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Muskegon, MI 49441

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How condo insurance differs from home insurance

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Investing in a condo in Muskegon, MI, is an excellent choice for those looking to enter the housing market. It provides the comfort of a home without the hassle of exterior maintenance. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, we are an independent insurance agency. This means we work for our customers, not an insurance company, offering more choices and the best prices.

While a condo is a home, it differs from a freestanding house regarding insurance.

Condo Association Insurance

Condos have an association that holds a master insurance policy to cover shared parts of the complex. This includes the roof, exterior porches, parking lots, siding, communal gym, and swimming pool. These are areas you are not responsible for and don’t need to insure. The extent of coverage from the exterior wall depends on their policy, so it’s crucial to read your condo covenant.

Liability Coverage

It’s essential to have liability coverage for injuries that occur within your unit or caused by your family members away from your condo. The condo association policy covers the common areas.

Property Coverage

Typically, your condo property coverage extends from the walls inwards. This includes items attached to the walls, such as cabinets, lights, and bathroom fixtures.

Personal Property

You must insure all your items within your unit, including electronics, clothing, furniture, appliances, and more.

Loss of Use

Like a home policy, if your condo becomes uninhabitable, you should have coverage that pays for your stay elsewhere until you can move back in.

If you live in Muskegon, MI, or the surrounding area, Janis-Shunta Insurance can provide the condo insurance assistance you need.

Do You Need Business Insurance for Your Personal Car?

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Suppose you use your personal car for business. In that case, even if it is for a sideline or for a business you run from your home office, and especially if you drive across state lines in the course of business, you need business insurance. Whether you live in Muskegon, MI, or anywhere in Michigan, here are five things your agent at Janis-Shanta Insurance wants you to know about commercial car insurance.

  • Your personal policy covers you when you drive to and from work, but not when you use your car for work. This includes running errands for your home office, driving to meet clients, and using your vehicle for hauling or as an Uber or Lyft.
  • You need your own commercial coverage when leasing or borrowing a car for work. You can’t depend on a friend’s policy to replace hired and non-owned (HONA) coverage.
  • If you are arrested for driving without commercial insurance in Michigan, you can face a misdemeanor charge with a potential fine of $500 and a possible jail sentence of up to one year. You can also lose your driver’s license for 30 days and be required to submit proof of insurance to get it back.
  • Most importantly, when using your personal car for business, your auto policy will not cover you for collision, comprehensive, or liability. You can also be liable for personal injury or damage to another driver’s car if you are involved in an accident.

Michigan Insurance Requirements

Michigan requires personal injury protection plus:

  • $50,000 for bodily injury liability per person involved in an accident
  • $100,000 for bodily injury liability coverage per accident
  • $10,000 for property damage in another state
  • $250,000 for personal injury protection for each person involved in an accident (or a lesser amount for individuals enrolled in Medicaid or Medicare)

Let Janis-Shunta Insurance get you ready for the road in Muskegon, MI, and beyond. Call us today!

How Recreational Insurance Protects Your Business

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Recreational businesses cater to various customers looking to purchase experiences rather than material goods, a trend that has seen this industry thrive. However, the operational risks involved in this kind of business can expose you, the business owner, to various liabilities. To mitigate these risks, consider getting recreational insurance. Whether you need to purchase a new or revise an existing policy, we’re here to help at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI.

Risky Business

Running a recreational business inherently comes with a higher risk of accidents. Businesses that offer activities like rock climbing, hiking, skydiving, sports, biking, boating, and many others must consider these risks and protect themselves with recreational insurance. It’s an essential measure to safeguard the business against potential financial liabilities. Despite the level of caution undertaken, accidents can occur during any activity, resulting in injuries.

The Cost of Accidents

Accidents that occur during a recreational activity can lead to substantial costs. For a small business, these costs can pose a severe financial threat. Medical bills are usually the first expense and can ramp up quickly. But they’re not the sole cost. Other potential financial burdens are legal fees, lost wages, ongoing therapies, and other assorted expenses. Without recreational insurance, your business stands responsible for settling these costs out of pocket. However, with recreational insurance, the insurance company handles these bills.

Get Recreational Insurance

If you operate any recreational business, securing this coverage becomes necessary for your company’s protection. When you’re ready to take up a policy, contact us at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI.

When Can You Use an Umbrella Insurance Policy? Get the Facts Here

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One of the lesser-known types of liability insurance is umbrella policies. What many people don’t realize is that this coverage can be applied to multiple policies. Should an existing liability claim exceed the total cost, the umbrella policy can often step in. Our agents at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI, go into greater detail below.

The Benefits of Umbrella Policies

The primary benefit of an umbrella policy is that it helps cover expenses surpassing any existing policy’s limits, meaning they can save you significant costs that you might be liable for. These are a few situations in which these policies can potentially help you.

Homeowner Liability Coverage

Homeowner’s insurance generally covers any injuries caused to guests on their property, but it may also offer some degree of average for off-site claims. People involved may bring about lawsuits or seek financial decompensation, which an umbrella policy likely covers (along with any legal fees you incur).

Renters Coverage

Umbrella coverage may cover any damage beyond your standard policy limits should you cause damage to your rental home and any damage you might cause to your neighbor’s homes. This additional coverage can help you pay others and your landlord.

Watercraft Insurance

Anything can go wrong on the water, and any losses, injuries, or damages resulting from an incident may surpass your watercraft or boat insurance. When your max coverage is exhausted, umbrella insurance can keep your head above water.

Auto, Motorcycle, and Recreational Vehicle Insurance

Should any accidents occur in your vehicle of choice, the damage you are at fault for could likely increase beyond what specific policies cover. This is where your umbrella coverage kicks in.

Protect Your Finances and Assets Today!

Umbrella liability insurance coverage varies, so you’ll want to choose the right policy that suits your needs and budget. Reach out to one of our experienced agents at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI to discover more about how you can maximize an umbrella policy,

What Does Comprehensive Coverage Provide?

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At Janis-Shunta Insurance, we strive to equip our customers in Muskegon, MI with a clear understanding of what each auto insurance policy coverage offers. While most people understand liability coverage as this is required from the moment they start driving, it’s also important to know how to protect your vehicle and yourself. When it comes to moving from basic auto insurance to carrying full coverage, we are here to help.

Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage – an optional type of auto insurance coverage that insures the policy owner against damage to their vehicle from everything except collisions. It covers a variety of perils, including falling objects and fire. According to Forbes, most auto policies that include comprehensive coverage protect against the following perils:

  • Theft
  • Civil disturbance
  • Animal damage
  • Falling objects
  • Fire
  • Explosions
  • Hail
  • Hurricanes
  • Tornadoes
  • Vandalism
  • Windshield and glass damage

While some policies provide more extensive coverage, this list denotes the most common perils covered by comprehensive insurance. If any of these events occur, you can file a claim with your insurance agent under comprehensive coverage, also known as comp coverage. Once your deductible is paid, the insurance company will cover the rest of the repairs to your vehicle or replace it if it’s a total loss.

Comprehensive Deductibles

Every comprehensive policy comes with a deductible, which you set in your policy. Usually, a higher deductible leads to lower premiums, while a lower deductible results in higher premiums. Let us provide you with a few quotes featuring a range of deductibles to help you make a choice that fits your budget.

Contact Janis-Shunta Insurance

Never take to the streets of Muskegon, MI, without up-to-date auto insurance. Contact Janis-Shunta Insurance today to update your auto insurance and add comprehensive coverage.

What Does Recreational Insurance Cover from Janis-Shunta Insurance

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From weekend camping trips to exhilarating off-road excursions, Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI, offers a range of policies designed to protect you and your assets while partaking in various adventures. Whether you’re cruising on a motorcycle through scenic routes or embarking on a fishing expedition in uncharted waters, their recreational insurance plans are crafted to provide financial security and support when unforeseen events disrupt your leisurely pursuits. With Janis-Shunta Insurance by your side, explore the world with confidence, knowing that you are covered against potential risks that come with living life to the fullest.

What Does Recreational Insurance Cover?

Often overlooked by many, Recreational insurance offers comprehensive coverage for various leisure activities. This type of insurance typically covers vehicles like ATVs, motorhomes, and watercraft that are not normally included in standard auto or homeowners policies. What’s fascinating is that recreational insurance can also extend to cover personal belongings stored within these vehicles, providing an added layer of protection that many may not be aware of.

Recreational insurance also includes liability coverage for situations where you may be at fault for property damage or injury while using your covered recreation equipment. This aspect is crucial as it helps shield you from potential legal and financial ramifications that could arise in such unfortunate events. Overall, understanding the scope of recreational insurance and its various inclusions can significantly benefit individuals who regularly partake in outdoor adventures and seek peace of mind while enjoying their hobbies.

Contact Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI for Recreational Insurance

The professionals at Janis-Shunta Insurance are here to help you secure recreational insurance. Contact our office today to speak with a professional insurance agent and get homeowners insurance. 

How Muskegon, MI Residents Use Umbrella Insurance to Shelter from the Storm

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In a world filled with ever-present uncertainties related to natural disasters, extreme weather, auto accidents, home invasions, and cyber theft, Muskegon, MI, residents are taking steps to shelter themselves, their families, and their valuables from the storm. 

Learn how local residents are protecting their most prized possessions from loss, damage, and theft from the local insurance experts at Janis-Shunta Insurance! 

Get Umbrella Insurance to Shelter from Michigan’s Unexpected Financial Storms 

Locals looking to beef up their insurance policies choose umbrella insurance policies to add more heft to their comprehensive auto insurance or home insurance policies, which can make all the difference when the unexpected happens. 

The financial fallout associated with mishaps on your property can devastate your finances without adequate insurance. Umbrella insurance offers extended coverages that boost your existing home or auto insurance policies to cover expenses related to personal injuries, property damage, and legal liability claims. 

Umbrella Insurance Offers Comprehensive Insurance Coverage for Modern Day Living 

We increasingly rely on digital devices like cell phones, tablets, laptops, and gaming systems. These internet-connected devices can store a wealth of personal data about our finances, private life, and personal preferences. 

A comprehensive umbrella insurance policy can help shield policyholders from modern-day threats like identity theft, data theft, and public data breaches, which can expose their financial information publicly.  

Get an Umbrella Insurance Quote from a Trusted Local Insurance Agent Near You

Savvy Michiganders are taking strides to protect their hard-earned assets and valuables. Please don’t wait until it’s too late to add adequate insurance protections for your belongings. Be proactive in protecting your home, auto, and business from life’s financial fallout. 

Contact Janis-Shunta Insurance and get an umbrella insurance quote today! 

Your Automotive Inspection and How It Relates To Your Insurance Coverage

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A preliminary inspection of your vehicle should be conducted before you insure it. This inspection will reveal mechanical problems. It can also guide you in choosing the type of automotive coverage you need.

The Inspection Process

An inspection of your vehicle should be conducted professionally. The inspection process will determine any issues that could compromise your safety while driving. After the inspection is complete, you will be provided with a copy of the inspection report.

Keep this copy and refer to it as needed. Any issues that could affect your safety should be addressed promptly. The list below highlights some automotive issues that shouldn’t be ignored.

  • Broken glass
  • Engine failures
  • Leaks
  • Damaged tires
  • Faulty lights

Mechanical Records

Keep track of all the upgrades that are done while you own your vehicle. Safely store receipts for the automotive repairs that you seek. 

Security Upgrades

Consider ways to keep your vehicle safe. Installing surveillance equipment, for instance, could lessen the likelihood of your vehicle being stolen or vandalized. Increasing security could have a bearing on your insurance premium too.

Choose a safe, protected area to park your vehicle when it is not actively being driven. The area should provide your vehicle with protection from the elements.

Followup Inspections

Seek followup inspections at scheduled times. Each inspection will determine the current status of your vehicle. The results of each subsequent inspection may influence your decision to increase or decrease the amount of automotive insurance you are supplied with.

Conclusion

Contact an agent who serves the Muskegon MI region. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, our agents recommend insurance products that are suited for each of our clients.

 

Do You Rent Out Your Condo? What You Should Know.

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If you’re a proud condominium owner in Muskegon, MI, renting your space to tenants, you must recognize how such activities affect your condo insurance. Janis-Shunta Insurance illuminates the potential risks associated with vacation rentals and the importance of securing effective coverage to protect your investment.

Your Condo: A Secondary Residence?

First, understand that a second home, including a condominium, has different insurance requirements. It’s critical that your insurance provider recognizes this as a secondary residence and enlightens you about coverage differences.

Leasing Your Condo to Acquaintances

Override your worries if you’re merely providing your condo for occasional use to friends or family. This infrequent hospitality is unlikely to alter your coverage parameters.

Transforming Your Condo into an Income Property

However, the scenario shifts significantly when your condo serves as a regular income source–whether in-state or cross-border. Rental properties, including short-term vacation rentals advertised on digital platforms, are governed by different insurance rules. Hence, it’s essential to keep your insurance company informed.

Insuring Your Income-Gaining Condo

If your property generates income, exercise caution when securing insurance. Protect your condo against theft and damage adequately, going beyond basic coverage. Janis-Shunta Insurance’s expert team is ready to assist you.

Reach Out for Condo Insurance

Regardless of your rental frequency or opting never to rent it out, Janis-Shunta Insurance can help you find great condo insurance deals in Muskegon, MI. We work to ensure your policy aligns with your mortgage company and homeowner association’s (HOA) set guidelines, thereby protecting your investment. Discuss your property’s future with us today.

Contact Janis-Shunta Insurance for condo insurance assistance in Muskegon, MI, today.

Home Insurance for Vacation Properties

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Insuring Your Vacation Home: A Comprehensive Guide

Vacation times are synonymous with fun and relaxation. But the prerequisite for that perfect vacation is ensuring your vacation property’s security and safety. At Janis-Shunta Insurance, catering to the Muskegon, MI community and its neighboring areas, we offer custom-tailored insurance policies to address your unique property insurance requirements.

Safeguard Your Vacation Home

Owning a vacation home is exciting but not without its challenges. The utmost of these is ensuring protection against potential damage and hazards, more so if the property remains unoccupied for prolonged periods. Prior to the peak vacation season, it’s critical to weatherproof your vacation home for potential storms, rain, and snow. Look into setting up alarm systems and fortifying security to deter burglars. Remember, regular repair and maintenance are essentials, irrespective of the season.

Comprehending Your Insurance Needs

Choosing the right insurance coverage for your vacation home can be complicated due to multiple options and considerations. By partnering with us, you’ll get precise, easy-to-understand advice tailored to your property and individual situation. Our seasoned team is equipped to create robust policies to mitigate diverse risks associated with vacation homes, ranging from fire and flood to storms and other unpredictable weather events.

Relax, Your Vacation Home is Covered

Don’t leave securing insurance coverage for your second home to the last minute. Take the proactive route and connect with Janis-Shunta Insurance today. We’ll work to ensure thorough protection for your valuable vacation property in Muskegon, MI. Our comprehensive coverage will let you create memorable vacation experiences without worrying about possible risks. Get in touch with us for custom-designed policies to suit your specific needs.