When Should You Contact Your Agent? Here Are Some Suggestions

I bet if you were to ask people the reasons they call their insurance agency, most would say: “When I have a question about my bill”, or “When I need to report a claim”. Two very good reasons. But, I’d like to give you a few more reasons that will help your agent improve accuracy, provide you with great coverage, and make sure you’re getting the best possible price.

Purchasing a new vehicle – The vast majority of auto sales people are very good at notifying us when you are buying a new vehicle. In fact, most will contact us while you are at the dealership. However, on many occasions they never do. This means your new car is never added to your insurance policy. Don’t assume this is being handled by anyone else. A quick phone call will confirm the change, as well as the coverage you need on your new vehicle.

Paying off a loan – Financial institutions do not contact us when a loan is paid in full. Whether it’s a car, boat, home, or anything else, let us know when you own it outright. We’ll make sure to remove the lienholder from your policy.

Selling a car – I know this seems obvious, but life is busy. You’d be surprised how easy it is to forget to call when that “extra” vehicle is sold or donated. Don’t pay insurance on a vehicle you no longer own.

A vehicle is “totaled” – Believe it or not; claims adjusters don’t always contact us when your vehicle is “totaled”. This is always the case if the insurance company representing the other driver is handling the claim. Call us, and we’ll make sure the vehicle is removed.

Refinancing – Technically, the only person who can make a change to an insurance policy is the “Named Insured”. When banks notify us of a change in financing (like mortgage holders), we really need to get your approval. Call your agent if you know you’re actively refinancing.

Updates to your home – Have you replaced your roof? Did you recently install an alarm system? How about a whole house generator? Notify your agent. These updates may actually save you money on your insurance.

Changes in usage – Don’t forget to call your agent if you’ve recently retired, or your commute to work has changed. Have you been provided a company car, or joined a carpool? These changes in usage can make a difference in your auto insurance rates.

Major upgrades to your home – Whether it’s finishing a basement, adding a sun room, or building an addition; keep your agent in the loop in order to make sure you have enough coverage in the event of a loss. A few minutes discussing your project will provide the peace of mind in knowing your new project is properly covered.

Whenever you want – When you purchase your insurance policies from an agent, you are also buying his/her time and expertise. Don’t ever hesitate to call with your concerns, questions, or comments. A good agent can make a world of difference…but only if you are actively involved in the relationship.