• Elmira, NY Phone: 607-734-6527
  • Corning, NY Phone: 607-962-6831

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

mobile callClick to Call
Elmira Office

2205 College Ave
Elmira, NY 14903

mapGet Directions
Corning Office

39 E Pulteney St
Corning, NY 14830

mapGet Directions
Life Insurance bg Image Stewart Agency, Inc. Blog1

Insurance rates that can make you smile

Life Insurance bg Image About Stewart Agency, Inc.

Insurance Matters... So Should Your Stewart Agency, Inc.

Life Insurance bg Image File A Claim Carriers

Insurance doesn't have to be complicated, email Us with your questions

Online Quote

Author: admin

RV Insurance Coverage on Personal Items: What’s Enough?

Posted on by admin

Your RV gives you the opportunity to travel and enjoy a wide range of activities. Like any vehicle, it needs protection that keeps you legal on the road, including liability coverage and insurance that reflects the RV’s value. It is also important to consider the belongings in your RV and how to protect them.

At Stewart Agency Inc., we can help you choose RV insurance in Elmira, NY that fits your specific needs and goals. Set up a free consultation with our team to explore the right type and level of protection for your RV.

How Much Personal Contents Coverage Do You Need

RV insurance often includes personal contents coverage, which protects the belongings stored inside your RV. These items may include electronics, clothing, small appliances, and other valuables. Each policy sets a maximum coverage limit for personal contents, which can range from several thousand dollars to significantly more. While higher limits increase your policy costs, insufficient coverage could leave you financially at risk after a major loss.

The ideal approach is to calculate the total value of the belongings you keep inside your RV and select coverage that matches those amounts. You may also want to consider whether replacement cost or actual cash value coverage is best for your situation or whether certain high-value items should be listed separately. How you use your RV also matters. If you travel full-time, you likely keep more belongings inside the RV and may need higher limits.

Let Us Help You Balance Coverage Needs and Cost

At Stewart Agency Inc., we can help you select RV insurance in Elmira, NY that protects your RV and its contents. Contact us today to set up a consultation and review coverage options that align with your needs.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Bodily Injury For Passengers?

Posted on by admin

Motorcycle owners in Elmira, NY, must carry insurance that meets New York’s minimum state requirements before riding. Motorcycle insurance works differently from standard auto insurance in several important ways, so it is essential to understand how coverage applies.

No-Fault State

New York is a no-fault automobile insurance state, meaning drivers of cars and trucks are required to carry personal injury protection for bodily injury. However, no-fault rules do not apply to motorcycles. Under New York law, motorcycles are not classified as motor vehicles for no-fault purposes. As a result, motorcycle owners must carry a different type of policy that meets the state’s minimum liability standards, which include:

  • Liability Coverage: At least \$25,000 for bodily injury per person and \$50,000 per accident, increasing to \$50,000 per person and \$100,000 per accident in the event of a fatality. A minimum of \$10,000 in property damage liability is also required.
  • Uninsured Motorist Coverage: Required by law, this coverage helps pay for bodily injury and property damage if you are involved in an accident with an uninsured driver.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage protects the other party involved in an accident by paying for their bodily injury and property damage. It does not cover your injuries or damage to your motorcycle. Some policies may include coverage for passengers, but it is important to confirm this with an agent at Stewart Agency Inc., as coverage varies by insurer.

Additional Options

While medical payments coverage (MedPay) is not required for motorcycles in New York, it is available as an optional add-on. MedPay can help cover medical treatment and lost wages following an accident, offering valuable financial protection.

The agents at Stewart Agency Inc. can guide you through coverage options, including ways to protect passengers. Contact us today to learn more. We proudly serve the Elmira, NY, area.

Boat Insurance Coverages in Case Your Boat Sinks

Posted on by admin

Elmira, NY offers access to a variety of rivers and lakes for boating. While these bodies of water may be more protected than the ocean, accidents still happen and boats occasionally still sink. In case your boat or personal watercraft ever does sink, here are three boat insurance coverages that we at the Stewart Agency, Inc. recommend having.

Comprehensive and Collision

Comprehensive coverage and collision coverage protect your boat against covered causes of damage. Covered damage could be caused by a submerged object, shallow shore, or colliding with a dock or other boat. 

In such cases, one of these coverages may pay to repair or replace your boat. Paying to replace your boat is more likely if the watercraft is submerged. The damage that water causes to engines, carpeting and upholstery can be extensive.

Fuel Spill Liability

A sunken boat poses an environmental hazard, as it could leak fuel and/or oil into the water. The costs of cleaning up leaked fuel or oil are often expensive — and yes, you might be financially liable.

Fuel spill liability is designed to help with such costs if your boat’s fuel or oil causes environmental contamination. This could be a leak while your boat is floating, or if fluids leak after the watercraft sinks.

Salvage Coverage

Raising a sunken boat from the bottom of a lake or river requires specialized equipment and professional divers. Salvage coverage is a critical component of a policy that pays for the recovery of the vessel. This protection is not the same as towing coverage, which is for when a boat is floating.

Get the Right Coverages

If you need help finding boat insurance, contact us at the Stewart Agency, Inc. Wherever you like to boat in or near Elmira, NY, we can help you find boat insurance coverages that’ll keep your watercraft protected.

Why You Need Boat Insurance Even When You’re Not Using the Boat

Posted on by admin

When the weather gets too cold to go out on the water, it’s time for your boat to go into storage. However, storing the boat in a storage space doesn’t guarantee it will be completely safe. Someone could get injured in or around your boat, or your boat might get damaged in storage. Separate boat insurance is essential while your boat is in storage, and Stewart Agency Inc., serving Elmira, NY, can help you find proper coverage.

Boats Are in a Special Category

Usually, when you store items in your garage or at a storage unit, your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance covers losses and damage to those items. For expensive items, like jewelry and electronics, you can add extra coverage to your home or renters policy using a "rider." But boats are in a special category as far as homeowners and renters insurance is concerned. That insurance will cover a limited amount, and only for smaller boats with smaller motors. Unfortunately, the amount the policies usually cover tends to be the same amount as a typical insurance deductible. That would effectively reduce your coverage to zero. And unlike jewelry, boats don’t have their own riders that you can add to your existing home policy.

It is much safer to obtain a boat insurance policy and keep it, even in winter or when the boat is in storage. With a boat insurance policy, you know that any covered event (damage or liability, etc.) will qualify, even if the boat is big or has a powerful motor. It’s that simple.

If you don’t already have a boat policy or would like to explore the types of premiums we can offer, contact Stewart Agency Inc., serving Elmira, NY. Let us help you find a policy that works for your budget.

How The Claims Process Works for an Umbrella Insurance Policy

Posted on by admin

Filing an umbrella insurance claim may be necessary if you are faced with a lawsuit or unexpected damage to personal property. Use the guidelines that follow to help you navigate the insurance claims process, courtesy of the professionals at Stewart Agency, Inc., serving Elmira, NY and surrounding areas.

Document Everything

Umbrella insurance is an extension of your liability insurance coverage. This type of coverage kicks in when your liability coverage limit has been met. Documenting everything that pertains to your insurance case will aid you when it is time to file a claim.

Keep track of what your liability insurance covers. Additional fees associated with your case may be handled by the umbrella insurance coverage. Things like legal fees, medical bills, filing fees, and monetary awards for the plaintiff may be covered by an umbrella insurance policy.

Cooperate with an Adjuster

An insurance adjuster may be assigned to your case. They will observe damage and the setting where the incident took place that has required you to file an umbrella insurance claim.

The adjuster may need to interview witnesses. They will conduct an investigation, which includes assessing your umbrella insurance policy to determine if the claim is covered under your policy.

The adjuster will negotiate the settlement amount with you. The amount will be one that is fair to you and to the person who brought a claim against you.

Make Adjustments 

It is your duty to make changes that will prevent a similar type of incident from occurring in the future. By handling matters responsibly, you will minimize the need to file another umbrella insurance claim at a later date.

Seek Insurance Agent Support from The Stewart Agency Inc.

Do you have questions about your umbrella insurance policy? Contact one of our agents at the Stewart Agency Inc., serving Elmira, NY, for assistance with your insurance coverage.

Can You Get Additional Coverage Under Your Flood Insurance Policy?

Posted on by admin

A flood insurance policy is a necessary investment if you have a home in a flood-prone area. That being said, basic flood insurance still might not meet all your needs, even though it does offer additional coverage to further protect your property.

Can you get additional coverage under your flood insurance policy? Absolutely! We’ll help you understand what type of customizations you can make to your flood insurance policy. Our team of insurance professionals at Stewart Agency Inc., serving Elmira, NY, can also help you find the right flood insurance policy for your home. 

What Types of Add-ons Are Available for Flood Insurance?

There are many ways you can enhance your flood insurance coverage. For example, are you worried that a major flood in your area could leave you without a place to live temporarily? If so, ask your insurance agent about additional living expenses coverage to ensure you have the additional funds needed to find temporary accommodations while your home is being cleaned and repaired.

Or, are you worried about specific contents in your home, like high-value items? You can get additional coverage for these through a scheduled property endorsement. If you’re a landlord, you can even get a flood insurance add-on to replace lost rental income.

As you can see, your flood insurance can be customized to suit your individual needs.

Browse Flood Insurance Options With Stewart Agency Inc.

We here at Stewart Agency Inc., serving Elmira, NY, are always just one call or email away. Contact us to get a quote!

How to Select a Deductible for Your Auto Insurance Policy

Posted on by admin

Any vehicle owner in Elmira, NY, is required to purchase the minimum auto insurance mandated by New York law. However, you have the option to choose your deductible, giving you control over how much you spend on insurance each month.

Setting a Deductible: How It Works

The higher your deductible, the lower your insurance premiums will be. However, a high deductible means you will need to pay more out-of-pocket if you are involved in a vehicle accident compared to having a lower deductible. Many experts recommend setting a deductible that you can realistically afford in the event of an accident.

Ask your insurance agency for policy quotes with both high and low deductibles. This will help you determine if raising your deductible is worthwhile and allow you to choose the policy that best fits your financial situation.

It is also a good idea to learn about your insurer’s policy regarding deductible changes. Many insurers allow clients to adjust their deductible at any time, making it easier to adapt your policy to meet changing needs. However, please note that policy changes may take some time to take effect. This is especially important if you are considering lowering your deductible before a long or potentially risky trip.

Need More Information? Stewart Agency Inc. Can Help

Stewart Agency Inc. offers a variety of auto insurance policies for drivers in and around Elmira, NY. We can assist you in reviewing different policy options, setting an ideal deductible for your new policy, and more. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings or to request price quotes.

Your Commercial Insurance Coverage Needs Can Change As Your Business Grows

Posted on by admin

The right business insurance protects your company from unexpected costs and ensures its financial stability. As your business grows, you may add new operations or personnel that require specialized coverage. Periodic reviews of your current insurance policies can help identify areas of vulnerability. At Stewart Agency Inc. in Elmira, NY, we can help you secure the right policies to meet your company’s evolving needs.

Types of Commercial Insurance Policies

A wide range of insurance coverage is available for businesses, depending on your specific needs. General liability insurance is a standard policy, and workers’ compensation is typically required by the state if you have employees. Property insurance, income insurance, and key personnel insurance can protect your business from expensive losses due to unforeseen circumstances. Additional coverages, such as product liability, cyber liability, and umbrella policies, may also be necessary depending on your operations.

Changing Situations Require More Insurance Protection

As your business evolves, new circumstances may require additional insurance coverage. For example, hiring a professional staff member may necessitate “errors and omissions” insurance. Adding vehicles to your business fleet will require commercial auto coverage. Purchasing a building for your operations may call for commercial property insurance. If your business relies on customer data, cyber liability insurance may be essential. These changes and others can impact your need for new or updated policies.

Choose Stewart Agency Inc. for All Your Commercial Insurance Coverage

A thorough review of the changes your business has undergone in recent months may reveal gaps in your insurance coverage that could hinder your growth. Our experienced agents can help you understand how commercial insurance protects your interests. Contact Stewart Agency Inc. in Elmira, NY, today for a no-obligation quote on insurance tailored to your company’s changing needs.

Filing A Home Insurance Claim? Follow These Tips

Posted on by admin

If your home is damaged in a covered event, the next step is to file a claim with your insurance company. While this process can be stressful, working with your insurance agent from Stewart Agency Inc., servicing Elmira, NY, ensures you have support every step of the way.

The experienced insurance professionals at Stewart Agency are here to help make your insurance claim process as smooth as possible. We also assist homeowners in finding the best insurance policies for their needs. If you already have a policy through Stewart Agency, you’re off to a great start.

Contact Your Insurance Agent

Begin the claims process by contacting your insurance agent. This should be one of the first actions you take after a covered incident occurs. For events like fires or burglaries, you may need to obtain a report from the fire department or police department to support your claim.

Document the Damage

Take pictures or videos of the damage to your property. Providing visual evidence to your insurance agent and claims adjuster can help expedite the claims process. Be sure to document the damage before starting any cleanup so that the adjuster can assess the full extent of the issue.

Save Important Documentation

Your insurance adjuster may require you to save documentation such as receipts for purchases, contracts with contractors, and other relevant paperwork. Confirm with your adjuster what specific documents need to be retained to support your claim.

Need Assistance? Contact Us Today

If you need guidance during the insurance claim process, the agents at Stewart Agency Inc., servicing Elmira, NY, are here to help. We can answer your questions and provide the information you need to keep your claim moving forward. To learn more about starting an insurance claim, contact us today.

Do I Need Special Insurance For My Vintage Convertible?

Posted on by admin

Owning a vintage convertible is more than just having a stylish ride or a source of pride—it’s often an investment, a passion project, or a piece of automotive history. If you’ve recently acquired a classic car that’s a vintage convertible—especially one with a soft top—you might be wondering if standard auto insurance through Stewart Agency Inc, serving Elmira, NY, is enough to protect it. In most cases, the answer is no.

Why Standard Insurance Isn’t Always Sufficient

Traditional auto policies are designed for everyday vehicles that depreciate over time. They don’t typically account for the unique value or limited use of a vintage convertible. If your car appreciates in value or is rarely driven, a standard policy might not offer adequate protection in the event of theft, damage, or a total loss.

What Makes Classic Car Insurance Different

Classic car insurance is specifically designed for vehicles like yours. It often includes agreed value coverage, which means you and the insurer decide upfront what the car is worth, and that’s what you’re paid if the vehicle is totaled. This avoids disputes over depreciation and provides greater peace of mind.

Policies also tend to include flexible mileage limits, coverage for restoration work, and protection at car shows or in storage. Since vintage convertibles often feature delicate tops, specialized parts, or custom paint, this type of insurance is specifically designed to address these details.

Coverage Tailored to Your Collectible

In New York, if your vintage convertible is more than 15 to 20 years old and not used as a daily driver, classic car insurance may be a better fit. Please speak with an agent at Stewart Agency Inc., serving Elmira, NY, who understands collector vehicles to determine what coverage makes the most sense for your car and how it’s used. Protecting your investment properly starts with choosing the right type of policy.