Author: agentinsure

Four important pieces of advice to follow before buying boat insurance

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Boat owners need to make the right decisions when choosing their insurance coverage to protect them financially. At Dern & Company, we sell boat insurance in Milwaukee, WI.

The following are four essential pieces of advice that boat owners should follow when buying boat insurance. 

Research any boat insurance requirements you need to meet

Boat insurance is required in a variety of situations. Boat insurance is always required by lenders who provide financing for boat purchases. Many marinas also require boat insurance.

Ensure you are aware of any requirements you need to meet regarding boat insurance coverage. 

Know about coverage exclusions on your boat insurance policy

Boat insurance policies sometimes have policy exclusion on costs boat owners face due to maintenance-related issues or normal wear and tear.

Make sure you know about all the exclusions your policy includes so that you don’t face unpleasant surprises if you file a claim. 

Understand any navigational limits on your policy.

Any boat insurance policy will include some navigational limit. You won’t be covered if you take your boat outside these navigational limits. That’s why policyholders need to understand the navigational limitations their policy is subject to. 

Invest in any available safety equipment.

Taking boating safety measures and investing in safety equipment like alarms can help to minimize the chances that you’ll face high expenses and damages due to boat ownership.

You should research safety precautions and take such precautions whenever possible to prevent boat accidents whenever possible. 

Are you interested in learning more about boat insurance in Milwaukee, WI? Give us a call today at Dern & Company to get a quote on a boat insurance policy. 

Home Insurance and Home Renovations

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Home renovations can breathe new life into a house, becoming a personalized haven in and around Milwaukee, WI. However, these transformative changes can significantly impact your home insurance coverage. As you embark on home renovations, it’s crucial to understand how alterations can affect your policy and take proactive steps to ensure that your coverage aligns with your home’s updated value and risks.

The Impact of Renovations on Insurance Coverage

Home renovations can impact insurance coverage in various ways:

  1. Change in Home Value: Renovations often increase the value of your home. The added square footage, upgraded features, or new additions can significantly raise your home’s worth, which calls for more coverage. 
  2. Alteration of Risk Factors: Renovations can introduce new risk factors. For example, adding a swimming pool, outdoor kitchen, or wood-burning fireplace could increase the risk of accidents or property damage. 

Updating Your Home Insurance Policy

To ensure your home insurance adequately covers your renovated property, consider the following steps:

  1. Notify Your Insurer: Discuss the scope of the renovation project and any changes that might affect your coverage needs.
  2. Reassess Your Coverage Limits: Work with your insurer to reevaluate your coverage limits based on the increased value of your home.
  3. Consider Additional Coverage: Depending on the nature of the renovations, you might need additional coverage, such as liability coverage for new structures or specialized coverage for valuable renovations.
  4. Review Deductibles: Discuss potential adjustments to deductibles to ensure they align with your new coverage needs.
  5. Document Changes: Keep detailed records of the renovation process, including receipts, invoices, and photographs, which are invaluable to claims.

Dern & Company Can Help You

At Dern & Company, we can answer all your questions concerning home insurance. We assist the Milwaukee, WI region. Contact us today.

Three things you need to know about commercial insurance

Posted on by agentinsure

Business owners need to be informed about how commercial insurance works and what their commercial insurance needs are. At Dern & Company, we’re here to answer your questions about insuring your business in Milwaukee, WI.

The following are three things you need to know about commercial insurance. 

There are a lot of different types of commercial insurance available.

Business owners should understand all the different types of commercial insurance. Different companies need different types of coverage.

Every company can benefit from carrying commercial liability coverage. In addition, companies that rely on vehicles for commercial operations should carry commercial auto coverage. Companies with employees typically need workers’ compensation coverage.

Other types of coverage include errors and omissions insurance, business interruption insurance, and more.  

Commercial insurance is required by law in some situations.

Your company might be legally required to carry commercial insurance. This is especially true if your company employs staff members. Many states have laws requiring companies to carry workers’ compensation coverage if they have at least a certain number of employees. 

Commercial insurance can make it easier to be approved for business loans. 

One of the benefits of carrying commercial insurance that some business owners aren’t aware of is that insurance makes it easier to acquire financing.

Lenders generally require companies to carry commercial insurance before they approve them for business loans. You’ll probably find it easier to get capital if you insure your company when you need it. 

You can insure your business in Milwaukee, WI with Dern & Company. We are an insurance provider offering commercial policies to area business owners. Contact us today for a quote on a policy that will financially protect your company. 

How Do You Cover a Home Business with Renters Insurance?

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When you rent and operate an online business, you need to protect your business interests with a home-based business rider added to your renter’s insurance. The rider provides financial protection to your computers, business inventory, office furniture, tools, etc.

Insuring Home-Based Businesses in Milwaukee, WI

At Dern & Company, we want your business to thrive, so we offer a full range of insurance options. That includes a rider for your home insurance that lets you insure a home-based business without purchasing a separate policy.

These riders protect your business in the same manner that a separate commercial policy does. Adding this type of coverage to your home insurance affords your home-based business liability coverage and property damage coverage. It doesn’t go as far as a business owner’s policy would, but most home businesses don’t need BOPs.

Coverage Needs Examples

Each person’s home business needs different levels of coverage. Here are a few quick examples of what we mean.

  • We suggest you increase your liability coverage if you host meetings at your home.
  • If you own a lot of expensive business equipment, such as a photographer, we suggest upping your property damage coverage.
  • If you store your inventory at home or craft the items you sell, such as a woodworker or many Etsy business owners do, we’ll suggest increasing the property damage component, too.
  • You’ll need commercial auto-added to your policy bundle if you drive your vehicle primarily for your home-based business, such as a baker or florist who delivers their creations.

We can help you determine which coverages your home-based business needs.

Contact Dern & Company Today

You can protect your Milwaukee, WI, home business under your home insurance. Ask your Dern & Company agent about adding business liability to your home insurance.

Do I need Year Round Boat Insurance in Wisconsin?

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As boating enthusiasts, the team at Dern & Company understands the importance of boat insurance. We know every boater wants to protect their vessel, but do you need boat insurance year-round in Milwaukee? In this blog, we will break down the benefits of year-round boat insurance and why it’s crucial for boaters in Milwaukee, WI.

The Weather in Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s weather can be unpredictable, with frigid winters and sudden storms. These weather events can cause significant damage to watercraft. Even if your boat isn’t on the water in the offseason, it still needs to be protected from theft, vandalism, and other risks that can occur while it’s in storage. Year-round boat insurance will give you peace of mind by knowing that your vessel is protected, no matter the season.

The Costs of an Accident

Boating accidents can occur even when you’re the most cautious. Whether it’s a collision or an injury to a passenger, the financial impact of these incidents can be devastating. Liability coverage in your boat insurance policy will protect you from legal and financial repercussions. Year-round insurance coverage ensures that you have the necessary protection throughout the year, whether on the water or not.

Compliance with Marina Requirements

Many marinas in Milwaukee require boat owners to have proof of insurance before they can dock or launch their boats. A year-round boat insurance policy guarantees that you have the necessary insurance requirements throughout the year, allowing you to enjoy your watercraft whenever you want.

While you may think boat insurance is only necessary during the boating season, having year-round coverage is essential in Milwaukee, WI. Contact Dern & Company today to learn about year-round boat insurance policies and how they can protect your watercraft.

Homeowner’s Insurance Policy — What is Not Covered?

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Navigating homeowners insurance coverage can be tricky. The good news is that the insurance professionals at Dern & Company can help homeowners in and around Milwaukee, WI find the insurance solutions to meet their needs.  

One of the essential aspects of understanding an insurance policy is knowing what will NOT be covered. While homeowners insurance policy requirements vary by jurisdiction (or endorsements or add-ons), most policies designed to protect homeowners typically exclude:

  • Flood Damage — the damage that a flood may cause is typically covered by specific insurance issued by FEMA – through the NFIP, the National Flood Insurance Program – which is available through Dern & Company.
  • Sewer/Drainage Back-ups — certain insurance policies offer coverage if the drain was located on the property; however, it would likely not cover an issue that occurred down the road and off the property.
  • Repeated/Consistent Water Leakage — any slow and consistent leaks are usually only covered by an add-on endorsement, not a standard homeowners policy.
  • Mold/Microbes — mold is typically a covered event if it occurs and is sourced (to an unexpected/accidental water discharge) to the property covered by the policy. Many policies have time restrictions that require policyholders to report the event in a certain timeframe.
  • A Frozen Plumbing or Heating System — while most quality policies will cover an event like this, a policyholder must proactively take steps to avoid the event. For example, if you leave the property for a two-week vacation and turn the heat off, the loss would likely not be covered if the pipes freeze.

Do you have questions regarding a homeowners insurance policy for a home or condo in the greater Milwaukee, WI area? Contact the licensed professionals at Dern & Company at 414-935-5700.

Does Commercial Insurance Protect Against Business Liability?

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Commercial insurance is a necessary tool to help prevent losses and protect owners from various risks. One of the benefits of commercial insurance is that it provides liability protection. Anyone interested in acquiring top quality Commercial Insurance can count on Dern & Company to steer them in the right direction. We proudly serve Milwaukee, WI, and the surrounding areas.

Commercial Insurance Coverage 

If you own a business or a commercial endeavor, you’ll need commercial insurance to protect you from various covered events. Liability protection is also included in most commercial insurance policies. These policies cover specific events that are considered the responsibility of business. There are several reasons for a liability claim ranging from customer injury or owner negligence resulting in property loss or damage.

Our agents are standing by to provide business owners with the insight and guidance necessary to select policies that meet their needs. Our agents work closely with each individual to determine their current and future needs and then recommend policy options based on those observations. Our agents will also outline the terms and conditions to ensure you understand what the policy will and won’t cover.

In addition to helping our customers select and submit information to get commercial insurance coverage, we offer full customer support after the policy purchase. We can assist with various policy changes or even with submitting documents and details related to a policy claim. We are committed to offering top-quality customer service to individuals seeking peace of mind and protection from liability.

Reach Out Today 

To get more information about commercial insurance options, contact an agent at Dern & Company today. We can help make the policy of selecting and purchasing insurance straightforward and hassle-free. We are here to serve the residents of Milwaukee, WI, so they can get the coverage they need.

Does Home Insurance Cover High-Cost Valuables?

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If you own valuable items like jewelry, artwork, or antiques, it’s essential to ensure they’re covered for theft or damage. While homeowner’s insurance typically covers the cost of your home and belongings, high-cost valuables may need additional coverage. At Dern & Company in Milwaukee, WI, we offer a range of insurance options to keep your valuables safe. 

Insuring Your Valuables 

Homeowner’s insurance may provide protection for some of your items, but coverage limits can be low, and certain items may not be covered at all. For example, if you own an expensive piece of jewelry or a work of art, you’ll want to ensure it’s adequately insured. 

We understand how vital these belongings are to you and offer personalized coverage plans that fit your needs and budget. We specialize in insuring high-value items, so you don’t have to worry about costly repairs or replacement costs should something happen. 

Choosing the Right Coverage Plan 

When considering insurance for your valuables, there are several factors to consider. What type of item do you need to insure? How much does it cost? Will the policy cover repairs as well as replacement? Our team can help answer these important questions so that you get the protection you need for your treasured possessions. 

At Dern & Company in Milwaukee, WI, we understand how important it is to protect your valuable items with the right coverage plan. We specialize in insuring high-cost valuables to protect them against theft or damage no matter what life throws at them. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help provide peace of mind with comprehensive insurance plans made just for you!

Does your renter’s insurance cover you when you travel?

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Your renter’s insurance policy from Dern & Company doesn’t just cover the items you own inside your apartment, condo, or rented home in Milwaukee, WI. It also covers them when you travel, whether for business or vacation.

The personal property coverage in your renter’s policy applies to all of the items you own, whether you keep them inside your domicile or in a storage unit. Packaging up your laptop or iPhone to go on vacation still enjoys the same great coverage, even in Bora Bora.

The same policy continues to protect what you have in your home. If a burglar breaks in while you’re gone and makes off with your wide-screen TV and stereo system, the renter’s policy covers that, too.

This hardworking policy covers both situations at the same time. It also covers all the items you own while you travel around town.

Let’s say you go to the gym in Milwaukee, WI, and someone steals your iPhone from your locker. Your renter’s policy also covers that situation.

A renter’s insurance policy covers you, the renter, not the domicile itself. (That’s your landlord’s home policy that covers the structure.)

Wherever you go, your renter’s insurance goes, too. It covers your property wherever you use it. If you rent a hotel room or vacation home, your renter’s policy covers your belongings.

You also still enjoy liability coverage from your renter’s insurance. It travels with you, too. That means if you rented the vacation cottage at the beach where your mother-in-law broke her arm, the liability coverage from your renter’s policy protects you financially.

Contact Dern & Company Today

If you don’t have a renter’s policy from Dern & Company yet, contact us today to start this vital protection. Protect yourself wherever you rent.

Signs you need a new roof

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If you notice any of the following signs, your roof likely needs to be replaced. Remember that these are only indicators, not necessarily conclusive proof, that you need a new roof. Be sure to consult with an experienced roofing contractor before making any major decisions regarding your roof.

Leaks: If you notice leaks anywhere on your house, this is likely a sign of an issue with your roofing system. Leaks can be caused by missing or damaged shingles, worn-out flashing around chimneys and vents, or water damage due to improper drainage of gutters and downspouts. You should always have a leak professionally inspected as soon as possible. If left unaddressed for too long, even small leaks can cause significant damage to the roof structure, walls, and ceilings of your home.

Moss: Moss can begin growing on roofs if they are not regularly maintained. If you notice moss or algae on your roof, it’s important to have it removed as soon as possible – moss tends to hold moisture against the shingles and is also abrasive enough to damage them. Having a professional remove the moss can prevent further damage from occurring in the future.

Missing shingles: A missing or damaged shingle here and there may seem like no big deal – but when left unattended for too long, it can put your entire roof at risk of water damage and other issues over time. Missing shingles can be caused by several things, such as high winds, improper installation or fastening, or being worn out over time.

If you have any additional questions about home maintenance, give Dern & Company a call today. We proudly serve the Milwaukee, WI area.