Key City Insurance - Provo, UT

Independent Insurance Agent

[keycityprovo]

Why You Need Renters Insurance

If you rent an apartment, condo or house, you want to make sure your belongings are insured. Should there be a fire, vandalism or other unexpected incident, it's important that you have a way to replace the items that you've worked so hard to obtain. Many people choose to skip renters insurance, but here are a few reasons why you should purchase it:

It's very inexpensive. The amount you pay will seem minor compared to what you would need to re-invest if you lost all your personal belongings.

Your things are not covered under your landlord's policy. Yes, the landlord probably has a policy that covers the structure, but that doesn't cover what is inside the building.

It covers you even when you're not home. You may feel like you're home is safe, but thieves could still attack your car. Or you might be the target of a vacation robbery. Many renters insurance policies cover these situations, which are more common than you may think.

We live in a litigation-happy culture. A visitor trips on your front steps or gets burned by hot water in your bathroom sink. The next thing you know, you're being sued. It's not just the landlord who could be held liable for these issues, so it's best to protect yourself with a renter's policy.

You may not think your belongings are worth very much, but the costs do add up quickly if you need to replace them. A renters insurance policy is usually less than a couple of hundred dollars per year; this cost is well worth the peace of mind it provides. Get the coverage you need. Call Key City Insurance at [phone] for more information on Utah renters insurance.

[keycityprovo]

Common Misconceptions About Homeowners Insurance

With so much information about homeowners insurance floating around the internet, it's easy to jumble it all up. But it's important to know exactly what you're buying before signing on the dotted line. This article discusses five of the most common misconceptions about homeowners insurance that people frequently mix up.

Filing a claim increases premium prices: While it's true that filing multiple claims is likely to increase your premium, filing a single claim may not cause a price hike. This is particularly true if you haven't filed a claim within the last few years. However, to protect your bank account, double check the repair estimate to ensure that the cost exceeds that of your deductible. If it's lower, it's more reasonable to simply pay out of pocket than to file a claim.

Homeowners insurance covers all valuables: Certain valuables — such as jewelry, furs, silverware, firearms, fine artwork etc. — have coverage limitations. Always ask your independent agent about these details. If your valued items are worth more than a standard policy will cover, you can purchase extra coverage in the form of policy endorsements or contents coverage.

Homeowners insurance covers flood damage: Flood coverage is excluded from most standard homeowners policies. If you live near the coast or in an area prone to floods, you'll need to purchase a separate flood policy in addition to your homeowners policy. Remember, flood insurance has a 30-day waiting period, so do not wait to buy it in the days before a flood is predicted.

Homeowners insurance covers personal medical expenses: While home insurance covers the medical expenses of guests who are injured on your property because of liability responsibilities, it does not cover your own personal medical expenses. That's what health insurance is for.

Homeowners insurance covers mold damage: You are responsible for the upkeep of your house. If something needs repair work, that's on you. The same goes with mold damage, particularly if it occurs due to neglected maintenance such as a leaky pipe. However, if mold becomes a problem after a flood, your flood insurance can cover the damages.

Get the coverage your family needs. Call Key City Insurance at [phone] for more information on Utah home insurance.

[keycityprovo]

What Coverage Does Auto Insurance Provide?

New drivers have more to think about than just keeping the gas tank full. While a new set of wheels is fun, it also comes with the responsibility of keeping the roads safe for all drivers. That's why, in every state, it's mandatory to purchase auto liability insurance, which covers the costs of third party injuries and property damage resulting from an accident caused by the policyholder. But there's a lot more to auto insurance than just liability coverage. Yes, you are street legal if all you own is liability coverage, but it doesn't cover your own expenses if you're injured or your car is damaged. For that, you'll need extra coverage. The most popular coverage option is collision, which covers damages to your vehicle. Additional options include:

Comprehensive: Covers damages to your vehicle that are not the result of an accident, such as severe weather damage or theft

Medical expenses: Covers the cost of any necessary medical treatment that you incur

Uninsured/underinsured motorist: Covers the costs associated with an accident in which the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured

Once you decide which coverages you want to purchase, you'll need to choose a deductible price. The deductible is the amount you're responsible for paying when filing a claim before coverage kicks in. The higher the deductible, the lower your monthly premium. In fact, it's recommended that you choose the highest deductible you could afford to pay at any given time. For many people, that sweet spot is $500. Insurance companies calculate premiums based on the risk of a driver filing a claim. Those with a higher risk will pay more. So, if you maintain a clean driving record, drive a safe car and have a good credit score, your insurance rates may be quite a bit lower than a driver who displays reckless behavior. And lastly, most insurance companies offer a variety of discounts that you're free to inquire about with your agent. Who's eligible for the savings? Good students, safe drivers, seniors, teachers, military personnel and more can all save money on their premiums. All you have to do is ask! We'll help you shop for the best policy within your budget. Call Key City Insurance at [phone] for more information on Provo auto insurance.

[keycityprovo]

5 Ways To Make Your Home Safer

Home safety is important to many people, particularly families. But did you know that taking steps to make your home safer not only gives you peace of mind, but can also result in homeowners insurance savings? A safer home minimizes the risk of a covered event and many insurers will reward your dedication to security. Get started with these five home safety tips:

Lock up: Most intruders enter homes unannounced through open doors or windows. Lock up every time you leave home and go to sleep. For additional security, install dead bolts on exterior doors and place a thick wooden rod into the track of sliding glass doors.

Set the alarm: Install a security alarm from a company that offers around-the-clock monitoring. Such companies will call the authorities if they detect a break in or any other suspicious activity. Some security alarms can even detect the presence of carbon monoxide for added protection. If these services are too pricey for your budget, place a dummy security company sign in your yard to trick thieves into thinking your home is protected by such a system.

Light it up: Most thieves prefer to select a target that is poorly lit so they can slip in and out with less of a chance of being seen. Install motion-sensor lighting around the exterior of your home. If a thief trips the sensor and the lights suddenly flood the area, it could be enough to scare the criminal away.

Fire safety: If you haven’t already, install smoke detectors in every room. The chirp that signifies a low battery isn’t always reliable, so manually check the batteries every three to six months. It’s also a good idea to place a fire extinguisher on each level of your home, along with one in the kitchen (this is where most home fires ignite). Ensure that everyone knows how to properly operate them.

Hide your keys: Many thieves break into homes for the sole purpose of stealing car keys, which then allows them to drive your car away in a matter of seconds. Hide your car keys from plain sight, particularly if they’re visible from a window.

Ask about discounts for your safe home. Call Key City Insurance at [phone] for more information on Provo home insurance.

[keycityprovo]

How to Maintain Your Business’ Cash Flow Year-Round

Winter resort restaurants may boom during wintertime and retailers may rake in the dough during the holidays, but what about off-season cash flow? Many small businesses that can be classified as seasonal struggle to increase profits when they’re not at their peak. If you own a business in a similar situation, it’s important to plan for harder times when you plan the year’s finances.

Review old records to determine when sales are at their highest and when they’re at their lowest. You must plan for fixed expenses, such as rent and utilities, along with variable expenses, such as inventory and salaries. The past several years of records should give you an idea of variable costs during different seasons. With this information in mind, you can develop a strategy for managing cash flow during peak seasons in order to sustain operations during leaner times. Here are a few tips on how to do it:

Change your invoicing policies: To goose income during slow times, offer discounts if customers agree to pay in advance. This both entices customers with a lower price and secures payment upfront to get money flowing. You can also try advertising on coupon websites such as Groupon or Living Social to bring in extra business.

Create new sources of income: If your landscaping business struggles during winter, you can diversify your services, such as hanging Christmas lights, to generate new sources of income. You may need to learn more skills or bring in new employees who have different skills, but it may be worth the ability to earn more money year-round.

Strike deals with your vendors: It might be tough to pay for inventory and supplies during off-seasons. To compensate, negotiate with your vendors to space out your payments during the year in a way that’s favorable to your business. Some vendors may offer discounts if you buy in bulk or pay in advance. Take a look at your books and see if these tactics can help your business’ finances. 

Get financing assistance: In tough times, it may be necessary to take out a short-term loan or open up a business line of credit. Another option is a merchant cash advance, which helps provide cash flow to keep business afloat until peak seasons resume.

Coverage is a variable expense that’s too important to drop. Call Key City Insurance at [phone] for more information on Provo business insurance.

[keycityprovo]

When is it Time to Sell Your House?

Many Americans buy houses to support current family needs. But in retirement, it may be time to consider selling in lieu of a more inexpensive and/or hands-free option. While some retirees prefer the sense of permanence and control that homeownership instills, others find it much simpler to move to a place where the hard work (maintenance, lawn care etc.) is taken care of. A rental property or retirement community may be the solution.

If you’re thinking about putting your house up for sale, consider how much profit you’ll make and how much another living option will cost. An apartment may cost less while a retirement community may cost more, though the security of the environment may be well worth the higher price in your eyes. Remember to calculate in security deposits, real estate fees, property taxes, association fees, insurance premiums and any other costs that feed into living expenses.

Many retirees enjoy the family feel of retirement communities, many of which boast on-site dining options, social activities and flexible living arrangements. The arrangements typically include three options to encompass individuals in all walks of life. They are as follows:

Independent living: Separate houses, townhomes or apartments are offered for healthy, able-bodied residents.

Assisted living: Apartments are offered to residents who need help performing certain activities, which allows for proximity to the nursing staff.

Skilled nursing: Wings are available to residents who need close medical supervision around the clock.

If the cost and upkeep of homeownership is simply becoming too much, research your options with the help of your family. A community setting may be a financially sound and socially satisfying solution.

As long as your house is in your name, you need coverage. Call Key City Insurance at [phone] for more information on Provo home insurance.

[keycityprovo]

5 Ways Your Driving Record Could Haunt Your Future

You know that driving safely is important not only for your own benefit, but for the benefit of everyone else who shares the road. But people have been known to bend the rules when they’re in a hurry or in a bad mood. Tickets and traffic violations happen sometimes. If you do get a ticket, paying it right away will ensure that the DMV won’t come back to haunt your future for failing to pay before the due date. Not convinced? Neglecting to pay a ticket, or racking up numerous violations, can result in the following five hits to your driving record, which can affect many areas of your life.

Suspension of driver’s license: Serious driving infractions and/or several minor violations can result in the suspension of your driver’s license. Once your license is put on hold, the DMV may refuse to re-register your car, which can cause more problems if you continue to drive with a suspended license and an unregistered car. The best way out of this situation is to prevent it from ever happening.

Higher auto insurance rates: Your premium is calculated, in part, based on your driving record. Insurance companies reward safe drivers who file few claims with lower premiums and/or safe driver discounts. Your rate can increase by up to 20 percent following a speeding ticket and by up to a whopping 300 percent following a more serious offense, such as a DUI.

Stunted professional career: A poor driving record, and especially the suspension of your license, can affect your career if your job involves driving or comes with the perk of a company car. Some employers may fire you, while others will turn you away if they see serious violations turn up on your background check.

Poor credit score: Neglecting to pay a ticket can impact your credit score, which only gets worse as more time goes by and additional late fees get slapped onto the amount you already owe. By the time you start receiving collection calls, your deflated credit may already be affecting your ability to apply for a credit card or to rent an apartment.

Inability to adopt a child: Your marred driving record can come back to haunt you years after you thought it was all over. If you choose to adopt a child down the road, you can expect adoption agencies to look at your driving record. If a serious infraction is found, some agencies may conduct an extensive home study, while others will outright refuse your application.

We help safe drivers save more. Call Key City Insurance at [phone] for more information on Provo auto insurance.

[keycityprovo]

Auto, Home, Business Insurance - Provo, Salt Lake City, UT

We have relationships with dozens of insurance companies, allowing you to get the right price with the right service. Whether you have the ideal history, preferred companies desire, or a not so perfect history, we find the right auto, home, business, motorcycle, recreational vehicle, life, dental,  contractors, general liability coverage, with the best company, at the best price for you. Our philosophy is to offer you the most valuable services possible to properly protect your family and assets.

As an independent insurance agent we can offer the right coverages with the personal touch you would expect from your neighborhood insurance agent.

Make the latest changes to your policy directly from our website twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Use any of our convenient forms for policy service directly from your home or office.

Contact us online or visit a location near you for quick, reliable service today.