Is Auto Insurance A Necessity?

Auto accidents are bound to strike any time. It is therefore paramount to prepare in advance for any eventuality if an accident occurs. This preparation salvages you from settling damage and injury costs out-of-pocket. Buying prolific auto insurance in Williamsburg VA is fundamental to shield yourself and your car in the event of an accident. If you are shopping for auto insurance in Williamsburg, VA it’s crucial to comprehend the common types of coverage available on car insurance policies. Buy your auto insurance early enough from Commonwealth Insurance Center to avoid frustrating instances when auto accidents happen. Buying an auto insurance policy is an absolute necessity and harbors a lot of benefits, including:

Protecting yourself and others

Car insurance can safeguard you and your loved ones from massive expenses. This protection is extended to passengers and other drivers. Therefore, it’s imperative to have magnificent auto insurance to cover both property damage and injury expenses.

Coverage for asset

Auto insurance ensures that your valuable asset is always protected while cruising on Virginia roadways. Investing in both collision and comprehensive coverages can protect your car against potential perils. The comprehensive policy caters to the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle resulting from non-collision events like theft. In contrast, collision coverage caters to physical damage costs by either repairing or replacing your car after a collision with other vehicles or stationary objects.

It’s a legal requirement.

Most states, including Virginia, require motorists to liability car insurance that meet specific minimum requirements if they get engaged in an accident. These advocated minimum requirements by the state of Virginia comprise bodily injuries and property damage.

Instills peace of mind

Everyone is subject to making blunders. Regrettably, sometimes another driver’s mistake can become your problem. However, with proper auto insurance, you feel confident knowing that you are guarded even if you engage in an accident with a driver who is insufficiently covered or doesn’t have insurance.

Are you a car owner in Williamsburg, VA searching for auto insurance to safeguard yourself and your family? Please contact our dedicated agents at Commonwealth Insurance Center today and start your insurance journey with us.

What Are The Threats of Not Having Home Insurance?

Home insurance is a serious monthly expense that you may question when you review your budget. For this reason, in order to save money, you may decide to do without it. However, if you do, you should be aware of certain threats of not carrying this type of insurance. Here is a list of some of them prepared by Commonwealth Insurance Center – an insurance company serving Williamsburg, VA and other surrounding areas. 

Threats Of Not Carrying Home Insurance

Here is what you should be prepared for if you decide not to buy home insurance:

  • Rebuilding costs may be high. Most likely, the cost of your property when it was built and purchased is not the current value. Therefore, if something happens to your home, the replacement costs can be very high. If you do not have home insurance, you will have to cover these costs by yourself. 
  • You risk facing a liability claim. Most standard home insurance policies cover liability claims. This protects you from possible lawsuits that are caused by dangers around your property. Without home insurance, you will have to pay for all the expenses related to a lawsuit out of your pocket. 
  • Mortgage default. Many mortgage lenders require homeowners to have some kind of home insurance. Therefore, if you decide to cancel your home insurance policy, your lender will be notified about your decision, and you may risk losing your mortgage. 

Commonwealth Insurance Center – An Insurance Agency You Can Trust

Home insurance may be expensive, and you may think that you cannot afford it. However, if you live in Williamsburg, VA, or any other nearby town, contact Commonwealth Insurance Center. Our insurance agents will be glad to help you find a perfect home insurance policy that you can afford. If you have any questions, you can visit our website or give us a call. 

4 Benefits of Classic Car Insurance

If you have a classic, collector’s, or antique car in Williamsburg, VA, you need a classic car insurance policy tailored to suit your car. Classic car insurance differs from standard auto insurance in that your classic vehicle appreciates compared to typical cars that start depreciating from the moment you start driving. 

But I don’t drive my classic daily; why is insurance necessary? If you have been looking for reasons to justify classic car insurance, Commonwealth Insurance Center gives you four advantages of investing in this coverage. 

Liability coverage

Similar to driving a conventional car, you can cause accidents when driving your classic vehicle. When you are deemed liable for accidents, you could face bodily and property damage claims that can amount to thousands of dollars. Fortunately, a classic car insurance policy ensures you don’t incur out-of-pocket expenses when liability claims come calling. 

Protects the value of your car

When you subscribe to classic car insurance coverage, you agree on a value with your insurer, protecting your vehicle’s unique value. Unlike standard auto insurance that assumes your car depreciates as you continue driving, classic car insurance considers the fact that your classic vehicle value appreciates as years go on.

It’s affordable

Since most classic cars are rarely driven, purchasing this coverage is quite affordable compared to new vehicles and even some second-hand models. With classic car insurance, you don’t have to break the bank to preserve your heritage. 

Roadside assistance

Since classic cars are likely to break down than your typical vehicle, you need help when it stalls away from home. Roadside assistance provides services like flatbed towing to ensure that your vehicle is safely relocated to a garage.

Buy classic car insurance today!

Given that you treasure your classic car, it’s wise to keep it insured. If you are in Williamsburg, VA and its environs, please contact Commonwealth Insurance Center for an affordable quote. 

Do all people need to have renters insurance in Virginia?

If you are in the Williamsburg, VA area, you may find that renting a home is a good idea. There are a lot of advantages that come with renting, including having flexibility and have fewer maintenance requirements. If you do choose to rent a home here, you should pursue an appropriate insurance plan. Those in this area will need to have renters insurance coverage for several reasons. 

Protection is Often Required Under Lease

A reason that a lot of people in this area of Virginia will need to get a renters insurance plan is that it could be a requirement set forth by their landlord. There are a lot of protections that are provided by a renter’s insurance plan, which often can indirectly benefit the landlord as well. Due to this, it is common for the property owner to require a tenant to maintain this coverage throughout the term of the lease.

Valued Protections

You should also get a renter’s insurance plan as it will offer some very valuable coverage and protection. With a renter’s insurance plan, you will get the coverage needed to cover your personal assets. This will be helpful if your assets are damaged or stolen. You will also receive liability coverage, which can be helpful if you are deemed liable for an accident.

There are a lot of advantages that come with renting a home in the Williamsburg, VA area. If you are looking for a rental home here, you should also speak with Commonwealth Insurance Center about your insurance needs. The team with Commonwealth Insurance Center understands the value and needs of this coverage. They can help you assess your needs and options to build a plan that meets your needs and is ideal for your situation. 

Should everyone get motorcycle insurance in Virginia?

When you are in the Williamsburg, VA area, you are going to want to have a reliable vehicle so you can get around town. One option to consider getting is a motorcycle, which can offer you a fun and efficient mode of transportation. Along with this vehicle, you also need to get the right insurance for it. Everyone should have this coverage for a few reasons. 

Coverage Protects Motorcycle

A reason to have a motorcycle insurance plan in Virginia is that it can protect your motorcycle. Those that are looking to purchase a motorcycle when they are in this part of Virginia will want to enjoy it for as long as they can. With a proper insurance plan, you will have the coverage to repair or replace the asset if you do incur a loss. 

Legal Compliance

It is also important to get a motorcycle insurance plan to ensure you stay in legal compliance. Anyone that is going to operate a motorcycle is bound to state laws that will require them to carry liability insurance. This coverage will be included in your motorcycle insurance plan and offers support in the event you are liable for damages in an accident. Further, if you do not have coverage, you are at risk of penalization. 

People that are in the Williamsburg, VA area are going to want to have motorcycle insurance due to the value it provides. As you are shopping for a new plan, you may end up having some questions and need support. The team with Commonwealth Insurance Center can help you pick a plan that will offer the ideal support for your situation. If you work with the Commonwealth Insurance Center, you can learn a lot about your different options to ensure you remain properly covered at all times. 

Why does someone in Virginia need to maintain boat insurance?

When you are a resident of the Williamsburg, VA area, finding a way to enjoy the summer months as much as possible is a great idea. When you want to have fun during the summer, investing in your own boat is a great option. If you do decide to purchase a boat when you are here, you need to get the right insurance for it for a few reasons. 

When Using Certain Waterways or Marinas

A common situation when someone here will need to maintain boat insurance is when they want to use certain waterways or marinas. It continues to be common for some private areas to require boat owners to carry insurance as it provides liability protection. With liability protection, you can be assured that you will be able to cover any restitution if you cause an accident that results in property damage. 

When Taking Out Financing

You will also likely need to have boat insurance if you have taken out a boat loan. It continues to be required by boat loan providers that borrowers maintain a full insurance plan. With this coverage, the boat lender will know that their collateral is covered if it is damaged or stolen. You may be required to provide evidence of coverage when you take out a loan and from time to time thereafter. 

Those that would like to buy a boat in the Williamsburg, VA area need to ensure that they get the right insurance in place at all times. As you are looking for a new insurance plan in this area, speaking with the Commonwealth Insurance Center is always a good idea. The professionals with the Commonwealth Insurance Center know the value that comes with this coverage. They can then offer any support you need to choose a plan. 

Is Umbrella Insurance A Requirement in Williamsburg, VA?

Because humans are to error, that’s why we buy liability insurance to cover damages when you cause physical injury or property damage to third parties. Unfortunately, your insurance isn’t perfect either. It can let you down when you are facing substantial financial liabilities. 

Fortunately, you can amp up your liability coverage by purchasing umbrella insurance from Commonwealth Insurance Center, serving Williamsburg, VA, and the surrounding areas.

What is umbrella insurance?

Think of umbrella insurance as the safety net you run to when your standard policies run out. For instance, if you are sued for $300,000, and your liability coverage is up to $200,000, you are responsible for topping up the difference from your pocket. However, your insurance can cover this difference if you have umbrella insurance.

It’s important to note that umbrella insurance is slightly different from excess liability insurance that gives you higher coverage on your current liability policy. On the other hand, umbrella insurance provides additional coverage that is ordinarily not included in your typical insurance policies. For instance, most umbrella insurance covers legal fees if you are accused of libel/slander.

Is umbrella insurance mandatory?

Virginia State doesn’t require you to carry umbrella insurance, but it’s vital to purchase one if you have any kind of livelihood. Specifically, if you are in the below categories, you should buy umbrella coverage.

  • You own property
  • Own a dog or other possessions that can cause injury to others
  • You are a high net worth individual
  • Have an inexperienced driver in your household
  • Participate in sports that you are likely to injure others (like hunting)

What does umbrella insurance not cover?

While your umbrella insurance might seem like the mother of all liability coverages, it may not save the day in the below circumstances:

  • Own-inflicted injuries or property damage
  • Damages from breach of contract
  • Intentional or criminal acts
  • Losses to be covered by your typical insurance policies

Are you looking for umbrella insurance? Please get in touch with Commonwealth Insurance Center, located in Williamsburg, VA. This way, you will be protected against injuries, personal liabilities, and certain lawsuits.

How to prepare for a flooding event in Williamsburg, VA

The rainy season sends chills to many Williamsburg, VA residents as the cold weather marks the streets with floods; destroying properties and taking lives. Residents have to find ways to protect their families and property by buying flood insurance, but is buying insurance enough? Probably not because there are other things you can do to keep your home and family safe. Here is what the Commonwealth Insurance center advises residents to do to prepare for flooding events.

Waterproof your basement and elevate your utilities

Install flood sensors in your basement to detect water leaks and a water alarm to alert you when there is water leakage. Keep a working sump pump to protect your basement and maintain a battery-operated backup pump just in case of power failure. Next, elevate your essential utilities like propane tanks, wiring, sockets, electrical panels, appliances, and heating systems. Make sure that all electrical wires are well covered in and outside the house.

Clear your gutter and unblock all pipes

Many people in Williamsburg, VA tend to forget about all the debris build-up, leaves, and other unwanted materials in the gutters, which can be a potential water block during heavy rains. After checking the gutter, check water pipes and other water channels for any blockage that may prevent the easy flow of water.

Remove the carpet and move your furniture.

If your local authority announces the possibility of floods, don’t wait. Move your furniture and other valuables to safe places like the attic. If your home has one or several floors, move most of the items to the upper floors, particularly things that can easily get damaged by water. Pack a bag or two with supplies in case of an emergency and maintain communication with your family and relatives.

Buying flood insurance soon? Commonwealth Insurance Center would like to help. We are not only ready to guide you but also answer all the questions you might have. Call us today!

Who needs condo insurance in Virginia?

When you are in the Williamsburg, VA area you will need to make sure that you get proper insurance coverage for any type of property that you own. If you are a condo owner, this means getting a proper condo insurance plan. Condo insurance is a necessity for people in this area of Virginia for a few different reasons. 

Insurance is a Mortgage Lender Requirement

One of the reasons that you should get a condo insurance plan is that it could be a mortgage requirement. If you have used a mortgage to finance the purchase of your condo it is important that you carefully follow your mortgage lender’s insurance requirements. This will almost always require that you carry condo insurance and also escrow for the payments with the bank each month.

Insurance is Required by Home Association

You should also get a condo insurance plan in Virginia if it is required by a condo association. Almost all condo developments will have a condo association that governs the rules of the community. Most of the time, the association will require that you carry a full condo insurance plan at all times. This can help to ensure that you are covered and able to repair your home and another person’s property if you accidentally cause damage. 

When you are in the Williamsburg, VA area and are a condo owner, it will continue to be very important that you get proper coverage for it. As you are in the market for a new condo insurance plan, you should call the team with Commonwealth Insurance Center. There are a lot of important factors that go into picking a condo insurance plan and Commonwealth Insurance Center can give you the guidance that you need. This will help ensure that you remain properly covered and protected. 

How Does Life Insurance Provide Peace of Mind?

Life insurance brings peace of mind in a variety of ways. Here at the Commonwealth Insurance Center serving the Williamsburg, VA area, we’d like to take a moment or two to help you understand just how advantageous life insurance really can be, especially during hard times. Here’s a look at the top two reasons to buy life insurance.

Provide Financial Benefits to the Beneficiary

Do you have someone that depends on you for financial support? If so, what happens when you pass away? Will this person still receive some sort of financial support from you? Unless you have a bunch of money tucked away in your sock drawer or in a savings account at a bank, your loved ones will need steady income as a form of financial support once you pass away. And that’s exactly what a life insurance policy does. It provides peace of mind in knowing your loved ones will receive a payout amount once you’re no longer alive. This means you can spend your time here on earth enjoying moments with your family instead of having to worry about what will happen to them when you pass away.

Pay Off Old Debts

Do you have some debts that you need to ensure are taken care of when you pass away? If so, you can ensure your loved ones receive money through a life coverage policy that will cover these debts. When you pass away, the beneficiary amount can be used to pay off debts and keep your family in good financial health. This is an excellent way to help ensure good financial health for your loved ones once you are gone.

Want to learn more about the benefits of life insurance? Contact the Commonwealth Insurance Center serving the Williamsburg, VA and surrounding areas today.