Why home and auto insurance rates are rising in 2022

Rising Insurance Costs

Thanks to an unusual convergence of market trends, ushered in by the pandemic and other disruptive events, you may see a bigger change to the cost of your home and auto insurance than usual when it comes time to renew your policies this year.

Insurance rates are based on what an insurer thinks it will cost to make you whole in the event of a loss – whether it’s roof damage during a windstorm or a vehicle totaled during a traffic accident. As you’ve likely noticed, pretty much everything costs more than it did even a few years ago.

What’s driving higher home insurance costs

If you’ve shopped at Home Depot or Lowe’s lately, you’ve certainly seen that the price tags on building materials have risen dramatically. Last year alone, the cost of building materials rose 14.1%, with lumber playing an outsized role in that trend, more than tripling in price since March 2020.

To make matters worse, the home-building industry is facing a shortfall of at least 200,000 skilled laborers, which is driving up construction-related labor costs. Combined with the high cost of construction materials and historically low housing inventory, this has been making home claims much more expensive for insurance companies.

What’s driving higher auto insurance costs

An ongoing shortage of microchips and other critical parts like wiring harnesses, plastics and glass is making it more costly to repair or replace a vehicle after an accident.

Supply chain issues are rapidly depleting inventories of new and used cars. Inventories have reached a critical low-point, falling 87% between 2020 and 2022. As a result, the average price of new cars has risen 14% over the same period, while used car prices have skyrocketed 55%.

At the same time, accidents have become more frequent and severe, increasing the number and cost of auto claims. In the first six months of 2021, nearly 2.5 million people sustained injuries requiring consultation with a medical professional. Accident fatalities in Jan. 2022 were 14% higher than in Jan. 2020.

Focus on value as you explore ways to save

Keep in mind that savings comes in many forms. The value of the coverage you choose today may save you more in the long run than the lowest possible premium. Contact us to review your current coverage. Click here to get an online quote, Compare Quotes | LG Insurance Group (lg-ig.com). We will help you explore opportunities for discounts that could offset higher rates when it comes time to renew your coverage.

Common Flood Insurance Exclusions

Since flood damage isn’t covered by home insurance, most homeowners in Marietta, GA invest in flood insurance to ensure they are protected when the worst strikes. While flood insurance from LG Insurance Group covers your building and its contents, it has exclusions like other coverages. In light of this, typical flood insurance doesn’t cover the below risks:

Sewer backup

When the sewer lines are blocked or malfunctioning, causing flooding in your house, flood insurance won’t cover the damage unless the cause of the sewer backup is flooding. Similarly, flood insurance won’t cover in-house flooding. For instance, if broken pipes cause flooding in your house, the resulting damage will be covered by home insurance.

Earth movement

Any damage caused by earth movement won’t be covered by flood insurance, even if floods cause the movement. For such damage, you have to use your earth movement coverage.

Mold

Typical flood insurance may cover mold damage resulting from floods. However, flood insurance doesn’t cover any moisture-related mold not caused by flooding.

Detached properties

Apart from the garage, any detached structure is usually excluded from your flood insurance policy. So, home insurance doesn’t cover patios, fences, yards, lawns, and other outdoor properties.

Movable properties

A typical flood insurance policy doesn’t cover your vehicle and other movable properties. Check your auto insurance policy to see whether it covers flooding.

Additional living expenses

Should floods make your house unlivable, typical flood insurance won’t cover the additional living expenses you incur as your home is undergoing repairs. Typically, home insurance covers "loss of use" but excludes floods.

Learn more about flood insurance

Need more insights about flood insurance? If you are in Marietta, GA, or the surrounding area, you can never go wrong with LG Insurance Group. Contact us to learn more about flood insurance. We will help you secure affordable coverage, too.

 

Side Hustles & Entrepreneurism Risks: Are You Covered?

After businesses shuttered and U.S. workers were sent home at the height of the pandemic in 2020, a report from Dollar Sprout revealed that more that 27% of those with a side hustle rely on that income to pay their bills. They might be doing anything from tutoring, freelance writing, offering professional consulting services, walking dogs or delivering groceries, to name a few.

The Dollar Sprout report also revealed that:
• Of those with a side hustle, 18% expect to turn it into a full-time source of income.
• Although 23% lost side-hustle income because of COVID-19, 42% remain hopeful about their prospects.

While the pandemic reshaped the workplace, the prevalence of home-based businesses had already given rise to ETSY, the fourth largest U.S. ecommerce site by monthly visits, where people sell everything from crafts and antiques to handmade toys and items for weddings, among other things.

The community of freelancers is increasing steadily. The Freelancers Union, established in 1995, says:
• There were 57 million U.S. freelancers in 2020.
• Americans rack up more than 1 billion freelance hours each week.
• Freelancers contribute more than $1 trillion annually to the U.S. economy.

New models of work create different insurance requirements. As individuals take on side hustles to generate more income or out of a desire to operate their own businesses, they also take on risks. If you have a side hustle, you need to insure yourself accordingly.

Liability insurance tops the list. Your Trusted Choice Independent Insurance Agent® can help you evaluate your side business, assess your existing coverages, and determine if you need a professional or business liability policy in addition to personal insurance. As a highly trained professional, your Trusted Choice agent can advise you of the specific or often overlooked coverages you should consider, and then assemble competitive product choices for you from the insurance marketplace.

Why is this so important? Even the most benign gig could destroy an individual financially in the absence of appropriate insurance coverage. Imagine a child takes a nasty tumble in your home while there for a piano lesson or a client accuses you of plagiarism: You will be liable. Or consider the costs you would be responsible for if the dog you’re walking breaks loose and attacks a pedestrian. The right policy can protect you.

Cyber insurance is also a growing consideration. If you set up an online store to sell crafts or homemade baked goods and a hacker steals your customers’ credit card data, what would be the cost to you? Would you be able to recoup your losses? Cyber insurance can protect you in the event of a breech whether your computer is hacked or your phone containing private information is stolen.

Auto insurance. Some automotive policies are for personal use only. Others may cover a business-related accident, but with limited coverage. If your side hustle involves driving and you get into an accident, do you know whether your insurance will cover you? If not, check with your Trusted Choice agent before an accident occurs.

Even if you are employed as a delivery driver, you need to know whether the company’s insurance covers you and what the limits are for collision, liability and medical. Talk with your independent agent, so you’ll know if you need a commercial policy for adequate protection.

Fire insurance. You probably have a homeowners or renters policy that provides coverage for losses incurred in a fire. But what happens if you operate a home business and spent thousands of dollars on office equipment? Will the insurance extend beyond your personal belongings to cover that equipment? Or, for that matter, will it cover the materials you purchased to make the items that you sell, or the business inventory you store at home?

Find answers before you need to make a claim, and avoid potentially devastating surprises. Your Trusted Choice agent can explain where your personal coverage ends, and where the gaps are in your business coverage.

As your business grows, be sure to inform your Trusted Choice agent so they can work with you to adjust your coverages and ensure the policies keep pace with your needs — especially if you hire workers or engage a contractor. Your agent can advise you about workers’ compensation insurance and employment practices liability insurance. Your agent also can review your contractor’s proof of insurance to determine if it meets your business’s needs.

Think of your Trusted Choice agent as a business partner who has your interests at heart. Your agent will work with you every step of the way as you grow your side hustle and reap the fruits of your efforts. Contact LG Insurance Group today if you have any questions regarding your insurance needs.

RV Insurance: What You Need to Know

When it comes to recreational vehicles, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. Insurance is one of them. Here we will outline what you need to know about RV insurance so that you can make the best decision for your needs.

1. There are Different Types of Coverage to Choose From

When it comes to your recreational vehicle, you will want to ensure that you have the proper coverage. There are different types of RV insurance that people usually choose from.

Liability: This is one of the most important policy options to choose from. This option can provide coverage for damages you cause to other people’s property if it’s the result of an accident caused by you.

Medical Payments: Medical payments coverage can pay for the cost of injuries to yourself or others in your RV at the time of an accident.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist: This coverage can cover expenses for injuries to you or others in your RV due to an accident caused by another person who does not have liability insurance.  

Comprehensive: If your RV is vandalized or damaged by causes other than a collision, you will be covered with Comprehensive coverage. Even damage caused by animals can be covered in some policies.

Collision: With this type of policy, your RV will be covered for losses resulting from a collision with another vehicle or object.

2. Your RV Needs to Be Covered for Specific Situations

Your RV should be covered for circumstances that you deem to be very important. For example, if you have pets or equipment in your RV, this needs to be considered when it comes to the types of coverage you need.

3. You Should Read Your Policy Thoroughly

Your RV insurance policy has a lot of details about your coverage. This information is important to understand to know what types of damages are included if you need to file a claim. So, it would be best if you took the time to read through your contract carefully.

You need to ensure that you have the proper insurance coverage for your RV. This will ensure that you are protected if something happens with your vehicle. Contact LG Insurance Group in Marietta, GA, for more information.

Is it time to Update Your Motorcycle Insurance?

Let’s be honest. Renewing your motorcycle insurance is always a hurried affair from the moment you get the notification that your policy is about to expire. Your mind is always focused on renewing the policy without looking at the substance. Does your policy address all your current insurance needs?

At LG Insurance Group, we usually advise our Marietta, GA clients to update their bike insurance every year. However, sometimes you don’t have to wait for a year to lapse to update your insurance. If the following occurs, don’t hesitate to talk to your insurer to make the necessary adjustments.

Change of location

If you move to a new location, don’t forget to inform your insurance agent. Your location is one of the factors many insurance companies use to compute your premium, so it’s essential you inform your insurer when your address changes.

Change of bike use

You have always used your bike to run personal errands. But because the economy is taking a toll on your finances, you want to make a few extra bikes using your two-wheeler. You now want to deliver pizza and run other commercial errands with your bike.

Your new line of thought is creative, but you need to inform your insurer that you are using your two-wheeler for commercial purposes.

Selling your bike

Whether you are getting rid of your bike or upgrading to a bigger, better bike, you must inform your insurance agent. The good thing is that you can transfer your old policy to your new policy, and just top up the premium instead of getting a new policy altogether.  

Motorcycle insurance in Marietta, GA 

Still not sure when you should update your motorcycle insurance? Not a problem. If you get in touch with LG Insurance Group, we will advise you on instances you should review your motorcycle insurance policy.

Exploring The Key Benefits Of Boat Insurance

LG Insurance Group serves the Marietta, GA community. We are an independent agency. We strive to help our clients find the coverage they need to protect their assets. We have partnerships with multiple carriers throughout the South, which enables us to offer unique policies to every client. We are confident that we can help you navigate life’s challenges.

The Key Benefits Of Boat Insurance

Boating is a popular hobby throughout the South. During warm summers, many residents enjoy heading out by the lake to cool off. Boating is a great way to spend time with your friends and family and enjoy the weather. However, boating can be a relatively risky endeavor. A strong wave may cause problems or your equipment may malfunction. Consider the benefits of boat insurance. Boat insurance offers a layer of protection while you are out on the water.

Boat insurance covers you if you are involved in a collision with an object. In addition to the damages, you are also covered if your boat is stolen or vandalized. All of your personal items on the boat are covered if they are stolen or damaged. If you have custom parts on your boat, you may need to amend your policy in order to fully protect those items. Liability coverage is also important because accidents can happen at any time. Liability coverage protects you if you accidentally damage someone’s property.

You can also receive emergency assistance if your boat starts leaking fuel or your engine malfunctions. It’s important that you pay attention to your policy’s navigational limits. The navigational limits outline the different places around Marietta, GA where you can operate your boat and still maintain coverage.

LG Insurance Group Will Help You Protect Your Assets

Visit our website to learn more information about boat insurance.  

LG Insurance Group answers 6 FAQ about flood insurance

Floods are unpredictable. It doesn’t matter where you live. If enough rain falls fast enough, you’re at risk.

Luckily, LG Insurance Group can help. In addition to writing policies, the Marietta, GA agency also answers six common questions about flood insurance.

What does flood insurance cover?

As the name implies, flood insurance covers damage caused by rising water. This applies to the building itself and any possessions inside.

Is flood insurance required?

Flood insurance is required only if you live in a high-risk area and currently have a government-backed mortgage. However, it’s always recommended. In fact, FEMA reports that residents in low or moderate flood zones are five times more likely to experience a flood than a fire in their home.

Are floods covered by homeowners insurance?

No. Floods are often excluded from typical homeowners policies.

Does flood insurance only apply to homeowners?

Flood insurance is just as important if you rent. Although the leasing company has its own policy, this covers the exterior of the building and the structure alone. For coverage of any belongings inside, personal flood insurance is necessary.

How much does flood insurance cost?

Prices vary depending on location, the type of coverage needed, and the property’s flood risk. If you live in a lower risk area, you may qualify for a less expensive, preferred policy.

Where can I buy flood insurance?

The government provides the National Flood Insurance Program. These policies are sold through local, private companies and are federally supported.

Reach out to an agent serving Marietta, GA

LG Insurance Group can’t prevent floods from occurring, but they can ensure you’re protected. Located in Marietta, GA, their agents are waiting to find the right policy for you. Call today.

Do Georgia RV owners need RV insurance?

People that live in the Marietta, GA area and want a way to explore their surroundings should consider investing in their own RV. If you want to buy an RV in this area, you also need to make sure that you are getting proper insurance protection. This type of protection continues to be a necessity for various reasons. 

Coverage is Needed to Meet Legal Standards

A reason that you will need to have RV insurance in Georgia is so you can meet the legal standards and requirements. An RV owner in this state will need to comply with the same laws as any other motorist when it comes to insurance coverage. This means that they will need to have at least a minimum level of liability insurance coverage. Without it, you will be out of compliance with state laws.

Comply with Lender Standards

Buying an RV will always require a big upfront investment. Due to this, taking out a loan to finance the purchase continues to be very common. If you want to get an RV with a loan, you do need to follow your lender’s requirements in terms of insurance protection. In many cases, this will mean you need a full insurance plan with comprehensive and collision support. 

When you are going to buy an RV in the Marietta, GA area, you will find that there are various options to consider for insurance. Due to this, you should always make sure that you speak with a team that you can trust. The team with the LG Insurance Group is always a great place to start your search. LG Insurance Group offers you guidance and support as you build a new plan. They can then help you pick a policy that will give the right coverage. 

Motorcycle Insurance: Coverage and Customization Options

Motorcycles allow you to feel relaxed and give you a feeling of excitement and freedom. However, similar to standard automobiles, motorcycles need to be covered by insurance. In fact, most states require a minimum amount of insurance if you are driving it on the road. If you plan to own a motorcycle in Marietta, GA, it can help to work with an agent at LG Insurance Group to ensure you understand the different motorcycle insurance coverage options.

What Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover?

Liability coverage will protect bikers in the event they are in a collision they are deemed at fault for. This policy will pay for property damage, bodily injuries, as well as legal fees if sued—all up to the set limit of the policy.

Comprehensive coverage will protect bikers in the event of a non-collision event that is not their fault, such as weather damage, fire, vandalism, and theft. This coverage will sometimes even cover accessories if they are stolen, but you will want to check with your agent to ensure your policy extends to the accessories before assuming.

What Motorcycle Insurance Customization Options Are There?

There are some insurance policies that will cover the full replacement of the bike in the event it is totaled. Some motorcyclists like to add an injury policy, which will cover extended medical care costs. Then, of course, there is underinsured/uninsured motorist protection to protect motorcyclists when involved in an accident with someone else who does not have the proper insurance.

Since bikers like to add aftermarket parts of their motorcycles, such as custom exhaust, you may want to consider checking into an additional policy to cover these items in the event they are lost or damaged.

With the proper motorcycle insurance, you can rest easy as you enjoy the wind in your hair knowing you are sufficiently protected. For years, LG Insurance Group has been helping Marietta, GA residents like you obtain the motorcycle insurance they need. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.