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Elmira, NY 14903

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Corning, NY 14830

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Boat Insurance Coverages in Case Your Boat Sinks

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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

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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

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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?

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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!

Flood Insurance: What Type of Flooding Does It Cover?

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Flood insurance can seem relatively straightforward. Most who are considering flood insurance are looking to defend their properties against flood damage that extreme weather events like hurricanes or flash flooding could cause. But you might be curious: Would flood insurance cover interior flooding that is not caused by external factors? Knowing this ahead of time will prevent you from relying on a policy that may not pay out when you need it most. Let’s take a closer look at what your typical flood insurance policy will cover and how you can get the coverage with the support of us here at Stewart Agency Inc. in Elmira, NY.

Does Flood Insurance Cover External Flooding, Internal Flooding, or Both?

Flood insurance policies are designed to cover external flooding caused by things like storms and hurricanes. This is because specific policies like homeowners insurance may not cover these with their policy. However, flood insurance policies won’t cover internal flooding caused by developments like plumbing leaks. The good news? Most homeowners insurance policies will cover damage caused by flooding due to internal plumbing problems. If you have both a flood insurance policy and coverage for your home or property, you will have the coverage you need to ensure you’re protected against flooding inside and out.

Secure a Flood Insurance Policy Seamlessly With Stewart Agency Inc.

If you live in an area susceptible to floods, having a flood insurance policy can provide you with the peace of mind you need, knowing that you’ll be able to afford any damages caused by flooding. We here at Stewart Agency Inc. in Elmira, NY are always ready to support you as you look for flood insurance for your home. Compare New York insurance quotes with us today!

Gap and Umbrella Policies – Do You Need Them?

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As a car owner, you are responsible for purchasing auto insurance. Without it, you might not be able to afford auto repairs or the costs of injuries you or the other driver may sustain in an accident. If you live near Elmira, NY, and have questions about auto insurance, our Stewart Agency, Inc. team can help you explore options that may be right for you.

Gap and Umbrella Policies

In New York State, you are required to have coverage for property damage and bodily injury. You might also choose to add coverage for collision (the cost of damage to your car) or liability (in the event of being sued by the other driver.) If your accident causes sufficient damage to declare your vehicle a total loss, the amount of money your insurance pays may not be enough to pay the amount you still owe your lender. Some auto lenders will encourage car buyers to purchase a gap policy, which will pay the difference between the amount paid by insurance and the amount you still owe.

Clients with additional personal resources (such as a home or boat) in addition to their car may consider buying an umbrella policy. Umbrella policies provide additional liability coverage if a judgment against you exceeds your policy limits. Umbrella policies typically have a higher limit of liability insurance – sometimes up to $1 million.

Contact Us Today

Our team has years of experience and wants to give you peace of mind regarding your insurance needs. Clients in the Elmira, NY, area can feel confident when visiting us for their insurance needs. Contact us for an appointment or a quote today, and let’s makensureu have the coverage you need.

Commercial Insurance: Are Cyber Attacks Covered?

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Businesses sometimes overlook the fact that cybersecurity is not perfect and not intrinsically included in a commercial insurance policy. Understanding if your commercial insurance includes cyberattack coverage is immensely crucial, especially for larger firms, as it forms a crucial part of protecting your employees and customers. For businesses in Elmira, NY, our specialist team at Stewart Agency Inc. can guide you on how to secure suitable cyberattack coverage.

Does Commercial Insurance Cover Cyber Attacks?

Unfortunately, cybersecurity insurance is separate from traditional commercial insurance. Cyberattacks are complicated events that can cause substantial damage to a firm. Hence, insurance companies treat cyberattacks as unique incidents requiring standalone coverage. While not covered by standard commercial insurance, businesses can bundle cyber insurance with their commercial policies.

Bundling allows companies to secure specific coverage reflecting their business needs, avoiding increased premiums for general commercial insurance. If you’re considering cyber insurance, knowing your options and understanding how to bundle effectively is essential.

What Does Cyber Insurance Cover?

Cyber insurance typically covers financial losses resulting from cyberattacks. However, the digital threat landscape is vast, so it’s crucial for businesses to verify that the policy offers comprehensive cyber protection.

Key assurance areas to look out for are:

  • Data breach coverage
  • Financial coverage
  • Extortion
  • Non-compliance coverage

Securing Your Business with Commercial Insurance in Elmira, NY

In today’s digital age, cyberattacks are frequent and potentially catastrophic. Having the right insurance can make a significant difference, protecting your business and reassuring your customers. If you are a business located in Elmira, NY, we encourage you to contact Stewart Agency Inc. Our specialists can guide you through your cyber insurance needs and provide a comprehensive understanding of what you can expect.

Simple Safety: Home Improvements

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Enhancing your home security doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive. Investing in cost-effective smart home devices can make your Elmira, NY home safer. Improved safety can reduce the number of claims filed on your policy from Stewart Agency Inc. This blog will discuss self-installed security systems and other intelligent features that cost less than $50.

Essential Security Systems: Cameras

Many high-quality doorbell video cameras are priced below $50. Multiple brands offer user-friendly cameras with smartphone app controls, costing between $35 and $45. They are accompanied by self-installation instructions, eliminating the need for professional installers.

Yard cameras are even more cost-effective. Depending on the brand, a single camera costs between $15 and $45. Some packages even offer up to four cameras for around $60. These systems, too, come with self-installation guides and mobile apps.

Security System Essentials: Sensors

Packages of four to six window and door sensors are generally priced around $15. These simple-to-install devices trigger an alarm when someone opens a window or door from outside. Since many security camera manufacturers also produce sensors, you can build a custom system, buying one economical element at a time.

Smart Home Essentials

With smart outlets, every home can become a smart home. These devices, which cost between $7 and $45, are available as single pieces or in multi-packs. Just plug the outlet adapter into any standard US electrical outlet, turn it on, install the manufacturer’s app on your mobile device, and complete the setup procedure. Afterward, you can control the device with home assistant systems like Google Assistant or Alexa.

Contact Us Today

Contact Stewart Agency Inc. for more information on enhancing the safety of your Elmira, NY home. Call us today to schedule a home insurance review.

How Classic Car Insurance Differs from Regular Car Insurance

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Car insurance, a legal requirement in many states, including New York, assures coverage for repairs and medical bills in the event of an accident. If you have a vehicle—a classic car, perhaps—that doesn’t see regular use, it still might be valuable enough to necessitate insurance, but not exactly your regular type of car insurance.

Distinguishing a Car as Classic

It’s not just the age—usually more than ten years—that renders a car classic. A classic car cannot be used daily and should be stored appropriately. Eligibility for coverage may require a reasonably clean driving record. Traditional car insurance protects against damage and theft up to its actual cash value. Classic cars may appreciate in value, but they are protected based on the agreed value. Given the difficulty of finding specific parts for classic cars, their insurance may cover the cost of original parts. Keep in mind that classic cars are rarely driven—usually only to car shows or on small weekend cruises. Insurers may require that classic cars be stored in a secure location such as a garage or barn.

Classic Car Quotes in Elmira, NY

If you own a classic car that you want insured and live in the Elmira, NY, area, please contact Stewart Agency Inc. Our friendly and knowledgeable agents will go above and beyond to help you find the insurance policy that best suits your unique needs.

Why all renters should have renters insurance

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As a renter in Elmira, NY, you might think there’s no need for you to have renter’s insurance. It’s easy to assume that your landlord or management company provides adequate coverage. However, they only have insurance that protects their property, not yours. At Stewart Agency Inc., we are independent insurance agents highlighting the necessity and benefits of renters insurance.

Content Coverage

Although you’re not responsible for insuring the physical building, a significant number of your assets are likely located within your rental unit. Imagine a disaster causing significant damage or total loss to your rental. Visualize losing all of your possessions. Could you afford to replace everything on your own? Consider this: all your furniture is gone, and all you have left are your clothes. Your computer, games, appliances, and dishes – all gone. The amount of money required to replace everything could be overwhelming. Renters’ content coverage provides financial aid to help you replace the things you need.

Liability Coverage

Contrary to common belief, your landlord does not bear all the liability at your rental. If, for instance, a child is injured by your equipment, it falls upon you. If your dog bites someone, you’re responsible. If your child breaks someone’s window, you’re responsible. Hence, having liability coverage is important for every tenant.

Loss of Use

If your rental suffers significant damage due to a covered peril and you need to vacate temporarily, this coverage steps in. It helps cover the cost of your temporary accommodation and potentially even some meals.

If you have any questions about renters’ insurance, don’t hesitate to contact Stewart Agency Inc. in Elmira, NY.