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Janis-Shunta Insurance

950 W. Norton #500
Muskegon, MI 49441

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Janis-Shunta Insurance Blog

3 Reasons to Upgrade Your Home Insurance

The start of a new year is an excellent time to review your home insurance. If you’ve made major changes to your home, received costly gifts, or altered your lifestyle since purchasing your policy, upgrading your coverage with Janis-Shunta Insurance will ensure you have the protection you need. Here are three reasons to update your policy in the New Year.

To Maintain Maximum Protection for Your Dwelling

Significant home improvements that enhance the appearance, function, or security of your home will increase its value. If you made such changes to your Norton Shores or Muskegon, MI home since purchasing home insurance, you might need to increase your dwelling insurance to match the new value of your home.  

Dwelling insurance should cover the cost of replacing your home in the event of total loss. Anything less could result in your paying thousands of dollars in rebuilding costs out of pocket. Upgrading your insurance ensures your home has adequate protection for the New Year. 

To Cover Costly Gifts or Purchases

If you received costly gifts over Christmas or purchased pricey electronics, these need to be added to your insurance policy to protect them from theft or damage. Including these items in your personal property coverage may require an upgrade to your plan. If the limits on your property insurance aren’t high enough to cover these items, you can obtain an insurance rider to protect these valuable goods.  

To Protect You against Lawsuits

If you added a pool to your home or adopted a dog, you may need to increase your liability coverage to protect yourself against lawsuits in case of an accidental drowning or dog attack. Liability coverage pays for injuries visitors may sustain while visiting your property, so you don’t have to dip into your savings to cover these costs.

To upgrade your home insurance or to learn more about insurance options and costs, contact Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI.

Is Recreational Insurance the Same as Auto Insurance?

Insuring your recreational vehicle is always a good idea, mainly if you often ride and if it gets a fair amount of use. For those in the Norton Shores and Muskegon, MI area, the agents with Janis-Shunta Insurance can help you find the perfect policy for your recreational vehicle.

Understanding Recreational Insurance

When it comes to recreational insurance, it is a separate type of insurance all its own. The only items that can be insured on a recreational policy are those that are not used for everyday use and those items that are not being driven on the road for regular transportation. This means things like boats, all-terrain vehicles, and even four-wheelers. You cannot insure a daily driver car on a recreational insurance policy.

When it comes to auto insurance, you cannot always insure a recreational vehicle on this type of policy. You can however in some cases add this type of vehicle in some capacity to your auto policy. It is always best to take the time to talk with an agent and to get a specific policy that covers your recreational vehicle on its own rather than trying to find a way to add it to another policy that you already have in place.

You can get a recreational policy for your recreational vehicles that will help cover the cost of repair, replacement, and damages if you are in an accident. It may also help cover the medical expenses of the person riding with you if you are in an accident as well. For those in the Norton Shores or Muskegon, MI area, the agents with Janis-Shunta Insurance can help you find a policy that is going to work for you and that is going to cover your recreational vehicles and yourself in the event of an accident.  

How Does Umbrella Insurance Work in Michigan?

General liability protection is typically a part of your auto and home insurance policies, but if you have considerable assets or you feel at risk, additional coverage in the form of an umbrella policy is important. This type of coverage supplements your general liability insurance in other policies after those payout thresholds are met. Getting an umbrella policy is typically an easy process.

You’ll want to meet with a Janis-Shunta Insurance representative in Muskegon, MI, to get an idea of what your auto and home policies look like. Adjusting those policies may be the first step in optimizing your insurance coverage. Reviewing your coverage thresholds and specific risks applicable to you is critical to get an umbrella policy that meets your needs. It’s sometimes hard to judge whether you’re underinsured without professional insight.   

It’s important to remember that personal and commercial umbrella policies in Michigan and other states do not cover the same things. If you want general liability insurance for your business and its assets, you’ll have to work with a Janis-Shunta Insurance representative to get a policy that meets your needs. Personal umbrella policies may cover you and your spouse, but it is essential to clarify this detail as your policy is written. Working with a professional is key for navigating the insurance market in Michigan and getting the protection you need to safeguard your financial nest egg.

Umbrella insurance is a practical method to protect your personal assets if you’re faced with litigation and financial liability. To learn more about coverage options and thresholds, please contact Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI. Insurance representatives are ready to help get the right policy for you.

Importance of Winterizing Your Vehicle

Keeping your Vehicle Safe in Winter

Snow, sleet, and ice are common occurrences in Michigan during winter. That’s why it’s important to winterize your vehicle. Winterizing your car will protect it from harsh winter weather and make it much safer for you to drive. Here are some winterizing tips to get you started.

  • Check Battery: Check your battery to make sure it has the juice to withstand the cold. Your battery will need to work harder in cold weather to hold its charge. If it’s 4-5 years old, you may want to replace it with a new one before winter comes.
  • Top off Fluids: Top off your fluids to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly in cold weather. This includes engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Check antifreeze to ensure it’s at the right ratio with water, 50/50, to prevent freezing during winter months.
  • Inspect Windshield Wipers: Inspect your wipers to make sure they’re capable of clearing your windshield of snow and ice. Poor blades will reduce your visibility on the road.
  • Examine Tires: Make sure your tires have ample tread to keep you safe when traveling on sleet, ice, and snow. If you plan to travel extensively around Muskegon, MI during winter, consider getting winter tires to enhance safety on the road.
  • Test Heater and Defroster: Make sure your vehicle’s heater and defroster are working properly as they are essential to surviving winter travels in Michigan.

Winterizing your vehicle protects your car from hazardous winter weather and helps it perform better so you can enjoy safer travels during this time of year. Auto insurance coverage from Janis-Shunta Insurance will also protect you and your family during your winter holiday travels. To learn more about auto insurance options and costs, contact an agent from Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI today.

Condo insurance: Protecting Your Corner of the World

You Have Friends In Muskegon, MI

Whether you are new to the area or have been a long time resident of the beautiful landscape of Muskegon, know you have friends.

Be The King Or Queen of Your Castle

At Janis-Shunta Insurance, the staff understands that your pending purchase of a condo is a huge responsibility. Maybe you’ve owned your condo for a while and never considered that condominiums have special needs when it comes to effective insurance coverage. Owning a condo is a unique combination of certain aspects of apartment insurance and many more aspects of home insurance.

Condo insurance is similar to apartment insurance in that you do not have to protect the surrounding buildings that your condo is connected to. Your main concern is protecting your “four walls.” That’s why it is so important to speak with an expert in condo insurance to understand if you are  following the guidelines set forth in your agreement with the building owners.

Depending upon the type of structure and how your condo is designed, some standalone condos are part of a huge multi dwelling structure. The type of insurance that you will require will undoubtedly be different. Sometimes, it is not very clear to see what you have to insure. Some agreements stipulate that the condo owner must insure some of the common areas of the property which houses your condominium.

Speaking with an insurance agent at Janis-Shunta Insurance about your condo insurance needs today will let you know if you’re on the right track or not. Serving Muskegon, MI, and the surrounding areas, our professionals will guide you toward the appropriate condo insurance policy. Call or stop in today to have a professional review your existing policy to make sure that you are fully protected or help you with your brand new coverage needs.

 

Does Home Insurance Cover Vandalism?

Homeowners take many measures to protect their investment and prevent financial losses as a result of accidents and unexpected events. The best way to protect your home from the unexpected is to purchase insurance coverage that will protect you from a variety of incidents. For example, if your home is vandalized, you need to know that your insurance will have you covered. 

Vandalism Coverage

Most quality insurance policies will cover your home in the event that it is vandalized. You must still be vigilant when purchasing insurance and ask your agent whether or not the policy includes vandalism coverage. Not all policies are the same, so always ask about different scenarios including vandalism. Also, inquire about protocol when submitting a claim to help expedite the process. 

Purchasing Home Insurance

Not all insurance is the same, which is why you need a skilled and knowledgeable agent working with you to help you get the coverage you need. If you are a resident living in or around the Muskegon, MI area, you can rely on Janis-Shunta Insurance to work with you closely to give you the results you need. We can help you build a policy that fits your lifestyle and protects your home and possessions from unforeseen events and covered perils.

If you would like more information about home insurance and what it covers, call or stop by Janis-Shunta Insurance. We serve residents living around the Muskegon, MI area. We can help prevent gaps in coverage that could mean financial losses in the event of a vandalism to your home. Don’t risk leaving your home unprotected. Get the peace of mind you need so you can rest easy knowing you are covered. 

Protect Your Toys in Michigan with Recreation Insurance

The outdoors are filled with opportunities for fun and adventure. Having the “toys” to enjoy Michigan’s summer and winter activities make it more enjoyable to live here. Whether you have a boat, RV, jet ski, or other recreational vehicles, it is essential to have them protected with appropriate insurance. While Michigan does not require that a boat, for instance, be insured, it is wise to protect it in case it is damaged or vandalized. Also, recreational insurance will also give you liability coverage if you accidentally damage someone else’s property. The agents at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI fully understands the types of outdoor activities most people participate in so you are able to make sure that you have the coverage you need.

If you enjoy the outdoor life, it’s important that you protect your equipment from damage or theft. If your boat or ATV is damaged or destroyed, with a good insurance policy, you will be able to have it repaired or even replaced. It is vital that you spend a little time with your agent so that you fully understand what is covered and what isn’t. Given how you use the vehicle, there may be several different policy options to choose from. Also, if the boat, recreational vehicle, or ATV is only used a few months of the year, there may be a clause allowing you to defer coverage while it’s not in use. These are things that the agents at Janis-Shunta Insurance can help you with. You can find more information through our website or you can visit our offices for personalized service. 

Reach out to our agents to learn how to get a quote and get started on a policy.

Can an Umbrella Policy Help Pay Medical Expenses for an Auto Accident?

Being injured in a car accident in Muskegon, MI can be an overwhelming experience. From trying to focus on your recovery to communicating with insurance agencies, even a minor injury can be stressful. One thing you shouldn’t have to worry about is whether or not your insurance is going to help cover any medical expenses. Let’s take a look at how insurance works and what types of policies from Janis-Shunta Insurance can generally be used to pay for medical expenses incurred from being in a car accident. 

Personal Liability 

Personal liability coverage on a vehicle can be used to cover medical expenses. Your policy, however, has a limit on it. If your expenses exceed your limit, then you will have to dip into your pockets to cover the debt. Many drivers choose to get the minimum amount of personal liability coverage required by their state. Even though doing so is enough to keep them legally on the road, it is often a good idea to increase the coverage. For example, if your current personal liability coverage has a limit of $30,000 and your medical expenses exceed this amount, then you will, of course, wish that you had purchased extra coverage. 

Umbrella Insurance

You also have the option to invest in an umbrella insurance policy. This type of insurance can be used if your existing auto policy is exhausted, such as your medical bills exceeding their limits. It is important to understand that umbrella insurance cannot be used without an existing auto policy. It simply acts as a supplement, not an actual insurance policy. 

Underinsured Motorist

There may be some instances in which underinsured motorist coverage can be tapped into to pay for medical expenses. This is usually allowed if your injuries exceed the limit of the payout given to you by the at-fault driver. 

To learn more about insurance and medical expenses, contact Janis-Shunta Insurance today serving the Muskegon, MI area. 

Coverage Options for Drivers in the State of Michigan

The state of Michigan requires you to have no-fault insurance, which covers both injuries and damages that have been caused by accident regardless of who was at fault. It will also need to include the following types of coverage:

  • Personal injury protection
  • Property protection
  • Residual bodily injury/property damage coverage

While the state of Michigan requires you to have certain minimums, there are additional options that can give you extra coverage.

What Michigan Drivers Can Include on Their Auto Insurance Policies

Auto insurance companies in the state of Michigan give you several options that you can add to your policy. There are 3 main types of collision policies from which you can choose:

  • Limited Collision Coverage – If you’re less than 50% at fault for a car accident, your insurance company will pay for the cost of repairs after the deductible. But if you’re more than 50% at fault, you’ll have to cover the cost yourself.
  • Standard Collision Coverage – Your insurance company will pay for repairs after the deductible.
  • Broad Form Collision Coverage – Has the same rules as the limited coverage option, but the deductible doesn’t apply.

While collision coverage is a great way to cover a vehicle if it has been involved in an accident, other options can help you:

  • Comprehensive Coverage – Covers damage to your car if it didn’t involve an accident (such as collisions with animals).
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist – Can protect you if you have been involved in an accident that was caused by an uninsured or underinsured driver.
  • Towing and Labor Coverage – Covers towing costs and other types of labor if you were involved in an accident.
  • Rental Car Coverage – Covers the cost of a rental car if your vehicle was damaged because of an accident.

Be sure to speak to someone at Janis-Shunta Insurance in Muskegon, MI to get more information on what’s available.

Reliable Auto Insurance in Muskegon, MI!

If you want to get a reliable auto insurance policy that will get you the coverage you need, the people at Janis-Shunta Insurance can help you. We can get you a policy that will meet state-required minimums, and we can present you with additional coverage options that can give you an extra layer of protection. If you want to find an auto insurance policy that will meet your needs and fit your budget, feel free to contact our office today!

How Is Condo Insurance Different From Regular Policies?

If you’re thinking about investing in a condo, there are a few things you might not have considered. One of them is insurance. You might be thinking that condo insurance is just like home insurance, but there are some key differences. Janis-Shunta Insurance has those differences spelled clearly for you. So, if you want a home away from Muskegon, MI, keep these things in mind.

Your Responsibility

The biggest difference in insurances is what belongs to you. With a house, you own the building, everything in it, and the surrounding property. With a condo, you don’t even technically own the building (usually). Instead, you’re only insuring what is inside the walls. This usually applies to personal belongings, furniture, fixtures, and appliances. Since you’re responsible for less with a condo, your policies can be less expensive as a reflection of that. However, that isn’t the whole story, and other factors can have a large impact on your premiums.

Vacancies

Every condo is different, but it’s a common practice for a condo to remain unoccupied for large swaths of time. This is the trickiest part of condo insurance. Most insurers won’t cover a home with no permanent occupants, and a lot of companies shy away from condos for similar reasons. It may sound counterintuitive, but unoccupied buildings are at a greater risk of damage and theft. The amount of time your condo spends empty can dramatically impact the cost of insurance. A few things can help with this. If your condo has professional security, it can reduce risk for insurers and might lower premiums. Condo sharing services (think Timeshare) can also lower risks by keeping the property occupied on a regular basis.

In the end, the best way to truly understand your options for condo insurance is to talk to an expert. Janis-Shunta Insurance has representatives serving Norton Shores and Muskegon, MI. Have a simple conversation and see what works best for your condo.