Guest Blogger: Gina Hopper of State Farm with important insurance tips

This topic was planned weeks in advance.  Given the recent tornado here in KY, I think the topic of insurance is even more relevant.  Here is what Gina has to share:

Insurance…I call it the necessary evil.  We pay for something we hope we’ll never use.  But picture this, you come home from your family vacation ready to return to life as usual (almost) and you open the door to see water standing in the floor and dripping from the ceiling.  What happens now?  The simple answer is to call your insurance agent (hopefully they’re local) and they will walk you through the next steps…from getting someone to stop the water and clean it up to making repairs and replacing furniture.

A few questions to consider: 

Do you have an adequate amount of coverage to rebuild your home and replace your belongings if the unthinkable happens?  Even though it’s not required, it’s a good idea to use a digital or video camera to make an inventory of your belongings to be kept in a fireproof box or safe deposit box.  This will help when documenting items that have been damaged or destroyed.  If you have valuable items such as jewelry, rugs, artwork, or antiques, it’s best to have appraisals on file with your insurance provider.  

Have you recently reviewed your policy with your agent?  If you can’t remember the last time you did, it’s probably a good idea to schedule an appointment soon and then follow up every 2-3 years.  If you do a major renovation or addition to your home, be sure to check with your insurance agent to verify your coverage is still adequate.  

The bottom line is that it’s no fun to pay for something we hope we never use.  However, ask anyone who has experienced the devastation of a fire, a tornado, a burst water pipe or “just” a tree limb on the roof, and you’ll hear how glad the person was that they had paid those premiums and had an insurance agent to help them through the situation.  

Gina has been in the insurance industry for over 10 years.  As your good neighbor agent she offers home, auto and life insurance policies.  Most importantly she helps protect your belongings and loved ones when the unthinkable occurs.  For contact information here is the link to her website .