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Windsor Heights, IA 50324

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Do I Have Enough Insurance to Cover Natural Disaster Damage?

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Natural disasters have increased in Iowa during the last few decades due to climate change. Although you may not have experienced a natural disaster loss in Des Moines, IA, you may in the foreseeable future. How do you protect yourself? Max Insurance LLC can help you assess your situation and ensure you have enough insurance to replace your structure and belongings.

What Types of Disasters Are Covered?

Most homeowners’ policies cover incidents like forest fires and excessive, weather-related occurrences such as lightning, hail, and windstorm damage, as well as the weight of excessive ice, sleet, or snow on roofs. Perils not covered include earthquakes, floods, sinkholes, mudslides, and landslides. These risks usually require you to buy a rider or add on a separate policy to cover such incidents.

Read and Understand Your Homeowner’s Policy

Coverage varies among insurance companies. Although policies generally include coverage for damage to your roof, siding, and windows, some insurers have started to limit payouts or increase deductibles due to increasing weather severity due to climate change. Also, consider adding flood insurance, even if you don’t live in a flood plain or near one of Des Moines’ many rivers. Make sure your policy covers backups from sump pumps and sewers if you have a basement, as flooding can occur when devices fail or storm sewers back up.

Other Ways to Protect Your Home

Keep your home in good repair by regularly replacing your roof and attending to outdoor and indoor maintenance. Notifying your insurer of upgrades may even offer discounts.

The staff at Max Insurance LLC, serving residents of Des Moines, IA, are experts on homeowner’s insurance policies. Contact our office today to learn what types of add-ons you can consider to keep your home fully protected from natural disasters.

Pickup vs. SUV: Which is Your Next Ride?

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When shopping for a new car, one of the most significant decisions you’ll face is choosing the type of vehicle that best suits your needs. For some, the choice often comes down to a pickup truck or an SUV. Both options have their similarities and differences, and both are excellent choices. Here are some questions to consider to help determine which is right for you.

Do You Regularly Haul a Trailer?

If you frequently use a trailer for daily tasks or work, you’ll need a vehicle that can handle this demand. All pickup trucks come equipped with a hitch for towing trailers, though some can handle more weight than others. SUVs also offer some towing capacity, but it can be limited depending on the size and suspension of the SUV. A pickup truck might be the better choice if you require extensive towing capabilities.

How Many Seats Do You Need?

The size of your family or the number of passengers you typically transport can influence your vehicle choice. If you need ample space for kids, pets, and passengers, you might want to consider a larger SUV, which can accommodate up to eight passengers. In contrast, the largest trucks typically only have six seats. Smaller SUVs and pickups offer even less room inside.

Do You Need 4-Wheel Drive?

Only a few SUV models come with all-wheel drive, while the rest are two-wheel drive. Some sport model SUVs may offer 4-wheel drive, but this usually comes at an extra cost. On the other hand, most pickup models offer both two-wheel and four-wheel drive versions, making it a more affordable option in a pickup. A pickup might be the better choice if you frequently use this feature for recreational activities or work.

Contact our agents at Max Insurance LLC today if you’re looking for an auto insurance policy. We serve Des Moines, IA, and the surrounding areas.

Document Essentials for a Commercial Insurance Claim

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Proper documentation is crucial when filing a commercial insurance claim. You should maintain careful records of certain things, which you can then submit to your insurance provider.

Conducting a Preliminary Assessment

In the aftermath of theft or damage at your business premises, it’s essential to carry out a preliminary assessment of your property. This evaluation helps to gauge the gravity of the incident.

The data you gather can be instrumental in backing up your insurance claim. Record the details of the incident, including the time it happened, who was present, and what was witnessed.

Furthermore, it attempts to pinpoint what led to the incident. Even if you’re uncertain about what transpired, discerning whether it was a weather-related phenomenon or due to criminal activity could be helpful when filing your insurance claim.

Gathering Supporting Evidence

Photographs or videos depicting the state of your business can be valuable. Capture images or footage as soon as possible after the occurrence. An insurance adjuster may take pictures or videos alongside your material during the inspection.

Preserve the scene of the incident while gathering supporting evidence. Do not alter the site where the theft or damage took place.

Filing a Police Report

When criminal activity occurs on your business premises, it’s imperative to notify the local authorities. Police personnel will visit your site and create a report.

This report can prove to be crucial when your claim is evaluated. It will comprise key details that describe what happened at your place of business.

Getting Further Assistance

Our knowledgeable agents at Max Insurance LLC can help you file your commercial insurance claim. Contact our agents serving Des Moines, IA, for professional assistance.

Pets and Home Insurance: What You Need to Know

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Many people consider their pets part of their family, so it just makes sense that pets might be included in some way on insurance. Many factors determine how pets and insurance affect each other. Here at Max Insurance LLC, serving Des Moines, IA, and the surrounding areas, we want you to understand all the insurance details to make good choices. Let’s learn about pets and insurance.

Is Loss of a Pet Covered Under Home Insurance?

Many types of policies will allow you to include the value of your pets on your homeowners’ policies. These are seen as personal possessions. However, you need to double-check this information with your particular provider.

Are Pet-Related Injuries on My Property Covered?

This is another important question. People are concerned not only with the possible loss of a pet during a fire or natural disaster but also with the liability of the pet injuring someone. This is a real risk and is especially concerning for certain breeds of pets. You will be liable for medical bills or expenses if your pet injures someone on your property.

You can get coverage that would include this type of liability, but the breed of animal may be a factor. You’ll want to sit down with an insurance professional to determine if your pet can be covered and how much coverage is available. You may also get coverage that would pay if the animal caused damage to someone else’s property.

If you’d like to learn more about insurance and pets, please contact us at Max Insurance LLC, serving Des Moines, IA, and the surrounding areas. We are happy to answer all of your questions today.

The Importance of Regular Car Maintenance for Insurance Coverage

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Filing claims is one of the quickest ways to see our auto insurance premiums increase. The more insurance companies pay out, the more we are charged for their services. Most auto accidents are just that—accidents. However, at Max Insurance LLC in Des Moines, IA, we notice that many accidents can be prevented with proper and regular vehicle maintenance.

Monitor Your Car’s Fluid Levels

Just as we need fluids to stay hydrated and function properly, our vehicles require the same to operate optimally. Regularly checking your oil, coolant, and transmission fluid can help critical parts of your engine function correctly, stay lubricated, and prevent sudden breakdowns on busy highways.

Monitoring your power steering and brake fluids can make braking and steering easier. It can also help prevent accidents that could have been avoided by braking or steering out of harm’s way.

Wheel Alignment and Tire Pressure Checks

Incorrect tire alignment can cause your car to veer off course, pulling you to one side and even creating vibrations while driving. This situation can be particularly dangerous, especially when traveling in inclement weather.

Regular tire pressure checks are essential. If the pressure is too high or low, it can affect your ability to steer and brake appropriately. It can also disrupt your vehicle’s stability and traction, both of which are crucial for safely navigating roadways, no matter their conditions.

Contact Us Today!

Don’t risk your safety or that of others. Regularly check your fluids, tires, and wheel alignment to ensure that you navigate the roadways safely and minimize the risk of accidents. If you have questions about car care tips or want to ensure your vehicle is adequately covered in a roadway incident, call us at Max Insurance LLC in Des Moines, IA. Our number is (515) 318-7178.

Does Your Commercial Insurance Cover Vandalism and Breakins?

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Yes, commercial insurance usually pays for damage due to vandalism and break-ins. That is if you include it in your commercial property policy. Sometimes, it’s written into specific endorsements. If you want to make sure you’re covered for broken windows and doors after a break-in or graffiti or property damage due to vandalism, we can help. At Max Insurance LLC in Des Moines, IA, our agents are ready to answer any questions you have regarding your commercial insurance.

What Is Commercial Insurance?

Commercial insurance protects businesses against covered losses such as lawsuits, accidents, and natural disasters. Vandalism and break-ins are covered under a specific part of your commercial insurance policy. Our team can help you determine if you have enough coverage to meet the risk to your business.

Coverage Type

Vandalism and break-ins occur more often in urban areas than rural ones. So, location plays a major role in the type of coverage you’ll need. Crime endorsements, vandalism, and malicious mischief riders come with many standard commercial property policies. Speak to your agent to determine if you’re covered for these unfortunate events.

Specific Losses Covered

Review your policy or make an appointment with one of our agents to determine what specific losses are covered under your insurance. You’ll want to ensure your insurance company pays for replacement and reparation costs, so you won’t have to take it out of your profits.

Are You Covered Against Vandalism and Break-ins at Your Business?

Break-ins and vandalism can shake your confidence and threaten the security of your business. Call the police to file a report when you notice damage caused by these events. You should take pictures of the damage and talk to your agent as quickly as possible to discuss the next steps. Contact the team at Max Insurance LLC in Des Moines, IA to discuss your specific needs.

Other Structures Coverage – An Important Part of Your Home Insurance Policy

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Other structures coverage protects the detached structures on your property. Learn about this type of coverage. Then, ensure that your home insurance policy provides adequate protection for each detached structure you own.

Detached Structures

The list below includes some detached structures you may want to add to your home insurance policy.

  • Guest house
  • Fence
  • Garden shed
  • Gazebo
  • Pergola
  • Mailbox

The items listed provide an idea of some of the detached structures that could be included in the coverage of other structures that are part of your home insurance policy. Of course, you may own additional detached structures that qualify, too.

Coverage Amount

Pick a coverage amount that would allow you to have damaged items replaced. Consider the fact that some detached structures could be permanently damaged. If you would like to have the opportunity to purchase replacement structures, select a higher coverage amount that will allow you to do so.

Damage

Your insurance papers will outline the type of damage that your insurance will cover. Standard perils will be covered, including windstorms, hailstorms, and fires.

In addition, planned events may also be covered. For instance, if someone with ill intent steals or defaces a structure that is on your property, your insurance will likely cover the incident. Familiarize yourself with your insurance coverage. This could better prepare you for filing an insurance claim in the future.

Contact Max Insurance LLC

Contact a Max Insurance LLC agent to discuss your home insurance policy. Our agents in Des Moines, IA, offer several home insurance products to protect your residential structures.

Four important resources to take advantage of when you need auto insurance

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You need to choose the right auto insurance solution for your situation. At Max Insurance LLC, we’re here to assist you with all your auto insurance needs in Des Moines, IA.

Here are four important resources to take advantage of when you need auto insurance.

Online reviews

Look up online reviews for different insurance companies. Reviews are critical because they tell you if past customers have been happy with various insurance providers.

Online reviews provide valuable information on subjects like customer service and the claims filing process for different insurance companies that you may be considering buying from. 

Insurance company websites

If you’re interested in buying from a particular insurance company, be sure to look at that company’s website. Visiting an insurance provider’s website can provide you with the information you need on the different policy features offered by that company. 

Word-of-mouth references

Ask around if you’re in the market for auto insurance. Your friends and family members might be able to offer you a good recommendation.

If you know someone who has been satisfied by an insurance provider’s offerings, you’ll feel more confident about buying from them. 

Comparison websites

Insurance comparison websites can be great for getting a general idea of how much different insurance companies will charge you.

Remember that getting quotes and comparing offers from different insurance companies is essential. Therefore, you should put your information into a few comparison websites to find a competitive offer. 

When you’re in the market for auto insurance in Des Moines, IA, call us at Max Insurance LLC to get a quote on a policy. Insure your vehicle with us and enjoy confidence and peace of mind when you hit the road. 

When Do You Need Umbrella Coverage For Your Commercial Insurance?

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Typically, businesses are equipped with certain types of insurance coverage that protect their interests in general situations. However, there are occasions when additional insurance beyond your standard commercial policy is necessary to meet specific business needs. At Max Insurance in Des Moines, IA, we are dedicated to helping our clients find the right coverage to match their evolving needs.

What is Umbrella Coverage?

Many policies are required to protect your business against various risks. Usually, these policies cover liabilities and damage up to a specific amount. An umbrella policy goes the extra mile to cover an additional range of liability or damage, advancing an additional layer of protection to your Business in case of lawsuits or accidents.

When does your Business need Umbrella Coverage?

Umbrella coverage serves as an extension to your standard commercial insurance policy. It’s highly recommended that your business is open to the public, where enhanced coverage might be necessary in the event of an injury. In certain cases, clients may require that you carry insurance that surpasses your standard policy’s limit. Here, an umbrella coverage can bridge the gap. If your employees work on other people’s properties where damage occurs, umbrella coverage can safeguard the liability. For businesses operating under unusual circumstances, umbrella coverage may be vital to cover potential liabilities.

Running a business involves seamlessly adapting to changing conditions on a daily basis. Fulfilling your clients’ needs might sometimes necessitate a change in insurance coverage. We are here to assist with a variety of policy options. Reach out to Max Insurance LLC in Des Moines, IA, today for a no-obligation quote on commercial insurance to safeguard your Business.

How Often Should I Review My Home Insurance Coverage?

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Homeowners Insurance: A Continuous Journey, Not a One-Time Event

A prevalent misconception among Des Moines, IA homeowners is that securing an insurance policy for their property is a one-off task. This misbelief couldn’t be further from the truth. If it has been years since your last review of your insurance policy, reaching out to the agents at Max Insurance LLC is advisable. We’re on hand to provide the expert advice you need to make the best decisions about your policy.

Perform Annual Reviews of Your Coverage

Annual insurance reviews aren’t just for health insurance. It’s imperative to periodically examine your homeowner’s policy to ensure it aligns with your current needs. Items like new jewelry or expensive valuables may necessitate the addition of riders. Therefore, reviewing your policy a few weeks before its renewal date can be an opportune time to assess whether you are garnering the best value for your money.

What Should Be Examined During an Insurance Review?

When scrutinizing your policy, catalog your purchases over the past year to identify any that may need supplemental coverage. Home renovations such as an addition will require extra dwelling coverage. Newly installed smart home security devices could qualify you for discounts, thereby saving you money. On the flip side, new swimming pools and recreational equipment may elevate risk, prompting the need for additional liability coverage. Other circumstances warranting policy review include a change in marital status or the commencement of a home business.

Let Max Insurance LLC, serving Des Moines, IA, recommend suitable coverage to secure your home thoroughly. Contact us today to commence a comprehensive consultation on your homeowner’s insurance needs.