FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions Below are some of our frequently asked questions. Find a list of carrier claims phone numbers on our website. You may also call us 925-737-1560.- I've been in an accident – what now?
- I havee damage to my property – what now?
- Do Ineed to protect my home from further damage?
- Do I need to purchase rental car coverage from the rental car agency?
- What are the differences between and umbrella policy and an excess liability policy?
- Doesmy renter’s policy cover my business as I am now working out of my home?
- When do I need an umbrella policy?
I've been in an accident – what now?
- Start by reporting your claim to your insurance carrier. They need to know:
- When the accident occurred
- Where the accident occurred (be as specific as possible)
- How the accident happened
- What kind of vehicle or vehicles were involved (including the year, make, and model)
- A description of the damage on each vehicle
- The names and contact information of people involved in the accident
- The extent of any injuries to people involved in the accident
- The names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the accident
- The name of the law enforcement agency that responded and the police report number, if police were contacted
I have damage to my property – what now?
- Call your insurance carrier and let them know:
- When the incident occurred.
- A general description of what happened.
- The location of the damaged property and what was damaged.
- The condition of the home and if it is still livable.
- If temporary repairs are needed.
- If the fire or police department was contacted, which department responded and any report number. Your contact information and the best time to reach you
Do I need to protect my home from further damage?
- Yes, once it is safe to do so, it is your responsibility to protect your property from further damage.
- Arrange for reasonable temporary repairs such as boarding up broken
- windows, covering the roof, and removing debris.
- Keep a list of any temporary repairs you make to document the damage, and make sure to save your receipts.
- If possible, place damaged items in a secure area where they can be inspected. If you are unsure about an item, include it with the damaged property.
- If you have fire or smoke damage, do not try to clean the damaged items. Sometimes cleaning things without the proper equipment can cause more damage.
When do I need to purchase rental car coverage from the rental car agency?
- When you don’t have comprehensive and collision coverage on your own car.
- When you are traveling with others who will be driving the car with you.
- When you are driving a rental car which you did not rent.
- When you want the peace of mind to returning a damaged car without having to pay out of pocket and seeking reimbursement through your policy.
What are the differences between and umbrella policy and an excess liability policy?
- An umbrella policy can provide “drop down” coverage for certain exposures which do not have underlying coverage.
- An excess liability policy is limited to covering you over only the underlying exposures.
- We recommend properly covering all of your underlying exposures regardless of which type of policy you have.
Does my renter’s policy cover my business as I am now working out of my home?
- Many renters or homeowners policies will provide a nominal amount of coverage for business personal property at your residence. This is likely limited to $5,000 but may often be increased.
- Certain businesses, which do not have not foot traffic exposure, may be covered for business liability by endorsement but you will need to consult with your agent first.
When do I need an umbrella policy?
- When you have assets greater than $1,000,000 to protect.
- When you have a tenant/landlord exposure.
- When you have inexperienced drivers in the household.
- When you have children away at school.