Life moves fast. One day, you’re juggling school drop-offs, business meetings, and networking events, and the next, you’re making space for a new pet, celebrating a milestone birthday with a special gift, or even welcoming a new family member.
While we often think of major life events, like buying a home or car, as triggers for reviewing our insurance, smaller changes can also impact your coverage needs. And here’s the thing: your insurance agent isn’t a mind reader.
If you don’t tell them what’s new in your life, they won’t know to make adjustments that could better protect you, your family, and your assets sometimes without increasing your rates. Let’s break it down.
Small Life Changes That Can Impact Your Insurance
You may not think a minor shift in your routine or belongings would affect your insurance, but you’d be surprised! Here are some situations where a quick call to your agent could make a big difference:
1. A New Piece of Jewelry or Valuable Item
Did you get a new engagement ring, a luxury watch, or an expensive piece of artwork? Standard homeowners or renters insurance might not fully cover high-value items. A scheduled personal property endorsement ensures your prized possessions are adequately insured.
2. A New Pet Joins the Family
That adorable puppy or rescue cat isn’t just a new source of love (and chewed-up shoes), they also come with potential liabilities. Some homeowners and renters policies have breed restrictions or liability limits for dog bites. Let your agent know about your furry friend to ensure you have the right coverage.
3. A Side Hustle or Business Expansion
Many of us wear multiple hats, and if you’ve started a home-based business or expanded your existing one, your current homeowners policy may not offer sufficient coverage for business-related equipment or liability. Whether it’s selling handmade crafts, consulting, or running an online store, your agent can guide you on proper protection.
4. A Child Leaves for College
If your child is heading off to college, their belongings may still be covered under your homeowners policy, but what about their car? Should they stay on your policy, or is it time for them to get their own? What if they’re taking a car to school? A quick conversation with your agent ensures you’re making the best and most cost-effective decisions.
5. A Change in Employment or Income
Switching jobs? Starting to work from home? Retiring? These shifts could affect your insurance needs. A change in commute distance can impact your auto insurance rates, while a shift in income might make it the right time to explore life insurance options or adjust existing policies.
6. Home Renovations or Upgrades
A kitchen remodel, a new deck, or even a home security system can impact your homeowners insurance. Some upgrades might qualify you for discounts, while others may require policy adjustments to ensure full coverage. Don’t assume everything is automatically covered, confirm with your agent!
7. A New Driver in the House
Is your teenager getting behind the wheel for the first time? Adding a teen driver can impact your auto insurance, but there are often discounts available for good grades or driving safety courses. Your agent can help you navigate this new phase while keeping costs manageable.
Why Keeping Your Agent in the Loop Matters
Insurance isn’t a one-and-done deal. Your policy should evolve as your life does, ensuring you’re protected without paying for unnecessary coverage and updating your policy doesn’t always mean a rate hike. In some cases, you might qualify for discounts or bundle options that save you money.
But none of this happens automatically. Your insurance agent doesn’t have a crystal ball, and they can’t adjust your coverage if they don’t know what’s changed. A simple call, email, or check-in can ensure that your coverage stays aligned with your needs.
Take Action: Make the Call!
So, what’s changed in your life lately? Take a moment to think about it and reach out to your agent. It’s a quick conversation that could make all the difference in protecting what matters most to you, your family, your home, your business, and your peace of mind.
Life keeps moving. Make sure your insurance keeps up.
Can I assist? Please reach out to me personally.
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