Does Umbrella Insurance Cover Everyone in My Household?

Posted on by admin

Although most policyholders never make a claim against their umbrella insurance policy, it provides an invaluable safety net when needed. If you have liabilities exceeding your auto, home, and other insurance policy claim limits, umbrella insurance covers the excess amount. It’s important to recognize that while umbrella insurance typically covers all household members, exceptions can exist, so you should discuss your circumstances with your agent. If you live in or near Dover, NH, and need umbrella or other insurance assistance, contact the Gateway Property & Casualty team.

Why Household Members Are Not Always Covered

Umbrella insurance pays the excess liabilities if you exceed your underlying policy limits. Just as auto insurance requires that you identify the household members covered by your policy, you need to identify which household members need coverage under your umbrella insurance. Your policy and premiums will adjust based on who is covered and their occupations, hobbies, ages, and coverage by other insurance policies.

Umbrella policies cover only those household members covered by your underlying policies. It does not, for instance, cover adult children or parents in your household who have separate auto policies. Similarly, a child with a renters’ policy for a college apartment may not have umbrella coverage for some liabilities.

Other exceptions can exist, so you should discuss your umbrella policy and household members with your agent, especially as conditions change to ensure you know who is covered. Bundling all family policies with one agent helps ensure your agent is aware of each household member’s policies.

The Gateway Property & Casualty Difference

Gateway Property & Casualty recognizes your unique needs. Call us today at (603) 294-1902 if you live in the Dover, NH, area and want personalized insurance solutions.

Read More

Does Condo Insurance Cover Water Damage From Neighbor’s Plumbing?

Posted on by admin

Owning a condo is a great way to enjoy homeownership without the arduous tasks of watering the garden, pulling up dandelions, or trying to keep up with the Joneses. However, condo ownership can be tricky, or rather, "trickling," when water from your neighbor enters your condo and causes damage. What’s to be done in a situation like this besides mopping up the floor? And are you covered by your condo insurance for incidents like this?

When Condo Insurance Covers Water Damage

Condo insurance, available through Gateway Property & Casualty serving Dover, NH, typically does cover water damage from sudden and accidental events. If a neighbor’s plumbing suddenly bursts and water leaks into your unit, your policy may help pay for damage to your walls, floors, and personal belongings. However, the neighbor’s liability insurance may also come into play if it turns out that negligence caused the issue.

If the damage affects shared structures like walls, ceilings, or floors, the condo association’s master insurance policy might cover repairs to common areas. The specifics depend on how the association defines unit ownership in the bylaws.

When Condo Insurance Does Not Cover Water Damage

If the water damage is due to gradual leaks, poor maintenance, or pre-existing issues, your condo insurance may not cover the repairs. Slow leaks over time or mold caused by neglected plumbing problems are often excluded. Flooding from heavy rain or rising groundwater typically isn’t covered under standard condo insurance, but flood insurance would.

Determining Liability and Filing a Claim

In cases where a neighbor’s negligence caused the damage, their insurance might cover your losses. If they refuse responsibility, you may need to file a claim with your own insurer and let them pursue reimbursement. Reviewing your policy with the help of Gateway Property & Casualty, serving Dover, NH, can help you navigate water damage claims.

Read More

Should My Small Business Have Commercial Insurance and Commercial Vehicle Insurance?

Posted on by admin

As a small business owner, you must cover contractual and legal obligations and other risks. Your commercial insurance policies help ensure you meet some of these obligations, but some small business owners do not adequately cover their business vehicle use, thinking their personal auto policy will handle those situations. Contact Gateway Property & Casualty, serving Dover, NH, to ensure you have the necessary commercial coverage.

Commercial and Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Each small business has unique insurance needs that vary by its type, whether it has employees, and how it uses motor vehicles. While many think commercial vehicle insurance applies only to companies with work trucks, delivery vans, or similar vehicles, a much wider range of businesses should have it.

Small business owners sometimes think their personal auto policy will cover the business use of the vehicle. However, your individual policy does not cover business uses, including:

  • Vehicles leased or owned by the business
  • Transporting work tools or products
  • Making deliveries
  • Driving clients or employees to a business-related event

In some circumstances, business owners make claims against individual policies that their insurance company covers. However, if a business-related accident results in a substantial claim, an investigation may determine the accident was business-related and reject the claim. Also, individual policies generally have lower liability limits than commercial vehicle policies. Be sure to protect yourself and your business by discussing your business-related vehicle use with your agent.

Working with Gateway Property & Casualty

Gateway Property & Casualty proudly serves Dover, NH’s individual and business communities. We will apply our experience in individual and commercial insurance to design policies that suit your needs. Call (603) 294-1902 or stop in today to discuss your insurance options.

Read More

What role do anti-theft devices play in car insurance?

Posted on by admin

Various factors influence car insurance rates, with vehicle safety and your driving record playing primary roles. Anti-theft devices, which significantly reduce the risk of vehicle theft, are one such factor.

Many vehicle owners overlook these devices, but they can lead to substantial savings on insurance premiums. The Gateway Property & Casualty team can help residents of Dover, NH, understand how their vehicles’ anti-theft features can benefit their insurance rates.

Reducing Risk and Premiums with Anti-Theft Devices

Insurance companies consider the likelihood of your vehicle being stolen when setting the premium. Anti-theft devices, such as steering wheel locks, alarms, and GPS trackers, significantly lower this risk. Consequently, insurers often offer discounts for vehicles equipped with these devices. Drivers may also be able to add some of these features to their vehicle.

Enhancing Coverage with Anti-Theft Devices

Anti-theft devices can also enhance coverage options. It’s sometimes possible to obtain specialized policies or additional benefits for vehicles equipped with advanced security features. In some cases, coverage for the installation of the device or reimbursement for anti-theft technology may be available if the car is a total loss.

Selecting the Right Anti-Theft Devices

The type of anti-theft device can influence its impact on insurance coverage. High-tech options, such as immobilizers, often yield the most significant discounts.

Anti-theft devices are a win-win for vehicle owners and insurers alike. They offer peace of mind, protect your vehicle, and can lead to meaningful savings on your car insurance. Contact Gateway Property & Casualty today to learn how security measures can enhance your coverage and reduce costs.

Read More

Getting your New Hampshire home ready for winter

Posted on by admin

Being a homeowner in New England means being prepared for the worst and praying for the best. Some winters are very snowy and cold, and others are just cold. It would be best to be prepared, no matter how the wind blows. At Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH, we are used to New England winters and ensure that our customers don’t have to worry about their home insurance coverage.

Clean the gutters

As soon as autumn’s last leaves have fallen, ensure all leaves and debris are removed from your gutters and downspouts. A clog can cause roof damage.

Turn off the outside water.

Turn off and drain outside water faucets. Insulate any pipes that may be exposed to the cold.

Get the furnace serviced

A clean. n furnace works more efficiently, costs less to run, and is less likely to break down on the coldest day of the year.

Clean the chimney

If you have a fireplace or stove that uses your chimney, get it cleaned every fall. It can help prevent a home fire that could destroy your home.

Make sure the carbon monoxide detectors are working

Once a year at least, check the carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are still working. Every year, people die needlessly from this silent killer.

Be ready for snow

Have sand and salt on hand, know where your snow shovel is, and get your snow blower serviced. It is better prepared than to risk having to look for things when the snow comes.

Check windows and doors for leaks.

Have your caulk gun handy and check your windows and doors for any leaks. They cost you money and suck out your warm air.

Contact Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH for all your home insurance needs. We are here for you.

Read More

The Benefits of Getting Whole Life Insurance

Posted on by admin

When people depend on you, being there for them is important. This also extends to the time after you’re gone. Life insurance is available to continue providing for your loved ones. Having a life insurance policy is important so your loved ones aren’t left in financial straits without you. Two main types of this insurance are available on the market. These are term life and whole life policies. Whole life is highly popular for its many benefits that term life policies don’t. When you’re in the life insurance market, call us at Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH.

Whole Life Insurance: In Force for Life

One of the biggest benefits of a whole life insurance policy is that these policies never expire. While term life policies are only good for a set number of years, whole life is good for the rest of your life. Even if you become very elderly, the policy will still be in force. This means you’ll never have to get a new policy as you would have to if a term life policy expired. You can always count on your whole life policy.

Accruing Cash Value

Another benefit that makes these policies popular is that the policy will accrue a cash value. This is an amount that starts small after a few years and slowly builds up into a more substantial amount. This amount is a value that you can then borrow against if you should ever need to. This is a good way to build peace of mind because you’ll know that there’s money available in case of a financial emergency.

Get Whole Life Insurance

To start a whole life policy, call Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH.

Read More

Is Wedding Insurance Necessary?

Posted on by admin

Your wedding day is unique in your heart, radiating with memorable moments and emotions. However, unexpected occurrences at the ceremony or reception can cause financial strain. Navigating through all possibilities can indeed be stressful. But let Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH, alleviate your worries and make your wedding day more memorable.

Understanding Wedding Insurance

A wedding ceremony and reception are costly events that demand adequate insurance coverage to recuperate any potential loss from unforeseen incidents. However, make sure to understand the coverage offered before agreeing to the terms of a wedding insurance policy.

Benefit of Liability Insurance Coverage

An essential feature of all wedding insurance policies is liability coverage. It protects the policyholder from financial downfall if they’re held liable for injury to a guest or worker and property damage at the wedding ceremony or reception. The liability coverage will cover all repair costs, medical bills, and even aftercare rehabilitation services if required.

Coverage for Wedding Cancellation or Postponement

Wedding insurance is a unique coverage policy offering financial protection under special circumstances. This includes canceling or postponing the wedding ceremony and reception beyond your control. Legitimate reasons triggering such coverage include extreme weather conditions (flash floods, severe snowstorms, or hurricanes), recall of the bride or groom to active military duty, and failure of the bridal party’s gowns and tuxedos to arrive on time.

Wedding insurance is an increasingly popular option that offers protection for all interests involved. The team at Gateway Property & Casualty serving Dover, NH, works to ensure that this special day remains significant. We can craft a policy that allows the newlyweds and their guests to create lasting memories. Call and schedule an appointment with us today.

Read More

Classic Car Insurance: Key Differences

Posted on by admin

Classic Car Insurance in Dover, NH: Protecting Your Classic Gem

For many, classic cars are more than mere assets – they’re a testament to superior craftsmanship and vintage charm. As a classic car owner, you’ve likely invested significant time, effort, and resources in maintenance and customizations to keep your vehicle in prime condition. This is why understanding the unique aspects of classic car insurance is crucial to ensure your prized possession is adequately protected. Let’s delve into the key differences between classic and regular auto insurance.

Enhanced Coverage Limits

The value of classic cars generally appreciates over time. In a few years, your vehicle might be worth significantly more than its current value, which is why classic car insurance offers higher coverage limits compared to traditional auto insurance. At Gateway Property & Casualty, we work with you to ensure your coverage limits fully protect your classic car’s value.

Eligibility Criteria for Classic Cars

Not every vehicle is eligible for classic car insurance. To qualify, a vehicle generally needs to be at least ten years old, although this criterion can be waived under certain circumstances. We recommend discussing your car’s specifications with an experienced agent at Gateway Property & Casualty to determine its eligibility for classic car insurance.

How Insurance Companies Evaluate Classic Cars

Insurance companies take several factors into consideration when evaluating the eligibility of a classic car for insurance. These considerations include the frequency of the car’s use, its method of storage, and maintenance details. Understanding these factors can help ensure that you procure suitable coverage for your classic car.

Reach Out Today For Classic Car Insurance Assistance

Navigating the differences between classic car and standard auto insurance in Dover, NH can be challenging. Our knowledgeable team is here to answer all your queries and guide you through the process, ensuring you obtain the right coverage for your needs. Contact Gateway Property & Casualty today to learn more about our various insurance offerings.

Read More

Different Types of Vehicles That May Be Covered By a Recreational Insurance Policy

Posted on by admin

At Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH, we understand the importance of proper insurance to protect your adventures. Here’s a look at the different types of vehicles that can be covered under a recreational insurance policy.

RVs and Motorhomes

RVs and motorhomes are perfect for road trips and camping, offering both transportation and a home away from home. Recreational insurance for RVs covers damages, theft, and even personal belongings inside the vehicle, ensuring you can relax and enjoy your travels.

Boats and Personal Watercraft

For water enthusiasts, boats and personal watercraft like jet skis are popular choices. Recreational insurance covers damages from accidents and weather-related incidents and liability for injuries or damage caused to others.

ATVs and Off-Road Vehicles

All-terrain vehicles (ATVs) and off-road vehicles designed for rugged adventures can be more prone to accidents due to the challenging terrains they navigate. Recreational insurance can cover repair costs, medical expenses, and liability, offering peace of mind for your off-road experiences.

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers provide a flexible way to explore the outdoors while offering the comforts of home. Insurance for these trailers covers various risks, including damage during travel or while parked at a campsite, ensuring your investment is protected wherever your journey takes you.

Understanding the range of vehicles a recreational insurance policy can cover is the first step in protecting your adventures. For more information or a quote, contact us today at Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH. Our goal is to help safeguard your recreational vehicles so you can focus on creating memories.

Read More

Renters Insurance: Why Every Renter Should Have It

Posted on by admin

At Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH, we understand the importance of obtaining renters insurance to protect your belongings from damage or loss in unfortunate situations such as a fire, burglary, or other covered perils.

Renters insurance also protects you from liability if someone is injured at your rental residence, saving you thousands in medical expenses.

Many consumers mistakenly think that a landlord’s insurance policy will cover their belongings after an incident. However, a landlord’s insurance policy typically only covers the building’s structure, not the renter’s contents.

Here are more reasons why every renter should have renters insurance:

It’s Affordable coverage.

In the U.S., the cost of renters insurance coverage is often equivalent to one trip for two to McDonald’s. This is a minimal cost compared to replacing a household’s furniture and appliances out of pocket after a loss.

Renter’s policies are not one-size-fits-all. The cost varies depending on your location and the amount of coverage you deem necessary to protect your belongings.

Peace of mind if starting over.

After a covered loss, like a fire, for instance, replacing smartphones, tablets, laptops, TVs, mattresses, sectionals, chairs, gaming systems, washers, dryers, and the thousands of dollars of clothes hanging in your closet can be extremely costly.

Additional living expenses.

Most renters insurance policies provide additional living expense coverage if your rental apartment or home is unhabitable while it is being repaired. This means you can receive money for expenses beyond your everyday monthly living expenses if you find yourself temporarily without a home. For instance, if you pay $800 a month for rent but can’t live in your apartment while it’s being repaired, your renter’s insurance covers additional living expenses like hotel and meal costs.

Don’t go another day without coverage.

Unfortunate events can occur suddenly, so don’t risk another day without protecting your belongings and finances. Call Gateway Property & Casualty in Dover, NH today at (603) 294-1902.

Read More