October 2018

Peer-to-Peer Home Rentals: Here’s What You Need to Know

Are you considering renting out your home, guest room, or basement? Peer-to-peer home rentals and services such as Airbnb have grown in popularity. Discovering the income potential in these opportunities may entice you to hand over your keys.

While this may be a good option for you, it’s important to first consider the insurance implications involved. Do you have the right coverage for peer-to-peer rentals? If a renter starts a fire in the home, will you be covered? Always consult with your insurance provider before pursuing any rental arrangements.

If you will be renting all or part of your property on a regular basis, your homeowner’s policy is likely insufficient. You may need business coverage, such as a hotel or bed-and-breakfast policy. Month-to-month home-sharing liability policies may also be available that suit your circumstances. On the other hand, if the rental situation is a one-time occurrence, you might be covered by your current homeowner’s policy, or you might be required to add an endorsement.

Either way, notify your carrier about your intent to determine whether your current coverage is appropriate. Your agent can help you make any changes needed to ensure you and your property are fully protected.

Additionally, if you are considering renting someone else’s peer-to-peer rental space, confirm your coverage with your carrier. Typically, your homeowner’s policy will provide coverage for stolen possessions and accidental injuries you cause to others. However, you should verify this with your agent before making any rental agreements..

Busted: Five Auto Insurance Myths You Might Believe

Of all the information circulating about auto insurance, what is rumor and what is real? Are you basing your choices on fact?

To cut through the fiction, keep the following myths in mind.

1. My car color affects my premium.

If you prefer hotshot red, go ahead and get it. You don’t have to worry about higher premiums because of the car’s color. Your insurance cost is based on several factors, but this isn’t one of them.

The car’s make, body type, model, age, and engine size affect the premium. The vehicle’s safety record, price, and the cost to repair it also come into play. If you want a lower premium, consider these factors rather than the paint job.

2. As my age increases, so will my premium.

Typically, the opposite is true. Those over 55 years of age may be eligible for discounts. These include reduced driving discounts and programs available through AARP. Discounts vary by region, so check with your insurance provider about your options and eligibility.

3. Bare-minimum coverage is sufficient.

Most states require drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. However, it is generally recommended to obtain coverage that goes beyond this bare minimum.

A serious accident can quickly generate expenses far exceeding the minimum coverage. A good rule of thumb is to have at least $100K in bodily injury per person and $300K per accident and $100K of property damage. But more importantly you need to consider your assets and current and future income. This is what you must protect if you’re the cause of a serious accident. .

4. When I give my keys to a friend, my friend’s insurance takes over.

In many cases, the policy that covers the vehicle is considered primary. If an accident occurs while your friend is driving your car, it’s likely that your insurance will be responsible for coverage, not theirs.

5. My car is fully protected from all types of damage.

This could be true, but it depends on your policy type. A standard policy may not include theft, vandalism, or natural disasters. For full protection, choose collision and comprehensive insurance.

Take This Tech with You to Enhance Your Travels

Not every trip includes cutting the technological cords. Getting away – whether for business or pleasure – comes with its own technological needs. Here are some tips to ensure you pack accordingly.

Make sure you’re able to use your devices away from home. Pack a universal adapter so you can plug your devices in regardless of the local electrical system design.

Remember, though, that you likely won’t be spending all your time indoors. Bring a portable charger so your devices are able to capture all your memorable moments. Keychain USB chargers are available that can save you the hassle of finding the right cords.

You also might want to consider purchasing a travel router. Not only will these help you stay online, but some also act as chargers and adapters.

Be realistic about what work you want to get done on your trip and how you want to do it. Portable keyboards are a compact way to turn tablets and phones into laptops. This means you may not need to sandwich your computer into your carry-on luggage – if you need to bring it at all.

If you do plan on using your tablet often, be sure to take care of yourself, too. Buy a standing case so you don’t strain your neck.

Remember to pack for fun as well. An e-reader is a great way to bring a library without adding extra weight to your bags. Invest in some good headphones too, so people know when you’re trying to tune out distractions.