Insurance

3 Reasons to Protect Your Business With Commercial Insurance

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Congratulations, your new business has finally got of the ground level and you are finally seeing some results and compensation from all of your hard work. At The Insurance Mart we love to see new businesses succeed and grow into established companies in and around Blue Ridge, GA. We also know that sometimes things go wrong that are entirely out of the hands of the most hard working business owners. 

3 Reasons to Insure Your Company

  1. When you have employees the stakes of your choices no longer only effect you. If your business has employees then they are also depending on your company to continue to flourish. This makes keeping insurance all the more important. 
  2. You cannot predict every outcome. Many successful business owners have a keen eye for what matters and have some ability to see what is coming before it happens so they can prevent catastrophe. But even the most observant business owner cannot predict every outcome this where full coverage and even some umbrella policies to cover certain circumstances comes in handy. 
  3. Even small home-based business need someone to have their back. It may come as a surprise that your home owner’s insurance may not cover some of your business needs even if your company is run from your home. Make sure you are truly protected because even a small business needs to cover the assets they do have. 

Contact us at The Insurance Mart today to find out more about how we can help keep your business fully covered in Blue Ridge, GA and the surrounding areas. One of the worst feelings after something does go wrong is the realization that the burden would be significantly less if you would had only made one phone call before it happened. 

Things You Should Consider Adding To An Existing Homeowners Policy

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Many homeowners simply take out insurance to meet the requirements of their lender. Banks want to know their investment is secure. But what about your security? As time passes and your needs change, it may be in your best interest to revisit your homeowner’s policy and decide if it still meets your needs. At The Insurance Mart, our professionals are committed to helping members of the Blue Ridge, GA, community create a policy that works for you. We’ll help you to avoid common areas where people may be underinsured.

Flood and Natural Disaster Coverage

The State of Georgia has felt nature’s power more than a few times. As folks living around the Blue Ridge Dam are well aware, flooding is a fact of life. While the overflow of the Toccoa River may not have reached your doorstep in recent years, the potential exists. Flood insurance is not part of a standard homeowners policy. Given the imminent threat of the dam and waterways such as Blue Ridge Lake, you would be wise to have this additional coverage.

Theft Coverage

The amount of theft coverage you selected when you first purchased homeowners insurance may still have the same cap. Over time, we accumulate stuff. Some of that stuff can be very expensive to replace. Jewelry, electronics, and cash on hand are prime targets for burglars. We recommend that you take an inventory and make sure that your policy protects you in the event these pricey items are stolen.

Outbuildings

We all tend to personalize our homes over time. New sheds are built to house our lawn and garden tools, as well as children’s bikes and toys. The hot Georgia sun presses us to either add a garage or car port. But these things may not be covered if you renew your policy each year without adding them. After all, your coverage was not originally based on these structures.

Updating an existing homeowners policy makes good sense. It’s important that your coverage provides the security you need. At The Insurance Mart, we are available to help members of the Blue Ridge, GA community with professional and comprehensive homeowners service. At the end of the day, it’s important that you have a policy that meets your individual needs and gives you peace of mind.

Auto Insurance Basics to Consider

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When looking for car insurance, many factors influence the price that you pay for your premium.  Some factors are unchangeable such as your age and if you are a are male or female.  However, there are other factors in wich you can control:

Accident History
The number of insurance claims presented in past years can have an effect on your premium.  If you have a history vehicle accidents, the insurance company will want to look at your driving record and understand who or what has caused the accidents.

Ticket and DUI History
If you have been pulled over by the police many times for speeding and it has resulted in your receiving tickets, this too will push your premium high as you are considered a risky driver.

If you have received a DUI, this stays on your record and can affect the insurance premium for up to 10 years.  If you have received multiple DUIs, many insurance companies will refuse to provide insurance at all.

Residence
Where you call home can affect the premium if the area has a record and high risk of theft or vandalism. Those living in a busy urban area will experience an increase as compared to those in suburban or small town residentials areas.

On the flipside, if you live in a suburban or small town and drive a distance to get into the city to work, this is also taken into consideration because of miles were driven to get to work as well as where the vehicle is parked during work hours.

To discuss your insurance needs and receive a quote, call The Insurance Mart in Blue Ridge, GA to learn more.

3 Tips for Taking Care of the Carpet In Your Home

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Whether you live in a new home or one that was built more than 50 years ago, if it has carpet in it, it is imperative that you take care of it to the best of your ability. Taking care of the flooring in your home not only improves the look of your home but also increases the flooring’s longevity. Here is a quick look at three tips for taking care of the carpet in your house.

1) Clean up spills immediately

The worst thing you can do when it comes to your carpet is not clean up spills and stains immediately. The longer a stain soaks into the carpet, the harder it will be to get out. And if you leave a stain for too long, it may become impossible to completely remove it. Ammonia, vinegar, and cornstarch are three of the most effective products for removing carpet stains. Just make sure you follow instructions when using them so as to not make the stains worse or to discolor the carpet.

2) Install heavy traffic carpet in heavy traffic areas

Are there certain parts of your home that endure heavy amounts of traffic? If so, it is usually best to have heavy traffic carpet installed in these areas. Heavy traffic carpet is more durable than other types, meaning it is more likely to last longer.

3) Vacuum regularly

Lastly, you need to make sure you vacuum the carpet in your home regularly. The cleaner your carpet stays, the longer it will last. Vacuuming will also improve the smell in your home and keep it looking its best.

To learn more about taking care of the carpet in your home, contact The Insurance Mart serving the Blue Ridge, GA area.

Fall Home Shopping Checklist: The Supplies You Need To Autumn-proof Your home

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Fall is setting in, and that means getting your home ready for the change in the weather. Now, depending on your climate, you may or may not need every single thing on this shopping list, but you’re going to have a rough Autumn if you don’t prepare for it as early as possible:

  • Weather-stripping and caulk for sealing up any leaks and drafty spots
  • Firewood and newspaper for kindling if you use a stove or a fireplace
  • Propane, if you use gas-heating
  • Batteries, for smoke and CO monitors, as well as flashlights
  • A humidifier, if you live in a dry climate and don’t have one already
  • Furnace filters
  • Blankets, sweaters, and anything else you’re short on to keep you cozy in the cold
  • Space heaters, even if you have central heating, you’ll want one or two of these if you need to do any work in the attic, garage or storerooms
  • Rock salt, for clearing away ice if it gets a little frosty out before December
  • Canned food, for those days when you just don’t feel like braving the weather for groceries
  • Heating tape for your pipes
  • Bottled water, in case your pipes do freeze
  • Galoshes, raincoats, umbrellas, etc.

Again, you might not need everything on this list. Some of these supplies you no doubt have on hand already. All the same, while the Insurance Mart will help you to protect your home should the unforeseen take place, it’s your job to make sure you’re prepared for the foreseeable. Stocking up before the chill sets in will let you ride out the colder months in comfort.

The Insurance Mart What Kind of Coverage Does Commercial Insurance Offer?

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As a business in Georgia, carrying commercial liability insurance is not required. Georgia companies- depending on the business size- are however, required to carry worker’s compensation insurance for their employees.

Although commercial insurance is not mandatory, any company that  is in operation would be wise to have a commercial insurance policy to protect them from unexpected liability, claims, income loss and property damage in the case of any unforeseen events. There is no current cap for compensatory damages from accidents, and punitive damages are capped at $250,000. If you don’t currently have commercial insurance, your business is at risk for serious payouts if you get hit with a lawsuit- legitimate or not- it can ultimately be detrimental to your company.

Commercial insurance policies will typically cover the following:

  • Property Damage– including property damage from fire, theft and natural disasters that cause damage to your business property, structure and physical assets including office furnishings, computers and more. Some property damage policies will also cover other costs- like lost income, temporary moves and debris removal, etc.
  • Personal Injury– Which includes slander, infringement, false arrest or any personal damages that damage your reputation or rights as a business.
  • Bodily Injury-  This will cover damage to a person- outside of an employee- that is injured at your place of business. Workers will be covered by worker’s compensation.
  • Legal and defense fees– This will include costs for lawsuits that may be filed against your business and will be limited to the amount of your coverage. The policy will not cover damages for negligence on your behalf, nor willful misconduct
  • Advertising Injury– Losses that are claimed due to your advertising

Commercial auto insurance may also be necessary if you use  a vehicle for your business.

 

 

 

 

 

 

How To Protect Your Investment With RV Insurance

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Buying an RV when you live in Blue Ridge, GA is a major investment. The only way to protect that investment is to purchase RV insurance. This will allow you to enjoy greater peace of mind any time that it is on the road, parked in an RV park, or anywhere else you decide to take it.

Find the Right Coverage

Lots of coverage is out there. While there is a minimum because the state has liability coverage requirements, you will be able to find various forms of optional coverage. The optional coverage is more affordable than you might think and can protect you against the various things that could happen.

Whether you get into an accident, have your RV broken into, or get a cracked windshield because of gravel hitting it, you want to be able to file a claim. This will prevent you from having to spend a lot of money out of pocket. Work with an agent to ensure you have the coverage needed for all that could happen.

Work with a Reputable Company

It’s important to work with a reputable company as this will help you with protecting your investment as well. Look at the reputation of the companies you are considering working with, including what the average turnaround time is when dealing with claims. This will ensure you are in good hands at all times.

Compare Quotes

Protecting your investment shouldn’t bankrupt you. Not all insurance companies will charge the same for premiums and therefore you want to take the time to compare quotes. This will ensure you get an affordable premium while still protecting your RV.

Our independent insurance agent at the Insurance Mart can help you protect your investment. Contact us today to learn more about RV insurance.

 

Why You Need Renter’s Insurance

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Renter’s insurance keeps you from having to pay for any sort of damages that you might cause to your apartment or the building your apartment is in or to any other apartment in the building.  It can also keep you protected if you are deemed to be responsible for an injury to anyone in your apartment.  Without this coverage, you might end up losing your apartment and still be held liable for damages.

It is also what will cover you in case there is a fire or there is water damage to your apartment or if you happen to be robbed.

Renter’s insurance might not be something that is required by law, but it is just as important as any other type of insurance.  It will protect your personal belongings as well as assist you with temporary housing and even liability.  Once you have made the decision that you need this type of insurance, you will need to know your options so that you will be able to choose the policy that will be right for you.

Here are some things to consider.

How much coverage do you need?  While you don’t need to place a value on each item that you own, a value will be determined for all of your belongings collectively.

Deductible – this will be what you need to consider when it comes to what you would be able to pay out of pocket before the actual insurance will kick in.

If you are in the Blue Ridge, GA area and are considering protecting your belongings with renter’s insurance, call or come by The Insurance Mart today.  We have knowledgeable agents standing by to help you understand what types of coverages you need and to make sure that you get everything taken care of.

For Beginners: Rules to Know Before Getting On Your ATV

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All-terrain vehicles (ATV) can be exciting to own and cherish if you fully understand responsibilities associated with them. Here are a few rules you should be aware of before stepping onto your four-wheeled toy and attempting to drive.

Rule #1: Make sure paperwork is in order

You cannot simply buy an ATV, get on and drive without first going through the proper steps to ensure that it is registered and insured. While some states do not require a permit to operate the motor vehicle on heavily populated roads, some regions require drivers to obtain additional certification and authorization for full privileges. It is imperative to have all paperwork in order before getting on your ATV.

Rule #2: Invest in quality protective gear

Your status as a beginner can literally hurt if you are not wearing the right protective gear. A good motorcycle helmet coupled with gloves and goggles will guard against serious injury. Long pants, over-the-ankle boots and a long-sleeved jacket are also great safety measures.

Rule #3: Practice like crazy

Whoever said practice makes perfect was ever so right. Taking your ATV for a ride on level surfaces and open fields is the best way to perfect your driving skills. Taking the four-wheeler on more challenging tracks will come with time and experience.

Rule #4: Start from the bottom and then work your way up

Don’t pop a wheelie just yet. When starting out on your ATV, your focus should be on gaining and maintaining control. Only after you have become one with the vehicle to the extent of understanding its flow should you attempt to do tricks.

The Insurance Mart understands how important your ATV is, and that  is why we offer a number of policies that ensure protection in the instance of incidence. Stop in for a quote today!

Whole Life vs. Term Life Insurance

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The choice of what life insurance policy you should choose can easily become complex with too much information. At The Insurance Mart, we pride ourselves on our ability to educate our customers about life insurance, including the two most popular options whole life and term life insurance.

Understanding Whole Life Insurance

When it comes to understanding whole life insurance, it’s important to note that it doesn’t have a term. Ultimately, by submitting a truthful application and making your payments on time, as long as you qualify, you will have life insurance. Additionally, your life insurance policy can accrue cash value over time, allowing you to borrow against your policy if necessary.

Understanding Term Life Insurance

Although very similar to whole life insurance, term life insurance does have a term. You can choose between a variety of terms to ensure you are choosing a policy that works for you. Unlike whole life insurance, term life insurance doesn’t build cash value. However, many people find that term life insurance is a great option for individuals with mortgages because, in the event of their death, they will have the money to pay off their mortgage.

How to Choose Between the Two Types of Insurance

Ultimately, the choice to choose between whole life and term life is based on your financial goals. People who want permanent life insurance often choose whole life insurance over a term life insurance. However, people who are interested in a significant face value for a period of time consider term life insurance.

If you are in the market to purchase life insurance, you can start by visiting our site. Our website highlights the policies we offer. Additionally, by visiting our site, you can easily contact us regarding any questions you may have about whole life or term life insurance.