Tips for making your home safer

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For most people, homes are their safe place. To make sure that your home actually is a place that is safe both inside and out, there are some things you should do. At VAC Insurance Agency in Brooklyn, NY, we contribute to making your home safer by helping you choose the home insurance that will provide just the right amount of protection. 

Security

Home security is something that people think about a lot these days. If you don’t already have a home security system, there has never been a better time. You have many affordable options that can allow you to feel safer while you are at home and away. Many of them can be installed by a homeowner in just a few minutes. Beyond that, your doors and windows have locks. Use them. 

Lighting

Lighting is important inside and outside of your home. Outside, having motion detection lights will make sure that you can see as you walk around, and you can also see any movement outside. Inside, it is equally important to ensure the stairs and hallways are well-lit and keep free of clutter to save you from a trip and fall injury. 

Fire

Fire is a significant safety hazard to your home. Ensure chimneys are kept clean and your furnace is cleaned every year. Change the batteries in your smoke detector every six months, and have a fire extinguisher that is easy to access. Do a safety drill with the family so everyone knows how to get out in a fire. 

In Brooklyn, NY, you can count on VAC Insurance Agency to provide the customer service needed to feel safe in your home. Give us a call to discuss your home insurance needs. 

What Flood Insurance Does and Does Not Cover

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As residents of the Brooklyn, NY area, it is critical to understand what is and what is not covered under your flood insurance policy. The experts at VAC Insurance Agency have compiled a summary of common coverages under a specific flood insurance program and coverages that are typically excluded. Contact VAC Insurance Agency today if you are unsure what is covered under your flood insurance program. 

What is covered under a flood insurance policy?

First, it is critical to understand that your homeowners’ policy will not cover you for damage caused by flood waters; you must purchase a separate policy. 

Typically, insurance policies cover you in two main categories.

Dwelling coverage

Dwelling coverage, simply put, is coverage to help rebuild your home after a flood. It will cover items such as electrical and plumbing systems. In addition, it will help cover replacing your carpets and any drywall that needs to be replaced.

Content coverage 

Content coverage is there to help replace your personal property after a flood. Personal property can include clothing, furniture, and appliances. 

What is not covered by a floss insurance policy?

There are a few main exclusions all homeowners should be aware of. 

Flood insurance typically excludes items outside your home, such as pools, landscaping, and decks. If you want to cover any items outside your home, you will want to contact your agent and see if you can add them to the policy. 

Preventable mold and mildew are also excluded from flood insurance. If your home floods, it is crucial you properly remediate the water damage to prevent mold. 

If you live in the Brooklyn, NY area and want to learn more about flood insurance, contact an agent at VAC Insurance Agency today. 

Three Benefits You’ll Enjoy From Taking Out the Right Commercial Insurance Policy

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VAC Insurance Agency is proud to work with the Brooklyn, NY area business community. When it comes to commercial insurance, we work hard to give our clients the knowledge they need to make wise decisions.

Why Commercial Insurance?

Commercial Insurance Makes Your Business Look Credible

Most customers will conduct some research before doing business with a company. Commercial insurance assured clients that you are a credible business and that it’s safe to do business with you. Most businesses advertise as "licensed, bonded, and insured" because it builds trust, and trust is critical to a company’s success.

Commercial Insurance Protects Your Employees

The most valuable asset of any business is the employees, not the products or the properties of your business. Protecting your employees is a crucial step that you must take by getting workers’ compensation insurance. Protecting the employees also means protecting the company from liability claims and lawsuits.

An added bonus: Insurance also helps attract and retain qualified employees!  Most job seekers are always on the lookout for benefit packages that include health, life, disability, and long-term care insurance.

Commercial Insurance Prevents Stress About The Future Of Your Business

What if your office burned down, destroying everything from the building to the office property? How would you conduct business? With commercial insurance, you’re letting our expert team at VAC Insurance Agency take over when it comes to preparing for worst cases. As a business owner, all you need to worry about is the operations of your company. Let us take care of the rest.

Reach Out To Us

You can learn more about commercial insurance policies that are available to you as a resident of Brooklyn, NY by getting in touch with us at VAC Insurance Agency. We’re here to answer your questions. We can also provide you with a quote on a commercial insurance policy. Get in touch with us today so that you can learn more.

Tips to prepare your house for a storm

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Preparing your house for a storm in the Brooklyn, NY area can be a daunting task, but there are some simple steps you can take to ensure you and your family stay safe. Here are a few tips from us at VAC Insurance Agency to help you get ready.

Tips to prepare your house for a storm

1. Inspect Your Home

Before the storm hits, inspect your home for any potential sources of damage. Check for loose shingles, broken windows, and any other areas that could allow water to come into your home. Make sure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so water can flow away from your home. 

2. Secure Outdoor Items

Tie down or store any outdoor items, such as patio furniture and grills, that could be picked up by strong winds. Secure garbage cans with bungee cords or straps to keep them from becoming projectiles in high winds. 

3. Protect Windows

Install storm shutters on all exterior windows, or use pre-cut plywood to board up windows if shutters aren’t available. This is especially important if you live in an area prone to storms with high winds and hail. 

4. Stock Up On Supplies

Have plenty of bottled water and non-perishable food items on hand in case the power goes out during the storm. Make sure all flashlights and radios have fresh batteries so you can stay informed about weather updates if the electricity goes out. 

Reach Out To Us

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well prepared for when severe weather strikes! For more tips, call us at VAC Insurance Agency today. We are proud to serve the Brooklyn, NY area and would be glad to answer all of your questions.

Tips To Protect Your Family From Flooding

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Floods are tragically common in the United States. Homeowners should prepare for floods to ensure that both their properties and families are protected. A bit of preparation now could prevent serious issues in the future. Also, keep in mind that standard insurance plans often don’t cover the damage caused by floods.

Want to learn more about insurance coverage? Contact VAC Insurance Agency serving Brooklyn, NY and other communities.

Understand the Risk of Flash Floods

Floods may seem predictable, and many people think they’ll have time to react should the threat of flooding arise. Flash floods, however, can happen in moments. It’s wise to have a flood action plan in place. 

Also, identify high-risk areas, such as roads cutting through valleys, or rivers that can quickly flood their banks. If flood warnings have been posted or the area is hit with heavy rain, you’ll want to avoid high-risk areas.

A family might be driving along a clear road one minute, only to get caught up in flood waters just a few moments later. Likewise, homeowners might look out the window and find only shallow puddles. Then, a few minutes later, flood water could already be pouring into the home.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Flowing Water

With enough time, flowing water can level mountains and carve canyons. Just a few inches of fast-flowing water can knock down an adult. A mere 12 inches (if not less) of water can move vehicles. Simply respecting the power of fast-moving water could save lives. So make sure that not only do you recognize the power of rushing water but also that children and other loved ones understand the risks as well.

Make Sure You Have Flood Insurance

Standard home insurance typically doesn’t cover damage caused by floods. Instead, property owners should take out flood insurance. This way, should flooding occur, homeowners will know that their property is covered, and thus, they can focus on keeping their families safe.

Give Us A Call

Get in touch with VAC Insurance Agency, which serves Brooklyn, NY and elsewhere, to discuss coverage options.

What does commercial insurance cover?

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Commercial insurance is a vital part of doing business. No matter how large or small your company is, you need to have some form of commercial insurance in order to protect yourself from liability and financial damages. There are many different types of policies available, and it can be difficult to know which one is right for your business. That’s why it’s important to talk to an insurance agent who can help you choose the policy that best suits your needs.

At VAC Insurance Agency in Brooklyn, NY, we want to help your business succeed.

There are many different types of policies

There are many different types of commercial insurance policies available, and each one covers a different set of risks. Some of the most common types of commercial insurance include property insurance, liability insurance, and business interruption insurance.

Property insurance protects your business from damage or loss to physical property, such as your building or inventory. Liability insurance protects you from lawsuits resulting from accidents or injuries that occur on your property. And business interruption insurance provides financial protection in the event that your business is forced to close due to a covered loss.

You don’t want to be caught if a storm, strike, accident, or some other event interrupts your business operations. A good insurance policy can help get you through these difficult times.

Contact us today!

It’s important to choose the right policy for your business. Talk to an insurance agent to find out which policy is best for you. At VAC Insurance Agency, we are here to answer all of your questions. We proudly serve the Brooklyn, NY area, so call us today!

Your Most Valuable Asset Needs Protection with Home Insurance

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Did you know that if you carry a mortgage on your home, it is necessary that you insure it with homeowners’ insurance? If you live in or near Brooklyn, NY, the VAC Insurance Agency can explain all the particulars.

Why Home Insurance?

The main reason for homeowners insurance is to protect the homeowner. You will be covered if your home is damaged in a weather event, fire, or any other covered event.

Another reason is that almost all lenders require that the property be insured for 100% of its replacement cost. Their main concern is making sure the home can be rebuilt in the event of a disaster. The insurance protects the lender’s financial interest in the property.

Homeowners’ insurance combines various personal insurance protections which include losses to the home, and its contents, loss of use, and liability insurance for accidents that occur on the property.

There are no state laws where homeowners’ insurance is required. But in the event your property is mortgage-free, it is still recommended that you carry an insurance policy.

If someone visits your home, falls, and is injured, the policy will pay for any medical expenses relative to the injury. If you have a dog and it decides to bite your neighbor, any legal expenses resulting from the bite will be covered. If you do not have insurance coverage, all associated costs will be paid by you out-of-pocket.

There are some things the policy will not typically cover:

  • Acts of war
  • Earthquakes
  • Floods
  • Infestations, including termites
  • Mold
  • Nuclear accidents
  • Sewer backup
  • Water damage

Contact Us Today

If you are a homeowner or are thinking about purchasing a home, make sure you have a policy in place prior to the purchase. Your mortgage company will want evidence of coverage prior to the closing. Contact the insurance professionals at VAC Insurance Agency in Brooklyn, NY today for a quote or an answer to any questions you may have.

Three assumptions you shouldn’t make about your flood insurance needs

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Flood insurance is an important type of insurance that can protect the value of your property and possessions. If you’re looking for flood insurance in the greater Brooklyn, NY area, you can consider our policy offerings at VAC Insurance Agency.

Being informed is an important part of meeting your insurance needs.

The following are three inaccurate assumptions you shouldn’t make when it comes to flood insurance coverage:

You don’t need flood insurance

It’s essential to do your research before deciding that you don’t need any flood insurance. Even if you are not located in a flood zone, you still might be at risk of experiencing property damage due to flooding. 

It’s better to be safe than sorry. Chances are high that you will stand to benefit from carrying flood insurance coverage even if your area doesn’t experience frequent flooding. 

You will get flood damage coverage through your home insurance policy

Home insurance policies typically will not provide any coverage whatsoever for flood damage. If you want to enjoy insurance coverage for flood damage, you’ll need to purchase a flood insurance policy that is separate from your home insurance. 

You can only insure your home with flood insurance

Flood insurance coverage is not solely available to homeowners. It’s also available to both renters and business owners.

You should consider purchasing flood insurance if you are renting a property that is located in an area that is at risk for flooding. Business owners with commercial properties in areas that experience flooding should also look into their flood insurance options. 

Get The Right Coverage Today

We can help you get the information you need about flood insurance for your property or place of residence in Brooklyn, NY. Get in touch with us today at VAC Insurance Agency with your questions and inquiries about flood coverage. 

The 4 Different Types of Commercial Insurance Plans

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Every business owner needs to protect their investments. And what better way to do it than through commercial insurance? This type of insurance offers protection against risks that are faced by businesses, such as property damage, liability, and business interruption. There are four main types of plans: property, liability, automobile, and workers’ compensation. Each has its own set of benefits that can help business owners stay protected in case of an accident or other unforeseen event.

Consult with VAC Insurance Agency in Brooklyn, NY for expert insurance advice. Stay safe and secure with the right commercial insurance plan for your business!

Here are four types of plans and what each one offers:

1. Property Insurance

Property insurance protects business owners against loss or damage to their property. This can include the building itself, as well as any equipment or inventory inside. In the event of a fire, theft, or natural disaster, property insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or replacement. This type of insurance is essential for all businesses, as it can help protect against unexpected events that could cause significant financial loss.

2. Liability Insurance

Liability insurance protects a business from claims arising from injuries or damage caused by the business’s employees or products. It helps a business pay for medical expenses, legal fees, and property damage caused by the company’s negligence. This insurance is essential for companies of all sizes, as it can help protect the business’ assets in case of a lawsuit.

For example, if a customer slips and falls in your store, liability insurance would help cover the cost of their medical expenses and any legal fees that may arise from the incident.

3. Automobile Insurance

Automobile insurance protects businesses against losses resulting from accidents involving company-owned vehicles. This insurance can cover the cost of repairs and any medical expenses incurred by employees or customers injured in an accident. If you have company-owned vehicles that you use for business purposes, such as delivery services or sales reps who travel to meet with clients, it is essential to have this type of insurance in place to protect your business in the event of an accident.

4. Worker’s Compensation Insurance

Worker’s Compensation is a type of commercial insurance that compensates workers who become sick or are injured due to their work. The compensation may include death benefits, income replacement, and medical expenses. Worker’s compensation is generally obligatory in most jurisdictions across the country. Hence, employers are legally required to provide this policy for their workers. However, even if it’s not required by law, it’s still essential coverage for businesses. Worker’s Compensation Insurance protects businesses from lawsuits resulting from employee injuries and helps ensure that employees receive the care they need if they’re injured on the job. Any company that has employees should consider carrying Worker’s Compensation Insurance.

Get the Right Commercial Insurance Coverage Today

Commercial insurance is an important way to protect your business from potential risks such as property damage, liability, and business interruption. If you’re looking for the best commercial insurance plan for your business, VAC Insurance Agency in Brooklyn, NY can help. We offer a wide range of insurance plans that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of your business. Contact us to learn more about our commercial insurance options and get a quote!

Why Every Homeowner Needs Home Insurance

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When you own a home, it is highly important that you protect it with a home insurance policy. It’s a good idea to have home insurance whether it’s required for you or not, though most people are required to have it by their lender or by their homeowner’s association. This insurance gives you valuable coverage that can protect your finances against a number of serious risks. To get your home insurance, give us a call now at VAC Insurance Agency in Brooklyn, NY.

Why Every Homeowner Needs Home Insurance

Home Protection

One of the most important ways that home insurance protects you is by giving your home protection against a wide range of damaging events. These often include things like accidents and certain disasters that can cause untold damage to your home. When a damaging incident does happen to your home, your home insurance can pay to get the repairs that are needed. The policy may even pay for you to live somewhere else while the repairs are being done if that is needed due to the home being unlivable. 

Item Protection

In addition to offering protection for your home, these policies also offer protection for your belongings. This protection may not seem that important, but just consider how much all of your items added together would be worth. It may be nearly as much as your home is worth. This protection is vital to have in case a damaging event causes serious damage to what you own. The policy can then pay for you to replace those items so that you can keep your standard of living. 

Protect Yourself With Home Insurance

It’s always smart to have this insurance if you’re a homeowner. To get a policy of your own, call us at VAC Insurance Agency in Brooklyn, NY to get started.