Buying a Home for the First Time? What You Need To Know About Choosing an Insurance Policy

Homeowners insurance is not just a box to check for your mortgage. It protects your finances when unexpected damage or loss occurs. For first-time buyers, understanding how coverage works helps prevent gaps that can lead to major out-of-pocket costs later.

Coverage Types Every Policy Includes

Most standard policies include coverage for your home’s structure, your personal belongings, liability protection, and additional living expenses if your home becomes unlivable after a covered event. Each section has its own limits, and those limits should reflect your actual needs, not just lender requirements.

Choosing the Right Coverage Amount

The goal is to insurance your home for the cost to rebuild, not the purchase price. Construction costs, materials, and labor affect rebuilding expenses. An accurate replacement cost estimate helps ensure you can repair or rebuild without taking on unexpected debt. 

Deductibles and Premium Tradeoffs

Higher deductibles usually mean lower monthly premiums, but they also increase what you pay when filing a claim. First-time buyers should choose a deductible they could realistically afford during a stressful situation, not just the lowest monthly payment.

Comparing Policies Beyond Price

Price matters, but it should not be the only factor. Look closely at exclusions, claim handling reputation, and optional endorsements like flood, earthquake, or equipment coverage. Taking time to compare details helps you choose protection that fits your home and budget.

At Riskbusters Insurance, We’re Here to Serve Tennessee

If you’re searching for a home insurance provider, we’re glad you found our team at Riskbusters Insurance. Reach out to us today to chat about our policy options.

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How Home Insurance Protects Your Home’s Value

Investing in home insurance is often necessary to meet your lender’s requirements. If something were to happen to cause serious damage to your home, it would undermine the value of the property. If you can’t afford to rebuild or make repairs, that puts your mortgage at risk in the eyes of your lender. But having home insurance in Tennessee offers benefits beyond just coverage for catastrophic events. If you are considering upgrading your policy, our team at Riskbusters Insurance, serving the TN area, can offer you solutions.

Why Home Insurance Matters

Consider an example of how home insurance protects your property’s value. If a fire occurred that damaged a substantial amount of your home due to an unpredictable and accidental incident, your policy would cover the cost to repair or rebuild the property to its condition before the fire.

Not having enough home insurance creates a high risk of cost-cutting measures for making repairs, or in some situations, you may not be able to afford rebuilding.

Home insurance protects against other types of losses you may have, including damage to your home’s structure due to vandalism, lightning strikes, and other covered perils. Home insurance also reimburses the cost of replacing your belongings due to theft or damage from a covered event, like a fire. It even covers your belongings stored in a storage facility and in your vehicle. Additionally, home insurance provides liability coverage if a guest is injured on your property.

Call Us for a Quote

At Riskbusters Insurance, we help our Tennessee clients select the level of insurance that best meets their specific needs. Contact our team to get started on a quote.

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Tips to Help You Pick the Right Home Insurance Company For You

Choosing a home insurance company isn’t something most people do every day, but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make to protect your home. At Riskbusters Insurance, serving Tennessee, we’ve helped homeowners find reliable, personalized coverage. So how do you know if a company is the right fit for you? It starts with asking the right questions and trusting your instincts.

Look Beyond the Price Tag

It’s tempting to choose the cheapest option, especially when budgets are tight. However, home insurance is about more than just a low monthly premium. Ask about what’s covered, how claims are handled, and whether there are hidden fees or high deductibles. A solid policy that delivers when you need it most is worth every penny.

Consider the Company’s Reputation

A company might offer great rates, but can you rely on them when disaster strikes? Read reviews, ask friends or neighbors, and check how long the company has been in business. A proven track record of excellent customer service and fast claims processing can make all the difference during an emergency.

Make Sure They Understand Your Needs

Every home is unique, and so is every homeowner. Whether you’re insuring a single-family home, a condo, or a historic property, your insurer should take the time to understand your specific situation. This personalized attention can help you avoid coverage gaps down the road.

Find Coverage That Feels Right

At the end of the day, your home insurance should give you confidence. If you’re looking for a partner who puts your needs first, contact Riskbusters Insurance, serving Tennessee. We’re here to help you protect what matters most.

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How Home Insurance Can Help After a Home Accidental Injury

Murphy’s Law suggests that if something can go wrong, it will inevitably do so, and this is particularly true when it comes to home accidents. From slips in the shower to trips over backyard sprinkler heads, the potential for accidents is omnipresent. Your insurance representative at Riskbusters Insurance, serving Tennessee, wants you to understand that home insurance can provide crucial protection if an accidental injury occurs on your property, whether it’s a trip on a loose rug, a slip on an icy walkway, or an injury during a backyard gathering.

Deciphering Liability Coverage

The liability component of your home insurance policy is designed to cover injuries that occur to others, such as guests, delivery workers, or neighbors, while they’re on your property. If someone falls down your stairs or is bitten by your dog, and you’re found legally responsible, your policy could help cover the costs.

Medical Payments Coverage Explained

Even if no one’s at fault, most home insurance policies include medical payments coverage. This can help cover minor medical bills resulting from an injury on your property, regardless of who is at fault. For instance, if a guest cuts their hand on a broken railing, this part of your policy can help cover the treatment costs.

Guidelines for Filing a Claim

After an injury occurs, it’s crucial to document the incident with photos, witness statements if available, and a detailed report. Contact your insurance provider to report the event and initiate the claims process.

Being aware that your home insurance can intervene after an accidental injury provides reassurance. It not only helps safeguard your finances but also ensures that those who are injured receive the necessary care. Regularly reviewing your liability and medical coverage limits with your insurance representative at Riskbusters Insurance, serving Tennessee, helps to ensure your policy is prepared when, not if, life throws a curveball.

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Tips for getting your home ready for winter

As the days get longer and leaves start to turn and fall, thoughts inevitably turn to winter. With the chilly season just around the corner, we at Riskbusters Insurance in Tennessee ensure that our customers have the coverage they need to protect against winter weather hazards.

Prepare Your Gutters for Winter

Fall paints a picturesque scene with its palette of beautiful, warm hues. However, the leaves that provide these colors tend to fall off and gather in your gutters. As these fallen leaves accumulate, they tend to block your gutters, causing water to back up. This can lead to water getting underneath your roof shingles and into your home, damaging your ceilings and walls. Clearing your gutters can prevent these critical issues.

Maintain Your Furnace

Maintaining a clean furnace is not just about safety; it’s about efficiency. A well-tended furnace can save you money throughout winter by operating at peak efficiency.

Ensure Your Smoke Detectors are in Working Order

The risk of house fires may increase during winter when households tend to spend more time indoors. Ensuring your smoke detectors and their battery backups are functional can prove lifesaving.

Adjust Your Ceiling Fans for Winter

Ceiling fans pull cool air from the floor during warm weather. When winter hits, you want your fans to push warm air down from the ceiling. Since warm air rises and cold air descends, reversing the direction of your fans can help distribute heat more effectively.

Prepare for Snow and Ice

Ensure you’re prepared for snow and ice. Locate your snow shovel, buy a bag of salt, and get your snowblower serviced. Being proactive is the best way to prepare for the challenges of winter.

Contact us at Riskbusters Insurance in Tennessee for an appointment to discuss your home insurance and ensure you’re fully covered for the upcoming season.

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Infestations, Rotting, And Repairs: Are They Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance

Understanding Home Insurance Coverage in Tennessee

The weather in Tennessee can be harsh, posing significant challenges to houses in the area. As a homeowner, you must be aware of the risks your home may face from threats like fire, high winds, heavy snow, theft, or vandalism.

Additionally, your home can deteriorate due to age, regular wear and tear, and potential liability claims. At Riskbusters Insurance, we help protect your home from many of these perils while also shedding light on the aspects considered wear and tear or maintenance—which are usually not covered under a standard home insurance policy.

When Standard Home Insurance Might Not Apply

There are several instances when a standard home insurance plan may not cover the damages. Here are a few examples:

  • Infestations: Homes in Tennessee often encounter infestations from various pests and insects. Damage from these infestations typically isn’t covered under homeowners’ insurance, as preventing infestations is viewed as part of regular, preventable maintenance.
  • Rot: Siding or wood fencing damage due to rot generally falls within the maintenance category and should be addressed before it occurs. Even in a windstorm, if a fence is blown down, coverage may be contested if rotting is apparent.
  • Major Repairs: Questions arise about whether major repairs are covered under home insurance. They will likely not be covered if these repairs are necessary due to age, natural wear and tear, or lack of maintenance. For instance, issues with worn-out furnaces, aging air conditioning systems, and weathered roofs won’t be covered. Because insurance is designed to protect from sudden and unexpected losses due to covered events, wear and tear or inadequate maintenance usually isn’t covered.

Secure a Quote for Your Home Insurance Today

If you hold a property in Tennessee, we encourage you to get a home insurance review and price quote from Riskbusters Insurance. We are prepared to answer your queries and enhance your peace of mind, ensuring you’re protected from potential threats. Contact us today to secure your quote.

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When Should I Update My Homeowner’s Policy?

You may be tempted to forget about your homeowner’s policy, but there are situations when you will need to update your policy. At Riskbusters Insurance in Tennessee, we offer homeowner’s insurance. 

Changes to Your Household

If someone moves into or out of your home, you’ll need to update your homeowner’s policy. This includes adopting a child, giving birth, or having an elderly family member move in. If your teen heads off to college, you should also update your policy. 

Getting a Security System

You may qualify for a discount if you’ve recently installed a security system in your home. A security system reduces the risk to the insurance company because your home is less likely to be damaged or burglarized. 

Improving Your Home 

If you’ve renovated your home or added more square footage, you’ll need to contact your insurance company. When you make improvements to your home, it increases its value. It’s important to ensure that your home is properly valued and that you have enough coverage. 

Changes to Assets 

If you’ve recently bought an expensive asset, you will need to document this with the insurance company. You may need extra coverage to be adequately protected. If you’ve sold an asset, you must also update your policy. This includes jewelry, antiques, art, and other valuables. 

Employment Changes 

Your insurance company should also know if your employment situation changes. This is particularly important if you begin a home-based business. Most policies offer very limited protection for business equipment. However, you can add to your policy to ensure your equipment is adequately insured. 

Homeowner’s Insurance with Riskbusters Insurance

If you need homeowner’s insurance in Tennessee, contact us at Riskbusters Insurance. Our friendly agents will discuss your needs and help you choose the best policy for your situation.

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Why You Need Liability Coverage in Your Home Insurance Policy

Your home policy gives you several types of coverage all in one policy. There is coverage for your dwelling, your belongings, and your liability in your policy. It’s essential to have liability coverage in your home policy because the cost of certain incidents can be so high. When it’s time to get your home policy, contact us at Riskbusters Insurance in Tennessee to learn more. 

Liability Protection

You’re responsible for whatever goes on in your home. This includes any accidents or other incidents that result in injuries. There are so many different ways that someone can get injured that it can be impossible to prevent every cause of accidents. Someone could slip and fall and injure themselves while doing activities like sports, etc. When you have home insurance, you have the liability protection to cover the bills resulting from the injuries. 

Expensive Accidents

If an injury happens on your property, it doesn’t have to be serious for it to be expensive. A small cut could need stitches and vaccinations, which could involve missing work. Without your home liability coverage, you’d owe for all of the medical bills, lost wages, ongoing therapy, and the injured party’s legal bills. You’d be far more vulnerable to lawsuits as well. When you have the necessary liability policy, it can save you an enormous amount on medical bills and other expenses. Make sure you have enough liability coverage to pay for serious accidents that come with high medical costs. Enough coverage can save you from spending thousands in overages after your liability coverage maxes out. 

Get Home Insurance Now

If you don’t have home insurance yet, don’t wait to get it. Call us at Riskbusters Insurance in Tennessee. 

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What Every Homeowner Should Know About Home Insurance

Tennessee is a place many people call home, and when it comes to protecting those homes, the Rickbusters Insurance can help. While the music of Nashville, the history of Memphis, and the beauty of the Volunteer State are all reasons people love calling Tennessee home, protecting the place we call home is important, regardless of where you live.

Protecting Tennessee Homes

While home is the place we often regard as our refuge, our little piece of the world, or our sanctuary, it doesn’t mean things will always be calm on the homefront. The good news is that many homeowners will never have to contend with many of the potential concerns homeowners can face, but when they do – help like the Riskbusters Insurance agency is there to help.

What Homeowners Should Know About Home Insurance

Home insurance offers a range of coverage options, and can be structured in several different ways, such as cash value and replacement cost coverage options and more. The key is understanding those options and what your home needs.

That is also where the team at Riskbusters Insurance can deliver the insights, expertise, and services Tennessee homeowners need and deserve. From peace of mind to the pieces homeowners need to recover from the unexpected and unforeseen, the right home insurance coverage makes a difference.

For All Your Home Insurance Needs

If you are in the market for home insurance or would like to learn more about home insurance coverage and your options, we can help. Contact our team at Riskbusters Insurance to learn more about how we can help and get the protection, coverage, and peace of mind Tennessee homeowners need.

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Will my homeowners insurance protect me from damage caused by a vandal or burglar?

For whatever reason, burglary rates are higher than average in Tennessee. You want to protect yourself and your family, and you probably already take steps to make it as difficult as possible to get into your Tennessee home. Even then, there are people who may vandalize your property or steal items left outside, such as garden tools. At Riskbusters Insurance, we want to help you navigate those risks to a level where you are comfortable.

What Kinds of Incidents Homeowners Insurance Covers

Your homeowners insurance is really a contract and your protections are spelled out. You are covered from most unexpected incidents unless they are excluded in the contract. So you can expect your insurance company to step up if there is a fire, storm, vandalism, or burglary.  There are some incidents like flooding and earthquake that are almost never included in your standard homeowners insurance, and you can discuss with your agent if you need those.

What Does Homeowners Insurance Protect?

Your homeowners’ insurance protects most of what is on your property. This includes but is not limited to

  • all your furniture, rugs, and window treatments;
  • your appliances, both small and large;
  • electronics, such as your television and laptop;
  • your clothing and other personal items;
  • small items like inexpensive jewelry;
  • and gardening equipment.

There are some more expensive items that you may want to get extra coverage for, such as expensive jewelry or paintings. Those are the kinds of items that are attractive to thieves but that may fall outside the scope of your homeowners’ insurance. 

Schedule A Consultation Today

Protect your Tennessee home and your belongings. If you would like to discuss your coverage level, or if you just have general questions about homeowners insurance, please call Riskbusters Insurance today.

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