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Janis-Shunta Insurance Blog

Who needs to carry umbrella insurance

Umbrella insurance is one of the most misunderstood types of insurance. Many people are not quite sure exactly what it is and who needs to carry it. The name umbrella gives an accurate visual of what the insurance does. It offers liability protection the same way that a physical umbrella protects against the elements. An important aspect of umbrella insurance is that it is not a policy that you can purchase unless you already have a primary policy that offers liability coverage. At Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI, we have the experience to help you to understand what an umbrella policy can do for you. 

So who needs to carry umbrella insurance? Anyone who has any assets can benefit from umbrella insurance. What it is in simple terms is excess liability insurance. If you are involved in legal action, someone suing you, it adds a layer of coverage to what you already have through your primary policy. What happens is your home or auto policy will pay any judgment and legal expenses up to the limit on that policy and then the umbrella policy will kick in.

You have worked very hard to accumulate the assets that you have. If you get sued for an amount beyond the limits of your primary policy and you don’t have an umbrella policy to protect you, you are responsible for the additional amount of the judgment out of your own pockets. Depending on how deep your pockets are, you could be forced to sell your assets and your future wages could even be garnished. Not something most people want to think about. An umbrella policy adds between one and five million dollars to your liability coverage. 

An umbrella policy is an affordable way to protect your assets. Call Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI to get a no-obligation quote. We can give you the peace of mind you deserve. 

Three things to do before you select an auto insurance policy

Any Michigan driver needs to find adequate auto insurance coverage to drive legally in Muskegon, MI. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, we can help you to take all the key considerations into account before you purchase an auto insurance policy.

The following are three things to do before you select an auto insurance policy.

Determine what your coverage needs are

There are various types of auto insurance coverage available to you. It’s important to be aware of your options and to determine which types of coverage you should invest in.

You must purchase liability coverage in Michigan. However, you also probably want to purchase collision coverage. Collision coverage will cover the costs of damages to your own vehicle in an accident.

You also might want to purchase comprehensive coverage. This will cover you for additional expenses such as damages resulting from theft.

Get different quotes

Various auto insurance providers will give you quotes on their policies on request. These quotes tell you how much they will charge you for the coverage you request. It’s a good idea to get numerous quotes. You can then evaluate the different options. 

Select the best option for your needs and budget

Once you have quotes on the policies you’re interested in, it’s important to evaluate them carefully. You don’t just want to go with the least expensive quote you’re offered.

Think about the value that each insurance company you get a quote from provides you with. Some auto insurance policies come along with perks like roadside assistance and rental vehicle coverage that you should be aware of. 

Before you select a particular quote to follow through with, make sure you understand what you’re getting and you’ve carefully evaluated your options. 

Are you on the market for auto insurance in Muskegon, MI? We can help at Janis-Shunta Insurance. Visit our website to learn more about our insurance offerings. 

Smart Tips for Increasing the Value of Your MI Condo

By making key upgrades to your Muskegon, MI condo, you can increase its value, especially if your upgrades help improve your condo’s appearance, function, and safety. Before renovating your condo, talk to your Janis-Shunta Insurance agent to see how remodeling will affect your condo coverage. The following upgrades will give your condo a fresh new look and add greater value.

Kitchen Remodel

Remodeling your kitchen will definitely add value to your condo, especially if you use high-end materials. Granite counters, designer cabinets, and contemporary lighting will create a whole new look for your kitchen while boosting your condo’s value.

Upgrade Major Appliances

For function and appearance, consider upgrading your condo’s major appliances. Modern, energy-efficient appliances will enhance the function of your kitchen while adding value to your condo. Old, worn appliances are not only unsightly, but they may also pose a fire risk to your environment. In contrast, matching, modern appliances will improve safety, simplify meal prep, and increase the value of your Muskegon MI condo.  

Increase Storage Capacity

Storage space is often sorely lacking in a condo. By adding storage space to your condo, you can increase your unit’s value. Expand closets, add new closets where needed, or look for ways to convert nooks into storage areas. Storage is a valuable commodity in any home, but even more so in a compact condo.

Upgrade Flooring

Never underestimate the importance of flooring in adding value to your condo. Old carpeting or outdated flooring can detract from the beauty of your abode. Upgrading to hardwood flooring or planks can make a big difference in your ambiance and raise the value of your home.

Don’t forget to add renovations to your condo insurance, so they’ll be covered along with the rest of your abode. To update your condo policy, contact Janis-Shunta Insurance.

Do You Need to Update Your Home Insurance Policy?

To keep your home insurance coverage up to date and get the best rate, there are times it’s necessary to update your home insurance policy. At Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI, we are happy to help you update your coverage or choose a new policy.

Improvements

The first, and most obvious reason to update your homeowner’s policy, is that you’ve made improvements to your home. If you have remodeled your home, replaced the roof, or added a new structure like a garage, it’s important to update your policy. Improvements can make your home more valuable, and you’ll want to make sure the insurance company has the updated worth of your home. Improvements like a new roof may result in a lower premium as well.

Security System

A security system can also result in a lower premium. An alarm system makes your home three times less likely to experience a break-in. They also result in quicker alerts and fewer damages in the event of a fire. 

Swimming Pool

Unfortunately, not all improvements to your home will lower your premium. A swimming pool presents an extra risk that could increase your premium. You’ll need to inform your insurance company to be sure you are covered in the event of an accident.

New Pets

Pets can also increase your premiums, particularly dogs. Your homeowner’s policy should cover the damages if your pet injures someone, but only if you inform them that you have a new furry addition to the family. 

If you are a homeowner in Muskegon MI, contact us at Janis-Shunta Insurance. We are happy to discuss a new or existing homeowner’s policy with you, and ensure that you get the right coverage for your needs. 

Recreational Insurance: The Basics for Michigan Residents

Residents and adventure-seekers alike know that Muskegon, MI is a fantastic place to enjoy the outdoors. From miles of lakefront water to spacious parks, the region is the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts! Whether you’re driving your dune buggy over the sand or riding your dirt bike on rocky trails, purchasing recreational insurance is definitely a worthwhile investment. Not sure where to start? The friendly and knowledgeable agents at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI is eager to help!

Janis-Shunta Insurance has three locations, so agents are easily accessible in-person, online, or over the phone. When you choose Janis-Shunta Insurance as your provider, you will be working with a team of experts who are familiar not just with the insurance industry, but also of the Muskegon, MI region. They understand that recreational activities are a major part of life in the area and that it is important to protect your equipment.

Why should you purchase recreational insurance? Not only does having insurance gives you peace of mind, but it can save you money if unforeseen circumstances were to arise. Select policies that include medical coverage, collision coverage, and more. Contact Janis-Shunta Insurance today for a quote!

What are your options? You can choose from policies with basic coverage to comprehensive plans. No matter what type of policy you’re looking for or even if you don’t have the slightest idea where to begin your search, the agents at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI will help you find the perfect recreational insurance policy for your hobbies and interests.

So why wait? Call or visit Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI today to get started with your recreational insurance plan!

5 Important Things Umbrella Insurance Covers

If you’re looking for coverage that goes above and beyond your current policies, you may be looking for umbrella insurance. This kind of policy is designed to pick up where other policies leave off, to increase the maximum benefits and protection levels offered by your insurance. If you live in or around the Muskegon, MI area, Janis-Shunta Insurance can help you find the policy you need for security and peace of mind. There are a lot of great things an umbrella policy can do. For example, there are important areas where it can extend coverage that may be needed. Here are five of those areas to carefully consider when looking for an umbrella policy:

1. Your home, if a claim goes beyond your homeowner’s policy.

2. Your car, if an incident extends beyond your scope of coverage.

3. Your boat, if its current coverage limits aren’t enough.

4. Your rental units, if you need strong liability coverage.

5. Circumstances not handled by other policies, such as slander, libel, and false arrest.

If you’re in or near the Muskegon, MI area, Janis-Shunta Insurance can help you find the right umbrella insurance policy for your needs. Not everyone needs or wants the same type of policy, but it’s very important to understand what works for your goals and situation. Then you can make an informed decision about your policy. Whether you have significant assets and want higher levels of protection, you’re a public figure who needs something beyond typical policies, or you’re just interested in making sure everything you have is thoroughly covered, we can help.

Reach out to us today, and we’ll work with you to find the right type and level of coverage for your situation and future goals. You don’t have to settle for worry about your protection level when you have us on your side.

What Are the Steps I Need to Take After an Accident

Being involved in an accident can be frightening. It’s important for residents in Muskegon, MI to know what steps they need to take if an accident occurs. The agents of Janis-Shunta Insurance can offer the guidance you need during a difficult time.

Move to the Side of the Road

The first thing you should do is move all vehicles to the side of the road. This will help to keep you safe until the police arrive.

Check for Injuries

Secure the scene and make sure to check for injuries. Even if there are no visible injuries, everyone should get medical attention. This is extremely important because many injuries don’t present themselves for several hours after the accident occurs.

Call 9-1-1

Someone needs to call 9-1-1 immediately after the accident. The sooner the police arrive, the sooner those who are injured will get the medical attention they need. 

Exchange Information and Take Pictures

While the police are filling out their reports, the drivers should exchange their personal information. This includes any insurance information as well. It’s also a good idea for you to take as many pictures as possible to document the scene at the time of the accident. This will be beneficial for you if the insurance company has any questions.

At Janis-Shunta Insurance, the agents can assist Muskegon, MI residents after an accident occurs. Making sure that you have everything you need after an accident occurs is very important when processing your claim. Knowing what to do after an accident will help your agent not only process your claim but protect you if a lawsuit is filed. Talk to your agent now!

3 Perks of Condo Insurance

Unlike a homeowner, folks that live in condos don’t own the building itself or the land that it is on. Instead, the homeowner or condo association will be insured through a master policy that protects the building itself, the common areas, and property for damages that occur in those areas. With that said, it is likely that your homeowner or condo association will not pay for damage to the interior of your unit to include storm damage, stolen property, or injuries to guests that may be visiting. There is good news – condo owners don’t have to be on the hook for these expensive damages and instead can have peace of mind through the purchase of condo insurance or HO-6 policy. If you are in the Muskegon, MI area, give Janis-Shunta Insurance a call and we’ll help answer any of your condo insurance-related questions.

Covers Damage not Insured by the HOA

Condo insurance will protect you from having to shell out cash for things like damage to the interior of your unit that is not the walls, floor, and ceiling. Additionally, coverage typically includes stolen property like furniture and electronics plus payment towards medical bills if a guest is hurt while at your home.

Affordable Cost

Although cost can vary widely depending on where you reside, for instance, New York City is likely to be more expensive than Muskegon, MI – condo insurance is a relatively nominal sum when you think of how much it can cost to replace stolen furniture or damages to a unit. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, we will work with you to find a plan that fits in any budget.

Loss of Use Coverage

If you are displaced from your home due to damage, condo insurance can help cover the cost of temporary living spaces while you find a new home or wait for your unit to be repaired.

Do Landlords Need Home Insurance?

Homeowner’s insurance policies are typically geared toward homeowners who want to protect their own residences. But what if you’re a landlord who wants to protect the property you own but don’t necessarily live in? Do you still need home insurance?

The short answer is "yes." However, the policies you will be looking at will be most often referred to as "landlord insurance" rather than a typical homeowner’s policy. Likewise, your policy will be focused more on covering the building itself, the surrounding property and any structures (sheds, garages, etc.) that may be on it. 

What Landlords in Michigan Need to Know

As of 2018, the state of Michigan now requires both landlords and their tenants (renters) to have insurance. This is because neither should rely entirely on the other party’s insurance policy. While your landlord insurance will cover the general property itself and help protect you from losses and liability claims, your tenants’ renters insurance policy will help protect their personal possessions and help protect them from their own liability situations. 

Naturally, there is no "one size fits all" insurance policy for landlords. The amount of insurance coverage you need as a landlord will depend on the type of property itself, particularly when it comes to size and the amount of units/tenants within. Be sure to ask our insurance experts at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI about all your specific concerns and coverage needs. 

What if I Want to Start Renting Out My Home to Tenants?

If you want to start renting out your personal residence to tenants, you will still need to get a landlord insurance policy. After all, your insurance will cover you in a wide variety of liability situations that may only affect landlords, such as wrongful eviction cases or property damage that may affect tenants. 

Have questions or simply want to learn more about your landlord insurance coverage options in the Norton Shores or Muskegon, MI area? Contact us today at Janis-Shunta Insurance! We’re ready to help you find a policy that suits your needs. 

Ways to Prevent an Accidental Fire in Your Condo

Owning a condo in Norton Shores or Muskegon, MI is something that several of our clients at Janis-Shunta Insurance enjoy for its lifestyle and condo community. Unfortunately, one accidental fire in a condo can destroy the property of several families, leaving them displaced and with expensive repairs. Below are three ways to prevent an accidental fire in your condo. 

Give the Space Heaters some space

If you want your condo to be extra cozy in the winter months with space heaters, make sure that you have these heaters away from any blankets or materials that could easily get too warm from the heater and start a fire. They need several feet of clearance around them so they can operate properly. Also, make sure that you turn these heaters off when you leave the condo. 

Blow out your candles

While candles are nice to have around when you are home and in your living space, they are not safe enough to leave alone through the night when you are sleeping or when you leave the condo unattended. Candles have been responsible for house and condo fires across the nation and should be watched with a careful eye. 

Is your wiring up-to-date?

This is especially true in older condos that may not have an upgraded wiring system. You should check your cords and outlets once a week to see if there are any signs of fraying or long-term burning on cords or outlets in your condo. These are premature signs of a burnout happening in your electrical unit, and could easily cause a fire in the near future. 

Get protection with condo insurance

If you are a condo owner living in or around Muskegon, MI without condo insurance, you need to give Janis-Shunta Insurance a call today for condo insurance options available.