Do Renters Need Umbrella Insurance?

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Umbrella insurance can provide valuable additional protection if you don’t otherwise have sufficient personal liability coverage. Personal liability coverage is a standard feature of most renters’ insurance policies, and most renters’ policies offer adequate coverage for those who rent. If you’re a high-net-worth individual who rents, however, you might want additional umbrella insurance protection.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance is a supplemental policy that extends liability coverage beyond what a standard renter’s or homeowner’s policy offers. It can protect against major lawsuits, covering legal fees and damages if you’re sued for defamation, someone else’s harm, or another covered liability incident.

The insurance is most often purchased by high-net-worth individuals, who can be targets of lawsuits and have substantial assets to protect. If you’re unsure whether you should get umbrella insurance, our team here at The Isom Insurance Group can help evaluate your situation.

Do You Need Umbrella Insurance?

Most people who lease their residence don’t need additional liability coverage beyond what a renters policy provides. People usually purchase a house when they accumulate enough wealth to justify additional liability protection. Umbrella insurance policies are commonly purchased in conjunction with home insurance policies.

However, high-net-worth individuals sometimes lease a residence without a primary home. Doctors might rent while taking a one-year contract somewhere (such as Polk County, FL), business professionals on short-term assignments might not purchase a house, and career-focused professionals who expect to be moving regularly might decide to rent. There are other reasons why wealthy individuals might rent.

If this describes your situation and you’re renting in Polk County, FL, umbrella insurance may indeed be appropriate. Contact us at The Isom Insurance Group for help deciding whether you should get the additional liability insurance protection. Our team of agents will be glad to assist you.

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How Home Insurance Helps When a Guest is Injured on Your Property

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Hosting friends and family is a wonderful way to create memories, but what happens if a guest gets injured while visiting your home? Accidents can happen unexpectedly, whether it’s a slip on a wet floor, a fall down the stairs, or even a dog bite. That’s where your home insurance policy can step in to help. At The Isom Insurance Group, serving the greater Polk County, FL, area, we want to ensure you understand how your policy can protect you in these situations.

Does Home Insurance Cover Guest Injuries?

Most standard home insurance policies include personal liability coverage and medical payments coverage. Personal liability coverage helps if you are found legally responsible for an injury on your property. It can cover medical bills, legal fees, and even settlement costs if the injured person decides to take legal action.

On the other hand, medical payment coverage is designed to cover minor medical expenses regardless of who is at fault. If a guest trips on your doorstep and needs medical attention, your policy may help cover their doctor’s visit without requiring a legal battle.

What Isn’t Covered?

While home insurance provides valuable protection, it doesn’t cover everything. Injuries to members of your own household typically aren’t included, as these are covered by health insurance instead. Additionally, if the injury was intentional or caused by negligence, your claim could be denied.

Make Sure You’re Protected

Accidents happen, but having the right insurance can give you peace of mind. Contact The Isom Insurance Group, serving the area in and around Polk County, FL, today to review your policy and ensure you have the coverage you need to protect yourself and your guests.

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Drivers are Unpredictable – Auto Insurance Is Not

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Most people drive regularly, but they often overlook the risks they face each time they hit the road. From unpredictable road conditions and mechanical failures to unexpected obstacles, we can encounter numerous unpredictable scenarios. Arguably, the most unpredictable factor on the road is other drivers. This is one of the many reasons why drivers in and around Polk County, FL, trust the experienced team at The Isom Insurance Group for all their auto insurance needs.

Auto Insurance: A Dependable Solution for Unpredictable Roads

Distracted drivers, uninsured drivers, impaired drivers, and bad drivers are just a few examples of other drivers’ unpredictability. The good news is that auto insurance provides a reliable safety net. Drivers from the Polk County area rely on it to keep them and their vehicles safe, including protection from the unpredictability they encounter each time they get behind the wheel. The Isom Insurance Group understands and appreciates these concerns and the risks that auto insurance can help mitigate.

Auto Insurance Solutions for Polk County, FL Drivers

If you live in Polk County, FL, and have questions or would like to learn more about auto insurance for your vehicle, we’re here to help. Contact us to find out more and schedule an appointment for the protection you and your vehicle need at The Isom Insurance Group today. The road and other drivers can be unpredictable – but your insurance doesn’t have to be.

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Do I need to have an umbrella insurance plan in Florida?

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Everyone should be aware of and consider liability risks. One way to protect oneself and reduce liability risks in Polk County, FL, is by investing in an umbrella insurance plan. This type of insurance offers blanket liability coverage, and there are several reasons why you might want to have it.

Protection Against Major Claims

One of the primary reasons to get an umbrella insurance plan is to protect against the risk of a major claim. If you are involved in an accident and it’s deemed your fault, you will be required to pay restitution to the other party. While home or auto insurance plans may offer some coverage, they have policy limits. An umbrella insurance plan provides coverage on top of these plans.

Preparation for Unforeseen Risks

There are many liability risks that can be challenging to insure on their own. In these situations, your other liability insurance plans may not provide support. However, a comprehensive umbrella insurance plan offers blanket support, ensuring you are protected against a wide range of risks and situations.

If you are in Polk County, FL, and considering an umbrella insurance plan, contact us at Isom Insurance Group. Our team understands the value of umbrella insurance and can help you create a new plan. We take a customized approach to understand your needs and provide the best possible coverage.

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Tropical Tidings: Keep Your Florida Home Safe This Holiday Season

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The holiday season in Florida brings a unique combination of tropical weather, festive gatherings, as well as a handful of challenges to home safety. From fire hazards to unexpected weather, there are steps you can take to make sure your home stays safe and secure while you and your friends and loved ones enjoy the holiday cheer. The following home safety tips can help you safeguard your Florida home during the most wonderful time of the year.

PROTECT AGAINST FIRE RISKS

Holiday decorations bring warmth and joy, but they also introduce potential fire hazards, especially if your home is decked out in string lights, candles, or a tree. Here are some tips to keep the festive glow without increasing the risk of a house fire:

Use LED Lights

LED lights are not only energy-efficient but also stay cool to the touch, reducing the risk of fire. If you’re hanging lights inside or outside your home, choose LEDs over traditional incandescent bulbs, which can get very hot.

Avoid Overloading Outlets

It’s tempting to plug multiple lights, devices, or decorations into one outlet, but doing so can overload circuits, especially if you have older wiring. Stick to a single extension cord per outlet, and never daisy-chain cords together. Use power strips with surge protectors as an added precaution.

Candle Alternatives

Real candles may be beautiful, but they’re a leading cause of household fires, especially during the holidays. Battery-operated candles create the same warm ambiance without the risk of an open flame in the home. If you use real candles, keep them on a stable, heat-resistant surface and never leave them unattended.

Christmas Tree Safety

If you have a real tree, remember: Dry pine needles are highly flammable. Keep your tree well-watered, away from heat sources, and unplug the lights when you’re not at home. For an artificial tree, look for fire-resistant materials to add an extra layer of protection for your home.

Weatherproof Your Home for Florida Winters: Mold & Storm Precautions

Florida’s winter weather may not bring freezing temperatures, but there are still challenges for homeowners. Here are some ways to protect your home from mold and storm-related issues during the holiday season.

Control Humidity to Prevent Mold

Florida’s humidity doesn’t take a break just because it’s winter. If your home is closed up for holiday travel or other excursions away from home, moisture can build up inside, creating the perfect environment for mold growth. To remove excess moisture in the home, use a dehumidifier in rooms prone to moisture buildup, especially in bathrooms and kitchens. Set your air conditioning system to a slightly higher temperature to keep air moving, even if you’re away.

Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors aren’t just a concern in cold climates; in Florida, they can allow in moisture and warm air, which contribute to mold growth. Inspect your windows and doors for any gaps or leaks, and add caulking or weatherstripping if needed. This can also help keep your energy costs down, as it prevents your air conditioning from working overtime.

Storm Preparations

Although Florida’s official hurricane season is over by the beginning of December, out-of-season storms can occasionally impact the state. Make sure your gutters are clear to prevent water buildup, which can lead to leaks or roof damage. Secure any outdoor decorations or holiday lights to avoid damage from high winds, and keep storm shutters or hurricane-proof window covers accessible – just in case. And it’s never too late to create a home inventory of all you own; it can be a lifesaver should you need to file an insurance claim.

Home Security While Away From Home

If you’re planning to travel during the holidays, it’s essential to make sure your home remains secure while you’re away. Unoccupied homes are often seen as easy targets for burglars – but there are some simple home safety tips you can use to deter unwanted visitors.

Smart Home Technology

Many modern security devices let you monitor your home from your smartphone. Consider installing security cameras, doorbell cameras, or smart locks. These systems can give you peace of mind, as you’ll receive real-time alerts if anything unusual occurs.

Lighting Strategies

A dark house can signal to would-be intruders no one is home. Set your indoor and outdoor lights on timers or use smart bulbs you can control remotely. Alternating the lights’ on and off times gives the appearance of someone being home, even if you’re miles away.

Pause Deliveries and Mail

A pile of packages on your doorstep or a full mailbox is a clear sign of an empty home. Place a temporary hold on mail and deliveries, or ask a neighbor to collect them for you. This simple home safety tip keeps your property looking attended and reduces the risk of theft.

Let a Trusted Neighbor Know

If you have a neighbor you trust, let them know you’ll be away. They can keep an eye out for any unusual activity and might even offer to take care of tasks like watering plants or picking up flyers accumulating around your door.

Review Your Home Insurance Needs for the New Year

The end of the year is an ideal time to take a quick look at your insurance coverage and see if any updates are necessary. As you prepare for the holidays, consider whether your current policy still aligns with your needs.

Evaluate Recent Home Improvements

If you’ve made any significant updates to your home – like upgrading your kitchen, or enhancing your security system – these changes may impact your coverage needs. Updating your policy to reflect these improvements ensures you’re fully protected.

Consider Your Deductible

If you struggled with a high deductible this year or found it didn’t match your current financial situation, now may be the time to adjust it. Choose a deductible better aligned with your budget and risk tolerance – because the deductible you choose will affect both your premium and your out-of-pocket costs if you file a claim.

Protect New Valuables

The holiday season often brings new gifts, like electronics, jewelry, or other high-value items. Double-check your policy to make sure these items are covered in case of damage or loss. In some cases, you may want to add a personal property endorsement to increase your coverage limits for specific valuables.

Reassess Weather-Related Coverage

Although hurricane season is over, it’s important to have the right coverage in place before the next season arrives. Confirm with your agent your policy covers wind, rain, and any other perils common to Florida’s tropical climate. You might also consider flood insurance, since this typically requires a separate policy.

Safeguard Against Unexpected Holiday Hazards

The holidays bring plenty of joy, but they can also introduce unusual hazards. Here are a few extra precautions to keep your celebrations this year safe and stress-free.

Watch for Food Safety Issues

If you’re hosting, take precautions to prevent foodborne illness. Cook meats thoroughly, keep perishable foods refrigerated, and ensure any leftovers are properly refrigerated or stored.

Be Cautious with Outdoor Decorations

In addition to securing outdoor decorations against weather, make sure any electrical decorations are rated for outdoor use to avoid short-circuiting or fire risks. Use ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets for any lights or electronics placed outside to prevent electrical shocks.

Declutter High-Traffic Areas

‘Tis the season to entertain! With guests coming and going, you’ll want to declutter any areas of your home needing it. Keep entryways and common spaces clear to prevent tripping hazards. Store items like shoes, bags, and decorations neatly out of the way to create a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone.

Avoid Pet Hazards

Pets are often curious about holiday decorations, plants, and food, but some items can be harmful to them. Poinsettias, for example, are toxic to cats and dogs, while certain decorations like tinsel can pose choking hazards. Keep these out of reach from your furry friends. And you can help prevent dog bites by learning how to spot stress in dogs, aka beloved four-legged family members.

Home Safety Tips to Make the Season Merry and Safe

By taking a few simple precautions, you can keep your home safe and secure this holiday season without sacrificing any of the festive cheer. From managing fire risks to securing your property while traveling, these home safety tips help ensure your home is protected.

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and creating memories – don’t let avoidable home hazards get in the way. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a worry-free holiday season, knowing your home and loved ones are safe. 

To review your homeowner’s insurance policy or make sure your home is protected against the most common hazards in Florida, contact our office or get a quote at: https://www.isominsurancegroup.com/insurance-quotes.html

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How to Pick Home Insurance Based On Your Needs

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The Isom Insurance Group serves Polk County, FL, and beyond and can provide many types of coverage. For example, we can help you narrow your homeowner’s policy and satisfy you. Here’s what you need to do to get the most out of this process with us.

Know What You Need

Talk with us about the cost to fully rebuild your home and other concepts, such as dwelling coverage, inflation, and extended replacement needs. These expenses are essential to consider because the world will change and can significantly impact what your policy covers.

Consider Add-Ons

Extra policy protection may include scheduled personal property protection, sewer and water backup support, equipment breakdown, and home business endorsements. If you fall under any of these headings, consider these, as they provide great value at reasonable rates.

Don’t Forget Disasters

Florida homeowner insurance will protect against some disasters (in a state that experiences many) but not all. For example, floods and earthquakes aren’t covered. Even if we don’t get too many earth-shaking experiences here, floods are far more common due to hurricanes.

Read Policies Very Closely

Sit down and read through your policy to make sure it makes sense. The home insurance declaration page is significant, laying out everything you need to know. Get 3-4 of these from various providers and compare and contrast your options to choose.

We’re Here for You

At The Isom Insurance Group, we can help Polk County, FL, residents understand their homeowner’s policies. We’ll sit down with you, walk through the process, and ensure you know what’s happening. In this way, you’ll get the help you deserve to thrive and minimize potential financial issues if something happens to you.

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Safeguarding Your Thanksgiving: Tips for a Safe Holiday

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Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together, share a meal, and give thanks. While the focus is often on the feast, it’s crucial to consider safety to ensure that the holiday remains joyous and accident-free. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind as you prepare for Thanksgiving.

1. Kitchen Safety

  • Prevent Fires: Keep flammable items like oven mitts, wooden utensils, and curtains away from your stove. Always turn pot handles inward to prevent accidental spills.
  • Turkey Fryer Caution: If you’re deep-frying your turkey, do it outside on a flat surface, away from the house. Make sure the turkey is completely thawed and dry to avoid oil splatters and fires.
  • Avoid Cross Contamination: Use separate cutting boards for raw meats and vegetables. Wash hands, utensils, and surfaces after handling raw poultry.

2. Home Safety

  • Smoke Alarms: Check your smoke alarms before you start cooking. Replace batteries if needed, and ensure all alarms are functioning.
  • Candles: If you use candles, never leave them unattended. Place them where they cannot be knocked over by pets or children.
  • Clutter-Free Zones: Keep walkways clear to prevent tripping hazards, especially in the kitchen where everyone seems to gather.

3. Food Safety

  • Proper Cooking: Ensure your turkey reaches a minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Use a food thermometer to check.
  • Cooling Leftovers: Don’t leave food out for more than two hours. Divide leftovers into shallow containers to cool quickly in the refrigerator.
  • Reheating: Reheat all leftovers to 165°F (74°C) before eating.

4. Health and Hygiene

  • Hand Washing: Encourage everyone to wash their hands thoroughly before eating or handling food.
  • Allergy Awareness: If guests have food allergies, communicate with them about meal ingredients or offer alternatives.

5. Insurance Tips

  • Review Your Coverage: Before the holiday, it might be a good time to review your homeowners or renters insurance. Ensure you’re covered for potential damages or injuries.
  • Event Liability: If hosting many guests, consider if your liability insurance is adequate in case of accidents.

Thanksgiving should be a time of warmth and celebration, not worry. By following these safety tips, you can help ensure that your holiday is both enjoyable and secure. Remember, peace of mind is part of the preparation for a perfect Thanksgiving. Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at The Isom Insurance Group!

#HappyThanksgiving2024 #ThanksgivingTips #ThanksgivingSafety #HolidayTips #SafeAndSound #ThankfulAndSafe #TurkeyTime

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Building a Custom Emergency Kit for Your Auto

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The relentless 2024 hurricane season seems unwilling to give Florida a break. After Helene came Milton, and The Isom Insurance Group wants to address hurricane and overall safety preparation that could help keep Polk County, FL, residents safer. Today, we’ll discuss emergency kits for your automobile.

Custom Emergency Kits

Home emergency kits get all the attention, especially during hurricane season, but your car, truck, minivan, SUV, boat, or RV needs an emergency kit, too. Your kit should address the many natural hazards that threaten the state of Florida, not just hurricanes.

This auto emergency kit includes items the home kit doesn’t, like emergency blankets, flares, bottled water for drinking, and jugs of water for the radiator. As strange as it might sound, carrying a life jacket in a Florida auto emergency kit can save lives because, during hurricane season, the state is prone to flash floods and rising water floods.

Essential Emergency Kit Items for Your Vehicle

Your auto emergency kit needs more items than the one you create at home. When you need your emergency kit on the go, it must provide the necessities for any situation. Let’s consider the essentials that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend:

  • Three gallons of water per person
  • Three days of non-perishable food
  • Battery-powered or hand crank NOAA Weather Radio
  • Sleeping bag or Mylar thermal blanket
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Cell phone with chargers and a backup battery
  • Whistle for signaling for help
  • Dust mask
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape
  • Personal sanitation items, including moist disinfecting towelettes, garbage bags, and bag ties
  • Manual can opener
  • Local maps and a road atlas
  • Cloth face coverings/safety masks
  • Complete change of clothing appropriate for your climate and sturdy shoes
  • Flares
  • Rope
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Waterproof matches
  • Paper and pencil
  • Soap or hand sanitizer
  • Prescription eyeglasses, contacts, and contact lens solution
  • Cash or traveler’s checks
  • Prescription medications
  • Common non-prescription medications, including pain relievers, antacids, anti-diarrhea medication, etc.

If you have or travel with children, include items relevant to their age, such as infant formula, bottles, diapers, wipes, diaper rash cream for babies, and puzzle books, reading books, or portable games for older children. If you travel with your pet in the vehicle, include water and pet food. Make copies of important legal documents, such as your identification, insurance policies, and bank account numbers, and store them in a waterproof container.

Storing Your Auto Emergency Kit for Easy Access

Organize the essential items in airtight clear plastic bags and label the contents. Place all bags into one or two plastic bins with lids or a duffel bag. Store this kit within reach of the driver’s seat without exiting the vehicle. If your car features seats, you can adjust them to fold down from within, and you can store them in the trunk area. In older cars without this feature, store it on the floor of the backseat.

Contact Our Agency Today

Make your automotive emergency kit before Polk County, FL faces its next emergency. Contact The Isom Insurance Group for an auto insurance review. Let us help you customize your insurance policy to cover the perils faced by Floridians. Contact us today.

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How An Umbrella Policy Will Benefit You as A Business Owner

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An umbrella policy can shield your company’s assets and be a valuable part of your insurance plan whether you’re a new or existing business owner. If this sounds like the right type of coverage for you, our agents at The Isom Insurance Group are available to help you navigate updating your commercial insurance plan.

Your business may face legal battles, causing financial uncertainty. For example, you will be responsible for securing the services of an attorney needed to manage legal matters.

If your current commercial insurance policy doesn’t adequately cover your business, an umbrella insurance add-on can fill in the gaps. Umbrella coverage handles costs that exceed what a standard policy pays out.

Having this coverage means not having to divert funds from savings, business accounts, or other assets in stressful times. As a result, you can continue running your business without experiencing financial hardship.

Possible legal situations could include bodily or personal injury, legally essential defenses, or property damage; all of these could require you to cover out-of-pocket costs. Review your current commercial insurance policy – your insurance documents will explicitly state the coverage details.

An umbrella insurance plan will be invaluable if your business involves significant investments in machinery, inventory, and other essentials. Unexpected expenses won’t bog you down in case of legal issues.

Having reviewed the basics of umbrella insurance, contact our agents serving Polk County, FL. They can assist in updating your commercial insurance policy as per your requirements.

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Tips for getting your home ready for fall

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As summer winds down, thoughts turn to cooler weather and preparing your home for those cooler nights. While the fall weather in Florida is not as different as it is in other parts of the country, fall is hurricane weather in the Southeast. At The Isom Insurance Group in Polk County, FL, we ensure that our customers don’t have to worry about the fall, whether their home insurance is up to date or what they need. 

Get your heating unit serviced

In Florida, you are likely to have either a split system or a heat pump and AC. In the fall, there may start to be chilly nights when you want to turn the heat on, and you want to make sure that your system is in good condition and working as efficiently as possible. 

Make sure your gutters are clear.

The fall can be very rainy, and if your gutters are filled with debris from trees in your yard, the water can back up and damage your eaves and your roof. If you are going to clear them yourself, make sure that someone is with you and spot them if you lose your balance. Even better, hire someone to do it for you. 

Make sure your lawn furniture is secure.

Because fall is hurricane season, it is wise to ensure that your lawn furniture is secured or easy to carry indoors. If you are going to be away at any time, take everything in from the yard, including ornaments, portable plants, and furniture, and put them in the garage for safekeeping.  

Call our office at The Isom Insurance Group in Polk County, FL. We will ensure that you have the home insurance you need for your particular home. 

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