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Insurance Needs for Long Distance Hikers

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Have you ever dreamed of hiking the 2,193-mile Appalachian Trail, which passes near Manchester, NH, or perhaps the 2,650-mile Pacific Coast Trail? Maybe you dream of traversing the Camino de Santiago (the Way of St James) through France and Spain. While getting your gear together and making travel plans, you may not even consider insurance…but you should. These long-distance hikes take months to complete and, thus, present unique insurance needs.

Insurance for Long-Distance Hikers

Hiking is not without physical and financial risks. Even a broken ankle can cost thousands to treat. Snake bites, infections, falls, and diseases from drinking unfiltered water are just a few of the health perils you could encounter in the wild. Many hikers quit their jobs to tackle the trail for six months or more. That can leave them without health insurance. In addition, many health insurance policies, such as HMO policies, are regional and don’t cover out-of-network health expenses or pay as high a percentage of the costs for out-of-network services.

In addition to health insurance, single hikers should ensure that their homeowner’s insurance and auto coverage are set up so they won’t miss a premium while they are "off the grid." If you will be storing your vehicle in the garage for the duration of your trip, discuss that with your insurance professional. You may be able to save money by dropping some of your coverage while you’re not driving your car.

Contact AS Insurance Agency to learn more about insurance for your next adventure and your other insurance needs. We have been helping Manchester, NH, area residents with their insurance needs since 2016.

What Does Wall-In Versus All-In Mean on a Condo Insurance Policy Document?

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If you’ve ever looked over your condo insurance policy or your association’s master policy, you might have encountered terms like "wall-in" or "all-in." These terms can be perplexing, especially if you’re new to condo ownership. At AS Insurance Agency in Manchester, NH, we’re here to clarify these differences so you can better understand your coverage and avoid any unexpected surprises.

Understanding Wall-In Coverage

A "wall-in" policy, sometimes referred to as "studs-in" coverage, typically means that the condo association’s master policy covers the exterior structure of the building, including the walls, roof, and shared spaces. However, everything inside your unit—such as flooring, cabinets, appliances, and your personal belongings—is your responsibility. In this scenario, your personal condo insurance policy would need to cover interior fixtures, upgrades, and any damage to the inside of your unit.

What Does All-In Coverage Mean?

An "all-in" policy provides more extensive coverage from the condo association’s master policy. It usually includes not only the building’s exterior structure but also certain interior features of your unit, such as fixtures, flooring, and sometimes even standard appliances that came with the unit. However, it’s important to note that "all-in" policies usually don’t cover your personal belongings, liability, or any upgrades you’ve made to your condo. You’ll still need your own condo insurance policy to fill in those gaps.

The Importance of Understanding Your Coverage

Knowing whether your building’s master policy is "wall-in" or "all-in" is crucial to ensuring you have the right personal condo insurance. If you need help reviewing your coverage or customizing a policy to fit your needs, contact AS Insurance Agency, serving the greater Manchester, NH, area, today. We’ll make sure you’re fully protected, inside and out.

The Importance of Reevaluating Your Motorcycle Insurance Policy in Manchester, NH

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As a motorcycle enthusiast, obtaining and maintaining proper insurance coverage is key to protecting yourself financially. Routinely reevaluating your motorcycle insurance policy is a way to verify that your coverage aligns with the protection you require against evolving risks. If you’re located near Manchester, NH, AS Insurance Agency can help you better understand why reevaluating your insurance policy matters while helping you find coverage that’s just right for your needs.

The Importance of Reevaluating Motorcycle Insurance Policies

Whether you’ve recently invested in a brand-new, upgraded bike or if you want to protect other riders who use your motorcycle frequently, you may need to reevaluate your existing motorcycle policy. This will protect new investments and other riders operating your motorcycle when you are absent. Other reasons you may want to consider reevaluating your motorcycle insurance policy include:

  • Evolving Risks: Risks always change and evolve, even if you’ve lived in Manchester your entire life. Seasonal weather can present weather-related risks that impact riding conditions, whereas traffic density can also heighten the risk of being involved in an accident or collision.
  • Benefits and Discounts: Completing a safety course may help reduce your insurance premium. Additionally, combining your motorcycle insurance with other policies with the help of AS Insurance Agency can result in significant savings.

Understanding why it’s critical to reevaluate your motorcycle insurance policy, whether you enjoy riding for sport or recreation, is vital for any motorcycle owner. If you’re considering reassessing your existing motorcycle insurance policy but are unsure where to start, we can help. For more information about reevaluations and to ensure you’re receiving sufficient coverage yourself, contact AS Insurance Agency for your free quote and consultation near Manchester, NH, today.

The Pros and Cons of Purchasing Health Insurance Through the Health Insurance Marketplace

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Navigating the world of health insurance can be challenging, especially with various options available. At AS Insurance Agency in Manchester, NH, we aim to simplify the process by exploring the pros and cons of purchasing health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Advantages of the Marketplace

One of the main benefits of using the Health Insurance Marketplace is the variety of plans available. It allows you to compare different options side by side, making finding a plan that fits your needs and budget easier. Additionally, the Marketplace offers subsidies for those who qualify, which can significantly reduce your monthly premiums.

Another advantage is the standardized coverage. All Marketplace plans are required to cover essential health benefits, such as preventive services, emergency care, and prescription drugs. This ensures a baseline level of coverage, providing peace of mind that your basic health needs will be met.

Potential Drawbacks

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The enrollment periods are limited, so you must be aware of deadlines to avoid gaps in coverage. Additionally, while the Marketplace offers many options, the choices can sometimes be overwhelming, making it difficult to determine which plan is truly best for you.

There may also be restrictions on healthcare providers and networks, limiting your choices of doctors and specialists.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right health insurance plan is crucial to your financial and physical well-being. We’re here to guide you through the process at AS Insurance Agency in Manchester, NH. Contact us today to discuss your options and find the plan that best suits your individual needs. Let us help you make an informed decision for your health and future.

What Happens if You Don’t Have Life Insurance in Manchester, NH?

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Learn about the benefits of life insurance and what can happen if you don’t have life insurance from the experts at AS Insurance Agency in Manchester, NH.

Life Insurance Basics

Life insurance is a form of financial protection that helps survivors to cover the costs of everyday expenses like rent, mortgages, groceries, and utilities. A well-structured life insurance policy helps beneficiaries to cover costs related to funeral and burial expenses, outstanding debts, medical bills, and lost income.

Why You Need Life Insurance in Manchester, NH

Many New Hampshire residents make the mistake of thinking that they are too young to have life insurance or that the costs of having life insurance are too high for them to invest in. There are life insurance policies for people of all ages and income levels.

Your relatives and beneficiaries can find themselves struggling with a mountain of debt related to burial expenses, everyday living costs, and outstanding debts when their loved one passes away without life insurance.

A licensed insurance agent can help you understand the key differences between life insurance policies in New Hampshire.

Term Life Insurance

This form of life insurance is designed to provide coverage for a specific “term.” Term life insurance is one of the most flexible and affordable options available.

Whole Life Insurance

In contrast to term-based life insurance, whole life policies cover the insured and their beneficiaries for a lifetime. These lifelong policies often feature a cash value benefit where policyholders can borrow against their policy in cases of emergency and for qualifying life events.

Contact a licensed agent at AS Insurance Agency in Manchester, NH to learn more about options for life insurance and how life insurance can safeguard your home and family.

Does Your Condo Need Renters Insurance?

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Moving into a new condo brings a wave of excitement, but amidst this thrill, it’s crucial to take steps toward secure living. One of these steps is securing a reliable renters insurance plan that protects your belongings in case of unforeseen incidents. Suppose you’re located in the Manchester, NH area. In that case, AS Insurance Agency is here to guide you in obtaining a policy that matches your needs and ensures assurance and tranquility. Selecting the right renter’s policy is crucial, and our agents are committed to simplifying the process for you.

Depending on the condo you rent, it might be mandatory to possess renters insurance from the owner or property management company. However, even if it’s not required, having a policy acts like a safety net for your possessions. With our experienced agents, you can obtain quotes from various insurers in one place, alleviating the hassle and confusion. This way, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs and get any arising questions resolved.

Rather than stressing over the security of your belongings, we want you to relish settling into your new condo. A sense of security lets you focus on turning your condo into a comfortable home, whether decorating or picking out furniture. Our agents aim to provide this experience with the utmost convenience.

Protecting Your New Condo with Renters Insurance in Manchester, NH

Connect with us today at AS Insurance Agency if you’re in Manchester, NH, and seeking a renters insurance policy. We will explore your options together and assist you in acquiring an appropriate policy for comprehensive protection, enabling you to concentrate on other aspects of your life.

How Worker’s Comp Protects Your Business

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Worker’s compensation insurance, commonly called worker’s comp, is an important type of insurance for every business with employees. Even if you have only one employee, having this type of insurance is best. This kind of insurance policy can save a business from enormous costs. Call us at AS Insurance Agency in Manchester, NH to learn more about worker’s comp insurance.

Coverage for Your Company’s Liability

Worker’s comp policies are liability coverage that pays for the many costs that are due after an employee gets sick or injured at work. Whether it’s an accident of some kind or the employee developed a work-related sickness, the costs can be high. Paying these costs on your business’s behalf protects your business from having to pay expensive bills. These can include lost wages on the part of the employee, legal expenses related to the accident or illness, medical bills, and ongoing therapy for the problem. All of these can cost enough to bankrupt a small business without insurance to pay them. 

How Employees Benefit

A worker’s comp policy benefits not just your business but also your employees. When you have this insurance in place, an employee doesn’t have to worry about what will happen if injured on the job because they know it will be taken care of. They won’t have to worry about the business going out of business because of the costs and being left holding the medical bills. 

Get Worker’s Comp Insurance

When you want to protect your business and your employees against the high costs of accidents and illnesses, you need a worker’s comp policy. Call us at AS Insurance Agency in Manchester, NH, to learn more and get started. 

What Are Common Misconceptions About Umbrella Insurance in Manchester, NH?

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Protecting your loved ones, assets, and investments can seem daunting if you’re unfamiliar with the process of selecting insurance policies. If you’re considering bundling your insurance policies or want to learn more about umbrella insurance, debunking common misconceptions about umbrella insurance policies in Manchester, NH, can help you make an informed decision.

Umbrella Insurance is Only for Those With Significant Assets

While umbrella insurance is optimal for those with a growing portfolio of assets, it’s not a requirement to have significant assets to obtain your own policy. Umbrella insurance policies can protect and preserve the assets you do have so you can continue to grow and expand your portfolio.

Umbrella Insurance Policies are Confusing

Umbrella insurance policies can be extremely straightforward and transparent when working with the right insurance agency and agent in the Manchester, NH area. Your policy will clearly state the additional coverage you are receiving beyond your existing policy benefits.

Umbrella Insurance Policies are Unaffordable

In many cases, umbrella insurance policies can be very affordable, especially when working with the right insurance agency and agent. Some premiums can range from $150 to $300 annually, providing up to $1 million in coverage.

My Insurance Policies are Adequate

Unfortunately, this is not always the case when it comes to auto, business, and homeowners insurance policies. If your basic insurance policy falls short in a major disaster or incident, you’ll have to cover the remaining costs. Umbrella insurance can extend benefits and cover excess costs in your time of need.

If you live in the Manchester, NH, region and are interested in umbrella insurance policies for your household, AS Insurance Agency is here to help. Contact AS Insurance Agency to speak with one of our qualified representatives today to learn more about the common misconceptions regarding umbrella insurance.

Considering Buying a Home in a Flood Zone? Three Things to Consider Before Making an Offer

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Buying a home in a flood zone isn’t always a bad idea, especially if you have the right flood insurance to protect your investment. At AS Insurance Agency, we’re here to offer Manchester, NH residents the flood insurance products necessary for your peace of mind. Here, we’ll look at a few things you’ll want to consider before purchasing a property located within a flood zone.

Flood History

You’ll want to learn more about the particular flood zone in which your potential property is located. Researching FEMA’s flood maps, understanding the property’s elevation, and learning more about previous flooding incidents can all help you decide whether to proceed with your purchase.

Legal Requirements

In many areas, flood insurance is required for homes that are in high-risk zones. Your realtor can work with you to help you understand the insurance requirements for the properties you’re considering. At AS Insurance Agency, we’re happy to talk with you about the cost of flood insurance for your property.

Mitigation Measures

If you’re purchasing a property in an area where flooding is common, previous owners may have taken steps to reduce the risk of flooding, such as installing sump pumps, upgrading drainage systems, or raising the structure. These factors may lower the cost of your flood insurance.

Call AS Insurance Agency, Serving Manchester, NH

At AS Insurance Agency, we’re here to provide you with the guidance you need to choose the right insurance policy for your home. We’re happy to discuss flood insurance coverage with you, and our friendly agents are waiting to meet you. Please stop by our office or call us today to learn more about how we can protect you and your home.

What Riders Can You Add to Condo Insurance?

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You start with a standard policy when you purchase a condo insurance policy from AS Insurance Agency to protect your investment in your Manchester, NH, condo. Working with your insurance agent, you can add riders to your to add scheduled items, such as engagement rings or hobbyist equipment.

Scheduling an Item 

You choose the riders or scheduled items to add to your basic condo policy. When you schedule an item in a condo policy, you specifically list that item, describing it in detail and including its value. You can add jewelry, business equipment, hobby equipment, books, stereo components, etc.

How It Affects Premiums 

When you add items to the policy, the premium cost is affected. Each scheduled item or rider increases the premium slightly. If you add a lot of scheduled items, the cost of the policy increases.

Advantages Derived from Riders 

While they might cost a bit per item, a rider is worth it if your condo gets damaged or someone steals your belongings. Normally, a condo policy works like other home insurance policies, covering personal belongings with a percentage of the condo’s value.

If you purchase a condo for $100,000, a typical policy includes coverage of between one and 10 percent of that value as personal belongings. You probably own more than $1,000 or even $10,000 worth of clothing, electronics, kitchen and other housewares, furniture, etc. When you schedule an item, you insure it for its full value. Whether a peril damages your items or a thief steals them, you receive the full value of the item so that you can buy a replacement.

Contact AS Insurance Agency Today

Let AS Insurance Agency help you customize your policy to cover your valuables completely in your Manchester, NH, condo. Contact us today to create your custom condo insurance.