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CO Insurance Specialist

6990 W. 38th Ave. #200
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033

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How Do I Know What Types of Water Damage Are or Are Not Covered By My Home Insurance Policy?

Navigating the ins and outs of home insurance can feel overwhelming, especially when understanding water damage coverage. At CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO, we’re here to help clarify what types of water damage are typically covered by your home insurance policy and what might not be.

Covered Water Damage

Most standard home insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, including events like burst pipes or a malfunctioning washing machine. If water damage occurs unexpectedly and requires immediate attention, it’s likely covered. However, it’s essential to review your specific policy details to ensure these scenarios are included.

Exclusions to Watch Out For

However, not all water damage is treated equally. Damage resulting from unresolved maintenance issues, like slow leaks or ongoing seepage, is usually not covered. Insurance companies expect homeowners to maintain their properties, and ignoring minor problems can lead to costly repairs that aren’t covered.

Floods and External Water Sources

One common misconception is that home insurance policies cover flood damage. Unfortunately, they generally do not. Flooding from natural events, such as heavy rain or rising rivers, requires separate flood insurance. It’s crucial to assess your home’s flood risk and consider additional coverage if necessary.

Clarifying Your Coverage

Understanding your policy can be tricky, but avoiding surprises is vital. Regularly reviewing your insurance documents and speaking with your agent can provide clarity. If you’re unsure about your current coverage, reach out for a detailed explanation.

At CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO, we’re dedicated to helping you understand your policy. Contact us today to ensure you have the coverage you need to protect your home against water damage.

Safe Driving Tips For the Whole Family

Driving is a fact of modern life for most Americans. Cars get people from A to Z and everywhere in between. That said, vehicles move fast and are heavy. As such, car accidents can be severe, and safety is a must. We’ll provide some safety tips below. One crucial safety tip that should be mentioned upfront is that you need the right auto insurance policy. If you are looking for auto insurance in Wheat Ridge, CO, contact the CO Insurance Specialist.

Making Driving Safer With the Right Practices

First, families need to keep an eye on their cars. You should check the tires regularly to ensure they are correctly inflated and in good condition. Also, make sure brake lights, headlights, and turn signals are working. Before hitting the road, it’s also a good idea to know the weather. Rain, snow, ice, high winds, flooding, and other weather factors can increase risks.

Distracted driving has become a significant cause of car accidents in Colorado and across the United States. Don’t text and drive, and don’t get distracted by the radio, either. If you get in a car accident, you’ll surely regret it.

It’s crucial to follow the law as well. Know the local speed limits and other rules for operating motor vehicles. Tickets may result in fines and even criminal charges, but your car insurance premium may also increase.

Finally, insurance is a requirement in most states. It’s crucial to ensure that the right insurance plan adequately covers you. The right plan for one family might not be the right plan for another family, so it’s wise to work with insurance agents. If you and your family need assistance with auto insurance, contact the CO Insurance Specialist serving Wheat Ridge, CO.

Home Insurance Options in Wheat Ridge

There are many things homeowners do to care for and maintain their homes. For many people, their homes are a refuge, a place of comfort, and even a source of pride and joy. That is also why so many people choose to protect their homes with home insurance and why homeowners in and around the Wheat Ridge, CO area turn to the professional and friendly team at the CO Insurance Specialist for all their home insurance needs.

Finding the Right Home Insurance Solutions

Most homeowners need a little effort, knowledge, and maybe some guidance for most maintenance and home upkeep demands. There is insurance for everything else, like roof repairs, flooding damage, and other major concerns. To help with major repairs and expenses to protect from theft, liability, and more, the right home insurance coverage can make a difference.

That is also why working with trusted and professional agents who can help with all your coverage needs and questions is important. Although many people strive to achieve homeownership, it can also be an expensive experience. Fortunately, in many scenarios, home insurance is the solution and how homeowners navigate the concern of costly home repairs.

Insurance Options for Your Home in Wheat Ridge

Are you a homeowner in or around the Wheat Ridge, CO, area? Do you have questions about home insurance or want to learn more about home insurance for your humble (or not-so-humble) abode? Then our friendly, experienced, and professional team at the CO Insurance Specialist is here for all your questions and all your home insurance needs. Contact us to find out more and schedule an appointment today with the CO Insurance Specialist for the protection you and your home need and deserve.

If I Have an Accident with My Classic Car, Can I Repair It Myself?

Many classic car owners take their cars to shows and discuss them with others, particularly when restoring cars themselves. The proof is in the pudding, and bragging rights come from the expertise and care that returned the car to its glory days. Your dedication to the craft is why some insurance policies allow owners to do their own repairs. If you need classic car or other insurance and live in or near Wheat Ridge, CO, contact the CO Insurance Specialist team for assistance.

Classic Car Insurance and Self Repair

Classic cars are not everyday drivers. They are unique, just like their owners. These differences are why classic car owners’ needs differ when their cars are involved in accidents and why some insurance policies cater to those needs.

Insurance companies encourage everyday vehicle owners to use preferred repair providers, but many take a different approach with classic cars. Besides allowing owners to have repairs performed at specialist shops that charge more than mainstream repair shops, classic car policies are more flexible about the cost of replacement parts because of the need for authenticity.

Some, but not all, classic car insurance providers also allow owners to repair the car themselves. Some also help locate the parts you need for the repairs. If repairing your vehicle following an accident is important to you, discuss the issue with your agent when shopping for policies so they can find the right provider.

Working with CO Insurance Specialist

The team at CO Insurance Specialist looks forward to providing classic car insurance that best suits your needs. If you live in the Wheat Ridge, CO area, call us at 720-638-0850 or stop by today, and let us care for all your insurance needs.

Insurance Coverage for A New Driver

It is your legal responsibility to carry liability insurance when you are driving. In addition to this type of insurance, you may benefit from other types of automotive coverage. Review the tips that follow to protect yourself as a new driver.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage protects against accidents and damage that are your fault. If you are involved in a vehicular incident, you are required to report it. Once the report has been made, a liability insurance claim will be filed.

Liability protection will handle a wide range of costs associated with vehicular accidents. A policy may cover medical bills, car repairs, and property damage repairs.

Collision Coverage

Collision coverage protects your automobile against damage. Collision coverage will reimburse you for repair costs if your vehicle is damaged during an accident.

Uninsured Coverage

Uninsured coverage protects against damage that is caused by another driver who does not have valid insurance. This type of coverage will allow you to have your automobile inspected and repaired. You will not be responsible for the costs associated with restoring your vehicle.

Roadside Assistance Coverage

Roadside assistance coverage will provide financial relief if your car breaks down alongside a road. This type of coverage will handle the cost of a tow, tire repairs, and other standard automotive services. This type of insurance is often considered an add-on type of coverage. It is a voluntary type of coverage that can be added to an existing policy.

Agent Assistance

Contact one of our Wheat Ridge, CO agents for further assistance. A CO Insurance Specialist will help you choose automotive coverage for your vehicle.

Does Condo Insurance Protect the Belongings Of a Potential Roommate In My Condo?

When you decide to share your condo with a roommate, it’s essential to understand how insurance coverage might be affected. At CO Insurance Specialist, serving the greater Wheat Ridge, CO area, we often get asked whether condo insurance protects a roommate’s belongings. Let’s break down the details to help you make informed decisions.

Understanding Condo Insurance

Condo insurance, also known as an HO-6 policy, typically covers the interior of your unit and your personal belongings, along with liability protection. If your furniture, electronics, or other personal items are damaged due to a covered event, your policy should help cover the replacement or repair cost. But what about your roommate’s possessions?

Coverage for Roommates

Generally, standard condo insurance policies do not extend coverage to a roommate’s belongings. Insurance policies are designed to protect the policyholder’s assets and liabilities. Since your roommate is not named in your policy, their personal belongings will not be covered under your insurance. Each individual is responsible for insuring their own possessions.

Solutions for Roommate Coverage

To protect your roommate’s belongings, they should consider obtaining a renter’s insurance policy. Renter’s insurance is relatively affordable and provides coverage for personal property, liability, and additional living expenses if the condo becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event. This will give both of you peace of mind, knowing that everyone’s belongings are adequately protected.

At CO Insurance Specialist, we’re here to help you navigate the complexities of condo insurance. If you have questions or need advice based on your situation, we would love to help. Visit our office in Wheat Ridge, CO, or email us.

Four Tips For Traveling With Your Classic Car to Summer Shows

As the warmer months swiftly approach, ample car shows will occur in Colorado and the surrounding states. Here are the best ways to transport your classic car to these events.

1. Perform a Maintenance Check

Before hitting the road with your classic car, make sure to check the vehicle’s fluids and the battery. Doing this will allow you to avoid running into maintenance problems at the car show, which could easily have been prevented.

2. Transport It in a Trailer

Consider using a trailer for transport to prevent unnecessary mileage and wear and tear on your classic car. More importantly, this could be crucial for older cars that are not considered to be street-legal. You could use a flatbed trailer that attaches to your vehicle or an enclosed trailer that protects the car from potential sun damage.

3. Ensure Your Trailer is Secure

If you’re utilizing an enclosed trailer to transport a rare classic car, you should consider installing additional locks on the trailer and the vehicle. This is particularly important for extended trips that might require overnight stays. This will help prevent others from damaging or stealing the car.

4. Limit the Number of Passengers in the Car

A frequent question from car owners at car shows relates to whether spectators can sit in the car or even take a ride. Although it might sound fun, you should avoid letting spectators ride or drive your classic car. They won’t be insured in the event of an accident, leaving you potentially financially liable for any resulting damage.

If you are a classic car owner residing in or around Wheat Ridge, CO, and need classic car insurance, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Our team at CO Insurance Specialist is ready to help with your personalized quote needs.

Commercial Insurance Risks in Colorado

If you are the owner or manager of a business, you know how important it is to protect your business assets with commercial insurance. If you live in the Wheat Ridge, CO area and are seeking an insurance agency with commercial experience, we invite you to meet with one of our agents at CO Insurance Specialist. Our name lets you know what we’re all about. Our agents have been serving area clients since 1996. 

Commercial Insurance Risks in Colorado 

Colorado offers many business opportunities but also presents unique challenges that Colorado businesses must prepare for. Colorado residents know about natural disasters, such as wildfires, hail, and floods, so companies must ensure their property insurance considers those risks. Cyber threats have become an increased threat to offices around the country. The risks to our customers from these threats should be part of any modern commercial insurance policy. 

Businesses nationwide, including Colorado companies, must carry Worker’s Compensation insurance. These policies will cover medical expenses for employees injured on the job. Many companies consider their liability insurance policies to be their most essential coverage. Liability coverage protects the company’s assets if they are sued for a slip-and-fall accident, a product-related injury, or a marketing dispute.

Call Us Today for an Appointment 

When you want to protect your business from commercial risks, you must talk to an experienced commercial insurance agent. If you’re in the Wheat Ridge, CO area and need commercial insurance coverage, we encourage you to meet with us as a CO Insurance Specialist to discuss your insurance options. Our agents understand your business’s risks and want to help protect you against those risks. Call us for an appointment today, and we’ll help you find the insurance solutions you need.

Types of Storm Damage Home Insurance Discovers

Severe storms can wreak havoc on your home in Wheat Ridge, CO. Your homeowner’s insurance will cover most types of risks associated with severe storms. However, you must read your policy to ensure which risks receive coverage. CO Insurance Specialist can help you determine what storm risks your homeowner’s insurance policy will cover.

Typical Storm Damage Coverage

Most home insurance policies typically cover water and ice damage under specific circumstances. For example, if a thunderstorm breaches your roof and rain soaks the interior, that incident is covered. Frozen pipes that burst due to excessive cold are another covered risk. Lightning strikes are typically covered, as is smoke damage and fire from such events. Some policies may even cover damaging power surges. Damage from high winds, such as tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, is also covered. However, some policies may have restrictions on the type or amount of compensation for wind damage. Large hail produced by severe thunderstorms can significantly damage your roof and some types of siding. Homeowner’s policies typically pay for full replacement minus a deductible.

What If My Home Floods?

If you experience a flood because of excessive rain, chances are a standard homeowner’s policy will not cover the damage. You may end up footing the entire bill if you don’t have a specific provision in your policy for flood damage. Even then, you may have to endure significant exclusions. If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider getting a separate policy to cover flooding. By doing so, you’ll cover all the bases of storm damage.

You can customize your homeowner’s insurance coverage through various policy add-ons. If you have questions or want to strengthen coverage to protect yourself from all storm perils, contact the CO Insurance Specialist serving Wheat Ridge, CO. We will gladly help you find the right coverage.

What Upgrades and Conversions Are Covered By Auto Insurance?

If you have customized your car with modified or aftermarket parts, you will need to update your auto insurance policy to reflect these changes. Upgraded gear can add value to your vehicle, so altering your policy is necessary to ensure that you are compensated adequately should your car be involved in an accident or stolen. Our agents at CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO explain more about what car conversions and modifications entail.

Common Types of Modifications

Modifications are any changes in parts for your vehicle that aren’t done by the factory when you buy it. Drivers may add parts to change the auto’s performance or appearance. Some typical modifications include:

  • Turbocharge Engines
  • Custom Paint
  • Truck Bed Liner
  • Tire Rims
  • Bumpers
  • Raised or Lowered Suspension
  • Fuel System Upgrades
  • Specialized Sound Systems

Insurance providers may increase or decrease your policy’s cost depending on the upgrade and whether the parts were self or professionally installed. An example of a modification that can lower insurance premiums is installing an anti-theft system or rearview camera that improves the safety of your vehicle. Upgrading body parts or motors can result in higher insurance costs.

Benefits of Modified Car Insurance

By updating your policy, you can have the confidence of knowing that you’re financially covered should an incident occur. Not including modifications to your policy can deny your insurance claim. Another repercussion could deem your insurance coverage entirely voided.

Keep Your Policy Updated for Your Protection

Keeping your agent at CO Insurance Specialist in Wheat Ridge, CO apprised of any alterations you make to your car lets us adequately compensate you should an incident occur. Call today to get your questions answered or to update your policy with one of our specialists.

Insurance Partners
  • Allied
  • Auto Owners
  • Bristol West
  • CNA
  • Hagerty
  • Hartford
  • Infinity
  • Progressive
  • Safeco
  • Secura
  • State Auto
  • Travelers