Laurel MD

Hurricanes and Home Insurance: Know Your Policy

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Hurricanes significantly threaten homeowners in coastal regions, especially around Laurel, MD. Understanding how your home insurance covers hurricane-related damage is crucial. Many homeowners assume their standard policy will automatically cover everything, but hurricane insurance has specific provisions that you should be aware of to avoid costly surprises.

Understanding Wind and Water Damage Coverage

A typical home insurance policy usually covers wind damage caused by hurricanes. This includes damage caused by high winds, such as broken windows, roof damage, or fallen trees. However, water damage from flooding is often excluded. If your home sustains water damage due to storm surges or flooding, you need separate flood insurance, often required in high-risk flood zones.

Deciphering Hurricane Deductibles

Many insurance policies in hurricane-prone areas come with a special hurricane deductible, separate from the standard deductible. This deductible is typically a percentage of your home’s insured value rather than a fixed dollar amount. It can range from one percent to five percent or higher, depending on the policy and the region. Knowing your policy’s hurricane deductible in advance can help you be financially prepared if a storm hits.

Additional Living Expenses Coverage

If a hurricane renders your home uninhabitable, your policy may cover additional living expenses (ALE). This helps pay for temporary housing, meals, and other essential costs while your home is being repaired. Review your policy to understand the limits and exclusions on ALE coverage, as some policies may only cover these expenses for a limited time.

Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial – Your Guide to Insurance

Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial provides comprehensive answers to your insurance questions. We serve Laurel, MD, and surrounding cities. Contact us today.

Knowing and Understanding the Term Length in Life Insurance

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Life insurance is a crucial financial tool for individuals in Laurel, MD, and beyond. When considering a policy, one of the most critical elements is the term length, which is the duration for which the policy offers coverage. Choosing the right term length is essential to ensure your loved ones have the necessary financial security when they need it most.

What is a Term Length?

In life insurance, term length signifies the period in which the policy remains active, provided the premiums are consistently paid. Typical term lengths extend to 10, 20, or 30 years. When the term ends, the policyholder usually has the option to renew the coverage, convert it into permanent insurance, or let it lapse. If the insured passes away during the term, the beneficiaries receive the death benefit.

Making the Right Term Length Choice

The appropriate term length for you depends on your personal and financial circumstances. A shorter term, such as 10 or 15 years, might be suitable if you expect significant changes in financial responsibilities, such as paying off a mortgage or funding a child’s college education. A longer term, such as 30 years, often appeals to young families seeking long-term financial security, ensuring that children are financially supported until they are self-sufficient.

The Importance of Term Length

Understanding term length is crucial as it directly affects your premium payments and coverage duration. A longer-term policy typically has higher premiums but provides extended protection. Conversely, a short-term policy may be less expensive, but the coverage duration might not align with your long-term obligations or needs.

Choose Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial For a Better Understanding of Insurance

At Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial, we provide comprehensive information on insurance selection. We serve locations in and near Laurel, MD. Contact us today.

Knowing the Exclusions in Commercial Insurance

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Commercial insurance offers crucial protection to businesses around Laurel, MD, against unforeseen risks. However, it’s essential to understand these policies do not cover every possible eventuality. Being aware of the exceptions in your commercial insurance is key to avoiding surprises.

Standard Exclusions in Commercial Insurance

Most commercial insurance policies will exclude certain incidents or conditions. One common exclusion is damage resulting from natural disasters, such as floods or earthquakes. Businesses located in areas prone to such events may need to procure separate coverage. Another exemption is damages sustained from wear-and-tear or lack of maintenance. Insurance providers expect businesses to maintain their property adequately, so claims tied to gradual deterioration are generally denied.

Issues related to employees, including injuries or wrongful termination claims, are not covered by standard liability insurance. Businesses must secure workers’ compensation or employment practices liability insurance (EPLI) to cover these potential risks. Similarly, professional errors or negligence claims are not covered unless you have errors and omissions (E&O) insurance.

Why Understanding Exclusions Is Important

Grasping the exclusions in your commercial insurance policies is crucial to ensure your business is adequately protected. Unawareness of these exclusions could lead to financial stress if your business incurs a loss not covered by your policy. It’s important to regularly review your policy and consult with your insurance agent to fill in any coverage gaps.

Sometimes, you may need to purchase supplementary policies to cover specific risks, such as cyber liability insurance or business interruption insurance. By understanding what is excluded, you can actively work towards bridging these gaps and achieving comprehensive protection.

Choose Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial For a Better Understanding of Insurance

Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial equips you with all the necessary information when it comes to choosing insurance. We serve locations in and around Laurel, MD. Contact us today.

Home Maintenance and Home Insurance

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Homeowner Responsibilities and Insurance Coverage Explained

One of the biggest misconceptions about homeowners insurance is that it will cover maintenance and repair costs. Home insurance is designed to cover sudden, accidental, and unexpected damage resulting from specific covered calamities, such as storms and fires. It’s not intended to pay for routine wear and tear.

At Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial in Laurel, MD, we aim to provide clarity on insurance so that you can make informed decisions. This includes helping you understand the value of home maintenance.

Your Responsibility as a Homeowner

Routine maintenance is a key responsibility of homeowners. You are obligated to keep your property safe and livable. As windows age, they should be replaced. Small leaks in the roof need repair. Fences should be maintained to preserve their integrity.

Even infestations are considered preventable and part of routine maintenance. Inspect and seal any gaps that could serve as potential entry points for insects and rodents. Secure the services of a pest control company to avoid future problems.

Additionally, homeowners are responsible for maintaining their homes’ mechanical systems, including heating and air conditioning. As homes age, plumbing may rust, and electrical systems may become outdated. Maintaining the integrity of these systems falls under the homeowner’s responsibility.

Understanding Homeowners Insurance

For those living in the Laurel, MD area, we invite you to contact us at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial if you have any questions about homeowners insurance. We can review your policy to ensure your coverage aligns with your expectations. If you wish for us to prepare a no-obligation quote, we will be glad to assist.

The more you understand your insurance, the more informed you will be as a consumer. At Mid Atlantic Financial, we are here to help.

Tips to Help You Stay Safe on the Roads When Driving With Babies and Kids

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Driving Safely with Children: Tips from Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial

Driving with little ones can often be equal parts joy and challenge. At Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial in Laurel, MD, we understand the importance of ensuring the safety of your most precious passengers. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate the roads safely with your babies and children.

Select the Appropriate Car Seat

It is crucial to choose the appropriate car seat for your child’s age and size. Make sure it is correctly installed, and your child is securely buckled in. Regularly check the seat for any recalls and look for signs of wear and tear. Your local fire department or police station can help verify that the car seat is correctly installed.

Plan Your Route Carefully

Before hitting the road, plan your route and schedule in breaks. Frequent stops allow children to stretch and reduce the driver’s fatigue. In addition, having snacks and entertainment at hand can make the journey smoother for everyone.

Reduce Distractions

Stay focused on the road by reducing distractions as much as possible. Set up a system where older children can help with passing snacks or changing playlists. If you need to attend to your child, pull over safely.

Always Have Emergency Supplies Loaded

Always keep a stocked emergency kit in your car. Include essentials like first-aid supplies, water, and blankets. Having these items can provide peace of mind during unexpected situations. Remember to pack activities and snacks to keep the young ones busy as well.

Maintain Calm and Patience

Traffic and long drives can test anyone’s patience. Engage in deep breathing exercises and maintain calm, as children often mirror adult emotions. A relaxed driver contributes to a safer journey.

At Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial, we’re dedicated to ensuring your family’s safety. For more personalized advice and auto insurance options, visit us in Laurel, MD, or call us.

Make Sure Your Business Insurance Grows as Your Company Grows

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You had a concept, a goal, or even a passion. Perhaps you desired independence and wanted to be your own boss. If you followed your path, you may have started your own business in the Laurel, MD, area.

Of course, starting your business is one thing. Nurturing it and growing it is another. If you operate a growing company, your business insurance must grow with it. We can do that at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial.

Protecting Your Business

Every time your business grows, it could create a need for better or improved coverage. Have you recently added staff? Perhaps you moved into a larger facility, purchased new equipment, or carried more inventory. These can all be reasons to quickly review your business insurance.

Business insurance protects you from far more than just fire, theft, or vandalism. It can also provide protection from financial losses associated with a liability claim. A carefully crafted business insurance program offers protection from loss of income, cybercrime, and more.

The more your business grows, however, the more critical it is that your commercial insurance keeps up.

Scheduling a Business Insurance Review

Staying on top of your business insurance is easy with Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial. We are qualified to review your business policy, no matter who issued it. We may discover gaps in your coverage and may provide a price quote should you prefer.

Reach out to us to discuss your business and your growing risks. You may not only get improved coverage but also greater peace of mind.

If you own or operate a business in the Laurel, MD, area, ensure your business insurance keeps up with your growth. Contact us at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial.

Can Seniors Still Apply For Life Insurance?

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Selecting a life insurance policy can be slightly confusing as we progress into old age. Many of us wonder if a life insurance plan is even worth it. If you’re having trouble choosing a plan or getting one, contact our Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial group in Laurel, MD to help you find the right fit for your needs. We look at all elements and can assist those on the fence about getting senior life insurance.

Can Seniors Still Apply for Life Insurance?

It’s a common misconception that many life insurance plans have age limits and are inaccessible to seniors. However, the reality is more inclusive. While some companies may have age restrictions, many welcome individuals aged 60 to 80. These companies offer term or whole life insurance plans, often requiring a medical examination. So, don’t let age deter you from exploring life insurance options.

Life Insurance Alternative

If you’ve found the search for a traditional life insurance policy to be challenging, take heart that there’s still a viable option: burial insurance. These policies are often guaranteed and can pay your chosen beneficiary. The best part? They typically don’t require a medical exam and won’t ask about your health or age. Knowing you have a backup plan, this alternative can provide peace of mind.

Pre-existing Conditions

If you have pre-existing health conditions, you’ll need to address them when applying for life insurance. The severity of the condition often determines if you qualify for life insurance. It’s important to note that life insurance is different from health insurance. If your health is already in decline, health insurance policies will often turn you down.

So, What to Do?

Contact us at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial to help you get the coverage you need. We know your limitations and can walk you through what you qualify for. Get a quote now!

Does Your Home Insurance Cover Damage When You’re Away?

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Leaving your home unoccupied for an extended period of time increases the chances of something happening. Burglars might realize no one is home, or a problem might go undetected. These increased risks can impact insurance coverage. Here’s how an extended period away could impact your home insurance.

Standard Home Insurance May Not Cover an Extended Vacancy

While your standard home insurance policy covers a wide range of damages, from fire to theft, the rules can change when your home is unoccupied for a certain period. Many standard policies won’t provide coverage after 30, 60, or 90 days of vacancy. The period of time can vary, but most policies will exclude claims after some period of vacancy.

If you’re in Laurel, MD, we at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial can check how long your home can be unoccupied and still covered by your current home insurance policy.

Vacant Home Coverage Can Provide Protection

Vacant home coverage can fill in this gap, providing coverage even when your home isn’t being occupied for an extended period. Vacant home coverage might be purchased as a different type of policy, but more often, it’s added onto a standard home policy as an optional endorsement. In this case, an endorsement usually adds specific protection to an insurance policy, which is coverage for an extended time of no occupancy. 

Protect Your Home with Confidence

If you plan to be away from your Laurel, MD, home for an extended time, don’t leave its protection to chance. Contact our insurance agents at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial today to discuss vacant home coverage options. We’ll help ensure your home is safeguarded against unexpected damages no matter how long you’re away. 

Things to Consider When Insuring an Older Vehicle

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There are some significant differences between insuring an older car in Laurel, MD and insuring an older one. Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial wants to help you understand these differences and what you should know to avoid unnecessary risks while getting the most out of your car insurance.

Financial Responsibility

Every state, including Maryland, has financial responsibility laws, generally requiring you to carry some level of insurance. Even older vehicles must have policies with at least state minimum coverage limits.

Newer vs. Older Cars

When it comes to car insurance, two major factors will impact your decision. The first is whether the vehicle has a loan on it. If there is a loan, your lender will likely require comprehensive coverage. If you own your vehicle outright, other than state minimums, you can absorb the risk yourself.

The other major factor is the value of the vehicle. New vehicle prices are now averaging over $40,000. Even if you own it outright, it is a lot of risks to absorb.

Carrying Liability Only

If an older vehicle depreciates considerably, you could consider lowering your car insurance to cover liability only. Between your vehicle’s lower value and deductible, paying for comprehensive coverage may not be worth it.

It is often a rule of thumb that carrying comprehensive insurance would increase your premiums by more than 10% of what you would receive should your vehicle get “totaled,” you can probably drop to liability only.

Special Instances

Of course, there are always unique instances when a young person invests significantly in after-market add-ons to a vehicle or a classic is being restored. Contact us to make sure your car insurance is sufficient.

Get a Quote Today

Drivers in and around the Laurel, MD, area are invited to get a free insurance review and price quote today. Contact us at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial today.

You certainly want to save on your auto insurance, but you also want to do it wisely. Contact the team at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial now.

The First Step In Protecting Your Business

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Every business owner understands that they should have commercial insurance to protect their business. What many business owners may not understand as clearly or appreciate as much, however, is the necessity and gravity of having the right insurance coverage for their companies. Are you a business owner in the Laurel, MD, area? Do you have questions about commercial insurance or other insurance needs? Then, the professional and friendly Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial team can help.

Step One in Protecting Your Business

Every business should take a few steps even before day one, before its grand opening event, or before it serves its very first customer. One of the steps is having the right commercial insurance plan in place. Companies are most vulnerable in their first few years, and commercial insurance is the first step in protecting your business.

Yes, an alarm system is an excellent idea, but who is going to pay for the window or door that gets broken that sets off the alarm? What if your business gets hit by a damaging storm or suffers a fire during your first month of operations? Could your fledgling business even survive these setbacks? The answer is yes if your company has the proper protection from day one. How important is commercial insurance? Your entire business may depend on it.

Commercial Insurance in Laurel, MD

No two businesses are created the same, but every business needs commercial insurance protection. If you are a business owner in or around Laurel, MD, and have questions or need help with commercial insurance coverage, our experienced and professional team at Mid Atlantic Insurance Financial is here to help. Contact us to learn more and get the protection your business needs and deserves at Mid Atlantic Insurance today.