Blog | Birdsong Agency, Inc

Choosing a Home Insurance Policy in Snellville, GA

Posted on April 29, 2022May 11, 2022 by admin

Homeowner’s insurance can protect your home, family, and belongings. There are many home insurance policy options available in Snellville, GA. It’s essential to choose the right policy for your needs.

What is Home Insurance?

Home insurance, also known as hazard insurance or homeowner’s insurance, is a type of property insurance that covers a private residence. It’s a policy that combines various personal insurance protections. This coverage can include losses occurring in one’s home, its contents, loss of use (additional living expenses), or loss of other homeowner’s possessions.

Another important area of coverage is a liability. A homeowner’s policy is different because it covers the property and surrounding buildings and any injuries that occur on the premises. It also protects the homeowner from legal responsibility if someone is injured on their property.

A Birdsong Agency Inc. representative can help you choose the best home insurance policy for your needs.

Is Homeowner’s Insurance Mandatory in Snellville, GA?

In most cases, homeowner’s insurance is not mandatory in Georgia. However, depending on your mortgage company or lender, you may be required to purchase coverage. Even if your home is free and clear of mortgages, you may still want to consider an insurance policy to protect your property and belongings.

Does Home Insurance Cover All Acts of Nature?

No. Most policies do not cover flood damage or earthquakes. Also, you might need additional coverage for windstorms or hurricanes. You should always read your policy carefully to make sure you understand what is and is not covered.

Your Birdsong Agency Inc. agent can help you choose the right policy for your needs. Contact us today to get started.

When Should I Update my Commercial Insurance?

Posted on March 31, 2022April 14, 2022 by admin

Commercial insurance is one thing you can’t do without if you own a business. It’s a critical tool that protects your business. If you already have commercial insurance, chances are it’s outdated. As the business expands or changes, so should your commercial insurance coverage. Having the right commercial coverage ensures that you have the financial protection required if a disaster strikes. If you have a business in Snellville, GA, or in its surroundings, here are triggers why you should update your commercial insurance with Birdsong Agency Inc.

Office relocation: If you have moved your office premises to a new location, it’s time your insurance agency gets to know. The location of your business is one of the factors that influence commercial insurance premiums. So, your new location may either increase or decrease your premium rates.
Introduction of a new service or product: As you begin to find ways of increasing your business revenue streams, you may start to offer new services or products. These new services or products may pose new risks of a liability claim, thus the need to update your commercial name.
If you acquire new business assets: As your business grows, you may acquire more assets like equipment, tools, computers, vehicles, etc. Not updating your commercial insurance may put your business at risk of losses if an unfortunate event occurs.
Change of employees: If you add or reduce employees, your insurance agents must get to know you. It will ensure you have the right coverage in case of any claims.

Commercial insurance in Snellville, GA

Regardless of your industry, commercial insurance is a must-have for all business owners. Ensure you have the right coverage that protects your business from potential risks. Ready to update or purchase your commercial insurance in Snellville, GA, or the surrounding area? Contact us at Birdsong Agency Inc. for a quote.

Flood Policy Transfers: How Policies Can Easily Move From One Homeowner To The Next

Posted on February 15, 2022February 3, 2022 by admin

The policy assumption process makes it easy for new homeowners to take on the seller’s flood insurance policy. Here, we’ll take a look at everything you need to know if you’re considering buying a home in a flood zone and want to assume the former owner’s flood insurance policy.

What Is Flood Insurance?

If your home is in a flood zone (as determined by FEMA), you’ll need to purchase flood insurance to protect your property. Thankfully, it’s likely that you’ll be able to take over the policy of the previous homeowner, saving you the hassle of needing to purchase a new policy.

Why Is Policy Assumption A Smart Move?

Assuming the former homeowner’s policy can lower costs for the buyer. Usually, an elevation certificate is required for a new flood insurance policy. Since the policy for the home already exists, the buyer does not need to go through the process of paying for an elevation certificate.

Policy assumptions also benefit sellers. It can be hard to sell a home in a flood zone, and passing on a policy to buyers can speed along the process of closing the sale. One thing to watch out for: typically, when a home in a flood zone is sold, the seller receives a refund, as insurance policies are usually paid a year in advance. When insurance policies are a part of the home sale, the seller does not receive a refund.

Need Flood Insurance? Birdsong Agency Inc. Can Help

Insurance agents at Birdsong Agency Inc., serving Snellville, GA, are here to help you through the process of purchasing flood insurance for your new home. Reach out or stop in today to learn more about flood insurance policies.

Which type of life insurance is right for you?

Posted on January 24, 2022February 3, 2022 by admin

Are you ready to purchase a life insurance policy? The team here at Birdsong Agency Inc. can help you determine which type of life insurance is right for you. If you are a resident in the greater Snellville, GA area, we are here to assist you in your purchase!

Life insurance options

There are a number of different life insurance policy options available in our area. The first choice to make is whether you want a term life policy or a permanent policy. Term policies are generally more affordable and last for a specific period of time, such as 15 or 30 years. A permanent policy will last for your entire lifespan, as long as you keep current with your premium payments.

When it comes to a permanent policy, you will have a number of different options. There are whole life, universal, and variable policies that are available. The type of policy that is right for your needs will depend on a few factors. What is your current age, are you interested in a financial investment as well as an insurance policy, and what is your level of risk tolerance?

Answering these questions is a great way to start the selection process. The next step is to sit down with a local agent. They can help you determine the policy that best meets your needs. Choosing an appropriate life insurance policy is an important part of planning for your future and your financial wellbeing.

Give us a call today

Here at Birdsong Agency Inc., we are ready to help all of our friends and neighbors in the Snellville, GA area with their insurance needs. If it’s time for you to get a life insurance policy, call or stop by our office today!

Making the Most of Bike Ownership

Posted on December 13, 2021December 9, 2021 by admin

Motorcycles are one of the most exciting types of vehicles to own. In order to make the most of your bike ownership, Birdsong Agency Inc, serving Snellville, GA is here with tips and advice. Keep reading to learn more.

Keep Up Maintenance

Because a motorcycle is exposed to the elements in a way most other vehicles are not, it is imperative that you stay up to date on all maintenance. A motorcycle can be a great investment when you take good care of the vehicle. Motorcycles do not have the same type of deprecation that other vehicles have. This means that your bike will retain its value well if you take good care of it.

Garage Your Bike

Your motorcycle will stay in great shape if you garage your bike properly. Leaving your bike out in the elements for long periods of time will eventually have a negative effect on the functionality of the bike, its appearance, and its value. If you do not have a suitable garage available, you will want to invest in the proper type of bike cover. These covers will protect your vehicle from the elements while outdoors.

Don’t Take Risks

Driving a motorcycle carries with it a greater amount of risk than a regular vehicle would. A rider is more vulnerable to injuries if an accident does take place. This is why it is important that bike owners do not take any necessary risks while operating their bike. It is also important to make sure you are properly insured so that in the event of an accident, you will not wind up with substantial repair or medical bills.

If you would like to learn about motorcycle insurance or any of our other insurance products, please contact Birdsong Agency Inc, serving Snellville, GA and the surrounding areas.

Why You Need Boat Insurance

Posted on November 29, 2021December 9, 2021 by admin

Boats can be a ton of fun, and if you look after your boat well, you can make fun trips on the water with it for years. But unfortunately, as with many things, certain situations can put a real damper on using your boat. If you make sure you have boat insurance and the right boat insurance coverage, you can enjoy your boat as freely as possible.

We at Birdsong Agency Inc. in Snellville, GA proudly offer boat insurance to residents in the state of Georgia. We will show you quotes from our various providers to help you choose the best quote for you and your boat.

Coverage for your boat

You can insure your boat for many things. A couple of these include:

Damage to your boat. Your insurance should cover damages caused by others while you are in the water, but also damage caused by being parked. Think: a car drives into your boat while it is parked.
Your boat gets stolen. This one is pretty self-explanatory, and definitely, an important point to consider.
There is damage to your boat or yourself. In the horrible case of an accident, you might need medical attention or your boat requires repairs. If you include this in your insurance, you can claim these expenses back.

If you want to discuss boat insurance with one of our advisors as soon as possible, give Birdsong Agency Inc. in Snellville, GA a call or request our quotes on our website. Our agents can help you with your boat insurance, but also advise you on further safety measures for your boat and licenses required by yourself and potential visitors to you.

What Does Flood Insurance Cover?

Posted on October 15, 2021October 11, 2021 by admin

Flood insurance is not mandatory, but it is good to have it, especially if you live in a flood-prone area. If your property is damaged by a flood, and you do not have proper insurance, you may face expensive repairs that you will have to cover yourself. If you are thinking about getting this type of insurance, Birdsong Agency Inc. serving clients in Snellville, GA prepared a list of things that are normally covered by flood insurance:

What Is Covered By Flood Insurance?

Here is what flood insurance usually covers:

Essential systems in a house. Flood insurance will cover plumbing and electrical systems, water heaters, furnaces, air conditioners, fuel tanks with fuel in them, solar energy equipment, cisterns with water in them, and pumps.
Window treatments and carpeting. Flood insurance also includes window curtains and blinds, and any type of carpeting installed over wooden floors or unfinished floors.
Appliances. Usually, most appliances, including refrigerators, washers, dryers, and dishwashers are covered.
Permanently installed bookcases, cabinets, and paneling. However, there are certain limitations you should know about. For example, flood insurance will pay only for damaged cabinets, but not for those that were not affected
Personal belongings. Your furniture, electronics, clothes, and other personal stuff are normally covered by flood insurance.
A detached garage. Up to 10 percent of your total building coverage can be used toward your detached garage.

Even though flood insurance is not mandatory, it is still good to have it for additional protection. If you live in Snellville, GA or any other nearby town in the state of Georgia and you are looking for an insurance agency to purchase a flood insurance policy, you should contact Birdsong Agency Inc. Our insurance agents are always ready to answer your questions and help you find the perfect coverage.

Does Your Georgia Commercial Insurance Policy Have Contingent Business Interruption Coverage?

Posted on September 30, 2021October 11, 2021 by admin

When you are running a business, you have a lot of worries on your mind. It may seem like every day and every year there are new challenges that seem bigger than the last. That is what Georgia commercial insurance is for, to help you feel more secure against the risks and challenges that impact your business every year.

At Birdsong Agency Inc., we want Snellville, GA business owners to be protected against every risk. Business interruption is a serious concern that every business owner worries about every day.

Contingent business interruption insurance is a unique kind of commercial insurance that can cover you in the event of a unique business situation.

Business Interruption Insurance

Standard business interruption insurance covers you in the event of an interruption to your business for specific reasons. When your business is interrupted by any of them, you can make a claim with your insurance company and recover revenue and other expenses.

This insurance can be used in the event of damage to your property that interrupts your business, property damage that prevents customers and employees from coming to your business, or a government closure.

Contingent business interruption insurance functions a little differently.

Contingent Business Interruption Insurance

Business interruption insurance helps with your risk management, but contingent business interruption insurance takes that one step further. In this case, you would have business interruption insurance that can be transferred to a third party.

If, for example, a vendor experiences problems or their own business interruption, you can make a claim on contingent business interruption insurance. Contingent business interruption insurance helps you to recover damages caused by a third party, and not by an event such as a hurricane or government shut down of your own premises.

Get a Quote

Do you know if you have contingent business interruption insurance? At Birdsong Agency Inc., we can help Snellville, GA business owners and operators ensure their commercial insurance is thorough. Call us for a quote today.

Disputed Home Insurance Claims: You Do Have Rights

Posted on August 16, 2021August 8, 2021 by admin

Has your home insurance company denied your claim, and you don’t understand what happened? Contact us at Birdsong Agency Inc. to learn more about this problem and how it affects Snellville, GA residents. And understand why your claim may be denied and what you can do to dispute it. By understanding your rights, you’ll make it easier to keep your home protected and safe.

What To Do When Your Claim is Disputed

Why do insurance companies dispute or deny your insurance claims? Usually, they either don’t believe that what you said happened or made an error when you filed. Thankfully, you can also dispute a denial to ensure that you have a better chance of getting paid. The steps to take when fighting a denied claim may vary between some insurance companies but usually include:

Contacting your insurance agent and talking about why it was denied, and trying to prove your case
Appealing directly to the insurance company to see if they’re willing to change their mind
Hiring a professional appraiser who can prove your claim is legitimate
Finding an attorney who can represent you in a civil suit against your insurance team

These simple steps help you by allowing you to get legal protection for your home insurance. And if your claim was not legitimate or was based on a misunderstanding, disputing it correctly and following these guidelines helps to improve your chances of getting your due compensation for any troubles.

Work With a Team You Can Trust

If you want an insurance company who you can trust to honor their agreements with you, please contact us at Birdsong Agency Inc. right away. We have years of experience serving Snellville, GA, and have a sterling reputation for providing high-quality home insurance policies for people like you. Our team is always willing to work with you to figure out your dispute and what we can do to help.

What is Bond Insurance?

Posted on July 30, 2021August 8, 2021 by admin

As a business owner, you have probably purchased worker’s compensation insurance, general liability insurance, cyber insurance, and any other type of commercial insurance that your business needs. However, have you thought of purchasing bond insurance or surety bonds? If this is something new to you, Birdsong Agency Inc. of Snellville, GA breaks down the bond insurance for you.

Definition of Bond Insurance

A surety bond is an agreement or contract between three parties, including the principal (the individual buying the bond), the surety (the company writing the bond), and the obligee (the department that requires the bond). A surety bond is not bought to cover claims. Instead, it provides a financial guarantee or stability to the organization or entity buying it.

How Does Insurance Bond Work?

A surety bond is like a type of insurance. If a business owner fails to meet the requirements of a bond, like failing to pay a vendor, a claim might be filed against that bond. You can think of an insurance bond as a type of credit to the principal.

Which Insurance Bond Do You Need?

Because businesses have different needs, then it is only reasonable that each will need a different type of bond. However, there are three types of surety bonds you may require when undertaking business.

License and permit bonds- Some professionals may require these types of bonds to operate legally. For instance, freight brokers, licensed contractors, and auto dealers are a few examples of professionals that may require a license and a permit bond.
Contractor bonds- Businesses or individuals that work on public construction projects are likely to need a contractor bond.
Court Bonds- Certain courts may require these bonds for different reasons.

Like most people, business owners in Snellville, GA may find it hard to determine which type of bond they need. If you are in this predicament, contact Birdsong Agency Inc., where we can help you choose a bond that will protect your business’s interests.

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