Hatoway Insurance Partners

Homeowners Insurance Gaps You Might Not Know About

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 23:52:33 GMT

Standard Policies Don't Cover Everything

Your mortgage lender required you to buy homeowners insurance, so you're protected, right? Not necessarily. While a standard homeowners policy provides solid coverage for many perils, it also contains significant gaps that catch people by surprise when they file claims.

These coverage gaps aren't hidden in the fine print to trick you. They exist because certain risks require specialized coverage that costs more than most basic policies include. The problem is that many homeowners don't realize what's excluded until they experience a loss and discover their claim isn't covered.

Understanding these gaps before disaster strikes gives you the opportunity to add the right endorsements or separate policies to close them. At Hatoway Insurance , we walk every client through these common exclusions and help them decide which additional coverages make sense for their situation. Let's look at the most important gaps in standard homeowners insurance and what you can do about them.

Flood Damage: The Big Exclusion

Flood damage is excluded from every standard homeowners insurance policy. This surprises many people because flood seems like exactly the kind of catastrophic event insurance should cover.

The reason for the exclusion is that flood risk is highly concentrated geographically. If insurance companies included flood coverage in standard policies, premiums would be prohibitively expensive for everyone to subsidize the high costs in flood-prone areas. Instead, flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and some private insurers as a separate policy.

Here's what counts as flood damage: water that rises from the ground up. This includes overflowing rivers and streams, heavy rainfall that overwhelms drainage systems, storm surge from hurricanes, and rapid snowmelt. If water comes up from outside and enters your home, that's flood damage and your homeowners policy won't pay for it.

Many homeowners assume they don't need flood insurance because they're not in a designated high-risk flood zone. But roughly 25% of flood claims come from moderate-to-low-risk areas. It only takes heavy rainfall overwhelming local drainage systems to flood your basement, and that can happen almost anywhere.

Flood insurance is relatively affordable outside high-risk zones—often just a few hundred dollars annually. If you have any exposure at all, particularly if you have a basement or live near water features, it's worth considering. We can help you evaluate your flood risk and get quotes for coverage.

Water Backup and Sump Pump Failure

While we're on water damage, here's another gap that causes confusion: water backup from sewers and drains typically isn't covered by standard policies either.

If your sewer line backs up and floods your basement with contaminated water, or if your sump pump fails during a storm and water seeps in, the resulting damage usually isn't covered unless you've added a water backup endorsement to your policy. This endorsement is inexpensive—often $50 to $100 annually—but many homeowners don't have it because they weren't aware it existed.

The distinction between covered and excluded water damage often comes down to the source and direction of flow. Water that falls from above due to a burst pipe or roof leak is generally covered. Water that comes from below due to backup or seepage typically is not, unless you have the specific endorsement.

One client learned this the hard way when her finished basement flooded during a storm. The sump pump couldn't keep up with the volume of water, and six inches of sewage backed up through the floor drain. Without the water backup endorsement, her policy denied the entire claim—roughly $35,000 in damage to flooring, drywall, furniture, and belongings. Now she has the coverage, but the lesson cost her dearly.

Earthquake and Earth Movement

Standard homeowners policies exclude damage from earth movement, which includes earthquakes, sinkholes, landslides, and ground settling. If you live in a seismically active area, earthquake coverage is available as a separate policy or endorsement, but it doesn't come standard and many people don't carry it.

Even minor earthquakes can cause significant structural damage, crack foundations, and break gas lines. In areas where earthquake risk is real, going without this coverage is a gamble that could leave you with a damaged home and no way to pay for repairs.

Earthquake insurance typically carries high deductibles—often 10% to 20% of your dwelling coverage limit. That means on a home insured for $400,000, you might have a $40,000 to $80,000 deductible. It's expensive coverage, but for homeowners in earthquake zones, it's the only way to protect what's often their largest asset.

Whether earthquake coverage makes sense depends on where you live and your risk tolerance. We help clients evaluate the actual seismic risk in their area and decide whether the premium justifies the protection.

Maintenance-Related Damage

Your homeowners policy covers sudden and accidental losses, not damage that results from lack of maintenance or gradual deterioration. This distinction trips up many homeowners who file claims thinking they're covered.

If a pipe bursts suddenly and floods your home, that's covered. But if a pipe slowly leaked for months, gradually rotting the framing and drywall, the resulting damage likely isn't covered because it resulted from a maintenance issue you should have addressed. Similarly, roof damage from a fallen tree is covered, but a roof that fails because you neglected to replace worn shingles is not.

Mold is a related issue. If mold growth results from a covered peril—like a burst pipe that flooded your bathroom—the policy will typically pay for mold remediation up to a specified limit. But if mold develops because you ignored a slow leak or didn't address a moisture problem, it's considered a maintenance issue and won't be covered.

Insurance is designed to protect against unforeseen events, not to subsidize poor home maintenance. The takeaway here is simple: take care of your home. Fix problems promptly, replace worn components before they fail, and address water intrusion immediately. Your homeowners policy works best when you're maintaining your property properly.

Home Business and Business Property

If you run a business from home, your standard homeowners policy provides extremely limited coverage for business property and virtually no liability coverage for business activities.

Most policies include a small amount of coverage for business property—typically $2,500 or less—and that's for incidental business use, not a full-fledged home business. If you have $20,000 worth of inventory, equipment, or supplies related to a business, the vast majority isn't covered if your home burns down.

Liability coverage is even more restricted. If a client visits your home office and trips over a cable, injuring themselves, your homeowners policy may deny the claim because the injury arose from business activities. If your product or professional service causes harm to a customer, that's definitely not covered under a homeowners policy.

The solution is a home business endorsement for small operations or a separate business owners policy for more substantial ventures. These coverages are specifically designed for business risks and fill the gaps that homeowners policies leave open. We help clients determine which approach makes sense based on the size and nature of their business.

Certain Types of Personal Property

Standard homeowners insurance places sublimits on certain categories of valuable property. This means even though your policy might provide $150,000 in personal property coverage overall, specific items face much lower limits.

Jewelry is a common example. Your policy might limit coverage for theft of jewelry to $1,500 or $2,000 total, regardless of your overall personal property limit. If you have an engagement ring worth $8,000, most of its value isn't covered under the standard policy.

Similar sublimits often apply to:

Cash and coins: Usually limited to $200-$500 Firearms: Often capped at $2,500 Silverware and collectibles: Typically $2,500 limits Electronics: Sometimes limited to $1,500 per item Art and antiques: May have specific dollar caps

You can close these gaps by scheduling valuable items individually on your policy or purchasing a separate valuable articles or personal articles floater policy. This provides "all risk" coverage without deductibles for specifically listed items, protecting them against theft, loss, and accidental damage that standard policies exclude or limit.

If you own anything worth more than the sublimits in your policy, talk to us about scheduling it. The additional premium is usually modest—often just 1-2% of the item's value annually—and it ensures you're fully protected.

Ordinance and Law Coverage

Here's a gap that doesn't occur to most people until they face it: if your home is damaged and local building codes have changed since it was built, the cost to rebuild according to current codes can far exceed the actual damage.

Let's say a fire destroys 40% of your home. The building department requires that when you rebuild, you bring the entire structure up to current code, including new electrical systems, plumbing, foundation requirements, and energy standards. Your homeowners policy covers the cost to repair the fire damage, but not the additional expense of bringing everything up to code.

Ordinance and law coverage addresses this gap. It pays for the increased costs associated with complying with current building codes when you rebuild after a covered loss. This can include the cost to demolish undamaged portions of the structure if code requires it, as well as the expense of meeting new requirements.

This coverage is particularly important for owners of older homes in areas where codes have become more stringent over the decades. The additional premium is relatively small, but the protection can save you tens of thousands of dollars if you need to rebuild.

Expensive Rebuilding Costs and Replacement Cost Gaps

Many homeowners are underinsured without realizing it. They purchased enough coverage to satisfy their mortgage lender's requirement, but not enough to actually rebuild their home if it's destroyed.

Insurance companies estimate replacement cost based on construction costs in your area, the square footage and features of your home, and current material and labor prices. But these estimates aren't always accurate, especially in markets where construction costs have risen rapidly or for homes with custom features that standard estimation tools undervalue.

If your home is insured for $300,000 but would actually cost $400,000 to rebuild, you have a $100,000 gap. Some policies include extended or guaranteed replacement cost coverage that pays a certain percentage above your dwelling limit if rebuilding costs exceed the insured amount, but this isn't universal and it doesn't eliminate the need for adequate base coverage.

We recommend reviewing your dwelling coverage limit every year, especially if construction costs in your area have increased significantly. It's also smart to review coverage whenever you make improvements that increase your home's value or rebuilding cost.

Identity Theft and Cyber Coverage

Standard homeowners policies provide little to no coverage for identity theft, fraud, or cyber-related losses. Some insurers offer identity theft coverage as an inexpensive endorsement that reimburses expenses related to restoring your identity after it's stolen, such as legal fees, lost wages from time off work, and costs to obtain credit reports and documents.

Similarly, if you're the victim of cybercrime—phishing scams, wire fraud, ransomware—your homeowners policy typically won't help. Some carriers now offer cyber endorsements for personal policies that cover certain online fraud losses, but this is still an emerging area of coverage.

Given how prevalent identity theft and cyber fraud have become, these endorsements are worth considering. They're usually inexpensive additions that provide meaningful protection for increasingly common risks.

Making Sure Your Coverage Is Complete

The gaps we've discussed aren't secrets, but they're not always explained clearly when you purchase coverage. Many people buy homeowners insurance focused only on price, not understanding what they're missing until a claim reveals the truth.

The best way to avoid unpleasant surprises is to work with an independent agent who takes the time to review your specific situation, explain the standard exclusions, and recommend endorsements or additional policies that make sense for you.

At Hatoway Insurance, we represent multiple carriers and can customize your homeowners coverage to fit your actual needs, not just meet the minimum requirements. We'll review your property, your valuables, your business activities if applicable, and your location-specific risks to identify gaps and recommend solutions. Contact us or request a quote to make sure your home is truly protected. You can also see what other clients say about working with us on Google .

Don't wait for a claim denial to discover you had gaps. A proactive policy review costs nothing and could save you from major financial losses down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my homeowners policy has these gaps?

Review your policy declarations page and the actual policy document to see what's included and excluded. Look for endorsements you've added beyond the base coverage. If you're not sure how to interpret the documents, ask your insurance agent to review them with you and explain what is and isn't covered. Most people find that a professional review reveals gaps they didn't know existed.

Are these additional coverages expensive?

Most endorsements cost significantly less than you'd expect. Water backup coverage, ordinance and law, and identity theft endorsements typically add $50-$200 annually to your premium. Even scheduling valuable items usually costs just 1-2% of the item's value per year. The modest cost makes these endorsements worthwhile protection for most homeowners.

If I rent out part of my home on Airbnb, does my homeowners policy cover that?

Probably not adequately. Short-term rental activity introduces business liability exposures that standard homeowners policies exclude. Some insurers offer short-term rental endorsements, while others require a separate commercial policy or landlord policy. If you rent your home or part of it, you need to disclose this to your insurance company and obtain appropriate coverage.

Will my insurance company automatically increase my dwelling coverage as rebuilding costs rise?

Some policies include inflation guard provisions that automatically increase your dwelling limit by a small percentage annually, but this might not keep pace with actual construction cost increases. You should review your coverage limit annually and request adjustments when needed. Don't assume automatic increases are sufficient without verifying that your coverage still reflects current replacement costs.

What happens if I file a claim for something that turns out to be excluded?

The claim will be denied. You won't be penalized beyond the denial itself, but you'll be responsible for the full cost of the loss out of pocket. This is why understanding your coverage before you have a loss is so important. Prevention through proper coverage selection is far better than discovering gaps after damage occurs.

Does Your Auto Policy Cover Uninsured Drivers?

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 23:52:32 GMT

What Happens When an Uninsured Driver Hits You

You're sitting at a red light when another car slams into you from behind. The impact totals your vehicle and sends you to the emergency room with neck and back injuries. When police arrive, you discover the at-fault driver has no insurance. Now what?

Most people assume the other driver's insurance will pay for their damages. But what if there is no insurance to collect from? Thousands of drivers on the road every day operate vehicles illegally without coverage, and the odds of encountering one are higher than you might think. Without the right protection on your own policy, you could be stuck paying for repairs, medical bills, and lost wages out of pocket even though you did nothing wrong.

This is where uninsured motorist coverage comes in. It's one of the most important—and most misunderstood—parts of your auto insurance policy . Let's break down exactly what it covers, why you need it, and how to make sure you're properly protected.

Understanding Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured motorist coverage (UM) protects you when an at-fault driver has no insurance. It pays for your injuries, and in many states, your vehicle damage when the responsible party can't compensate you because they're driving illegally without coverage.

This coverage comes in two main types:

Uninsured Motorist Bodily Injury (UMBI): Pays for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other injury-related costs when an uninsured driver hurts you or your passengers. This coverage typically matches the liability limits you carry on your own policy.

Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD): Covers damage to your vehicle when an uninsured driver causes an accident. This component isn't available in all states, and where it is offered, it often comes with a deductible and lower limits than collision coverage.

Some states require insurance companies to offer UM coverage, while others mandate that it's automatically included unless you specifically reject it in writing. The rules vary significantly depending on where you live and register your vehicle.

Underinsured Motorist Coverage: The Related Protection

Closely related to uninsured motorist coverage is underinsured motorist coverage (UIM). This protects you when the at-fault driver does have insurance, but not enough to fully compensate you for your injuries or damages.

Here's a common scenario: Another driver runs a stop sign and T-bones your car, causing serious injuries. They have auto insurance, but only the state minimum liability limit of $25,000. Your medical bills, lost income, and other costs total $75,000. Their policy pays its $25,000 limit and then it's exhausted. If you have underinsured motorist coverage with limits of $100,000, your policy would pay the additional $50,000 to cover your losses.

Without UIM coverage, you'd be personally responsible for that $50,000 gap. You could try to sue the at-fault driver personally, but most people carrying minimum liability limits don't have significant assets to collect from anyway.

At Hatoway Insurance , we strongly recommend carrying both uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage at limits that match or exceed your liability coverage. If you think you need $250,000 in liability protection to shield your assets, you need at least that much in UM/UIM coverage to protect yourself from drivers who don't carry adequate insurance.

How Many Uninsured Drivers Are Actually on the Road?

You might think uninsured motorists are rare, but the statistics tell a different story. According to Insurance Research Council data, approximately one in eight drivers nationally operates a vehicle without insurance. In some states, that number climbs even higher—up to 20% or more of drivers.

That means in any five-car pileup, odds are good that at least one driver involved has no coverage. Even in minor two-car accidents, you face roughly a 12-15% chance that the other driver is uninsured.

The problem gets worse during economic downturns, when more people drop coverage they can't afford, and in areas where insurance costs run particularly high. It's not just reckless drivers ignoring the law—sometimes it's people who let their policy lapse unintentionally or who can't afford premiums but still need to get to work.

Whatever the reason, the result is the same for you: if an uninsured driver causes an accident, you can't collect from their insurance company because there's no policy to collect from.

What UM Coverage Actually Pays For

When you're involved in an accident with an uninsured driver and you have UM coverage, your policy can pay for several types of damages.

Medical expenses are the most obvious. This includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, physical therapy, prescription medications, and ongoing treatment related to accident injuries. If you're seriously hurt, these costs add up fast—often exceeding tens of thousands of dollars.

Lost wages also fall under UM coverage. If your injuries prevent you from working, the coverage compensates you for income you would have earned during your recovery period. For serious injuries that cause permanent disability, this can extend to future earning capacity as well.

Pain and suffering represents another component. Beyond your actual financial losses, you may be entitled to compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life caused by your injuries.

In states where UMPD is available, your vehicle damage gets covered too, though many people find their collision coverage works better for this purpose. Collision pays regardless of who's at fault and usually offers higher limits with more straightforward claims processes than UMPD.

One question we hear frequently: does UM coverage apply if the at-fault driver flees the scene? Yes. Hit-and-run accidents typically trigger uninsured motorist coverage since the fleeing driver's insurance status can't be determined. You'll need to file a police report and provide as much information as possible about the incident, but your UM coverage should respond.

Why Standard Liability Coverage Isn't Enough

Here's a critical point that confuses many drivers: your liability coverage doesn't protect you. It protects other people from you.

When you cause an accident, your liability insurance pays for the other party's injuries and damages. But when someone else causes an accident and injures you, their liability coverage is supposed to pay. If they don't have liability coverage, your own liability coverage does nothing to help you.

This is why uninsured motorist coverage exists as a separate component. It fills the gap when the at-fault party has no insurance to cover your losses. Think of it as liability coverage in reverse—instead of protecting others from you, it protects you from others.

Some drivers mistakenly believe comprehensive and collision coverage handle all accident scenarios. While these coverages are valuable, they only address vehicle damage, not bodily injury. Collision coverage will fix your car regardless of fault, but it won't pay your medical bills or replace your lost income if you're injured by an uninsured driver.

How Much UM/UIM Coverage Should You Carry?

The right amount of uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage depends on several factors, but a good rule of thumb is this: carry UM/UIM limits at least equal to your liability limits.

If you've decided you need $250,000/$500,000 in liability coverage to protect your assets in case you cause a serious accident, you need that same level of protection for when someone else causes an accident and can't pay. The risks are symmetrical.

Some insurance professionals recommend even higher UM/UIM limits than liability limits, particularly if you have significant assets. Your liability coverage can't exceed policy limits even if you're sued for more, but your UM/UIM coverage directly determines how much compensation you receive for your own injuries. Maxing out this coverage often costs less than you'd expect and provides substantial protection.

Consider your health insurance deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums as well. If your health plan requires you to pay the first $5,000 of medical costs, your UM coverage would reimburse you for that amount after an accident with an uninsured driver. Without adequate UM coverage, you're absorbing costs that should be the at-fault driver's responsibility.

We review these limits with every client during policy setup and at renewal. Your needs change over time as your financial situation evolves, and your coverage should keep pace.

State Requirements and Variations

Uninsured motorist coverage requirements vary dramatically by state. Some states mandate that insurers include it automatically unless you reject it in writing. Others make it optional but require insurance companies to offer it. A handful of states don't require it at all.

The specifics of how UM/UIM coverage works also differ. Some states structure it as "add-on" coverage, meaning it pays in addition to any compensation you receive from the at-fault party. Others use a "reduction" approach, where benefits are reduced by amounts collected from other sources.

Stacking provisions represent another variation. In states that allow stacking, you can combine UM/UIM limits from multiple vehicles on your policy. If you have three cars each with $100,000 in UM coverage and stacking is permitted, you might have access to $300,000 in coverage total. Not all states allow this, and even where it's available, it typically costs extra.

Because these rules are so state-specific, it's important to work with an agent who understands your local regulations and can explain exactly what your policy does and doesn't cover. What's true in one state might be completely different fifty miles away across a state line.

Making Sure You're Actually Covered

Many drivers assume they have uninsured motorist coverage when they actually don't. This often happens when people purchase minimum required coverage or buy policies online without fully understanding what they're declining.

Pull out your auto policy declarations page right now. Look for a section labeled "Uninsured Motorist" or "UM/UIM." You should see specific dollar amounts listed, such as $100,000/$300,000. If you see "Rejected" or "Not Purchased" or if the section is blank, you don't have this coverage.

If you're not sure how to read your policy or you can't find the information, that's exactly why working with a local independent agent makes sense. We review your declarations page with you, explain what each coverage does, and make recommendations based on your specific situation and risk tolerance.

Don't wait until after an accident to discover you're not protected. A quick policy review takes fifteen minutes and could save you from financial devastation down the road.

The Bottom Line on Uninsured Driver Protection

Here's what you need to remember: your auto insurance policy primarily protects other people from you through liability coverage. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage flips that around, protecting you from other drivers who can't or won't compensate you for the harm they cause.

Given that roughly one in eight drivers has no insurance, this isn't a remote risk. It's a real exposure that every driver faces every time they're on the road. The cost of adding adequate UM/UIM coverage to your policy is modest compared to the financial catastrophe of being seriously injured by an uninsured driver with no way to recover your losses.

At Hatoway Insurance, we make sure every client understands this coverage and has appropriate limits in place. We represent multiple carriers, which means we can find you comprehensive protection at competitive rates. Contact us today to review your current auto policy and make sure you're not vulnerable to uninsured drivers. Check out our Google reviews to see how we've helped other clients get the right coverage at the right price.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I have health insurance, do I really need uninsured motorist bodily injury coverage?

Yes. Health insurance covers your medical bills, but it doesn't compensate you for lost wages, pain and suffering, or other accident-related damages. Additionally, your health insurer may have the right to seek reimbursement from any settlement you receive, which can reduce your net recovery. UM coverage fills these gaps and often provides more complete compensation than relying solely on health insurance.

Does UM coverage apply if I'm hit by a driver with a fake or expired insurance card?

Absolutely. If the other driver's insurance turns out to be invalid, cancelled, or fake, they're legally uninsured regardless of what documents they showed at the scene. Your UM coverage would apply just as it would for a driver who openly admitted having no insurance. Always get the other driver's insurance information and report it to your carrier, who will verify coverage.

Can I add uninsured motorist coverage to my policy mid-term or do I have to wait for renewal?

You can typically add UM/UIM coverage anytime by contacting your insurance agent or company. You don't have to wait for your policy renewal. The additional premium will be calculated on a pro-rated basis for the remainder of your current policy term. If you don't currently have this coverage, adding it right away makes sense rather than driving unprotected for months until your renewal date.

What happens if the uninsured driver who hit me has assets I could sue for?

You have the right to pursue a lawsuit against an at-fault driver personally, even if your UM coverage pays your claim. However, collecting a judgment from an individual who couldn't afford insurance in the first place is often impossible. Your UM coverage provides immediate compensation without the time, expense, and uncertainty of litigation, which is why it's so valuable even if legal recourse theoretically exists.

Does my UM coverage protect me if I'm injured as a pedestrian or cyclist?

In most states, yes. Uninsured motorist coverage typically extends to injuries you suffer as a pedestrian or bicyclist when struck by an uninsured vehicle. The exact terms depend on your state's laws and your specific policy language, but this is another valuable aspect of UM coverage that many people don't realize they have until they need it.

Why a Local Agent Beats Buying Insurance Online

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 23:52:31 GMT

The Real Cost of Buying Insurance Online

You've seen the ads. Fifteen minutes could save you money. Click here for an instant quote. It's tempting to handle everything from your couch, especially when online platforms promise simplicity and savings. But here's the thing: buying insurance isn't the same as ordering a pair of shoes.

When you purchase a policy online, you're answering questions written by an algorithm, not a licensed professional who understands your unique situation. You might save a few dollars upfront, but you could be left with coverage gaps that cost you thousands when you actually need to file a claim. The difference between working with a local agent and buying online often becomes painfully clear at the worst possible moment.

At Hatoway Insurance , we've helped countless clients who switched from online policies after discovering what they were missing. Let's look at what you're really giving up when you choose convenience over expertise.

You Get More Than Just a Policy

Online platforms sell products. Local agents build relationships. That's not marketing talk—it's a fundamental difference in how you're protected.

Someone Who Knows Your Name

When you call an 800 number, you're talking to whoever picks up in a call center. They're reading from a script, looking at your account for the first time, and they'll never speak to you again. When you work with a local independent agent, you're working with the same person or team every time. They remember your situation. They know you added a teenage driver last year. They recall that you run a home-based business that needs special consideration.

This relationship matters most when things go wrong. If you have a claim at 7 PM on a Friday, you're not navigating an automated phone tree. You're calling someone who knows your coverage inside and out.

Access to Multiple Carriers

Here's what most people don't realize about online insurance platforms: they only sell their own products. You're comparing coverage options from exactly one company. That's not shopping around—that's just picking which level of their product you want.

Independent agents represent multiple insurance carriers. We can quote your personal insurance needs across several companies, comparing not just price but coverage quality, claims handling reputation, and financial stability. You might qualify for better rates with Carrier A for your home and Carrier B for your auto. An online platform will never tell you that because they can't offer it.

Expert Guidance Through Complex Decisions

Insurance policies are contracts written in legal language that most people find confusing. Online platforms ask you to answer questions about coverage limits, deductibles, and endorsements without really explaining what they mean or how they apply to your specific situation.

A local agent translates this complexity. We explain the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost in terms that make sense. We help you understand whether that $500 deductible saves you enough in premium to justify the out-of-pocket risk. We identify exposures you didn't know you had and recommend solutions that actually fit your budget.

Coverage Gaps Online Buyers Discover Too Late

We've reviewed hundreds of policies that clients bought online before switching to our agency. The same problems show up repeatedly.

Minimum liability limits: Online platforms often default to state minimum coverage because it produces the lowest quote. If you cause a serious accident, those minimums won't come close to protecting your assets.

Missing endorsements: Important coverage options like water backup, identity theft protection, or replacement cost on contents frequently get skipped because online buyers don't understand what they're declining.

Inadequate dwelling coverage: Online tools estimate your home's replacement cost using automated formulas that don't account for custom features, quality finishes, or regional construction costs. You might be insured for $250,000 when rebuilding would actually cost $350,000.

Business use exclusions: If you occasionally use your car for food delivery or run a side business from home, standard policies bought online might not cover those activities. Most people don't realize this until a claim gets denied.

The money you save buying online can disappear in seconds if you're underinsured when disaster strikes. A comprehensive homeowners policy costs more than a bare-bones one for good reason.

Claims Support When You Need It Most

Filing a claim is stressful. You've just experienced property damage, an accident, or a loss. The last thing you want is to figure out the process alone.

When you buy insurance online, claims support means calling a 1-800 number and explaining your situation to a stranger who handles hundreds of claims from people they'll never meet. You're a case number, not a person.

When you work with a local agent, we're your advocate throughout the entire claims process. We help you document damage, communicate with adjusters, and push back if the settlement offer doesn't seem fair. We know the claims representatives at our carrier partners personally, which often speeds up resolution.

One client recently told us: "I thought I was saving money with my online policy until I had a kitchen fire. I spent hours on hold, got transferred six times, and still didn't understand what was covered. When I switched to you and had a fender bender six months later, you handled everything. I just answered your questions and the check showed up."

That's the difference between a transaction and a relationship.

The Independent Agent Advantage

Not all local agents are the same. Captive agents—those who work for a single insurance company—have some of the same limitations as online platforms. They can only sell their company's products, which means they can't truly shop the market for you.

Independent agents represent multiple carriers. We work for you, not an insurance company. If another carrier offers better coverage or pricing for your situation, we'll tell you. If your current carrier raises rates unfairly, we can move your policies to a competitor without you having to start over with a new agent.

This independence matters over time. Your insurance needs change as life happens—you buy a home, start a family, launch a business , or retire. An independent agent adjusts your coverage as you go, always making sure you're properly protected without overpaying.

We also stay on top of changes in the insurance market. Carrier appetites shift. New discounts become available. Coverage options evolve. When you buy online, it's up to you to log in regularly and see if you're still getting the best deal. When you work with us, we proactively review your policies and reach out when we spot opportunities to improve your coverage or reduce your cost.

What About the Price Difference?

Let's address the elephant in the room. Sometimes online platforms do offer lower premiums, especially for drivers with perfect records and simple insurance needs. But that price advantage isn't as straightforward as it seems.

First, you're often comparing apples to oranges. The $800 policy online might have higher deductibles, lower limits, and fewer coverage options than the $950 policy we quote. When you match coverage level for level, the price gap usually shrinks or disappears.

Second, independent agents often have access to discounts that online platforms don't advertise. Multi-policy bundling, professional association discounts, claim-free longevity credits, and carrier-specific programs can significantly reduce your premium. We know which carriers offer the best rates for your profile because we quote multiple companies for every client.

Third, the true cost of insurance includes the value you receive, not just the premium you pay. A policy that costs $100 less but leaves you with a $20,000 coverage gap isn't a good deal. A slightly higher premium that comes with expert guidance, claims advocacy, and ongoing policy management delivers better value over time.

Making the Switch Is Easier Than You Think

If you've been buying insurance online and you're wondering whether working with a local agent makes sense, the answer is usually yes. Switching doesn't mean canceling mid-term and losing money. We time the transition to align with your renewal dates, so there's no penalty.

The process is simple. We review your current coverage, identify gaps or opportunities for improvement, and quote your insurance across our carrier partners. You see exactly what you're getting and what it costs before making any decisions. If we can't beat your current coverage and price, we'll tell you honestly. But most of the time, we can improve one or both.

Ready to see the difference personalized service makes? Request a quote and let us show you what proper coverage looks like for your situation. You can also read what our clients have to say on Google about their experience working with our team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really get the same price from a local agent as I do online?

In many cases, yes. Independent agents access the same carriers that advertise heavily online, plus dozens of others. When we quote across multiple companies and apply all available discounts, we often match or beat online prices while providing significantly better coverage and service.

What if I'm happy with my online insurance company?

That's great if your coverage is adequate and you haven't had to file a claim yet. But we'd still recommend getting a second opinion. A quick policy review with an independent agent costs nothing and might reveal coverage gaps you didn't know existed. Even if you decide to stay with your current carrier, you'll have peace of mind knowing you're properly protected.

Do I have to meet in person or can we work remotely?

We offer both options. Some clients prefer face-to-face meetings, while others handle everything by phone, email, and video chat. The point of working with a local agent isn't that you have to visit an office—it's that you have a dedicated professional who knows your situation and advocates for you, however you prefer to communicate.

Will switching agents affect my claims history or rates?

No. Your claims history and driving record follow you regardless of how you buy insurance. Switching from an online platform to a local agent doesn't reset anything or trigger rate increases. In fact, we often find better rates because we can shop your profile across multiple carriers instead of being limited to one company's pricing.

How does an independent agent make money if you represent multiple carriers?

Insurance carriers pay agents a commission when we place policies, similar to how online platforms pay for customer acquisition through advertising. The difference is that our commission doesn't affect your price—you pay the same premium whether you buy direct or through an agent. But when you work with us, you get expert service and ongoing support included at no additional cost.

Insurance Rates on The Rise….part 2

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 14:11:00 GMT

As we wrote in last month’s Beacon, insurance rates are rising at unprecedented levels. Insurance carriers are trying to respond to market factors that have continued to put pressure on their financial stability. The things that are driving the insurance carrier reaction are hyperinflation on costs to repair or replace cars and buildings, claims frequency, and severe weather conditions that continue to plague the US. In our first editorial we addressed some of the details involved in hyperinflation. In this story I will address severe weather patterns and their effect on your insurance rates.

Severe weather is on the rise. Many have ideas on why that is. I’m not here to discuss the reasons we are seeing more severe weather but to discuss what it means to our insurance rates.

Severe weather along with hyperinflation has made a nasty soup for insurance rates. Insurance carriers use past annual averages in severe weather. The National Centers for Environmental Information is a governmental agency that reports on these events. In the past Insurance carriers planned for 8-9 weather and climate disasters that cost over $1 Billion. According to the National Centers of Environmental Information, the annual average for weather/climate disasters with losses exceeding $1 billion between 1980-2023 is 8.5 events. However, if you squeeze that timeline to just the last five years (2018-2023) the annual average balloons to 20.4 events. In 2023 the US saw twenty-eight separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters that impacted the United States. Yes, you read that correctly TWENTY-EIGHT weather and climate disasters that impacted the United States. Seven of them, possibly eight, were in states in the Midwest.

View disaster map

A large number of events last year show the insurance carriers need to adjust, or our insurance carriers won’t be around to continue to pay claims. In the States of California and Florida, we are seeing these severe weather pressures playing out in scenarios that hurt policyholders. State Farm announced via a press release dated March 20, 2024, that they are going to non-renew 30,000 homeowners, rental dwelling, and other property insurance policies and non-renew 42,000 commercial apartment policies in California. This means that those policyholders will receive documentation stating they will no longer have insurance on their property when the policy expires. Those policyholders will need to look elsewhere for coverage. Due to the tough conditions for insurance companies in California, that will be a very difficult project for policyholders.

Luckily, here in Indiana and Ohio we aren’t seeing large insurance carriers getting out. Small carriers are making that decision. Here in Indiana, we saw one carrier end the personal lines policy offerings. Secura Insurance Companies announced back in October that they were exiting the Personal Lines Insurance market in all their 13 states. Hopefully, the rate increases that we are experiencing will allow the insurance carriers to stay financially viable in the Midwest and keep competition for your premium dollars strong. Otherwise, we may see similar scenarios here in the Midwest where thousands of policyholders are left with expiring policies.

Insurance companies use all the information they can to design a rate for their policies. A person’s credit score, address, date of birth, weather, building materials costs, and stock market conditions are just a small list of rating factors the insurance companies use in their rate strategy. The goal is to pay overhead expenses to run their insurance company and be able to pay their policyholders when claims happen profitably. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses that get rated for their financial stability. If they continue to post financial losses their financial stability rating from financial rating houses like AM Best gets downgraded. This can cause significant ramifications for the insurance carrier and their clients; Leading to some of the insurance carrier actions we discussed earlier.

Matthew Hatoway

Matthew is a second-generation agency owner. He and his family have been independent agents for over 30 years. Hatoway Insurance Partners, Inc. and Mansfield Insurance Agency continue to help thousands of clients with their insurance needs.

Why Should I Consider a Business Umbrella Policy?

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 14:13:00 GMT

As a proud business owner, it’s your job to consider the “what-ifs” for your business. Of course, you don’t want to think about the worst… but no matter how careful or cautious you and your employees are, accidents do happen – and sometimes they can be serious.

If you experience a catastrophic accident, things can get costly… and fast. That’s where your ERIE agent and ERIE’s Business Umbrella Policy can help.

Why Do I Need a Business Umbrella Policy?

This specialized policy can kick in with extra financial protection against a legal judgment for a covered loss. Business umbrella liability offers a cushion above and beyond the limits of your commercial general liability, professional liability, business auto liability and employer’s liability insurance.

Business umbrella insurance could help you when facing a serious and costly claim, for example:

One of your drivers causes a very serious accident and a suit is filed against your business.
A fire starts at your owned location and damages several other buildings in the surrounding area. A suit is filed against your business for the resulting damage.
Your business gets sued because a customer is injured by a product he or she purchased through your business.
A competitor claims you made false or malicious statements about their business in public or in an advertisement and decides to take legal action.

A major claim, like those mentioned above, could threaten the very existence of your business. And if a claim is serious enough, it could even have the potential to put your own personal assets — like your home and your retirement account — at risk.

What Erie Insurance Offers

ERIE’s Business Umbrella coverage, called a Business Catastrophe Liability Policy, offers your business $1 million or more of extra protection above your primary Erie Insurance policy’s liability coverage for a covered loss.

ERIE’s business policies also give you access to a variety of resources including:

Coverage for legal costs to defend a covered claim.
Assistance from a risk control consultant who can recommend measures to help you identify, manage and reduce your business’s risks. ( Learn more about our risk control services. )
Access to online disaster planning and business continuity tools through the Institute for Business and Home Safety’s “ Open for Business ” program.

We can help you look ahead

Business umbrella insurance is probably more affordable than you think. Talk to your local ERIE agent about adding business umbrella insurance to your current business policy. He or she will talk to you about affordable options that can work for your business.

What to Know About Hail, Roof Damage and Hail Fraud

Fri, 12 Apr 2024 14:12:00 GMT

A hailstorm just blew in through your neighborhood. Suddenly, there are people at your door telling you they can repair your home’s damage quickly and easily. What would you do?

While some hail damage may be obvious, you can’t always trust that someone showing up to your door has your best interests in mind.

If you’ve recently battled a hailstorm, here is what you need to know about hail, roof damage, homeowners insurance and common scams.

What should I do after a hailstorm?

The size and density of a hailstone will determine the severity of damage you’ll find after a storm. While some hailstorms can cause severe damage to your car and home, others can leave little to no harm at all.

When the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, inspect any damage that may have occurred to your car or home. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) recommends contacting your insurance agent immediately if you suspect hail damage. Your ERIE agent knows the ins and outs of your specific policy and can help you determine whether you should file a claim to help cover the cost of repairs.

To help your agent, be sure to record the date and timeframe the storm occurred and take photos that can help support your claim.

For more hail safety tips, read our guide on what to do before, during and after a hail storm.

Common signs of hail damage

You may spot hail damage in a few different places on your property including roof, siding, windows, outdoor furniture and vehicles. Damage can look different depending on the object.

Signs of hail damage to a car:

Chipped or cracked windshield
Dents on the roof or other areas of your vehicle
Other dings or paint scratches

Signs of hail damage to a home:

Dents in gutters or outside vents
Chipped or cracked windows or skylights
Damage appearing on one side of the roof
“Bruises” or dark spots appear on shingles in a random pattern

While some damage can be easy to spot, you may not always be able to see the damage hail has done to your roof.

An insurance adjuster knows the difference between roof damage from hail versus regular wear and tear. A trained and trusted adjuster can diagnose any potential problems.

What is hail fraud?

Having to deal with weather damage is bad enough. Unfortunately, there can also be fraudulent roofing contractors that emerge after a storm, sometimes called “storm chasers.”

They often appear quickly after a storm and claim that your roof has been seriously damaged by wind and hail. Many “storm-chasing” contractors are transient, moving around the country following recent storm activity to increase their chance of landing a sale.

The IBHS and the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) recently teamed up to offer this list of tips to spread awareness of roofing contractor fraud .

What are the signs of hail fraud?

Storm chasers may point out pre-existing damage, create their own damage, or say there is damage when there isn’t any. Here are some signs that you should think twice:

“Free” inspection: Someone wise once said “nothing good in life is free.” While reputable contractors might offer free inspections with no strings attached, be cautious that some fraudsters might use this tactic to get on your roof and point out damage that isn’t there. Worse, some might create their own damage.
They pressure you: Those in the con business often pressure you to make a quick decision during a difficult or stressful time. Give yourself space and time to contact your insurance agent and make the right decision.
The contract has gaps: Your contract should be detailed and include an estimate on cost, work schedules, payment schedules, listed contractors and more.
Upfront payment: While it’s reasonable for any contractor to ask for a down payment, fraudulent contractors often demand all or a large amount of the payment upfront. Sometimes, they’ll take your cash and dash after performing shoddy work— or no work at all. Trustworthy contractors will often organize a payment schedule that works best with your schedule.

If you do find damage to your roof or other areas after a storm, a trustworthy contractor will work with your insurance company to help fix the damage.

Hiring a contractor after a hailstorm

As you begin your search for a contractor, here are some tips:

Get multiple estimates. Don’t rely on a single estimate as being the one with the best price—or the best work. Do some research and get estimates from three to four different contractors.
Ask to see their license and proof of insurance. Make sure both are real and up to date.
Ask for references. Has this contractor worked on similar projects? Do their references speak highly of them?
Take the right steps. Hiring a contractor can be stressful, especially when you’ve discovered some recent damage from a storm. Read through our full checklist of tips to consider when hiring a contractor.

Does my homeowners insurance cover hail damage?

Hail damage to homes can total hundreds or thousands of dollars, depending on how long the storm lasts , the size of the hail and the amount of damage it causes. Generally speaking, most homeowners insurance policies cover damage from hail and wind caused by storms. Coverage can vary, however. For example, manufacturing defects that existed prior to the storm might not be covered under a hail damage claim. Check with your insurance agent about the specifics of your policy.

Uncertainty is part of life, but that’s why you have insurance. Talk to an insurance professional like your local Erie Insurance agent . They can tell you more about the options ERIE offers and help you get you a free quote customized for your home.

Spring Cleaning for Business

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 14:10:00 GMT

Businesses need Spring Cleaning Too

As the temperature begins to warm up and the trees and flowers begin to bloom, we tend to feel a sense of leaving winter behind. Many of us Spring Clean our homes. In fact, 78% of Americans tackle Spring Cleaning in their homes according to a marketing research survey done by Ipsos in 2022. I know as a business owner I feel the same about my business. Winter brings a time of dull feeling and just getting through each day. Spring puts that “spring” back in my step. I’m excited again to get my business growing and thriving.

Here are a few things you can do as a business owner to refresh for the upcoming months.

1. Your marketing plan . Sometimes we put our marketing on autopilot, or you have a third-party helping you out. It’s time to get a meeting with them. Evaluate what is working and what isn’t. Look at new promotions, make updates to your website, or maybe start a new social media account to help grow your business. Gather your ideas, make a plan, and execute.

2. Your inbox. This one is a tough one for me. I currently have over 1000 emails flagged for follow up. Don’t worry these aren’t client service emails. There are things I wanted to read, or thought could help my business when evaluating customer service practices, client meetings, or overall business practices. Unfortunately, I never got to them. Some are over three years old. Take the time to clear out the unneeded messages. Make this easy and select as many as you can for a mass delete or archive. Seeing that big number drop can really provide a boost of accomplishment.

3. Equipment. Go through your equipment list. Determine where you need maintenance or potentially replacements. It helps to write these things down and update the list as you make changes. Many businesses rely on their equipment to make their product. Any downtime to a baker’s ovens can really hurt, for example. While you are taking inventory,get rid of the old printers and computer monitors that are sitting in the closet. If they have been in the closet for more than two months, chances are you won’t use them again. Don’t be a hoarder of office supplies.

4. Review your business insurance. Like our marketing we tend to let our insurance get stale. If we don’t use it, we just keep paying the bill. Set a meeting with your insurance agent. Here at Mansfield Insurance Agency we like to meet with our clients at least once a year. New equipment, new business practices, and even new social media accounts can be reasons to update coverage. There have been several advances in Cyber Security Insurance products. Property and Auto coverage continues to rise in premium because risk continues to increase for business owners.

Ultimately, as a business owner it pays to be intentional. Springtime is a great time to make a plan, commit to it, stay positive, and reap the rewards. You’ll look back as next winter arrives thankful that you made a plan.

Matthew Hatoway is a second-generation owner of Hatoway Insurance Partners and Mansfield Insurance Agency. Throughout Matt’s career he has made client relationships his main priority. He works with families and small businesses to protect the most important assets by listening, caring for his clients like family, and providing the best protection.

Insurance Rates on the rise…why?

Sat, 30 Mar 2024 14:10:00 GMT

by Matt Hatoway

We are in unprecedented times. We at Mansfield insurance agency think it’s time for unprecedented communication. This is going to be a long one, forgive me for that. However, I do think it will help to explain some of the things we are all dealing with in the last three years. We continue to see raising premiums (especially this year in home policies). The insurance industry has continued to have to adjust to unforeseen factors affecting their financial stability. The three main factors are hyperinflation, claims frequency, and severe weather patterns. I want to address the first one, hyperinflation, in this editorial.

We are receiving information from our eight different insurance carriers it seems monthly. Many are changing their rates to adjust to what is happening. Some have gone further and adjusted how their policies are organized. Increasing minimum deductibles, changing new business eligibility, and in some cases how they are responding to wind/hail claims are all steps we are navigating. These increases and policy changes are not carrier specific. They are industry wide. I don’t know of a carrier that has not increased their premiums significantly in 2023. Most (if not all) plan to make similar increases again in 2024.

This insurance market is the most volatile in our agency history. In this editoriall I’m going to address hyperinflation. I will plan to write a series of pieces that address each of the major factors affecting the insurance industry.

Hyperinflation and Insurance

Insurance rates are designed by insurance companies based on what they think it will cost to make the policyholder whole at time of loss. This includes things like roof damage during a windstorm, cleanup after a water or fire loss, repairs to a home or auto, or replacing a vehicle after an accident. These repairs or replacements have increased dramatically. The overall cost to maintain and repair a vehicle is up 19.5% according to the Consumer Price Index. Replacing a vehicle has not been any better. The average price of a new car has risen 20%, while used cars have gone up an astounding 37%.

Building materials are a similar story. In 2022 building materials were up 4.7%, another increase that followed a 14.7% increase in 2021. These increases have all led to higher costs per claim for insurance carriers.

The numbers above are countrywide. To give you a more local look at these factors I’m offering a look at our agency numbers. In our agency alone we saw our cost per claim rise 35% this past year. Going from $7500 per claim to $10,100 per claim. The graphic below shows claims numbers from our system between 2020 – 2023. It’s a good illustration of the increases we have seen in just our communities.

View Claims Chart Here

I show you these numbers to illustrate that not only are we seeing factors throughout the country, but we are seeing them in our local communities as well. Again, we are in unprecedented times. We at Mansfield Insurance Agency want to be transparent about the issues our industry is facing.

What can you do about it?

1. Maximize your discounts. The largest discounts insurance carriers offer is multi-policy discounts. The more policies you have with a carrier the more your discount. There are also other discounts that could be available in certain situations.

2. Credit . Most insurance carriers use a client’s credit a factor in your insurance premiums. They do this because statistically an individual with a lower credit score tends to have a higher loss ratio. Taking steps to improve your credit score can help lower your insurance premiums at renewal.

3. Roof Year. The age of your roof has become a very important factor in both coverage and rating. Some of you may have heard from us. We are reaching out to everyone to make sure we have the age of the roof correct. If you have updated your roof please contact us so we can make sure your roof age is correct on the policy and in our system.

4. Pay in Full. Many carriers provide discounts on annual premiums if they are paid in full.

5. Review Vehicle Usage. Again another rating factor that many don’t think about is their annual mileage and usage of their vehicle. Rate is based on risk. If you have vehicles that are not driven much annually or your commute has changed dramatically it may be beneficial to update the usage with your agent.

6. Modify Deductibles. Many remember having a $250 Homeowners Deductible. Those days are sadly over. However, your auto deductibles and homeowners deductibles is a lever you can use to lower premiums. Have a discussion with your agent on what changing your deductibles can do for your premiums.

7. Telematics . Many carriers provide programs that include technology that will track driving habits. This technology will provide drivers with specialized rating based on the driving data collected. Things like hard braking, fast acceleration, distracted driving (phone use while driving), speeding, time of day you drive, etc. are all measured. Discounts and added benefits are provided to those who achieve good driving scores.

8. Ask for us (or your agent/agency) to quote other carriers. The benefit of working with an agency like ours is you can get a view of the market in one place. As an independent agent we can provide an insurance policy from several different carriers ensuring you are receiving the best coverage at the best price. This option has changed drastically in the last few months as many carriers are adjusting their eligibility guidelines to limit new policies. Our staff will evaluate your specific situation and provide a market analysis showing what each of our carriers can provide.

9. Mitigate Losses . We are all in this together. The better we all maintenance our homes and pay better attention while driving the better all our insurance rates will become. Most claims are sudden and accidental but there are things you can do to try and lessen claim events. Trimming Trees that overhang the home or commercial property, cleaning out gutters, cleaning out your chimney flue annually, and check sump pump operation are all things that can help keep a claim from happening to your home.

In the next edition of The Beacon I will cover part two of this series: claims frequency. We will plan to continue to monitor all of our carriers and their unique decisions over the course of 2024. Ultimately, we want what is best for our clients. If you have any questions, please reach out to me or one of our agents at 812.637.2300.

We value our relationship with all of our clients and don’t take advantage of the trust put in us to be an advisor.

Home & Auto: What We Offer with Erie Insurance

Fri, 30 Apr 2021 15:20:00 GMT

At Hatoway Insurance Partners, we offer a comprehensive home and auto insurance bundle with Erie Insurance. Not only do you receive a multi policy discount, but we will also have you fully covered at the time of a loss. Below you will learn about the Erie Secure Home Plus bundle, and the added bonuses for your Erie Auto policy.

Hatoway Insurance Partners and Erie want to provide you with the right coverages that suits your home, lifestyle, and budget. Erie offers the Advantage, Plus, and Select bundle with your ErieSecure Home policy. Here are some details on the Plus bundle (our favorite):

• Sewer or Drain Backup
• Underground service line protection up to $10,000 (sewer, natural gas and propane pipes, and electrical lines)
• Siding and Roof Restoration
• Identity Recovery
• Increased limits for theft, lost or misplaced jewelry, silverware, and firearms
• Increased limits for trailers, watercraft, debris removal and business personal property if you have a home-based business

Erie Insurance’s auto policy offers features like rate lock, auto plus, new auto security, zero dollar glass deductible, and ride sharing coverage.
One of the endorsements we always like to add is Erie Auto Plus to any of our quotes or policies. This benefit only increases your auto policy premium $30 annually. Below is what Erie Auto Plus includes:

• Diminishing deductible
• Increased coverage limits: emergency travel costs, personal items, sound equipment, and non-owner trailers
• Increased transportation expense coverage
• Waived deductible when an Erie homeowners policy deductible applies
• Death benefit of $10,000 for you or a relative who dies due to bodily injury from an auto accident

We know this is a lot of information, and we are sure you have a lot of questions. Let our knowledge help you navigate the increased coverages with Erie’s home and auto bundle. Hatoway Insurance Partners wants to make sure that our clients are fully insured at the time of a loss. Feel free to call one of our agents at 317-861-4411 (New Palestine) or 317-462-7292 (Greenfield) to discuss your options!