The Importance of Having Your Plumbing System Regularly Inspected

Why Regular Plumbing Inspections are Essential to Avoiding Home Insurance Claims

Maintaining the functionality of your home and avoiding potential home insurance claims often depend on the regular inspection of your plumbing system. This blog discusses why homeowners in the greater Arlington, TX region should prioritize plumbing inspections with Rickey McGill Insurance Agency.

Preventative Measures Against Water Damage

Water damage from frequent plumbing issues such as burst pipes and leaks is a common trigger for home insurance claims. Regular plumbing inspections can identify and fix potential problems before they escalate, helping prevent expensive water damage and subsequent insurance claims.

Preserving Your Home Value

A well-maintained plumbing system is critical in maintaining your home’s value. Regular inspections ensure that your plumbing stays in optimal condition, preserving your property’s integrity and potentially increasing its resale value.

Avoiding Insurance Coverage Denials

Some insurance policies might refuse coverage for water damage resulting from negligence or lack of maintenance. By being proactive and scheduling regular plumbing inspections, homeowners can show evidence of diligent maintenance, thereby reducing the risk of insurance coverage denials.

Extending the Lifespan of Plumbing Fixtures

With routine inspections, early detection of worn-out or deteriorating components of your plumbing system becomes possible. Addressing these issues at their initial stages can extend the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures, thus saving you from incurring costs on major repairs or replacements.

Enjoying Peace of Mind

Regular inspections and a well-maintained plumbing system can offer significant peace of mind. You can rest assured that your home is protected against any sudden plumbing issues and related financial burdens.

To conclude, regular plumbing inspections are indispensable to homeownership in the greater Arlington, TX region. They can help prevent water damage, maintain home value, and avoid potential insurance coverage denials. If your plumbing system requires inspection or you have queries about your home insurance coverage, contact Rickey McGill Insurance Agency without delay.

Additional coverage you can add to your basic auto insurance

A basic auto insurance policy is what is required by the law. It is liability coverage that protects other drivers from an accident that you cause. However, you could benefit from many different types of auto insurance coverage. At Rickey McGill Insurance Agency in Arlington, TX, we are an independent insurance agency offering our customers personalized service and more choices. 

Collision

Collision coverage is what it sounds like. It covers damage to your vehicle when you are the driver at fault in an accident or if you are a victim of a hit-and-run. It has a deductible that you choose when you get your policy. 

Comprehensive

Comprehensive coverage is coverage for things other than a collision that can damage your car. It covers things like vandalism, theft, hail, flooding, deer, and more. 

Gap Coverage

Gap coverage should be considered if you have a new vehicle and a car loan. As soon as you drive a car off the lot, it depreciates, and if you have an accident, you could find that the amount the insurance values your vehicle is less than you owe on it. Gap insurance will cover the difference between your policy and what you owe. 

Full glass

Your comprehensive coverage provides glass coverage, but you must pay the deductible. If you opt for full glass coverage, you won’t have to pay a deductible. 

Roadside service

Roadside service is similar to the coverage that you get from the auto club. It will give you a tow, a charge, or change a tire if you are out on the road or at home and have an issue. 

Contact our office at Rickey McGill Insurance Agency in Arlington, TX, when you need to review your auto insurance coverage. Give us a call or stop by the office. 

What Makes my Vehicle “Recreational”?

Recreational insurance is unique. Automobile insurance is to insure cars and trucks. Boat insurance is for boats. RV insurance is for motor homes classified as recreational vehicles. Keep in mind that this is not the same as recreational insurance, which covers injury or damage caused by vehicles manufactured to have a good time.

Recreational Vehicle Vs. Vehicle of Recreation

For the most part, a vehicle is something someone uses to get from Point A to Point B. A recreational vehicle, commonly known as an RV, is both a means of transportation and a place of residence. A vehicle of recreation is a vehicle that is largely ridden just for the experience of riding. A motorcycle could fall under this, but as many people have a bike as their major or sole means of transportation, this is largely a form of insurance on its own. A boat is often taken out into deep waters and may be used for fishing purposes, so it falls under its own form of insurance. That leaves pleasure crafts such as personal watercraft (PWC) or all-terrain vehicles (ATV).  

PWC and ATV

PWCs and ATVs are both objects of transportation that generally can only carry the driver and one or maybe two passengers at a time and are driven for fun more than as a means to get to a certain destination. The PWC (sometimes referred to by the generic trademark Jet Ski or its major competitor Sea Doo) is operated on water, usually with the shore within sight. Many states require the PWC to be 100 to 200 feet from shore to build up enough speed to cause a wake. An ATV is for land. As the name suggests, ATVs can handle all terrain, whether rocky, sandy, muddy, or rooty. Insuring an ATV in Texas is not required, but it may be a good idea anyway. 

Rickey McGill Insurance Agency Serving Arlington, TX

If you are in the Arlington, TX, area and need recreational insurance, please get in touch with Rickey McGill Insurance Agency. We’re happy to help you. 

Renters Insurance Considerations for Specific Property Types in Arlington, TX

While renters insurance in Arlington, TX can help in all rental situations, you may have to consider other factors depending on the property type you’re renting. At Rickey McGill Insurance Agency, we want you to make informed decisions regarding renters’ insurance, so here are some things to keep in mind regarding renters’ insurance for different property types.

Renters Insurance for Apartments

If there’s theft or fire or some other event that affects the things you own, you’ll want your own insurance policy that will help repair or replace those things. Equally, suppose an accident occurs on the property, and you have some share of the blame for it. In that case, you’ll want your liability coverage available to see you through any lawsuits or payments that will otherwise have to come out of your pocket.

Renters Insurance for Condos

Your condo association’s policy will cover many things but may not cover your personal property. You can use renters insurance to cover your belongings and any personal liability. The condo association may even require you to have certain forms of renters’ or homeowners’ insurance, so make sure you review your bylaws carefully. You’ll want to find gaps in coverage and look for insurance options that will bridge or cover those gaps.

Renters Insurance for Rental Homes

You’ll need to protect your belongings. Again, the property owner will have insurance, but it will typically not cover your belongings or liability. Even if the homeowner’s policy covers some of your things or liability, you may find there are places where it won’t help you at all. As a house comes with more responsibility, you’ll want to make sure you know exactly what the property owner’s policy might cover and what gaps you’ll have to fill in.

If you rent in Arlington, TX, or maintain a home you don’t own, you need renters insurance. If you’re unsure of how renters insurance works for your type of property, or want more information on renters insurance, contact us at the Rickey McGill Insurance Agency today.

Four problems you can avoid with motorhome insurance

If you own a motorhome in Arlington, TX, you need to purchase insurance coverage. Luckily, you can buy motorhome insurance from Rickey McGill Insurance Agency.

You’ll be happy to know that motorhome insurance can save you from dealing with numerous problems. Here are four issues you can avoid with motorhome insurance. 

Losing your motorhome due to theft

Insurance coverage can compensate you for losses you face as a motorhome owner that are the result of theft. If you invest in comprehensive coverage, your motorhome insurance policy should cover you for theft. 

Losing your motorhome due to a natural disaster

A motorhome can be destroyed due to a natural disaster such as a tornado or a hurricane.

Without insurance coverage, you won’t be compensated for damage to your motorhome that results from natural disasters. If you invest in insurance coverage, you can be compensated for natural disaster damages. 

Failing to meet legal requirements

Motorhome owners shouldn’t forget that they’re legally required to buy insurance coverage. If you take your motorhome on public roads, you need to make sure that you’ve purchased a motorhome insurance policy. 

Facing financial loss because you’re held liable for accidents

Motorhome owners could potentially be required to pay any costs that result from an accident for which they are held liable. Fortunately, a motorhome insurance policy includes liability coverage that will pay for any costs that result from an accident for which the policyholder is held responsible. 

Get the motorhome insurance you need from Rickey McGill Insurance Agency. If you own a motorhome in Arlington, TX, you can call us today for a quote on a motorhome insurance policy. 

What If You Live Inside Your RV in Arlington, TX?

Whether you’re a digital nomad or a retiree, there’s something inherently enticing about living full-time out of your RV. However, before you head out from Arlington, TX in your RV, you’ll want to get your insurance situation squared away, and thankfully, we’re here to help at Rickey McGill Insurance Agency!

Full-timers Coverage

When you’re planning on living out of your RV, instead of just driving it around on road trips, you’ll want what the state of Texas calls "full-timers coverage" on your RV. The main components of full-timers coverage include personal property and liability coverage.

Personal Property Coverage

You can get collision coverage for your RV that covers damages to the RV itself, but what about the stuff that’s inside your RV? If you get into an accident on the road and the property inside your RV is damaged, personal property coverage ensures you’re not left high and dry when it comes time to file a claim.

Liability Coverage

No one wants to think of an instance when you cause an accident and are considered "at fault," but if this situation happens to you, you can have peace of mind with liability coverage. When you have liability coverage, you’ll be covered if you cause damage to other vehicles or people’s property in an accident that’s considered your fault. In addition, you’ll also be covered for medical bills to other parties up to a set limit.

At Rickey McGill Insurance Agency, we can help you navigate the world of Arlington, TX area RV insurance before you get on the road as a full-time resident of an RV. Contact our team today to learn more about your policy options.

Who needs a full motorcycle insurance plan in Texas?

For those who live in the Arlington, TX area, getting a motorcycle can be a smart idea to get around. When you have a motorcycle, you will have a fun vehicle that you can use to get around the community quickly and efficiently. When looking for your next motorcycle, it is also important to consider your insurance needs. There are various scenarios when a motorcycle owner will need coverage. 

Those with a Loan

A situation when you need to have a full motorcycle insurance plan is when you have taken out a loan. Motorcycles today can be pretty expensive. Accordingly, taking out a loan to finance the purchase can make sense. If you are going to buy a bike, you will need to ensure you follow all rules set in your loan agreement. This will almost always require you to carry a full motorcycle insurance plan until the loan is paid off in full.

Those Driving on Public Roads

Like in other states, all motorists in Texas must carry liability insurance. When you have a motorcycle insurance plan, you can receive this coverage. This will ensure you have the financial resources to cover damages if you are at fault in an accident. This coverage will keep you in good standing and help you avoid penalization.

For those who live in the Arlington, TX area, getting a proper motorcycle insurance plan is always a good idea. When shopping for a new insurance plan, calling our team with the Rickey McGill Insurance Agency would be a great idea. When you call us at the Rickey McGill Insurance Agency, you can receive all the support you need to build a plan that will cover your motorcycle and keep you in compliance. 

Boat Insurance for Sailboats and Powerboats

Summer has arrived in Arlington, TX, so it’s time to consider the boating season. Boating is a great way to get outside, relax, and enjoy the water with family and friends. However, it’s important to remember that, like with any other vehicle on the road, accidents can happen on the water too. Rickey McGill Insurance Agency explains boat insurance for sailboats and powerboats – so you can be sure you’re adequately protected when on the water.

Insurance for Sailboats

If you own a sailboat, your insurance coverage needs will be slightly different than if you own a powerboat. However, you may want to consider a few other coverage options. For example, sailboats have masts and rigging that can be vulnerable to damage in bad weather or collisions. That’s why it’s a good idea to ensure your policy includes mast, rigging, and sail damage coverage. You may also want to consider liability coverage to protect you if someone is injured while on your sailboat.

Insurance for Powerboats

Powerboats come in many different shapes and sizes, which means they require different types of coverage depending on what kind of boat you own. One thing all powerboats have in common, though, is that they have a motor. That means you’ll need liability coverage that protects you in case someone is injured, or your boating activities damage their property. You’ll also want to ensure your policy includes coverage for damage to your boat’s motor.

With the right insurance policy in Arlington, TX, you can relax and enjoy the water with peace of mind, knowing that you’re adequately protected in case of an accident or damage to your boat. Contact Rickey McGill Insurance Agency today to cover your valuable assets. Happy boating!

Who Benefits From Umbrella Insurance?

Understanding how different insurance products work is essential to making good insurance choices. Here at Rickey McGill Insurance Agency, serving Arlington, TX, and the surrounding areas, we want to help our clients increase their knowledge of insurance products. Keep reading to learn more about umbrella insurance. 

How Does Umbrella Insurance Work?

Umbrella insurance is a special insurance policy designed to pick up when another insurance policy has been exhausted. This type of coverage can help protect you from unexpected liability expenses. If you exhaust an insurance policy and there are still expenses left to be paid, those expenses will come out of pocket for you. This could be difficult to handle financially, affecting your financial stability for years. 

What Is Policy Exhaustion?

We say that a policy has been exhausted if it has paid out up to the maximum payout amount, but there are still expenses left. These expenses then become your responsibility.

Who Needs Umbrella Insurance?

Anyone can benefit from this type of coverage, but certain people should seriously consider investing in this product. For instance, if you have many assets you want to protect, umbrella insurance is a good idea. This will help to decrease the chances of having your assets taken for liability expenses. You also might want to consider an umbrella policy if you are involved in hazardous hobbies or sports or work a job with a high occupational threat. 

If you would like to learn more about umbrella insurance, don’t hesitate to contact us at Rickey McGill Insurance Agency, serving Arlington, TX, and the surrounding areas. We will happily answer your questions today and help you find the policy for your needs. 

What types of coverage does condo insurance provide?

Condos can be a great way to break into the housing market. They are also ideal for those who are too busy or not interested in doing a lot of exterior home and garden maintenance. They are similar to homes when insuring them, but the coverage is somewhat different. At Rickey McGill Insurance Agency in Arlington, TX, we know the questions to ask to ensure you have the right coverage. 

Property

Property coverage for a condo is slightly different from a freestanding home. The condo association master policy covers the exterior of the building. How far into the unit it goes depends on the policy. It can be walled in or all in. It is essential for you to know when choosing the amount of coverage that you need. 

Contents

Content coverage, like home insurance, comes in two types. You can choose the current value or replacement cost. Suppose you have expensive items of jewelry, antiques, or electronics. In that case, it is vital to have appraisals and endorsements to cover the amount above the coverage allowed by the policy. 

Liability

Liability is also shared with the condo association. Your responsibility will be anything that involves the interior of the unit and family members. The condo association covers the unit’s exterior, the public, and shared areas. 

Loss of use

If a covered hazard damages your condo and becomes uninhabitable, you will need to find another place to live while it is being repaired. Loss of use insurance will pay for your accommodations and may even pay for meals. 

At Rickey McGill Insurance Agency in Arlington, TX, our team is ready to answer any questions you may have about condo insurance. Give our office a call today, or stop by.