Your agent is best placed to advise you when they have all the facts.
Your local independent insurance agent is ready to create a personalized coverage plan to meet the insurance needs of you and your family.
However, it is important to be prepared with the information they need so that they can offer you the right coverage to suit you.
Auto coverage
For every auto you want to know:
- Make, model and year
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Approximately how many miles will it be driven annually
If you own an upscale or collector auto, you may want to insure it based on an agreed value. In this type of coverage, you and the insurance company agree in advance that in the event of a covered total loss, the agreed value is the amount you will receive for the vehicle. It is important to know the current market value for your auto.
Another point to discuss with your agent is whether your insurance company will pay for OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts if you have a loss and need to replace the parts.
About drivers
Your household drivers will affect the auto premium. For each driver, know the following:
- Age
- Driver’s license number
- Driving history – accidents/violations
- Completed safe driving courses
- Good grades that may qualify a student for a discount
your house
Your agent will want to know what your current insurance program looks like. It is helpful if you bring a copy of your current declaration pages so that your agent can assess whether they are adequate or where there is room for improvement. Declaration pages are usually on the front of the policy and summarize all types and amounts of coverage, as well as any deductibles you’ll pay in the event of a loss.
Depending on the value of your home, most insurance companies will want to complete an exterior or interior inspection. Helping your agent understand the quality of your home and any special features, such as a pool or if your garage is attached or detached from your home, can help them target the right amount of coverage for your residence and additional structures.
Other household items to be mentioned:
- Address of home and location of any secondary properties
- Number of drivers in your home
- Parking facility
- The total value of your personal property – to help the agent choose a limit that will adequately protect you
- Deductible options. Be aware of how much “out-of-pocket” you’re willing to pay per claim so the agent can set a cheaper deductible and premium. Higher deductibles will save you money on premiums, but you also want to make sure they aren’t so high they can tie you up.
Even if you have a vacation home or rental property or additional autos and motorcycles and don’t want to move a particular policy from one insurance company to another, it’s important to discuss. This analysis will help your agent ensure that there are no gaps or duplication in your coverage.
relationship
Once you’ve established your business with an agent, it’s also important to let them know about changes throughout the year to ensure your insurance stays up-to-date:
- Sell/buy autos or houses
- Renovations that can increase the value of your home
- Newly licensed drivers
- Drivers who are no longer members of your household or a college student who no longer has access to the family auto
- Newly purchased items of high value, such as fine art, jewelry, musical instruments, or collectibles
Whenever your policies are renewed, look at them to make sure they’re accurate and you haven’t missed notifying your agent of the changes. Keep your agent up to date on any lifestyle changes — promotions, children leaving home or retirement — that may affect your insurance status.
To find an agent representing a Cincinnati insurance company, please search for an agency on our website.
The coverage described here is in the most general terms and is subject to actual policy conditions and exclusions. For actual coverage terms, conditions and exclusions, refer to the policy or contact your independent agent.