designed to offer insurance protection for your possessions while you rent your housing.  At Great Southern Agency, serving the greater Tomball, TX community, we offer renters insurance for Texas residents.

Do I Need Renters Insurance?

Many individuals feel they don’t have enough possessions to justify the cost of renters insurance, but the fact is, you probably have more material goods than you realize, and replacing them all would be a burdensome expense. Other renters believe their possessions are covered under their landlord’s general insurance policy, but this is not the case.

Renters insurance offers protection for a wide range of items and also provides some liability coverage if anyone is injured while visiting your property, as well as alternate housing coverage if you need to live elsewhere while your apartment is being repaired. The policies provide this coverage at a very reasonable price.

Two Types of Renters Insurance Offer A Choice

You can choose between an “actual cash value” policy or a “replacement cost” policy. Actual cash value policies pay for your possession minus the depreciation due to age and wear-and-tear of normal usage. A replacement cost policy pays the amount to replace your possession at today’s cost. Replacement cost policies are more expensive but are worth the cost to restore your possessions after an event. 

Choose Great Southern Agency For Your Renters Insurance Coverage

You may have questions about renters insurance and how it can help you recover from a damaging event. Our trained insurance professionals in Tomball, TX can answer your questions and ensure you have the coverage you need. Contact Great Southern Agency today for a no-obligation quote on renters insurance that can help minimize losses from unexpected damage.

Usage Based Motorcycle Insurance

Driving a motorcycle is an exhilarating and fun way to travel. It allows you to enjoy the outdoors without slowing down, but it can also be costly in terms of insurance and maintenance. Usage-based insurance programs reward you based on your riding habits, meaning that safe drivers are rewarded for being responsible on the road.

What is Usage-Based Motorcycle Insurance?

Usage-based insurance considers factors like speeding, acceleration, mileage, the time of day you drive, and forced braking. It uses that data to give you a driving score and tips to help improve it. Therefore, the better you ride, the more potential for it to pay off financially. 

Benefits of Usage-Based Insurance

Riders are drawn to this kind of insurance, typically for financial reasons. If you abide by traffic law by following the speed limit, keeping a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you, and not slamming on the brakes, you may be eligible for a discount. However, usage-based insurance isn’t just financially beneficial. Incentivizing drivers to be safer benefits everyone on the road.

Is Usage-Based Motorcycle Insurance Right for Me?

Yes! That is to say, if you want to be held accountable for driving safely and potentially rewarded for it. It’s no secret that additional dangers are posed to motorcycle riders, but you can mitigate them by being a safe rider. Additionally, riding safely reduces your risk of costly accidents and painful injuries. 

Looking for Insurance in Tomball, TX?

At Great Southern Agency, we know how much you love riding your motorcycle on Texas highways and country roads. One of our expert agents will match you with the policy that fits your unique needs. 

Call Great Southern Agency in Tomball, TX today to learn more about this vital coverage. 

Texas Boat Insurance: A Quick Guide

As a boat owner in Texas, it’s essential to protect your investment and ensure you’re covered in case of accidents, theft, or damage. In this quick guide, we’ll provide an overview of boat insurance, including its importance, coverage options, and tips for finding the right policy with the help of our team at Great Southern Agency in Tomball, TX.

Why You Need Boat Insurance in Texas

While Texas law does not mandate boat insurance, it’s a wise decision to have coverage in place to protect your assets and safeguard yourself from potential liabilities. Accidents can occur, and without proper insurance, you could be held responsible. Moreover, some marinas and lenders may require proof of boat insurance before allowing you to dock or finance your boat. By obtaining a policy from a reputable agency like Great Southern Agency in Tomball, TX, you can enjoy peace of mind while out on the water.

Coverage Options for Texas Boat Insurance

When choosing a boat insurance policy, consider the following coverage options:

  1. Liability coverage: This type of coverage protects you if you’re found responsible for causing bodily injury or property damage to others while operating your boat.
  2. Collision coverage: This covers damages to your boat resulting from a collision with another boat or a stationary object.
  3. Comprehensive coverage: This protects your boat from damages caused by events other than collisions, such as theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.
  4. Non-insured or underinsured boater coverage: This covers you if you’re involved in an accident with another boat operator who doesn’t possess adequate insurance or any insurance.
  5. Medical payments coverage: This covers medical expenses for you and your passengers if injured in a boating accident.

Finding the Right Boat Insurance Policy

To find the right boat insurance policy, it’s essential to work with a knowledgeable and experienced insurance agency like Great Southern Agency in Tomball, TX. We can help you assess your needs, evaluate various coverage options, and select a policy that offers the best protection at a competitive price.

Remember that factors such as the type, age, and value of your boat, along with your boating experience and history, will impact your insurance premiums. It’s important to discuss these factors with your insurance agent to ensure you receive the most suitable coverage for your unique situation.

Texas boat insurance is a crucial aspect of responsible boat ownership. By partnering with us, you can secure the right coverage that allows you to enjoy your time on the water with confidence, knowing that you, your boat, and your passengers are well-protected.

5 Most Common Mistakes When Buying Umbrella Insurance For The First Time

Most people are aware that they require insurance to protect their homes, cars, and health. However, far too few people understand the value of umbrella insurance. Umbrella insurance protects you against major liability claims and lawsuits, which can quickly deplete your savings and assets. If you’re considering buying umbrella insurance, Great Southern Agency in Tomball, TX can help guide you on five mistakes to avoid.

Umbrella Insurance: Mistakes To Avoid

1. Not Understanding What Umbrella Insurance Covers

Umbrella insurance is intended to protect you from large liability claims and lawsuits. It usually covers expenses for bodily harm, property damage, and certain personal liability situations. However, umbrella insurance does not cover everything; be sure to read the fine print to understand what is and is not covered.

2. Not Reading The Fine Print

When purchasing umbrella insurance, it is critical to carefully read the policy to understand what is and is not covered. If you have to file a claim, you may be faced with unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

3. Buying The Wrong Amount Of Coverage

Many people underestimate how much umbrella insurance they require. A good rule of thumb is to purchase coverage equal to 1-2 times your net worth. This ensures that you are adequately protected in the event of a major liability claim or lawsuit.

4. Lying Or Omitting Important Information

It is critical to be truthful about your assets and income when applying for umbrella insurance. If you lie or omit critical information, your policy may be voided if you need to file a claim.

5. Going With The First Policy You Find

Before purchasing umbrella insurance, it is critical to shop around and compare policies. Because not all policies are created equal, find one that meets your needs and budget.

We Are Here To Help!

Umbrella insurance is crucial for financial protection, but only if you avoid these five mistakes. Great Southern Agency can help you find the right umbrella insurance policy for your needs in Tomball, TX. Contact us today for a free quote.

Is Flood Insurance Required in Texas?

Whether you’ve just put a down payment on a home in Texas or you’ve been a proud Lone Star State homeowner for years, it’s important to make sure you’re doing everything you can to protect your property. While you may already have homeowners insurance, the truth is that it may not cover every damaging situation, like flooding. But do you actually need flood insurance?

In order to make the right decision for your home, it’s important to understand what Texas law says about flood insurance as well as other circumstances where it may be required. Serving the Tomball, TX area and beyond, our knowledgeable team at Great Southern Agency is here to help.

Is Flood Insurance Required in Texas?

For general homeowners, flood insurance is not legally required in Texas. But just because the law does not mandate flood coverage, that doesn’t mean you’re off the hook just yet! If you have a mortgage, there’s a strong chance you’re required as per the agreement to get flood insurance. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to go over your mortgage documents carefully with an insurance agent or give your lender a call for clarification.

Are Homes in Texas at Risk of Flooding?

Texas is a large state with a diverse landscape, not to mention differing amounts of precipitation. Many homes are in regions not considered at high risk of flooding, but many others are. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), about 7 percent of homes in Texas are at high risk. 

For better clarification, it’s worth finding out what kind of flood zone your property sits in. For example, if you’re in a Special Flood Hazard Risk area, your home is considered to have a 25 percent (1 in 4) chance of flooding within 30 years.

Learn More About Your Flood Insurance Options Today

Even if your home is not in a high-risk zone, it’s important to be aware that your home may still have a chance of flooding. To learn more about your risk and your options for coverage, give us a call. At Great Southern Agency, we’re dedicated to helping homeowners across the Tomball, TX area get the right amount of protection for their homes.