How to prepare your boat for a storm

Preparing your boat for an oncoming storm is crucial to ensure the safety of you and your boat. Here are a few tips from us at Wise Insurance Agency to ensure that you are adequately prepared while in the Ft. Wayne, IN area or anywhere you set sail.

How to prepare your boat for a storm

1.) Check out the forecast

Before heading out on the water, it is always best to check out weather forecasts so that you can plan accordingly. If a storm is expected, proceed with caution or reschedule your voyage until after the storm passes.

2.) Secure loose items

You want to make sure any loose items such as sails, halyards, or ropes are securely tied down in order to prevent them from becoming hazardous projectiles due to strong winds. Additionally, it’s important to cover and secure any fragile items like electronics or fuel tanks to protect them from potential damage. 

3.) Anchor safely

Choose a location that has plenty of shelter from high winds and waves to anchor more securely. Make sure that your anchor rope is long enough and securely attached so that it won’t break away during the storm. 

4.) Prepare a ‘storm kit’

Keeping essential items such as extra supplies (food & water), flashlights, life jackets, etc. stored together near the entrance of the boat will keep them easily accessible during an emergency situation caused by foul weather conditions. 

Get Boat Insurance Today

By taking these precautions before setting off on your voyage, you can be confident knowing you have done all that’s necessary to prepare for any upcoming storms and stay safe while out on the open waters!  For more tips, and for the best insurance coverage for your watercraft, call us at the Wise Insurance Agency today. We proudly serve the Ft. Wayne, IN area.

Should I Consider Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance is not a requirement for those who live in the Ft. Wayne, IN region, though it is an option many consider to protect them in various avenues of life. Your Wise Insurance Agency representative can further help you determine what types of umbrella insurance to consider. 

Why Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance is designed to work together with policies that you have already procured, and this means that there are available indemnifications for almost every major insurance category. 

Your standard indemnification will carry limits to protect you against various covered perils, but when these caps are reached, your umbrella insurance will begin to pay for expenses. These ceilings are typically much higher than your primary policy and can extend into millions of dollars. 

If your company does business in a manner that can see lawsuits of exorbitant amounts, for example, an umbrella insurance policy is one way to make sure you won’t be bankrupted by a product or service failure. Another benefit of umbrella insurance is that it will contain other insurance subtypes to cover additional types of hazards. 

People who own specialty vehicles, rare, or hard-to-replace cars may opt for a higher coverage value due to the unlikely scenario that regular automobile insurance can completely cover costs. 

Likewise, if your home is particularly valuable or you own items that are heirlooms or costly, umbrella insurance may be a good choice. This same principle can also apply to renters insurance, as your personal possessions will be a consideration in the coverage you choose. 

Wise Insurance Agency is Here to Help

We can put together a specialized insurance package to meet your every need, and we invite you to speak to one of our trained associates to discuss the particulars of your situation. We serve clients who live in and around the Ft. Wayne, IN area. 

What to Consider When Insuring a Used Car

A thorough, current car insurance policy is more than just a good idea for Ft. Wayne, IN drivers. It’s illegal to drive any car without it, and this includes used vehicles. Here’s what to consider when talking to your Wise Insurance Agency representative about which policy is best for you.

Insuring a Used Car

You can add your used car to an existing policy

If you already own other vehicles, it’s usually possible to add a used car you’re thinking about purchasing to your existing policy. But you may wish to talk to your insurance agent before doing so. They’ll be able to help you figure out which option is the best fit for your household’s unique needs.

You may need insurance to drive your car off the lot

In most states, it’s illegal to drive a car without insurance in the state of Indiana. And, yes, this technically includes driving it off the lot once you’ve purchased it. In fact, most dealerships will expect you to prove you’re insured before allowing you to do so, so you’ll want to get your auto insurance squared away before finalizing your purchase.

Your age may affect your rate

Many factors can affect the final rate attached to your used car’s auto insurance policy, but age is one many drivers forget to consider. In many cases, rates go up for higher-risk age groups, like senior citizens and young drivers. But some factors – like spotless driving records – can help offset risk factors, so ask your agent to assess your situation.

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Overall, it’s often cheaper and easier to insure a used Ft. Wayne, IN car than it is a newer model, as they’re generally not as valuable. But some makes or models may cost more than others, just as with new vehicles. Get in touch with your Wise Insurance Agency agent today to discuss your options!

4 Benefits of Condo Insurance

Condominiums are gaining popularity in the US as a means of acquiring shelter or investment. Regrettably, many Ft. Wayne, IN residents assume that purchasing condo insurance isn’t necessary because they have the condo association (COA) policy.

The master policy held by the condo association is not enough to guarantee maximum coverage for your condo. Therefore, buying condo insurance from Wise Insurance Agency is prudent to safeguard your assets and other areas of your life.

Here are the benefits of condo insurance:

Condo insurance safeguards you from lawsuits

Have you ever wondered what can transpire when a visitor is injured while residing on your property, and they sue you? Condo insurance caters to legal fees and other awarded damages to the third party if they file a case.

It covers your assets

Your COA policy covers your condo’s exterior. However, you are responsible for the damage to your assets and the condo’s interior. If you want to protect your furniture, electronics, and other assets, please invest in condo insurance.

It helps to cover medical expenses

What happens if your guests slip and break their legs while residing within your condominium complex? If any guest gets injured within your condominium, condo insurance caters to medical costs that might have been incurred. It also extends coverage to any injury inflicted by your pet or family member, irrespective of where that injury happens.

It provides loss-of-use coverage

What happens when your condominium gets damaged and becomes uninhabitable? Worry not because condo insurance caters to additional expenses, such as accommodation fees and food, while your condo is being repaired or rebuilt.

Get Condo Insurance Today

Are you a condominium owner in Ft. Wayne, IN, searching for affordable condo insurance? Call or visit us at Wise Insurance Agency and get more information about condo insurance.

Don’t go another winter without comprehensive home protection

Homeowners in the greater Ft. Wayne, IN area can turn to the team at Wise Insurance Agency for all of their insurance needs. We understand how important it is to protect one’s family home, and we are here to help. Give our office a call today and schedule an appointment to learn more about the options that are available in our area. 

Make sure your home is well-protected this winter

Winters in our area can be pretty brutal, and it’s important to have a homeowners policy that provides the protection you need. Now is an ideal time to closely review your current policy and check for any gaps in coverage. Having the right policy for protecting your home is more important in winter than at other times of the year.

Our team can help you review your policy and determine if it provides the protection you want this winter. If you determine that it’s time for a more robust policy, we can help you upgrade to a more comprehensive policy. There’s no reason to go through another winter without the protection that you need to protect your home.

Comprehensive home policies can provide a higher level of protection just when you need it most. Don’t hesitate to call on us with any questions or concerns that you may have. Our team has the knowledge and experience necessary to help you with all of your insurance needs. 

Give us a call today!

Wise Insurance Agency is here to help our friends and neighbors in Ft. Wayne, IN and the surrounding area with all of their home insurance policies. If you have questions about your current policy or are in the process of buying a new home, you can rely on us! Call or stop by today. 

Important Tips to Consider When Looking for Renter’s Insurance

Indiana is an ideal state to settle down in. It is a low-tax, low-crime rate, and scenic location with all the right amenities to build a home. If you are looking to come and study, work, or reside here, you want to consider covering your rented house and the property within with renters insurance. Wise Insurance Agency in Ft. Wayne, IN can provide you with expert insurance advice on this important coverage.

Is Renter’s Insurance Required?

No law specifically requires renters insurance, but your landlord may ask for it. Renters insurance is intended for residents planning to rent a home and covers what is inside the property, not the structure itself.

What Coverage Is Available Under Renter’s Insurance?

  • Personal property insurance: this covers the property inside your house from events such as water damage, theft, fire, vandalism, smoke, vehicular accidents, and other risks.
  • Third-party liability: This coverage caters to the cost should someone get injured on your property or should anyone listed on your cover cause damage to a neighbor.
  • Loss of use: should you be unable to access your home because of events such as fire, tornadoes, or any other natural disaster, this insurance cover will help you access accommodation, food, laundry, and other essential amenities.

How Much Does Renter’s Insurance Cost in Indiana?

Renter’s insurance is reasonably cost-effective, and it is often up to you to decide the level of coverage you need. The value will depend on the property within your home and what coverage is of utmost priority to you.

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Many landlords ask their renters for this insurance coverage as they may not be able to replace your property and valuables should anything happen. Please visit Wise Insurance Agency in Ft. Wayne, IN for more information about renter’s insurance.

What Will My Boat Insurance Policy Cover?

Boat insurance protects your investment and keeps you covered in case of an accident or disaster. Most boat insurance policies have an agreed value clause, which means that the company will only pay the current value of the boat if it’s damaged or stolen. Consult with Wise Insurance Agency in Ft. Wayne, IN for expert insurance advice.

Boat Insurance: What You Need To Know

Most boat insurance policies will offer some degree of protection against accidents and negligence, as well as weather conditions that could cause significant damage to your boat. Most policies come with a variety of standard and optional coverage options, so you can choose the levels of risk and coverage that are most appropriate for your situation. 

Boat insurance policies vary, but most will cover things like damage to the boat, medical bills from accidents on the water, and liability if someone is injured either on the boat or by it. Depending on your policy, you may also have coverage for things like ferrying services if your boat breaks down or emergency towing if you’re in a collision or run aground. 

You may also receive coverage for the cost of hiring a contractor if you sink or capsize your boat. Boat insurance policies can also offer protection against certain liabilities, such as passenger injuries. They may cover the cost of towing and storage if your boat becomes disabled due to mechanical issues, or medical bills if someone on board is injured due to negligence on the part of the boat’s captain. 

Give Us A Call

What one provider considers “standard” coverage might be completely unnecessary for your situation. A different provider may consider essential coverage to be completely excessive for your situation. The best way to determine the right boat insurance policy is to shop around and ask questions. Contact us today at Wise Insurance Agency for inquiries in Ft. Wayne, IN.

Why Seniors Might Need Umbrella Insurance

You might benefit from umbrella insurance if you are a senior or retiree in Ft. Wayne, IN. This type of insurance gives you an extra layer of protection on top of what you have. It could be especially useful if you have a business, rent your home as an Airbnb, or even have your grandchildren or neighbor’s kids over a lot. If you have a sizable amount of assets, umbrella insurance can also help protect these assets. Wise Insurance Agency provides this guide in navigating this important coverage.

General Scenarios to Consider

Umbrella insurance typically kicks in after other types of coverage have been used up. For instance, if a car accident exhausts your auto coverage limits, umbrella insurance might cover what is left. General scenarios in which your normal coverage limits could be exceeded include an Airbnb guest falling on your property, your neighbor’s child breaking his leg severely on a play set in your yard, or your business getting sued. Wise Insurance Agency can help you figure out if umbrella insurance could be useful for your situation.

Retirement Income Is Not Always Reliable

Unfortunately, retirement income is not always the most predictable. Some seniors are just one or two crises away from not being able to pay their bills. Umbrella insurance could help if unpredictable expenses occur. Home insurance, car insurance, and other types of insurance are critical, of course, but umbrella policies offer more comprehensive protection for not much more money per month than what consumers already pay.

Give Us A Call

Wise Insurance Agency is here to provide you with expert insurance advice in the greater Ft. Wayne, IN community. Get in touch today for information and details on umbrella insurance.

Do I Need Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

As an Ft. Wayne, IN resident, you may be wondering if you need comprehensive auto insurance. The answer is—maybe. While comprehensive coverage is not required by law in Indiana, it can be beneficial in certain situations. Wise Insurance Agency provides this guide in navigating comprehensive auto insurance and when it’s necessary.

What is Comprehensive Auto Insurance?

Comprehensive auto insurance is a type of coverage that protects you from damage to your vehicle, whether it’s your fault or not. This can include harm from weather, fire, theft, or vandalism. If your car is totaled in an accident, your comprehensive insurance will also payout.

When is Comprehensive Insurance Required?

The state doesn’t require drivers to have comprehensive insurance, but your lender will probably need it if you’re still paying off your car. They want to make sure their investment is protected in case of an accident. A Wise Insurance Agency representative can help you understand your options if you’re still paying off your car.

If you’re not required to have comprehensive insurance and don’t have a loan on your vehicle, you might still want to consider it. That’s because comprehensive coverage can save you a lot of money in the long run if your car is damaged in an accident or stolen.

How Much Does Comprehensive Auto Insurance Cost?

The cost of comprehensive insurance will vary depending on your car, your driving record, and where you live. Your deductible amount also plays a role in how much you pay for coverage.

Your best bet is to speak with a Wise Insurance Agency representative serving the greater Ft. Wayne, IN community about your specific needs. We can help you find the right policy for your vehicle and budget.

Benefits of Home Insurance in Ft. Wayne, IN

Home insurance protects your investment in your home and can help you financially if something goes wrong. If you’re a homeowner in Ft. Wayne, IN, you know that having insurance is essential. But what are some of the specific benefits of homeowner’s insurance in Indiana?

Rebuild After a Disaster

Even if you don’t live in an area that’s prone to natural disasters, it’s still a good idea to have homeowner’s insurance in case something unexpected happens. The most apparent benefit of homeowner’s insurance is that it can help you rebuild your home if a fire or other covered disaster destroys it. Home insurance can also help if severe weather, theft, or vandalism damages your home.

Your Wise Insurance Agency representative can help you choose the proper homeowner’s insurance policy to protect your home and belongings.

Personal Property Coverage

Another essential benefit of homeowner’s insurance is that it can cover the cost of replacing your belongings if they’re damaged or stolen. Most policies have limits on how much they’ll pay for specific items, so it’s important to read your policy carefully and understand what’s covered. You may also want to consider purchasing additional coverage for valuable items such as jewelry, art, or electronics.

Liability Coverage

If someone is injured on your property or you’re sued for damages, liability coverage can help protect you financially. Homeowner’s insurance can help cover the cost of medical bills, legal fees, and property damage. 

Guest Medical Coverage

If a guest is injured at your home, guest medical coverage can help pay for their medical bills. This coverage is usually included in standard homeowner’s insurance policies, but it’s important to make sure.

As you can see, there are many benefits of homeowner’s insurance in Ft. Wayne, IN. Contact Wise Insurance Agency for more information or to get a quote.