Frequently Asked Questions
General Inquiries
Q: How does Bogey Insurance Agency differ from other insurance agencies?
A: Collaborating with our agency provides you with a personalized and direct point of contact, especially valuable when dealing with claims or purchasing insurance products. Our local, independent agency can provide tailored coverage to meet your exact requirements while also delivering competitive pricing.
Homeowners Insurance Coverage and Expenses
Q: Does my homeowners insurance extend to outbuildings and pools?
A: To determine what's covered, speak to one of our agents as policy language can be quite specific and may vary from one carrier to another.
Q: Is homeowners insurance mandatory?
A: Home insurance is highly recommended and often obligatory when you have a mortgage. Condo or townhouse associations may also require insurance, while renters may need coverage for investment properties. Our agency can guide you on the appropriate policy type for your situation.
Q: What is a home inventory?
A: A home inventory is a comprehensive list of your belongings. This typically includes photos, receipts, purchase dates, models, serial numbers, and appraisals. It's invaluable in the event of disaster or theft and helps your insurance company with reimbursements.
Q: What's the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost?
A: Actual cash value is the replacement cost minus depreciation. Replacement cost covers the expense of restoring or replacing items with similar quality materials. Specific coverage details may vary, so consult our agency to determine what is right for you. Replacement cost is typically extremely important on most policies.
Q: How does condo insurance differ from homeowners insurance?
A: Both cover the interior, personal property, and personal liability, but condos may have unique requirements. Review your condo association's master policy and discuss your needs with our agency.
Q: Does my homeowners policy include flood insurance?
A: Standard policies typically don't cover floods. In Florida, flood insurance is vital and may be required by your mortgage company.
Q: Why is my premium high, and how can I reduce it?
A: Various factors determine premiums. To lower costs, consider raising your deductible, paying annually, improving home security, and maintaining your property. Regularly reviewing your policy, managing your credit score, and minimizing claims can also help.
Q: What should I consider when buying a home regarding homeowners insurance?
A: Factors affecting insurance premiums include your home's age, proximity to flood zones, access to emergency services, roof condition, and protective features. Discuss these with our agency to find the right policy for you.
Q: Why do I need to insure my home for more than its market value?
A: Market value considers factors like location and land value. Insurance covers labor, materials, debris removal, and reconstruction costs.
Application Queries
Q: What's needed for a quote?
A: To obtain an accurate quote, we require inspections, your address, and personal information.
Q: What documents are required to bind my policy after accepting a quote?
A: For existing homeowners, proof of prior insurance, a wind mitigation inspection report, and any applicable alarm certificates are typically needed. New homeowners should provide an estimated Closing Date, a wind mitigation inspection report, and any applicable alarm certificates. They should also ask for a disclosure statement from the prior home owners to determine if there have been any prior claims at the property.
Q: What is a wind mitigation report?
A: A certified inspector's report detailing your home's wind-resistant features, which can significantly reduce your insurance costs. These features include the length & distance between the nails that were used to secure your roof, all hurricane resistant openings, & FBC distinctions.
Q: How long is a wind mitigation report valid?
A: Wind mitigation inspections typically remain valid for five years depending on the last time the roof was replaced and the carrier offering coverage on your home.
Policy Concerns
Q: Why was my policy non-renewed?
A: Policies can be canceled for reasons such as non-payment, property sale, or finding coverage elsewhere. Contact our agency right away for assistance if you receive any letter from the Insurance company directly about your coverage plan.
Q: What is Umbrella coverage?
A: Personal umbrella coverage offers protection against large liability claims or judgments when underlying policy limits are exhausted. It extends primary policy limits.
Q: How do I know if I need Umbrella coverage?
A: Given the litigious nature of society, personal umbrella policies are often recommended for overall protection and peace of mind. Contact our agency to explore your options.
Q: How do I know if my policy is eligible for Umbrella coverage?
A: Your policy must be active to add Umbrella coverage. Reach out to us for any inquiries.
Claims Issues
Q: When should I file a claim?
A: Contact us as soon as you experience a loss. Prompt filing is essential for efficient claim resolution.
Q: What are my rights during a claim?
A: In Florida, you're entitled to acknowledgment within 14 days and approval within 90 days. Laws may vary by state.
Q: Any tips to avoid contractor fraud?
A: Be cautious after disasters, seek reputable contractors, ask for documentation, get written contracts, and never pay in full until work is completed and satisfactory.
Auto Insurance Coverage and Costs
Q: What Auto coverage is required in Florida?
A: Florida's Personal Auto Policy requirements include auto liability, medical payments/personal injury protection, uninsured/underinsured motorist protection liability, and physical damage. Minimum PIP and PDL insurance are also mandatory.
Q: What's the difference between Comprehensive and Collision Insurance?
A: Collision covers impact with other vehicles or objects, while Comprehensive covers non-collision damages such as theft, vandalism, and weather-related incidents.
Q: What factors affect my auto insurance costs?
A: Many factors, including marital status, driving record, vehicle type, age, usage, location, and more. Speak to our agency for detailed information.
Q: How can I lower my auto insurance costs?
A: Lower costs by driving a less valuable vehicle, using safety features, raising your deductible, paying annually, and improving your driving habits. Discounts may be available for multi-car, good driver, and more.
Jewelry, Fine Art, & Collectibles Insurance
Q: Do I need specific insurance for my valuables?
A: We recommend insuring valuable items to protect against theft, loss, or damage. Recent appraisals and a detailed inventory are advisable. Consult with our agency for tailored coverage as most standard property insurance policies have specific limits for valuable items included Jewelry, Art, & many other forms of collectibles.