Home Insurance 101: Understanding the Different Types of Coverage

Home insurance is a vital safeguard for homeowners, offering protection against various risks. To make the most of your policy, it’s essential to understand the various types of coverage available. Here at Cross Creek Insurance, providing home insurance to homeowners in the greater Hope Hills, NC, we want to help you understand the various types of coverage so you can select the best coverage for you. 

Dwelling Coverage

Dwelling coverage is the primary type of coverage people consider when considering home insurance. Dwelling coverage protects the physical structure of your home, including the walls, roof, floors, and built-in appliances. It covers damages from perils like fire, storms, and vandalism.

Personal Property Coverage

This part of your policy covers your personal belongings, including furniture, electronics, clothing, and more. Personal property coverage reimburses you if these items are stolen, damaged, or destroyed due to covered perils.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage protects you if someone is injured on your property or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property. It covers medical bills and legal expenses in such situations.

Additional Living Expenses (ALE) Coverage

If you cannot reside in your home because of a covered event, ALE coverage helps with temporary living expenses like hotel bills, food, and transportation while your home is being repaired.

Reach out to Cross Creek Insurance in North Carolina for Home Insurance

Understanding the different types of coverage in your home insurance policy is crucial for making informed decisions about your coverage levels and ensuring your home and belongings are adequately protected. It’s a wise investment in your peace of mind and financial security as a homeowner. If you have any questions about home insurance in the greater Hope Hills, NC area or want to purchase a new policy, turn to Cross Creek Insurance for your homeowner’s insurance needs. 

Three challenges when you buy commercial insurance

Business owners should know the challenges they might face when they insure their company in Hope Hills, NC. At Cross Creek Insurance, we can help you overcome these challenges and protect your company and livelihood with quality insurance coverage.

The following are three challenges you may face when you buy commercial insurance. 

Understanding your legal responsibilities

In certain situations, businesses are required to have commercial insurance. For example, you may need to have workers’ compensation insurance if you are an employer depending on the state in which your business is located. 

You need to research your legal responsibilities and ensure you’re meeting them with your commercial insurance coverage. Otherwise, you could face fines and other penalties that may compromise your company’s profitability.  

Deciding how much commercial insurance your business needs

Many business owners buying commercial insurance for the first time aren’t sure how much coverage they need. The amount of coverage you need depends on various factors, including the size of your company, the industry in which you operate, and the structure of your business (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.)

If you’re uncertain about how much coverage you need, you should discuss this issue with an insurance company representative or a financial professional such as your accountant. 

Knowing when it’s time to buy commercial insurance

Generally, you should purchase insurance immediately after starting a company. Even if your company is still just a tiny startup, it’s best to have insurance coverage. 

At Cross Creek Insurance, we’re happy to assist companies that need insurance in Hope Hills, NC. Contact us online or by phone to learn about your insurance options. 

What to Consider When Buying Life Insurance

Many think of life insurance as a way to financially protect surviving loved ones. And life insurance is that, but it can also be much more. When you’re ready to discuss your life insurance needs, please contact Cross Creek Insurance, serving Hope Hills, NC. We can help assess your situation so you get the life insurance you and your loved ones need. In the meantime, here are some essential things to consider when considering life insurance.

Life Insurance Can be an Investment

Whole life insurance policies have grown in value over the years. They can serve as a significant financial investment for later on in life. For instance, if you ever need a short-term loan, you could borrow a certain amount on your whole life insurance policy for a preferred rate. Then, you pay it back, which goes back to your insurance policy.

Life Insurance Can Help Pay For a College Education

When it comes time to fill out your child’s student loan paperwork, you don’t legally have to declare the value of a whole life insurance policy. Yet, you can cash in that policy and use it to help fund your child’s college experience.

Your Loved One Needs Time

When calculating your needs for a term life policy, many people think only about their loved ones paying for the mortgage and bills for the time being. But bear in mind that losing you will play heavily on their hearts. They’ll need lots of time off of work to grieve, emotionally heal and try to put the pieces back together. In short, whatever figure you came up with, you should increase it so your loved one isn’t forced to return to work too soon.

Contact Cross Creek Insurance, serving Hope Hills, NC for all your life insurance needs, including whole life, term life, and more!

Does home insurance cover damage to your pool?

Hope Hills, NC residents certainly enjoy using their pools in the summer. As many people in the area probably have a pool, our experts from Cross Creek Insurance often get the same question. Does home insurance cover damage to my pool? They are the source of relaxation and entertainment for thousands of people throughout North Carolina but are also a considerable investment. Knowing how your insurance works with pool damage is essential.

When Does Home Insurance Protect My Pool?

There are instances when your home insurance policy can help pay for damages to your pool. Everyday events outside your control that are considered coverable events could include damage from fire, hail, lightning strikes, or severe weather conditions such as hurricanes or tornadoes. In these cases, your home insurance policy may provide coverage for the necessary repairs or replacement of your pool. Depending on your pool (above-ground or in-ground), we help you understand what part of your policy covers your pool structure.

Instances not considered typical perils would not be included in your insurance protection. Some examples would be general wear and tear to the pool, neglected maintenance, or intentional damage caused by the homeowner. These situations are considered the homeowner’s responsibility and are not covered under a standard home insurance policy. Pools can cost between $20,000- $50,000 or more, depending on the size and features. Considering the potential financial impact of pool repairs or replacement is essential.

Get A Home Insurance Policy In Hope Hills, NC

Before you dive into your pool, give Cross Creek Insurance a call. We’d love to help you navigate home ownership with the peace of mind you deserve. Call today to get a quote!

How to extend the life of your car tires and ensure optimal performance during the summer months?

Extending the life of your tires when summer hits requires proactive precautions and maintenance. The specialists at Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills, NC provide these helpful suggestions to help maximize your tire’s lifespan during the summer months –

Check/Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

Tire pressure should be checked and adjusted routinely all year. However, when the heat arrives, the tire’s air expands and overinflates the tire. It is best to refer to the owner’s manual (or the label inside the driver’s door) for the best or recommended tire pressure.

Regularly Rotate Tires/Maintain Wheel Alignment/Balance

Rotate the car’s tires following the manufacturer’s recommendations or every 5K to 8K miles. Routinely rotating the tires ensures they wear evenly–extending their useful life.

Don’t Overload the Vehicle

Be aware of your vehicle’s weight limit and avoid excessive weight, as this adds stress to the tires, increases the heat, and accelerates the tire’s wear. Hot weather further aggravates this situation.

Check Tire’s Tread

For the tire to maintain control and traction, the tread depth must be enough to match the desired performance. The minimum legal tread depth varies by jurisdiction.

Avoid Excessive/Aggressive Speed & Driving

Fast and aggressive driving generates additional friction and heat, increasing the wear on the tires.

Park in the Shade

When available, park the car in the shade or use a car cover, as extended sunlight exposure can degrade the compounds used to manufacture tires.  

Regularly Inspect for Damage

Check the tires for bulges, cuts, or other damage. Driving on damaged tires can be needlessly risky.

For additional information about automobile insurance and policies available for those who live or work in the greater Hope Hills, NC area, contact Cross Creek Insurance at 910-423-2900.

When Do You Need to Get Life Insurance

It’s not uncommon for Hope Hills, NC residents to think of life insurance as only beneficial to those in specific demographics. Or, most often, something that can be pushed to the back burner and dealt with later. However, the truth is that many families and individuals from various backgrounds and financial situations can significantly benefit from having a life insurance policy in place but don’t realize it. Today, we’ll examine who needs life insurance and when you should get it.

Who Can Benefit From Life Insurance

The decision and reasoning behind purchasing a life insurance policy can be deeply personal. But at the end of the day, a life insurance policy can make all the difference to those you leave behind, relieving the stress and anxiety that often follows the passing of a significant provider. With a life insurance policy, anyone with a mortgage, rent, car payment, debt, or other expenses can rest easy knowing that their loved ones won’t have to worry about paying all those bills on their own. Even if you don’t currently contribute a regular income to your household, you likely do things that can be difficult to keep up with upon your passing without some financial support.

Find the Right Life Insurance Policy For You Today

Like with other insurance policies, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to life insurance. With a range of policy types and values from a vast pool of providers, it’s essential to work with an experienced Hope Hills, NC agent to ensure you buy the right plan. At Cross Creek Insurance, our team will go the extra mile to help you find the coverage that’s right for you. Contact us today to learn more!

Product-Related Issues and Commercial Insurance: What Business Owners Should Know

If you’re a Hope Hills, NC business owner, the right commercial insurance policy is an absolute must to protect yourself from potential liability. But if your company sells products, your policy really isn’t comprehensive enough until it includes product liability coverage.

We at Cross Creek Insurance will be happy to review your policy with you and ensure it’s thorough enough. But in the meantime, here’s a brief look at some of what business owners should know.

Why Do You Need Product-Specific Protection?

Naturally, you put a lot of care and effort into ensuring your products are right before releasing them to the general public. But mistakes, accidents, and chance mishaps can happen to anyone, so planning is essential.

Commercial insurance that includes product liability coverage protects you if one of your items is ever connected to an accident or other unfortunate incident. It’s essential if your company sells or manufactures products like:

  • Clothing
  • Food
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Motor vehicles
  • Electronic, industrial, or mechanical equipment

What Types of Claims Should Business Owners Watch Out For?

A product-related claim could materialize from anywhere and for a multitude of reasons. Savvy business owners need to be aware of them when considering their commercial insurance options. Examples include the following.

  • Manufacturing errors are usually isolated incidents but can cause injuries, side effects, and more, depending on the product.
  • Design flaws can cause similar problems. However, the issues involved are usually further reaching and may call for solutions like recalls.
  • Deficient operating instructions, disclaimers, and safety warnings can also open a business up to liability, so be as thorough as possible when packaging your products.

Ultimately, there’s no such thing as being too protected if you manufacture and sell products as part of your Hope Hills, NC livelihood. Cross Creek Insurance’s insurance experts can help you understand your options. Call us today and let us know how we can assist you!

Questions to Ask Your Agent Before Purchasing Home Insurance

At Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills, NC, we offer home insurance to help protect your investment. We recommend asking these four questions when you are ready to purchase a homeowner’s policy. 

Am I Required to Buy Home Insurance?

North Carolina law doesn’t require you to buy home insurance. However, most mortgage lenders do require it. If you have a mortgage or lean on your home, contact your lender to learn their requirements before purchasing a policy. 

What Perils are Covered by the Policy 

A peril is an event that can cause damage to your home. A standard homeowner’s policy covers many potential disasters, including fire, theft, vandalism, storm damage, smoke damage, and explosions. 

A standard homeowner’s policy does not cover earthquakes and flooding. You may need separate policies to cover these perils. 

What Property and Possessions are Covered

Your policy will cover the structure of your home and your possessions within the home, up to the coverage limit. If you have very valuable items, discuss your coverage limits. You may need a policy rider for expensive items. 

In addition, your policy covers other structures on your policy. This includes sheds, freestanding garages, and fences. 

What is Covered Under Liability

Most homeowners purchase a policy to protect their home’s structure and belongings. However, your homeowner’s policy also covers liability. 

If someone is injured on your property or their property is damaged, your homeowner’s policy will cover the costs of medical expenses or replacing damaged items. 

Home Insurance at Cross Creek Insurance

If you need a homeowner’s policy in Hope Hills, NC, contact us at Cross Creek Insurance. Our agents are ready to discuss your needs and answer any questions you may have. 

Types of Auto Insurance Explained

North Carolina drivers are required to have auto insurance. At Cross Creek Insurance in Hope Hills, NC, we offer auto insurance policies. We keep you legal and help protect your assets. We believe it’s essential to understand your auto insurance options. 

Liability Auto Insurance

Liability auto insurance is required by North Carolina law. If you are at fault in an accident, liability coverage will cover the costs up to the coverage limit. 

Property damage liability covers damage to other drivers’ vehicles. Bodily injury liability covers physical injuries to other drivers and passengers. 

Liability coverage also includes uninsured motorist coverage. If you are not at fault in an accident, but the other driver has no insurance, this portion of the policy will cover damage to your vehicle and medical expenses you have up to the coverage limit. 

Comprehensive and Collision Coverage 

Comprehensive and collision coverage is also known as full coverage insurance. Collision coverage will pay to repair or replace your vehicle if the accident is your fault. 

Comprehensive coverage covers damage to your vehicle when it’s not in operation. This includes storm damage, vandalism, and theft.

This type of coverage isn’t required by law. However, if you have a lien on your vehicle, your lender will probably require you to have this coverage. 

Gap Coverage 

If you own a newer vehicle, you should also consider gap coverage. If you have a lien on your vehicle and it’s totaled, the car’s value may be less than your loan amount. 

Gap coverage will cover the difference, so you aren’t left with a loan balance. 

Auto Insurance at Cross Creek Insurance 

If you need auto insurance in Hope Hills, NC, contact us at Cross Creek Insurance. Our experienced agents will discuss your needs and help you select a great auto policy for your situation. 

Why should you get a workers compensation policy?

When providing financial protection for your employees, a worker’s compensation policy from Cross Creek Insurance is an absolute must. Not only does it protect you as a Hope Hills, NC area employer from costly legal fees and settlements in the event of an employee injury, but it also ensures that you’re providing your workers with the coverage they need should something happen. 

Workers’ compensation policies offer invaluable peace of mind for both employers and employees. For employers, these policies provide a guaranteed way to take care of their workers if they get injured on the job. They also protect them from any potential lawsuits arising from negligence claims or unsafe working conditions. And for employees, these policies ensure that they will be cared for financially should something happen while on the job. 

In addition to all these benefits, workers’ compensation policies can help you save money. By providing comprehensive coverage, you won’t have to worry about paying out hefty settlements in case of a workplace injury or accident; instead, the policy will cover any medical costs associated with treatment. Moreover, since most states require employers to have a worker’s compensation policy before hiring new employees, having one can give you a competitive advantage when recruiting talent. 

A worker’s compensation policy is essential for keeping your business safe and secure. It provides invaluable peace of mind for both employers and employees alike and offers vital financial protection in case anything were to go wrong. For more information, give us at Cross Creek Insurance a call today. We are proud to serve the Hope Hills, NC area.