Auto Insurance Premiums in Redmond, WA – What to know

May 8, 2013 By Tosten

You get a bill every month (or every six months depending on your preference) for your auto insurance premiums in Redmond, WA. Your policy details what is covered and what is not. What it may not detail is how the policy cost was determined. There are many factors that go into an individual auto policy price and likely, no two auto policies are the same since the factors largely depend on the insured driver.

Auto insurance premiums in Washington may be determined by:

Driving History: The most obvious factor is your driving history. Drivers that have accumulated many accidents and tickets typically pay more than those who don’t. Same goes for freshly minted drivers (of any age) and those who have not had insurance for an extended period of time regardless of the circumstance. While some of the factors cannot be mitigated, a few can. Staying alert and following the rules of the road can reduce the likelihood of accidents or tickets, thus potentially reducing the cost of your auto insurance premiums.
Age: Age is one of those factors that cannot be helped. The younger you are, they higher risk you are considered. While society considers you an adult between 18 and 21, the insurance industry considers you an adult at the age of 25 which is when insurance premiums tend to drop a bit for the matured driver. Another factor you can’t change? Your gender. In the great battle of the sexes, women take the lead on this one as they tend to be safer drivers as a whole. Women tend to take fewer risks when driving, giving females an advantage when it comes to insurance premiums as they tend to pay less than their male counterparts.
Location: Do you live in an area that is prone to car prowls or do you live a significant distance away from work? These are factors that will figure into your insurance premium. Statistically, the more you are on the road, the greater the likelihood that an accident may occur. So if you commute a long way to work (notice on your insurance application they ask you the distance from home to work?) you may incur a higher auto insurance premiums than someone who lives within a few miles of their workplace.
Make/Model: While that little red sports car is a tempting buy, you will likely end up paying more for your auto insurance than say a family sedan. Not that you should be discouraged from buying the sports car of your dreams, just make sure you talk to your insurance agent prior to your purchase so you can be aware of the potential rate change.
Type of Insurance Plan: Did you go for the “platinum” insurance package? You know the one: maximum coverage and a low deductible? A lower deductible means a higher upfront policy rate. Drivers who opt for the minimum coverages required by law in their state and a higher deductible may pay less for their policy. Make sure you ask your agent about your state’s required insurance coverages!
Credit : A final factor that determines car insurance premiums? A credit score. This is kind of a sensitive subject as there are some states like California that forbid the use of a credit information for an insurance policy. A credit score is used to assess risk, the thought being the higher the credit score the lower the risk, but that is not always the case. An overall driving history is the best indicator of risk, regardless of a credit score. You can check with your agent to see if your state allows the use of a credit score in determining insurance policies.

There you have it folks. There are so many factors that influence the cost of auto insurance premiums. Since most policies renew every six months, the cost fluctuates each time depending on your situation. Make sure you let your licensed insurance agent in Redmond, Washington know if you purchased a new car, had an accident or ticket, or if you changed your name (marriage, divorce, etc.). The local, independent agents at Chess Insurance can assist you with adding or amending an existing policy or setting you up with a new policy. Their years of insurance experience can save you a bundle. You can also visit their insurance website 24/7 to learn more about auto insurance or the other insurance products they offer like classic car or home insurance.

Saving Money Is Easier Than You Think – Insurance and Energy Tips in Redmond, WA

April 23, 2013 By Tosten

Follow these easy home insurance tips and you can save money in Redmond, WA

It seems these days that things just get more and more expensive. From the cost of groceries to a gallon of gasoline, folks may be pinching quite a few pennies to stay ahead. If you own a home or condo, just the maintenance and home insurance in Redmond, WA can feel like an overwhelming cost. But fear not, there are some simple things you can do around your dwelling to help reduce the cost of your home or condo insurance in Redmond, WA.

LOCATION: Before you even buy your home or condo, check out the location. Are you close to a fire or police station? Is the area prone to flooding or earthquakes (ahem, PNW)? Make sure you not only look at the convenience factors of your new home (grocery stores, freeway access) but make sure the area is also safe. Neighborhoods with high crime rates or those in a flood plain may cost more to insure as the likelihood of an expensive claim is greater than those neighborhoods without those factors.
SMOKE DETECTORS: Is your home safe and secure? Most home these days have smoke detectors, but check to make sure yours are in proper working order and have fresh batteries (we all hate that beeping!). It is also a good idea to keep a small fire extinguisher in your kitchen or garage in the event of small household fire; accidents happen and being prepared goes a long way. Make sure that your insurance agent knows that you have working smoke detectors and a fire extinguisher.
SECURITY SYSTEM: Is your home wired for a security system? While it may be a small monthly charge, having a security system could save you coin on your insurance premium. That being said, make sure your system is armed and those who need the code have it…otherwise the local police department, upon responding to the babysitter couldn’t shut off the alarm, will send a ticket upwards of $200 to you, the homeowner.
MAINTENANCE: You water the lawn and trim the hedges, but do you remember to check the water heater for leaks? Performing a little TLC on your home like keeping the roof in good repair, maintain the gutters, eliminating hazards like dead trees (also pruning tree branches that a perched above roofs, cars or decks) can eliminate the need for an insurance claim should the water heater flood the house or the roof begins to leak. Also, catching small issues early generally saves you money during the overall repair.
ENERGY UPGRADES: We want our cars to be energy efficient, consuming less gas so we can save more money, your home should be the same way. Switching out light bulbs to energy efficient LED bulbs and having certified energy efficient appliances can help save you money each month on your utility bills. Even turning your thermostat down a few degrees and grabbing a blanket to get warm can help you save. If you have been thinking about replacing your water heater, washer/dryer, range or refrigerator, check out Energystar.gov for Energy Star certified appliances and other helpful home efficiency ideas.

Be sure to tell your agent about any upgrades or improvements that you have made to your home!

Before purchasing a home or condo, it’s important to remember to talk to your licensed insurance agent in Redmond, WA to ensure the homeowners insurance is affordable. Before you conclude that you found the perfect property, get an expert opinion from Chess Insurance in Redmond, WA. Their years of insurance experience can save you a bundle, and they live right in your area, so know first-hand what your insurance needs might be such as earthquake insurance or flood insurance. You can also visit our insurance website 24/7 to learn more while you search for the perfect new home.

Sewer & Water Backup – a Nasty Possibility

March 15, 2013 By Tosten

There is a phrase that can strike fear into the heart of any homeowner in Redmond, WA: water or sewer backup.

With fall and spring typically being the two wettest months in the U.S., it is important to inspect our homes for susceptible sewer or water backup in our drain lines. There are certain steps that a homeowner can take to reduce the risk of a water or sewer back-up crisis.

Check around the home, foundation, basement, etc. for cracks that water or sewer waste can enter. Repair and fill any cracks
Ask a plumbing professional to see if your system can accept a shut-off valve to be used in case of a back-up emergency. Your insurance agent can refer you to licensed professional.
If you live on or below a floodplain take steps to ensure that furniture and valuables are stored above the flood line.
Do not pour grease down sinks or toilets
If a water or sewer back-up occurs do not attempt clean up without protection: gloves, face masks and eye protection.

Generally a water or sewer back up is caused when heavy rains or floodwaters over run the sewer system as well as your sump pump. Debris from rainstorms or natural disasters can also clog the system, potentially causing a nasty mess to push backwards into your home.

While you may have a homeowners policy a claim from water or sewer back-up can be costly and typically is not covered by your traditional standard homeowners insurance policy. This is a separate endorsement that your agent can add to your policy to ensure you’re covered in the event of such a claim. Homes that are located on hills, mountains, or other raised plateaus may have a lower likelihood of a water or sewer back up than homes located on low or flat plains, but that does not exclude them from having these issues. Any home can have a water or sewer backup claim

Talk to your Redmond, WA insurance agent to determine whether or not a water or sewer back up policy or endorsement is right for your home.

Do I need Rental Insurance for a U-haul?

February 7, 2013 By Tosten

U-Haul Rental Insurance in Washington

A common question we receive is whether or not our insurance would cover us for a rental motorhome or moving truck. And the answer really depends solely on the size of the vehicle (in addition to what coverage you currently carry, of course).

When talking about your collision and comprehensive coverage, your standard auto policy will cover the usage of a temporary replacement vehicle usually up to 12,000 GVW. If a vehicle is over this GVW, it would be excluded from coverage. Additionally, if the cab is separated from the bed, this will also create an exclusion from coverage for most auto insurance policies.

Truck rental companies typically offer four types of coverage.

Damage Waiver: covers you in case of damage to the truck. If you do not purchase this coverage, you are responsible for any and all damage to the vehicle, no matter what the cause. If you decide to decline this coverage, you may be responsible to pay the damages to the truck even if they are not your fault. Something to keep in mind is depending on the extent of the repairs, you may be held responsible for loss of use on the vehicle.
Liability Coverage: covers you in case you hit something or someone. Your auto policy may cover this, but please call us in advance before you rent a vehicle to make sure. Each company is different.
Cargo Coverage: Your auto policy will NOT cover any cargo that you are carrying. Period. If you are moving valuables, you may consider this coverage, depending on the values. If you’re moving a mattress or other item that will likely not be damaged, it would probably be wise to save your money, but only you can decide.
Personal Injury Protection: This is a no-fault insurance and can be used anytime you’re involved in a motor vehicle collision, regardless of the motor vehicle you’re traveling in.

With anything, please feel free to call us with questions. This article is meant to be informative, but not a means of advice. If you have questions about a rental vehicle, please contact our office and speak directly to a licensed agent.

Jewelry Insurance Protection for Valentine’s Day

February 7, 2013 By Tosten

Protect your Valuable Valentine’s Day Gift with a Jewelry Endorsement to your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy

You have painstakingly perused through the mall jewelry stores and online retailers to find the perfect “I love you” gift for Valentine’s Day. It is purchased, wrapped and you are anxiously waiting to see the look of joy on your sweetie’s face come V-Day. According to a 2013 survey by the National Retail Federation, approximately $4.4 million will be spent on jewelry this Valentine’s Day, but only 1 in 10 will have their jewelry insured.

Homeowner’s insurance in Washington and renter’s insurance in Washington can cover loss or theft of jewelry, but generally it is a very small amount, sometimes as little as $500. Even then it may not cover the loss of item if Junior flushes it down the toilet or it gets mangled in the garbage disposal. Having a separate valuables policy can help ensure that you are reimbursed for the value of your item(s) should a claim be necessary. In the event of a claim, you can make the process easier for yourself and your agent:

Photograph items that are included in your valuables policy.
Keep receipts or appraisal records, this makes it easier to establish a price value for your items
Have a written record of items, update as new items are purchased
Update your agent as new items are purchased

Often these polices can include other valuable items likes art, fine wine, crystal, etc., and there may be little to no deductible if any items need to be replaced. One can also apply this list to household appliances and electronics, because while the flat-screen may not be as valuable as great-grandma’s vintage Tiffany’s wedding band, it is still a good idea to photograph and keep a running list of all household items to help make the claims process easier and establish value in the event of theft or loss.

Call your agent today and ask how we can help you add a separate valuables policy to your existing homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy today!

Protecting your Home in Redmond, WA from Mold & Mildew Damage

December 20, 2012 By Tosten

Many homeowners don’t think about mold and in all honesty, most will never have to deal with a large mold problem in their homes. However, mold is an issue in almost all parts of the United States, including Redmond, WA where it is often wet and mild temperatures, and prevention is key to keeping mold from damaging or even ruining your home.

Mold, if left undetected, can quickly spread from one area to another as it feeds on organic matter in your household. In order to prevent mold from spreading, it is key to identify it immediately and treat it. Most homeowners insurance policies will only pay to remove and/or repair a small amount of damage caused by mold or mildew.

While it may be impossible for a typical homeowner to identify mold problems in their home, it is recommended that you have a mold inspection completed annually to ensure that if mold begins growing, that it can be removed and the problem eliminated before it becomes a major problem.

There are several problem areas in homes where mold tends to grow. Be sure you check your:

Basements (walls, corners, any exposed wood)
Crawl spaces (is the ground wet? What about the floor joists? Pull back a bit of insulation and look), attics (look up in your attic at the underside of the roof)
Bathrooms (tile grout, behind the toilet, under the sink)
Kitchens (behind the dishwasher, under the sink and anywhere else that may get wet regularly)
and around your windows.

Mold Treatment

If you find mold growing in your home, the minor cases (usually less than the size of your hand) can be treated with bleach water and a scrub brush or abrasive sponge to remove it. Mold remediation is typically not covered by your standard homeowners insurance policy unless it is the direct result of another, covered loss such as a pipe bursting. Regardless, you need to talk to your licensed insurance agent for a more definitive answer as all homeowner’s insurance policies are different and what one company may cover, another may not.

Mold claims can be very expensive, typically exceeding the cost of a traditional homeowners insurance claim by 5 times. If you suspect mold may be in your household (a damp smell in the air) contact a specialist immediately. Not only can mold be bad for your home, it can have serious effects on your health resulting in asthma and more.

Thinking about hiring a contractor from a classified ad? Read this first.

November 6, 2012 By Tosten

Use Caution and Common Sense When Hiring off of Craigslist or other Free Classified Ads

It is so tempting… a contractor who will perform a landscaping job for ½ of what other quotes were and to think… you found him on Craigslist! Certainly Craigslist and other free classified websites have become a terrific resource for used goods as well as handyman services. However, there are stories of liability claim scams across the country that have homeowner’s getting burned. To put it simply, you’re taking a chance when you hire a non-reputable contractor to do work on your home, regardless of where you found him. So, we’ve put together a few items to help you avoid the headache of an “injured” contractor on your property which results in a liability claim against your homeowner’s policy.

Research and ask question. If you find a contractor or other service related worker on Craigslist or other sites, ask them if they have a website or if there is someone who wouldn’t mind talking to them about their skill. It’s okay to ask for references. Most small businesses survive off of word-of-mouth advertising, so don’t be afraid to ask for a couple.
Utilize the internet further. Go to Google and type in: “Contractor License Lookup.” This should produce your states .gov resource and you can see if the contract you’re hiring is licensed or not. It will also show if their license is expired and when it expired.
Documentation: Ask the contractor for a copy of their license as well as documentation of their insurance and bond. Note: Check the dates on the license as well as the insurance to ensure they’re currently in force or active.
Ask more questions: Not only is it important to protect your insurance from a scam, but ensure your pocketbook doesn’t get taken for a ride too. Ask questions like, “Is this an estimate or a final bid?” “Does this estimate include parts and labor?” The more questions you ask, the better you will feel and the more the contractor will understand that you’re educated on this process.

It isn’t just the answers to the questions above that will help you decide on a potential contractor, but how they answer them. If they aren’t forthcoming about certain items or aren’t willing to give you references, it is likely not a good idea to hire them. If they can’t communicate with you now about things, how difficult would it be if you have issues with them after the work has started? Be clear from the beginning on your expectations and always remember to call your insurance agent for advice before a home renovation begins.

Can you REALLY save money on car insurance?

October 3, 2012 By Tosten

“Switch now and save!” “15 minutes can save you 15 percent!”

You’re heard the countless commercials about saving money on car insurance in Redmond, WA. So, we decided it would be helpful to see where all of these discounts come from and how you can save money by buying from an independent insurance agency in Redmond, WA – Chess Insurance!

Safe Drivers Discount: Safe Drivers cost less because they’re safe and the risk to the insurance company is less. With most companies, safe drivers can pay up to 45% less on insurance premiums over their not-so-safe counterparts!
Advance Shopping/Advance Quoting Discount: You don’t have to wait until your insurance expires to get a renewal quote or to move companies. In fact, if you shop in advance, many companies will give you a discount as it shows you’re responsible and likely to pay your bills on time versus waiting until right before renewal to start shopping. This can save you upwards of 10% with some companies.
Disappearing Deductibles: While not a discount on the front end, certainly a way you would save money. Stay with the same company long enough and with some products, you deductibles will reduce each year until they are gone. This discount will only apply if you don’t have an accident. When you do, the deductibles start over and will again, start to disappear.
Good Student Discounts: Save up to 5% typically on this discount for students who maintain a 3.0 GPA and are under the age of 25.
EFT and Paid in Full Discounts: Save big, up to 10% by paying with recurring EFT or by paying your premium in full.
Prompt Payer Discount: Pay your premium on time for one year and you’ll receive a discount at renewal.
Safety Course (Motorcycle) Discount: Complete a safety course and receive a discount when you provide your certificate.
Multi-policy Discount: Save by bundling your auto insurance and home insurance with the same carrier. This discount often applies to other products as well such as auto and motorcycle. The discounts range from carrier to carrier, but are typically in the 10% off each product range.
Anti-Theft Devices: Having an anti-theft recovery device such as LoJack can save you up to 10% off of comprehensive premiums.
Previous Limits: Having your previous liability limits higher will actually give you a better “tier” with certain companies. For instance, if you have 25/50 liability previously you will often pay a higher premium than someone who has 100/300 liability previously. The companies consider this as a risk factor when taking on a new client.
Multi-car Discounts: If you have multiple cars in the same household, you can earn a discount on your insurance premium. These discounts vary greatly from carrier to carrier as well as state to state.
Snapshot Discount: Progressive has introduced a device called Snapshot that takes a look at your driving habits when installed in your vehicle. You can save upwards of 25% by installing this device in your vehicle.
Homeowner’s Discount: Receive a discount on your car insurance simply by owning your house, condo or mobile home.
Original Owner Discount (boat & RV): If you’re the original owner of a boat, you are eligible for a discount with some carriers.

There are even more ways to save on auto insurance in Redmond, but these hit the high notes. Be sure to talk to your local independent insurance agent in Redmond – Chess Insurance. They have the ability to shop you though several carriers at one time and can compare rates side by side. Call Chess today at: 425-392-1588

Motorcycle Riding in Fall

October 3, 2012 By Tosten

5 Reasons to Enjoy a Fall Motorcycle Ride

With the smell of fall in the air, it is an ideal time to enjoy a road trip on your motorcycle! Fall brings some great cooler weather and some terrific opportunities to get out on your motorcycle.

Here are our top reasons to get your bike out and enjoy a fall day trip.

Fall provides amazing colors, temperatures but shorter days. Get up early to make the most of your day as fall days can be up to four hours of daylight shorter depending on where you are.
Cooler temperatures means you can wear those new leathers you got yourself during summer clearance. Pull the new gear out, pack yourself a lunch and head off into the morning sun.
You can take a longer ride. With cooler temperatures in the air, you can spend all day out in the sun and not worry about getting dehydrated or simply worn out by the heat.
Visit national parks. The national parks are a beautiful place to take a ride in the fall. But be on the lookout as animals are more active in the fall than in the summer. Here is a link to our national parks.
Let’s be honest… It’s amazing how many riders put their bikes “away” in the fall, isn’t it? That does leave the roads to us more (pun) “seasoned riders”.

So, be safe, pack a blanket, some snacks and a camera and get out there and enjoy the fall weather! If you would like to ensure your insurance is up to snuff, call Chess Insurance in Redmond to review your motorcycle insurance coverages!

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Chess Insurance: 425-392-1588