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

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Tag: CO Insurance Specialist

Can I Combine Commercial and Umbrella Insurance?

Posted on by agentinsure

Understanding both commercial and umbrella insurance is essential for business owners, regardless of the industry they operate in. If you’re a business owner in Wheat Ridge, CO, working with CO Insurance Specialist can help you determine when umbrella insurance is necessary alongside traditional commercial insurance policies. We can guide you through the process of finding the coverage that best suits your business operations.

How Commercial and Umbrella Insurance Work Together

Commercial insurance policies, such as auto, liability, and employer liability, each have coverage limits. If a claim exceeds those limits, your business umbrella insurance will cover the remaining costs. A commercial umbrella policy:

  • Provides additional coverage on top of existing commercial policies
  • Activates when an underlying policy limit has been reached or exhausted
  • Offers an extra layer of liability protection, often in $1 million increments

When Combining the Policies Matters

Pairing commercial and umbrella insurance is especially important if your business:

  • Employs staff or subcontractors
  • Operates vehicles or heavy equipment
  • Interacts directly with clients or the public
  • Owns additional commercial property
  • Faces higher lawsuit risks due to regulations or contracts

What Umbrella Insurance Covers

Commercial umbrella insurance typically provides additional coverage for:

  • Property damage
  • Bodily injury claims
  • Legal defense costs
  • Certain personal and advertising injury claims

While umbrella insurance doesn’t replace existing policies, it supplements them. In many cases, all base policies may need to be under the same carrier for optimal protection.

Understanding how commercial and umbrella insurance work together is a key element of running a successful business in Wheat Ridge, CO. If you’re located in the area, CO Insurance Specialist is here to assist you. To learn more about combining commercial and umbrella insurance, contact us today for a quote and consultation.

Is Auto Insurance Applicable in Parking Lot Accidents?

Posted on by agentinsure

Have you ever wondered what happens after a car accident in a parking lot? If so, rest assured you are not the only one. CO Insurance Specialist has the answer.

Auto Insurance Coverage for Parking Lot Accidents

In general, most parking lot accidents are considered no-fault. This means a collision between two vehicles in a parking lot is not always the fault of either driver. Rather, the accident is viewed as no-fault as it is difficult to prove one party is clearly at fault in many parking lot collisions.

Why?

Because parking lots in Wheat Ridge, CO typically lack signage and are often short on space, making it difficult to maneuver through them. As such, collisions in these cramped spaces are sometimes the fault of both parties as opposed to only one party.

If you are involved in a parking lot accident, contact your insurer. File a claim with the insurance company. The other driver involved in the accident will also file a claim with his or her own auto insurance provider. As long as the policy is active, paid up and has the proper coverage, there’s a good chance the resulting damages will be paid for minus the deductible.

Is It Possible To Prove Fault?

There’s a chance you can prove fault in a parking lot accident yet doing so is onerous. If a surveillance camera or your vehicle’s dashboard camera caught the accident on tape, that video footage can be used in a court of law to prove fault. However, the opposing driver might argue that the lack of signage or insufficient space contributed to the accident.

Moreover, it is possible to prove fault if an eyewitness testifies on your behalf. Keep in mind, if the other driver lacks insurance, your policy’s uninsured motorist property damage coverage might kick in to cover resulting damages.

Get Your Quote From CO Insurance Specialist

Your auto insurance quote is a call away. If you live in or near the vicinity of Wheat Ridge, CO, contact us for more information.

How to Protect Your Home From a Snowstorm

Posted on by agentinsure

It’s that time of year again! Colorado gets covered in snow that makes you want to get cozy in your nice warm hat. You may feel that your house is protecting you, but when snow storms get wild you need to protect your house. If you prepare your house before the worst happens, the damage to your home will be kept at a minimum. Keep in mind, it’s not just your roof and pipes that need to be prepared. If you have large trees on your property, they need to be pruned. 

How To Protect Your Home

Start with your gutters and roof. Clean out the debris and leaves from your gutters and downspouts. This will prevent ice dams from forming to ensure proper drainage. Check your roof for damage and repair any leaks. Trim dead or weak branches that hang over walkways, cars, and your roof. Not only will you keep a snow- and ice-laden branch from causing damage, but you will discourage vermin from taking up space in your attic. Water pipes in unheated areas such as crawl spaces need to be insulated so that they don’t burst. Use caulk and weatherstripping to seal gaps around doors and windows. This will keep the cold air out. If you have a garage or carport, park your car there so it won’t be damaged by snow storms. Your furnace and chimney should be inspected and cleaned. In case of an emergency, stock up on non-perishable food and water as well as batteries and flashlights. 

CO Insurance Specialist Serving Wheat Ridge, CO 

For more information on home insurance, we at CO Insurance Specialist, serving Wheat Ridge, CO, are happy to help you. Give us a call today.

Agreed Value vs. Actual Cash Value: Why It Matters for Classic Cars

Posted on by agentinsure

Classic cars carry stories, craftsmanship, and character that modern vehicles simply can’t replicate. For collectors and enthusiasts, protecting that history means choosing the right type of insurance valuation. The distinction between agreed value and actual cash value plays a major role in how a classic car is assessed, especially in Colorado, where state guidelines and regional market trends can influence vehicle evaluations. At the CO Insurance Specialist, serving Wheat Ridge, CO, clarity and transparency are central to helping owners understand why this choice matters.

Why Classic Cars Require a Specialized Approach

Classic vehicles don’t follow the same value patterns as modern daily drivers. Their worth is shaped by condition, restoration quality, rarity, and the local collector market. Actual cash value assesses a vehicle based on depreciation, using general market standards. For a classic car, this method may not reflect the effort or investment put into preserving it. Agreed value, on the other hand, allows the owner and insurer to settle on a predetermined value at the start of the policy. This is often preferred by collectors because it creates clarity should the unexpected occur.

Colorado’s Considerations for Vintage Vehicles

Because Colorado has its own regulations and collector-car norms, it’s important to evaluate a vehicle with attention to local expectations. Climate, driving conditions, and regional market trends can all influence how a classic car should be assessed. At the CO Insurance Specialist, guidance is tailored to ensure each vehicle is evaluated with accuracy and care.

Protecting Your Classic Car

Classic cars are more than transportation. They’re investments in craftsmanship and legacy. To explore which valuation method aligns with your vehicle and future plans, contact our office, serving Wheat Ridge, CO and surrounding areas, for a personalized conversation.

How To Apply for Home Insurance

Posted on by agentinsure

If you own a home, it’s vital to insure it, even if insurance is not required by a mortgage holder. Your home is very likely both the most expensive thing you own and the most important thing you own. Don’t treat home insurance like an afterthought. If you know what you’re getting into, getting your home insured could be easier than you think. Just keep in mind what coverage you really need and what policy type would be the best choice for you. 

How To Do It

First, decide how much coverage you need. At a minimum, you will need enough for the replacement cost coverage in case you need to rebuild entirely. You may want to evaluate add-ons and endorsements such as sewer or water backup coverage and scheduled personal property. Equipment breakdown coverage covers your HVAC and large appliances like the refrigerator. If you have a home business, consider home business endorsements. You may also want to consider flood or earthquake insurance, depending on where you live. Make sure to get quotes from at least three companies so that you can comparison shop. An agent will ask a lot of questions about your house, so have the answers ready. After you’ve decided on a policy, all that’s left is to finalize the details. That’s a simple matter of signing the paperwork and making that first payment. Make sure you go over the contract thoroughly. 

The CO Insurance Specialist Serves Wheat Ridge, CO

We at the CO Insurance Specialist, serving Wheat Ridge, CO and surrounding areas, are happy to assist you with any of your home insurance needs. Give us a call today. 

What Are the Colorado State Minimums for Auto Insurance?

Posted on by agentinsure

If you live in Colorado, state laws require you to have auto insurance. Many people prefer to work with an agent when buying auto insurance. If you are in the Wheat Ridge, CO, area, our team at CO Insurance Specialist can help you sift through all available insurance choices to find the best one for you. 

What Are the Colorado State Minimums for Auto Insurance?

If you are shopping for auto insurance, you might wonder what the state minimums are for auto insurance. Each state sets its own minimum requirements for each category of auto insurance. And you may decide that the minimum is all you want to pay.

According to the Colorado General Assembly, the minimum level of bodily injury or death coverage for each driver must be $25,000. Each policy must have a minimum of $50,000 for all those involved in an accident. And the lowest level for property damage on each insurance policy is $15,000. 

Call Us for an Appointment 

Don’t risk your driver’s license or take a chance on a costly fine by driving without auto insurance. Drivers in the Wheat Ridge, CO, area can rely on our expertise. Call us for an appointment, and we will take the time to discuss your best options for auto insurance.

What is classic car insurance, and how does it differ from conventional car insurance?

Posted on by agentinsure

Car insurance offers numerous benefits for drivers, helping them manage unexpected events and avoid financial hardships. Without auto insurance, many drivers would struggle to handle the costs associated with accidents or other unforeseen situations. Auto insurance provides protection against liability issues, property damage, bodily injuries, and vehicle repairs. At CO Insurance Specialist, we are dedicated to helping our Wheat Ridge, CO, clients meet all their auto insurance needs and answer any questions they may have.

What is classic car insurance, and how does it differ from conventional car insurance?

Classic car insurance is a specialized type of car insurance designed for older vehicles, but not every older car qualifies as a classic. Typically, a classic car is defined as being 20 or more years old, though the exact criteria can vary between insurance companies.

In general, classic cars are vehicles that are in mint or very good condition, have been well-maintained, and are not driven daily. Because these cars are often used less frequently and are kept in excellent condition, classic car insurance is usually more affordable than conventional car insurance. Additionally, limited edition vehicles and certain makes and models are often considered classic cars by many insurance providers. However, the designation of "classic" is ultimately at the discretion of the insurance company.

It’s important to note that not every old car qualifies as a classic. For example, a heavily worn 1970 Honda would likely not meet the criteria for classic car insurance. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle qualifies, our Wheat Ridge agents are here to answer all your questions about classic car insurance. At CO Insurance Specialist, we are committed to helping our Colorado clients find the right coverage. Contact us today to learn more.

Does My Home Have to Be Insured at the Current Market Value?

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What to Know About Homeowner’s Insurance and Replacement Cost

Homeowners in Wheat Ridge, CO, seeking homeowner’s insurance may wonder whether their policy is based on the market value or the replacement cost of their home. This is an important question. At CO Insurance Specialist, we take the time to explain all aspects of a homeowner’s policy, including the basis of the coverage.

Market Value

The market value of a home can be unpredictable, much like a rollercoaster ride. Prices fluctuate depending on trends in the current market and various factors. In Colorado, however, your homeowner’s insurance policy is not based on the current market value. Instead, it is determined by the home’s replacement cost.

Replacement Cost

Homeowner’s insurance should be based on the cost to rebuild your home, not the price you paid for it or its current market value.

The replacement cost takes into account several factors, including the current price of construction materials, which can vary significantly. Labor costs for rebuilding the home are also included, along with the size of the house, its foundation, and any special features. The goal is to restore the property to its original condition using current pricing.

By basing your homeowner’s policy on the replacement cost, you ensure that you are not relying on an estimate of what someone might pay for your property (market value). This type of coverage can help you avoid out-of-pocket expenses if your home needs to be rebuilt.

Contact Us

Purchasing homeowner’s insurance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Contact us at CO Insurance Specialist. We are committed to helping the Wheat Ridge, CO, community protect their homes with policies that safeguard their investments.

What Wheat Ridge Drivers Need to Know About Comprehensive Auto Insurance in the Rockies

Posted on by agentinsure

Drivers navigating vehicles through the mountainous terrain of the Rocky Mountains face unique hazards and challenges at every winding curve. Comprehensive auto insurance is crucial to protect your vehicle from these risks. Learn why you need comprehensive coverage from a Colorado insurance specialist.

Why You Need Comprehensive Auto Insurance in the Colorado Rockies

Wildlife Collisions

Collisions with local wildlife can cause significant damage to vehicles. A comprehensive insurance policy includes coverage for animal collisions, helping to offset the financial and physical damage caused during these incidents.

Falling Rocks

Driving through the steep and winding mountain roads of the Rockies often means exposure to falling rocks, tree branches, and other natural debris that can damage passing vehicles. Speak with a trusted local agent to learn how comprehensive insurance can protect you from these risks.

Severe Weather

Hail is one of the leading causes of automobile damage in Colorado. Sudden hailstorms, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions are common weather factors that make navigating mountain roads challenging. Comprehensive insurance can help cover damage caused by these severe weather events.

Mountain Travel

Colorado drivers frequently travel through mountains to reach hiking trailheads, ski resorts, and other remote areas to enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views. Drivers in Wheat Ridge, CO can feel secure knowing their vehicles are protected with an extra layer of coverage when navigating local highways and mountain roads.

Get Auto Insurance Near You

Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your vehicle from the risks of mountain travel, wildlife collisions, theft, vandalism, and natural disasters. Contact a Colorado insurance specialist today to learn more about the benefits of a comprehensive auto insurance policy.

Does Condo Insurance Cover Shared Amenities?

Posted on by agentinsure

Condo insurance in Wheat Ridge, CO, can help protect your beautiful condo, but it’s important to understand that it functions differently from home insurance, which typically covers amenities.

Condo Insurance Coverage

Most condo owners have a personal insurance policy. This type of policy provides coverage for your individual unit, including your personal belongings inside the structure. Liability coverage is usually included as a standard feature. Additionally, some companies offer loss assessment coverage, which can help if the master policy doesn’t provide sufficient coverage.

Master Condo Policy

Individual condo owners purchase personal policies through companies like CO Insurance Specialist to cover their unit and belongings. Meanwhile, the HOA secures a master insurance policy. This master policy provides coverage for shared amenities, such as dog parks or swimming pools, as well as shared exterior parts of the building, like the roof.

However, there are instances where the master policy may not have enough coverage for damages. For example, replacing a roof might cost more than the master policy will cover. In such cases, the HOA may require all condo owners to contribute an equal share to cover the remaining costs. If your personal policy includes additional coverage for loss assessments, it will step in to cover your portion, saving you from paying out of pocket.

This scenario also applies to shared amenities. If the master policy has insufficient coverage or a high deductible, the HOA may ask condo owners to contribute. It’s crucial to understand your financial responsibilities under the HOA agreement to avoid surprises.

Contact Us Today

At CO Insurance Specialist, we can help you better understand how condo insurance policies work. Contact us today to speak with our experienced representatives, who are ready to answer all your questions. We proudly serve the Wheat Ridge, CO, area.

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