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Does Umbrella Insurance Expire?

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When was the last time you looked at your insurance paperwork? If you’re like most people, you file your insurance paperwork away and never look at it again. Even if you don’t file a claim, it is in your interest to be aware of the language in your policy. 

As an example, you might not know when your umbrella policy expires. 

Umbrella Insurance Isn’t Forever

Pull out your umbrella insurance policy and scan it. You’ll find language explaining when the policy expires. Umbrella insurance policies in New Windsor, NY, don’t cover you forever. As a policyholder, you should know your policy’s expiration date. 

Mark down your umbrella insurance policy expiration date on your calendar for future reference. Then, renew your policy before the expiration date to continue, upgrade, or downgrade your coverage. 

When in Doubt, Communicate

If you can’t find your umbrella insurance policy paperwork, contact your agent or insurer. Ask about the length of the policy protection and the expiration date. This way, you’ll know when the policy is up for renewal.

Though there is no guarantee the insurer will be open to restarting a similar policy after a failure to renew, you can inquire about such a scenario ahead of time. 

Contact Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. for a Policy Review or Quote

Our insurance team can help you find the right umbrella policy for your situation. Contact us for a policy review or quote. We’re currently serving New Windsor, NY. 

Does Umbrella Insurance Expire?

Posted on by admin

When was the last time you looked at your insurance paperwork? If you’re like most people, you file your insurance paperwork away and never look at it again. Even if you don’t file a claim, it is in your interest to be aware of the language in your policy. 

As an example, you might not know when your umbrella policy expires. 

Umbrella Insurance Isn’t Forever

Pull out your umbrella insurance policy and scan it. You’ll find language explaining when the policy expires. Umbrella insurance policies in New Windsor, NY, don’t cover you forever. As a policyholder, you should know your policy’s expiration date. 

Mark down your umbrella insurance policy expiration date on your calendar for future reference. Then, renew your policy before the expiration date to continue, upgrade, or downgrade your coverage. 

When in Doubt, Communicate

If you can’t find your umbrella insurance policy paperwork, contact your agent or insurer. Ask about the length of the policy protection and the expiration date. This way, you’ll know when the policy is up for renewal.

Though there is no guarantee the insurer will be open to restarting a similar policy after a failure to renew, you can inquire about such a scenario ahead of time. 

Contact Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. for a Policy Review or Quote

Our insurance team can help you find the right umbrella policy for your situation. Contact us for a policy review or quote. We’re currently serving New Windsor, NY. 

Does Umbrella Insurance Expire?

Posted on by admin

When was the last time you looked at your insurance paperwork? If you’re like most people, you file your insurance paperwork away and never look at it again. Even if you don’t file a claim, it is in your interest to be aware of the language in your policy. 

As an example, you might not know when your umbrella policy expires. 

Umbrella Insurance Isn’t Forever

Pull out your umbrella insurance policy and scan it. You’ll find language explaining when the policy expires. Umbrella insurance policies in New Windsor, NY, don’t cover you forever. As a policyholder, you should know your policy’s expiration date. 

Mark down your umbrella insurance policy expiration date on your calendar for future reference. Then, renew your policy before the expiration date to continue, upgrade, or downgrade your coverage. 

When in Doubt, Communicate

If you can’t find your umbrella insurance policy paperwork, contact your agent or insurer. Ask about the length of the policy protection and the expiration date. This way, you’ll know when the policy is up for renewal.

Though there is no guarantee the insurer will be open to restarting a similar policy after a failure to renew, you can inquire about such a scenario ahead of time. 

Contact Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. for a Policy Review or Quote

Our insurance team can help you find the right umbrella policy for your situation. Contact us for a policy review or quote. We’re currently serving New Windsor, NY. 

Is Condo Insurance Substantially Different From Home Insurance?

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Home insurance is not the same as condo insurance. Though similar, there are significant differences between the two. This is your guide to both types of coverage in New Windsor, NY.

How Home and Condo Policies Differ

In general, home insurance covers the interior and exterior of a home. In contrast, condo insurance is typically limited to the interior of a condominium unit.

The exterior of a condo is typically covered by the condominium association’s insurance. Moreover, condo master insurance policies tend to be either "all in" or "bare walls."

The all-in policy typically covers the condo’s fixtures, including appliances and carpet. The bare-walls policy usually covers the exterior. Windgate Insurance Agency, Inc. is here to provide more details to help you choose the optimal coverage for your living space.

Unique Protections for Specific Dwellings

Home insurance and condo insurance are ultimately different in terms of the structures they protect. Instead of covering an entire home, as is the case with home insurance, condo insurance covers the interior of a living space.

Traditional houses do not have the same overarching condo association coverage as available for condos. Moreover, dwelling coverage for those who own houses hinges on the home’s rebuild value or the amount necessary to rebuild the structure from the ground up.

In contrast, condo owners’ dwelling coverage hinges on the details of the homeowners association’s master policy. The overarching policy can range from interior structures, such as ceilings and drywall, to only publicly used spaces or in between.

Get a Quote From Windgate Insurance Agency, Inc. 

Our insurance team is here to give you invaluable peace of mind. Contact us for more information or a quote. We’re currently serving New Windsor, NY.

Your First Mortgage in New Windsor, NY: How Life Insurance Should Fit Into the Plan

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You already know it. Buying your first home in New Windsor, NY, is probably one of life’s biggest milestones and, no question, one of the largest financial commitments you’ll ever make. Of course, it’s exciting, but it’s also intimidating. And that is why it’s so important to think beyond the mortgage paperwork. There’s so much more. For example, including life insurance in your financial plan will protect your family and your investment regardless of what happens.

The Connection Between Your Mortgage and Life Insurance

Of course, you already understand that when you take out a mortgage, you’re committing to monthly payments that are based on your monthly income. But that income is not guaranteed to stay the same forever. You need to consider whether your family would be able to live in the home you’ve worked so hard for if you were no longer around to pay the mortgage. That’s where life insurance comes into play.

With the right coverage, your policy will:

  • Pay the remainder of your mortgage balance
  • Cover any ongoing property taxes and maintenance costs
  • Provide funds for living expenses to help your family get back on track

This is a financial safety net your family can rely on if something happens to you. No painful decisions about selling or forced refinancing under stress. Peace of mind.

Choosing the Right Policy for Homeowners

If you’re in the New Windsor, NY, area, talk to Windgate Insurance Agency, Inc. Our experienced professionals will help you determine what kind of life insurance best matches your needs. Not all life insurance is created the same. For example, term life insurance is a very affordable solution for first-time homebuyers due to its low monthly premiums.

Another option is whole life insurance. If you want to protect your investment but also build value over time, you probably should choose one of these policies. The policy you choose must fit your lifestyle and needs, and our experts will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

To learn more about how life insurance can fit into your homebuying journey, contact Windgate Insurance Agency, Inc. We’ll help you explore your options to create a strategy that brings peace of mind to your life in New Windsor, NY.

Why Drivers in New Windsor, NY, Need More Than Just Liability Insurance

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While many NY drivers only have liability insurance to save money, carrying only the state minimum in auto insurance can be costly in the long run.

Unexpected auto accidents can result in injured drivers and high out-of-pocket costs for car repairs and medical bills not covered by liability insurance. State minimum coverage also offers no protection from noncollision events, including theft, vandalism, and natural disasters.

Out-of-pocket expenses for liability-only policyholders can leave them reeling when noncovered events happen. Alternatives to carrying state minimum insurance are to upgrade your policy to include collision or comprehensive coverage.

Protect Your Car and Financial Assets With a Comprehensive Auto Policy 

Comprehensive auto insurance can safeguard you, your car, and other drivers from weather-related accidents, collisions with uninsured and underinsured drivers, and other covered perils, like:

Severe weather damage: Hudson Valley storms can be brutal, and the resulting weather damage can be costly for liability-only insurance policyholders.

Animal or wildlife collisions: The risk of hitting a deer or other wildlife on dark, rural, or snowy roads is high in this region. Comprehensive insurance can help repair your vehicle.

At-fault accidents: Winter weather, like icy roads, can lead to accidents and property damage. Collision coverage can help repair your vehicle.

Uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) accidents: If another driver crashes into you and they don’t have insurance or don’t have enough insurance, UM/UIM protection can offset repair costs and related medical bills.

Talk to a trusted local agent at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. in New Windsor, NY, to learn more about extended auto insurance coverage!

Do You Need to Update Your Business Interruption Coverage?

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Organizations in New Windsor, NY, need commercial insurance to protect against unexpected events that could sideline operations for an extended period. While business interruption coverage is designed to address these challenges, not every policy provides the comprehensive protection entrepreneurs and industry leaders require. At Windgate Insurance Agency Inc., we work closely with business professionals to ensure their commercial insurance policies keep them afloat during setbacks.

What is Business Interruption Coverage?

Sometimes referred to as business income insurance, these policies typically cover expenses and salaries if a business is forced to close temporarily. Coverage is triggered by events such as fire damage, flooding that makes occupancy impossible, or other unforeseen disasters that disrupt operations. Here’s what a thoughtful business interruption policy can provide:

  • Lost Revenue: A business can recover lost revenue by filing a claim based on normal receipts and projections. This financial support can help you navigate challenging times.
  • Operating Costs: Businesses are still responsible for paying rent, credit card balances, loan installments, and taxes during a closure. Business interruption coverage helps owners manage these expenses and maintain a good credit rating.
  • Salaries: Many businesses struggle to survive after a closure because owners and essential employees still need to cover personal living expenses. Business interruption insurance ensures salaries are paid, helping retain key staff and avoid financial strain.
  • Moving Costs: Relocating to a temporary location or new facility can involve significant expenses. Business interruption coverage prevents you from depleting company resources to cover these costs.

When a disaster disrupts an organization’s ability to produce goods or provide services, savvy business professionals look for ways to pivot. Having the resources to rent equipment or lease temporary space can help you continue serving clients and minimize losses.

Reliable Commercial Insurance in New Windsor, NY

If you own or operate a business in New Windsor, NY, Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. supports your endeavors by providing policies with thorough protection. If you’re ready to update an existing commercial insurance policy or explore new options, contact us today.

How to protect yourself from things home insurance doesn’t cover

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Home insurance covers a wide range of situations and provides essential protection for homeowners. However, it doesn’t cover everything that can go wrong. At Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. in New Windsor, NY, our team of independent agents is here to help you understand what isn’t covered and ensure you have the additional protection you may need.

What Home Insurance Doesn’t Cover

One of the primary reasons your home may not be covered by home insurance is owner neglect. You might not realize what constitutes neglect, but if your home is damaged by something preventable, your claim may be denied. For example, if your roof is old and your home sustains damage because of its age, the responsibility falls on you. Insurance companies expect homeowners to replace aging roofs and perform regular maintenance. Similarly, if termites damage your home, it’s your responsibility to treat infestations promptly.

Insurance providers expect you to maintain your home and keep it in good condition to prevent avoidable issues.

Additional Coverage Options for Uncovered Risks

Floods are among the most destructive natural disasters, with just an inch of water causing thousands of dollars in damage. If your home is at risk of flooding, you can purchase separate flood insurance to protect your property.

Additionally, if your home insurance doesn’t cover hurricanes or sinkholes, you can add these types of coverage to your policy. Earthquake and landslide damage coverage are also available if you believe your home is at risk. For homeowners with expensive items, such as jewelry or collectibles, additional coverage can ensure these valuables are adequately protected.

Contact our agents at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. in New Windsor, NY, for all your home insurance needs. We’re here to answer your questions and help you explore additional coverage options to safeguard your home and belongings.

Classic Car Insurance on Car That Doesn’t Run? Yes, and Here’s Why

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If you own a classic car, you’re part of a rare and passionate group. Only a small percentage of people have held onto their vehicles long enough to call them classics. You’ve already gone the extra mile in preserving your car over the years. Now, it’s time to ensure your investment is protected—even if your vehicle isn’t road-ready. Classic car insurance through Windgate Insurance Agency Inc., serving New Windsor, NY, is the solution.

It’s About the Car’s Value, Not Whether It Runs

Many classic cars are collectibles, and even if yours isn’t drivable, it may be worth thousands—or more. Risks like fire, theft, vandalism, or storm damage could destroy what you’ve spent years preserving. Without insurance, you’d be left to absorb the financial loss on your own.

Specialized Policies Cover Storage

Insurance companies that specialize in classic cars understand that many of these vehicles spend a significant amount of time off the road. Some policies are specifically designed for cars in storage. This means your vehicle is protected while it’s parked in your garage, not just when it’s being driven.

Comprehensive Coverage for Unexpected Risks

Even if liability coverage isn’t necessary for a car that isn’t in use, comprehensive coverage is still essential. Imagine a pipe bursts and floods your garage, or a fire in another part of your house damages your vehicle. These scenarios aren’t far-fetched, and they’re exactly why comprehensive coverage matters.

Even a parked, silent classic deserves protection. If you own one of these timeless treasures, talk to your local insurance agent at Windgate Insurance Agency Inc., serving New Windsor, NY, about classic car policies. You might be surprised at how easy it is to safeguard your investment, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today!

How Renters Insurance Handles Theft Outside Your Home

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When most people think about renters’ insurance, they imagine protection for their belongings inside their apartment or rental home. But what happens if something gets stolen while you’re not at home, say, from your car or while you’re traveling? At Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. in New Windsor, NY, we often get questions about how renters’ insurance applies in these situations, and the answer might surprise you.

Coverage That Follows You

One of the lesser-known benefits of renters’ insurance is that it typically includes "off-premises coverage." This means your personal property can still be protected even when it’s not physically inside your rental. For example, if your laptop is stolen from your hotel room during vacation or your backpack is swiped from your car, your renters’ policy could help cover the loss.

Know the Limits and Exceptions

While off-premises coverage can be a huge relief, it’s important to understand that there may be limits on how much your policy will reimburse for theft outside your home. Some policies cap off-premises claims at a percentage of your total personal property coverage. Additionally, high-value items such as jewelry, electronics, or collectibles may require supplemental coverage to be fully protected. Reviewing your policy’s terms is essential to ensure you have the right level of protection.

Filing a Claim the Right Way

If you experience theft outside your home, make sure to file a police report and document the loss thoroughly. Providing receipts, photos, and any related documentation can help expedite the claims process and ensure you receive the support you need.

Not sure if your current renters’ insurance offers the protection you deserve? Contact Windgate Insurance Agency Inc. in New Windsor, NY, today, and let’s make sure your belongings are covered—no matter where life takes you.