Insurance for the Modern Homeowner: Embracing Technology and Innovation

As modern homeowner looks for ways to protect their home and their valuable possessions, they are increasingly turning to technology to take proactive measures. We at San Marcos Insurance Group, serving the Chandler, AZ area, recognize the importance of embracing these technological advances in home insurance—allowing homeowners to have greater peace of mind in knowing their homes and possessions are safe.

How Technology is Changing Home Insurance

From innovative home systems to connected appliances, modern homeowners have access to a plethora of technology that can help ensure their home is safe and secure. These technological advances have revolutionized how we approach home insurance—allowing homeowners to take more proactive measures that can help mitigate losses from theft, fire, and other disasters. For example, some homeowners are installing smart doorbells equipped with cameras that allow them to see remotely who is at their front door, which can help reduce the likelihood of a break-in.

How This Impacts Coverage

The increased use of technology in homes directly impacts home insurance coverage. For example, many insurers offer discounts for homeowners who have taken steps to protect their homes with security systems, including cameras, motion sensors, and alarms. 

The Bottom Line

At San Marcos Insurance Group, we understand the importance of embracing technology in the modern home. Our experienced agents are here to help you assess your home’s needs and find the coverage that suits your situation. By taking advantage of current technological advances, homeowners can ensure that their homes and possessions are protected—giving them peace of mind knowing their investments are safe. Contact us today for more information on how we can help you protect your Chandler, AZ home.

Tips to prepare your house for a storm

As the weather gets more and more unpredictable here in the Chandler, AZ area, it’s essential to be prepared for any storm. Here are some tips from us at San Marcos Insurance Group to help you prepare your house for a storm: 

  1. Secure loose items outside your home. Secure any patio furniture, grills, or other items that could become flying projectiles in high winds. 
  2. Clean your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to back into your home when it rains heavily, so make sure they’re clear before a storm. 
  3. Trim trees and shrubbery near your house. Limbs and branches can break off during a storm and damage windows, so ensure they are trimmed away from the home before a storm hits. 
  4. Prepare an emergency kit with essential items such as flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, water bottles, and first aid supplies in case of a power outage or other emergency situation during or after the storm. 
  5. Ensure all your devices are charged and stock up on batteries. You will need them in case the power goes out. A battery-powered radio can keep you connected and informed about critical updates during the storm.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to having your home ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at it! If you have any questions about how to prepare your house for a storm or want to explore new options for homeowners insurance, or any other type of insurance product on the market, call us at San Marcos Insurance Group today. We proudly serve the Chandler, AZ area.

Does Your Arizona Home Insurance Policy Cover Your Hot Tub?

Having a hot tub at home can be an enjoyable way to relax and unwind. But what happens if something goes wrong with it? Many homeowners in Chandler, AZ wonder if their home insurance policy covers their hot tub in the event of an unexpected issue.

Understanding Your Homeowners Insurance Policy

Before we answer whether your homeowner’s policy covers your hot tub, let’s look at what most standard home insurance policies cover. Generally speaking, these policies cover damage to the structure of your home due to things like fire or storms, as well as theft of personal items inside your home. In addition, they may also provide liability coverage in case someone is injured while visiting you at home. Before purchasing a hot tub for your Chandler, AZ home, speak with a San Marcos Insurance Group agent to find precisely what your policy covers.

Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover My Hot Tub?

The short answer is that it depends on the specifics of your policy and the type of damage that has occurred to the hot tub. If you purchased a standard homeowner’s policy without additional features such as "inland marine" coverage, it likely wouldn’t cover any issues related to your hot tub. However, an umbrella policy may provide liability coverage if someone gets injured while using the hot tub.

If you’re interested in learning more about how best to protect yourself from potential damages related to owning a hot tub in Chandler, AZ, contact San Marcos Insurance Group today! Their team will be happy to discuss the different types of coverage available so that you can make an informed decision about which option is best for you.

Don’t Let Your Home Remain Unprotected – Insure It with Homeowner’s Insurance

Are you a homeowner in the Chandler, AZ area? Is your most valuable asset protected with homeowner’s insurance? The San Marcos Insurance Group can provide the coverage needed to protect your home.

Why is homeowner’s insurance important? Because it protects the owner’s home and personal property. If there is a loss due to a covered event, insurance will provide the funds for the rebuilding or repairing of the house.

Also, if someone is injured while on the homeowner’s property, it provides liability coverage for any legal action that may result.

Legally, you can own a home without this coverage. However, any mortgage holder will require that an insurance policy protect their interests. Homeowner’s insurance is still highly recommended if the property does not have a mortgage because it is totally paid for. If someone is injured on the property, the policy will help cover any legal expenses associated with the claim.

The standard homeowner’s policy provides four types of coverage:

  • The dwelling or home
  • Additional structures, such as a garage or storage shed
  • Personal property
  • Liability coverage

The basic levels of coverage are replacement cost, actual cash value, or extended replacement cost or value. Policies cover damage or destruction to the home’s exterior and interior, theft or loss of personal property, and any personal liability due to harm to others. If a home is damaged by a weather event such as strong winds, insurance can help pay for it.

Don’t let your most valuable asset remain unprotected. If you live in the Chandler, AZ area, the professionals at the San Marcos Insurance Group can provide you with a quote or answer any questions you may have regarding homeowner’s insurance. Contact them today. You will be glad you did.

What Are Other Structures and When Should You Ensure They Are Covered By Your Homeowners Insurance Policy?

At San Marcos Insurance Group, serving the greater Chandler, AZ, we are committed to helping homeowners find the right home insurance policies for their needs. One of the best ways to do this is by answering homeowners’ questions about their policies. We are often asked what other structures mean in a home insurance policy and why it is vital to ensure your homeowners’ insurance policy covers your other structures. Read on to get the answer to this question. 

What Are Other Structures? 

Regarding home insurance, other structures refer to the structures on your property that may not be attached directly to your home. Some examples of different structures include detached garages, sheds, barns, gazebos, pools, hot tubs, driveways, sidewalks, fences, and permanently installed or anchored docks. 

Why Is It Important to Ensure Your Policy Covers Other Structures? 

Most home insurance policies cover other structures, but not all of them do. As such, it is important to review your policy and find out if other structures are included or excluded from your policy. If your policy excludes them, you may have to pay out of pocket if an unexpected event damages these structures. Reviewing your policy helps you to understand what is and is not covered. 

If you have other structures on your property and are unsure if they are covered, the San Marcos Insurance Group team, serving the greater Chandler, AZ area, can help you determine if they are covered. If they are not covered, we can help you find a home insurance policy that covers them. Call or email us today to schedule an appointment to discuss your home insurance policy. 

5 Common Mistakes People Make When Purchasing Home Insurance

Homeowners insurance is an integral part of any home purchase. It protects the homeowner against potential disasters, like fire or vandalism. But many people make some common mistakes when shopping for this type of coverage that can lead to being underinsured and not having enough protection if something goes wrong. Read on to learn more about homeowners’ five common mistakes when purchasing home insurance.

1. Not Getting Enough Coverage

One of the people’s most common mistakes when buying home insurance is not getting enough coverage. They either don’t purchase enough coverage or let their policy lapse and are underinsured. It’s essential to ensure you have enough coverage to protect your home and belongings in an unforeseen disaster.

2. Not Understanding What’s Covered

Another mistake people make is not understanding what their policy covers. Home insurance policies have different levels of coverage, so it’s important to know what you’re getting. Some policies will cover damage from fire, theft, and natural disasters, while others may only cover one or two of these things. Make sure you understand the coverage levels of your policy so you know what’s included.

3. Not Shopping Around

People also sometimes make the mistake of not shopping around for home insurance. They either stay with the same company they’ve always had or accept the first quote they get. But it’s important to compare rates and coverage from different companies to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

4. Not Reviewing Your Policy Regularly

Even if you have an excellent home insurance policy, it’s important to review it regularly to make sure it still meets your needs. As your life changes, your coverage may need to change as well. For example, if you get married or have a child, you may need to increase your coverage. Or, if you move to a new home, you may need to adjust your policy accordingly.

5. Thinking it Covers Flooding

One final mistake people make is thinking their home insurance policy will cover flooding. But most policies don’t cover this type of damage, so it’s vital to purchase separate flood insurance if you live in an area prone to flooding.

Home Insurance is critical, but as you have seen, people make some common mistakes. Luckily, San Marcos Insurance Group is here to help you find the best possible home insurance policy for your needs in Chandler, AZ. We understand that shopping for home insurance can be confusing and overwhelming, but we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our services or get a free quote.

Do I Need Home Insurance?

Although there is no law requiring homeowners to carry insurance, purchasing a house is likely to be the largest investment anyone makes so having coverage is a no-brainer. While it is true that homeowners insurance is not required by law, if you are purchasing a home with a mortgage then it is highly likely that the mortgage company will require you to have insurance before financing the purchase.

When shopping for homeowners insurance, you’ll want a policy that covers rebuilding or repairing your house and other structures on your property like a shed or garage, after a covered loss. In addition, look for a policy that helps pay to replace your belongings if they are damaged in a covered loss, lodging if you are displaced due to a fire, natural disaster, or other incident and legal bills if a visitor or tradesperson is injured while at your home. Generally, a homeowners policy does not cover earthquakes or floods and you may be required to purchase additional insurance policies if you are in an area prone to one of those natural disasters.

Begin looking for homeowners insurance once you have signed the contract to purchase a home. Waiting till this point will likely allow you about a month to find the right insurance company and have a policy in place. At San Marcos Insurance Group in Chandler, AZ we specialize in homeowners insurance and can assist in customizing a policy that meets your needs.

Whether you are buying your first home or moving to Chandler, AZ for retirement, San Marcos Insurance Group wants to help. Give us a call today or stop by our conveniently located office to schedule an initial conversation with one of our talented insurance professionals. 

How Home Insurance Protects You

When you own a home, owning home insurance is a must. A good policy can protect you from a wide range of risks that houses face. There are several different types of home coverage that are included in one home insurance policy. If you need a policy for your home, give us a call at San Marcos Insurance Group in Chandler, AZ.

Covering Your Home

Part of a home insurance policy is protection for the house. It protects against many different disasters and accidents that can happen to houses and cause them damage. If you don’t have this policy, you would have to come up with all of the money to repair or rebuild by yourself. This policy will pay for damage that is caused by a covered occurrence. Being without this coverage can be too expensive to afford if the worst should happen.

Covering Your Possessions

Another part of a home policy is the coverage for all of the possessions that are located inside the house. These possessions may not look like a huge expense, but when everything is added up together, it may rival the value of your house. If a covered incident like an accident happened and ruined your possessions, your policy could pay for you to replace them or to get needed repairs. 

Covering Your Liability

One part of your home policy is dedicated to your possible liability for accidents and other incidents. If someone were in your house and had an accident, you could be considered liable for the resulting medical bills and other expenses. This coverage protects you from lawsuits that could be filed against you after an accident like this. It’s smart to never be without this coverage. 

Get Home Insurance

To get your home policy, call us at San Marcos Insurance Group in Chandler, AZ.

Do I Need Home Insurance in Arizona?

Your home in Chandler, AZ is an instrumental part of you and your loved one’s lives. Owning a home is an exciting experience, but most residents, unluckily, haven’t thought much about home insurance. Many homeowners regard home insurance as an option, but it should be an ultimate necessity in reality. Home insurance will not only leave you stress-free but saves you tens of thousands of dollars in the long run when unexpected perils strike. If you are willing to discuss your option for a home insurance plan, please liaise with San Marcos Insurance Group serving Chandler, AZ and its environs. We will help you design the right home insurance policy to protect your expensive asset.

Is home insurance mandatory in Arizona?

Home insurance isn’t mandatory in Arizona if you don’t have a mortgage for your dwelling serving as your lenders’ collateral. However, it’s wise to consider if you can afford to pay for the cost of repair or replace your home if covered calamities destroy it. With that being said, here are the benefits of buying home insurance:

Coverage for your home contents

Home insurance safeguards your personal property like electronic appliances, furniture and clothing if damaged by a covered peril like fire or storm. You can be reimbursed fully or partially, depending on your specific policy.

Provides liability protection

 Liability protection coverage shields you against probable lawsuits arising from bodily injury and property damage you and your family members propagate to other parties. It caters to medical expenses resulting from injuries sustained by your guests while on your property or elsewhere.

Protect your home 

Imagine if your house was ravaged by fire or hurricane, suffering immense losses? If you procure coverage for your dwelling, it will cater to repairing or reestablishing your house if it is ravaged by a covered event like hail and lightning, among others.

Provides additional living expenses coverage

 Suppose your house becomes uninhabitable due to destruction from fire, storm, or other covered incertitudes. In that case, your additional living expense coverage pays for the additional expenses such as hotel bills if you are residing elsewhere temporarily.

Contact San Marcos Insurance Group today for comprehensive information about obtaining spectacular home insurance in Chandler, AZ and how it works. We can assist you in making an informed decision and customizing a policy suiting your needs and budget.

Preparing your home for an emergency

An emergency is a serious situation and requires preparedness. The city of Chandler, AZ takes it so seriously that they have set up a section of their website to make suggestions to the residents. Getting ready for an emergency begins in the home and there are a few simple things that every homeowner can do to make sure they are ready no matter what emergency arises. At San Marcos Insurance Group in Chandler, AZ, we have over 80 years of combined insurance experience that we share with our customers. 

In Chandler, AZ n emergency can come in the form of a heatwave, a wind storm, a flood, a power outage, or a fire. Not to mention any man-made emergencies. You need to make sure your home is prepared for any of these.

Battery backup

No matter which of these emergencies happen, losing power is a possibility. Having flashlights, battery-operated radio, extra batteries, solar lights, a generator, and portable chargers like a Halo can keep you working. You just want to make sure you can keep from sitting in the dark. A generator will make sure your food stays fresh, and you have ac which is pretty much of a necessity in Arizona. You also need to have a good size gas can so that you can run the generator. 

Water

When an emergency strikes, it may not be possible to have running water. You need to have enough bottled water to keep you hydrated for at least a few days. Filling a bathtub with water can make sure you can flush toilets. 

Food

You should have three days of food and in the event, you don’t have a generator, it should be shelf-stable food. Having a gas or charcoal grill to cook food is also very handy. A manual can opener is a necessity. 

Contact San Marcos Insurance Group in Chandler, AZ for all your home insurance needs.