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Commercial Insurance For General Contractors

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General contractors should acquire commercial insurance that covers their materials, vehicles, and employees. Learn about some types of coverage that you should seek as a contractor. Call one of our Harris Insurance agents serving the greater Jasper, AL community to purchase the insurance products you need.

Protection Of Goods

The protection of goods will cover the cost of repairing or replacing any materials that are used on a worksite. This type of coverage protects against theft and vandalism. It also protects against damage that occurs from a natural weather event.

Vehicle Coverage

Automotive insurance should be acquired for any vehicle that is used for commercial purposes. If you or your crew members are responsible for transporting materials to and from each worksite, it is imperative that each vehicle is equipped with sufficient coverage.

Workers’ Compensation Coverage

Workers’ compensation insurance will provide coverage for the loss of wages that an injured employee incurs. If an employee is injured while they are working, the workers’ compensation coverage will reimburse them. It will also pay for medical costs that an employee is responsible for.

Liability Coverage

Liability coverage will protect you from costs associated with legal matters. It will handle medical bills, the repair, and the replacement of materials. The type of liability coverage that you need will be dependent upon the size of your business. The line of work that you perform will influence the amount of liability coverage that you should seek.

Schedule A Consultation Today

Now that you are aware of some of the insurance types that you will need as a general contractor, set up an appointment to meet with a Harris Insurance agent in Jasper, AL. We will discuss the commercial insurance types that will benefit you as a business owner.

Can You Void Your Home Insurance By Mistake?

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At Harris Insurance, we know that your home coverage can be confusing. We also know that it’s easy to make mistakes that could impact your Jasper, AL home. We have had many people asking us about whether or not they can accidentally void their home insurance. Surely that’s not possible, right?

Yes: And Here’s How 

You absolutely can void your homeowner insurance policy by mistake, and it’s important to know how. Here are three of the most common mistakes homeowners make:

  • Leaving Your Home Too Long: If you leave your home for 30 days or more without telling your insurance company, you could avoid your policy. Just let us know, and we’ll make sure that you stay protected by keeping your policy active.
  • Extensive Renovations: Now, this situation is only a problem if you don’t tell your insurance agent what you’re up to with your home upgrades. Whenever you add new items that increase your home’s value, let us know so that we don’t have to void your policy and get you another one.
  • A Home Business: Running a home-based business is an exciting situation but can be a real problem if you don’t get extra policy protection. If you have expensive equipment, keep inventory in your home, or have clients coming and going to and from your home, you could void your policy.

Other ways to avoid your policy include fraudulently reporting or describing an event or change in your property, doing illegal things in your home, or submitting too many claims.

Don’t Make This Mistake

Prevent yourself from voiding your home insurance by contacting us at Harris Insurance and talking with us if you’re close to making these mistakes. We’ll help Jasper, AL residents like you handle this process smoothly and minimize the risk of serious problems that could impact your home’s cost.

How Drivers Can Benefit from Comprehensive Auto Policies

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Harris Insurance is here to serve the auto insurance needs of our friends and neighbors in the greater Jasper, AL area. If you have questions about your current policy or you’re getting ready to purchase a car, you can rely on us for all your insurance needs. Give us a call today to learn more about the auto policy options currently available in our area.

Key Benefits of Comprehensive Auto Policies

The main benefit of a comprehensive auto policy is the additional protection that it provides. There’s typically a wider range of covered events than that provided by basic policies. Your local insurance agent is here to help answer any questions you have and address any concerns that you have about auto insurance.

Upgrading to a comprehensive policy can include benefits like roadside assistance, glass replacement, and coverage for single-vehicle accidents. Every policy is different, and it’s always a good idea to speak with one of our agents when you’re determining which coverage makes the most sense for your situation.

Now’s an ideal time to learn more about the different options that are available and determine if upgrading to a comprehensive policy makes sense for you at this time.

Think of us as your insurance partner!

At Harris Insurance, we’re proud to provide the insurance policies that help our Jasper, AL community protect their vehicles. If you’re ready to upgrade your auto policy or you’re getting ready to purchase your first vehicle, you can count on us. Give us a call or stop by our office to learn more. We look forward to serving you soon!

What Does a Commercial Insurance Policy Cover for Your Business?

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Our agents at Harris Insurance serving the Jasper, AL area know how much your business means to you. We know that you have invested your time, money, and energy in creating the best business possible for you and your customers or clients, which is the reason we want to help you keep it safe and secure with the appropriate amount of commercial insurance.

Commercial insurance is also referred to as business insurance and is designed to provide financial protection for your business. For instance, in the state of Alabama, you must have commercial auto liability insurance for all vehicles that are owned or leased by your business. This type of policy will help pay for the medical bills or property damage if you or one of your employees is involved in an accident that he or she caused.

Another type of commercial insurance policy that may be required for your Alabama business is worker’s compensation insurance. This type of policy is only required for businesses that employ five or more people and will provide financial help to pay medical bills and wages for any employee who is injured while on the job.

What Does a Commercial Insurance Policy Cover for Your Business?

A commercial insurance policy will also help protect your business from liability issues if someone is injured at your business or their property is damaged by your business. This type of policy is called general liability insurance, and it will help pay the medical bills or property damage if one of these types of incidents occurs.

Commercial property insurance is another type of business insurance that is very important to have. It will be especially helpful if you own the physical location of your business, but even if you do not, it will help protect the investment you have made in your inventory and other items for your business. It will kick in if you need help in recovering your business if it is damaged or destroyed by a fire, natural disaster, or vandalism. This type of policy also comes in handy if the theft of inventory occurs.

Reach Out To Us

Contact our experienced agents at Harris Insurance serving the Jasper, AL area today to assist you with all of your insurance needs.

Things your home insurance won’t cover

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All too often homeowners get complaisant because they think that home insurance protects them from everything. If you haven’t read your home insurance policy, you are in for a shock. At Harris Insurance in Jasper, AL, we work with our customers to make sure that they have the proper coverage. As independent insurance agents, we work for our customers and support their best interests. 

Home Insurance Exclusions

Flood

Floods are a dangerous, common, and costly natural disaster. They are also not covered by traditional home insurance. If a pipe breaks in your home, that is covered, but if the water comes from the surface of the land, it will not be covered. You need to get a separate flood insurance policy provided by the NFIP. If you live in a flood plain, your mortgage lender will require that you get this important coverage. 

Sewer backup

Flooding is not something fun to think about, but sewer backup is even worse. And if that wasn’t bad enough, it is not covered by your home insurance. You can get a rider to your policy, however, that will provide that protection. 

Earth movement

Earth movement covers several different types of peril. It includes earthquakes, mudslides, landslides, and sinkholes. None of them are covered by home insurance. You can however get insurance to cover them if they are a concern that you want protection from. 

Owner neglect

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to maintain your home. You are responsible for making sure you replace things like your roof before they damage your home. It is your responsibility to make sure that you don’t get termites or other critters with treatment before they become an issue. 

Consult With Us

Contact Harris Insurance in Jasper, AL if you have questions about what is and isn’t covered by your home insurance. 

How to Get the Most Mileage From your Tires?

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The insurance professionals at Harris Insurance serving the greater Jasper, AL  community offer this advice about getting the most mileage from your tires which ultimately helps reduce the cost of maintaining your car.

How to Get the Most Mileage From Your Tires?

In addition to inspecting your tires for uneven tread wear, consider these suggestions, which might help maximize your tire’s lifespan:

Maintain Proper Tire Inflation

Ensure you follow the manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure.

  • Under-inflated Tires Wear unusually quickly as well as reduce fuel efficiency.
  • Overinflated tires cause uneven wear.

Rotate the Tire Regularly

This too, should be done according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. Regular rotation extends the life of tires as it helps them wear evenly.  

Wheel Alignment/Balancing

Appropriately aligned wheels help tires wear evenly, extending the useful life of the tire. Balancing helps ensure proper weight distribution.

Minimize Hard Braking

This type of driving can wear down tire treads quickly.

Drive Safely

Obeying speed limits reduces the heat that can build up on a tire. Avoid potholes, curbs, etc., to avoid damaging the tires.

Load Capacity

Overloading causes tire stress, decreasing the tire’s useful life.

Avoid Harsh Driving Conditions

Where possible, avoid extreme weather conditions – heavy downpours, blizzards, or very excessive heat as this accelerates the wear on the tire.

Store Tire Properly

Seasonal tires should be kept in a dry, cool place – out of the direct sun or high heat.  

High-Quality Tires

Often it pays to buy high-quality tires – with high traction performance and tread life ratings, that match your driving style or type of car.

Schedule A Consultation Today!

Appropriately maintained tires will save money, offer improved fuel efficiency, and enhance road safety. Contact Harris Insurance in Jasper, AL today for more information.

6 Tips for the Right Commercial Insurance

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If you own and operate a business you know it’s very important to protect it. One of the best ways to do that is through commercial insurance. If you’re in the Jasper, AL area, Harris Insurance is here to help you get the support and information you need, so you can focus on building your business. You don’t want to have to worry about your insurance policy while you’re focusing on getting your business off the ground.

Here are six tips to get the right insurance for your company:

1. Understand whether your business needs a commercial policy, because not every business will require one.

2. Consider the amount of coverage you’ll need, since that can vary a lot depending on the type and size of the company.

3. Work with a trusted agent, to get all the details you need when it comes to finding the best insurance policy for your business.

4. Look at different insurers, so you can find one with a good rating and strong reviews from current and past clients.

5. Make sure you’re focusing on the specifics, as you want to have the best protection you can get for your new company.

6. Review the options you have and consider the total value your new policy will give you if you ever need to use it.

We Can Help!

If you’re ready to get the right commercial insurance policy, contact us at Harris Insurance if you’re in the Jasper, AL area. We can provide you with all the information you need, so you can protect your business and have the peace of mind that comes with it. We understand that your business is very important to you, and we want to make sure you’re getting what you need to succeed.

Tips to prepare your home for a storm

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With the threat of storm season looming here in the Jasper, AL area, it’s important to make sure your house is prepared for whatever nature throws your way.

Here are some tips from us at Harris Insurance to help you get ready:

1. Trim trees and shrubs:

Make sure that any trees or shrubs near your home are trimmed back so strong winds won’t easily uproot them.

2. Secure outdoor furniture and decorations:

Bring in lawn furniture, umbrellas, and decorations that can easily be blown away in high winds.

3. Seal windows and doors:

Check all outside windows and doors for cracks or gaps where air can seep in. Add weather-stripping or caulking if needed to seal the openings and prevent water from entering your home.

4. Clear gutters:

Be sure to clear out any debris from your gutters so rainwater can drain properly and not damage your roof or siding. 

5. Stock up on supplies:

Have an emergency supply kit ready with items such as non-perishable food items, first-aid materials, flashlights, batteries, etc., in case of a power outage during the storm. 

Keep Your Home Insurance Updated

By following these simple steps before a storm hits, you can rest assured knowing that you have taken every measure to protect yourself, your family, and your home from potential damage caused by severe weather conditions!

For more tips, give us at Harris Insurance a call today. We would be happy to help you find a homeowner’s insurance policy that meets both your needs as well as your budget. We are proud to serve the Jasper, AL area and look forward to serving you!

Tips to prepare your home for a storm

Posted on by admin

With the threat of storm season looming here in the Jasper, AL area, it’s important to make sure your house is prepared for whatever nature throws your way.

Here are some tips from us at Harris Insurance to help you get ready:

1. Trim trees and shrubs:

Make sure that any trees or shrubs near your home are trimmed back so strong winds won’t easily uproot them.

2. Secure outdoor furniture and decorations:

Bring in lawn furniture, umbrellas, and decorations that can easily be blown away in high winds.

3. Seal windows and doors:

Check all outside windows and doors for cracks or gaps where air can seep in. Add weather-stripping or caulking if needed to seal the openings and prevent water from entering your home.

4. Clear gutters:

Be sure to clear out any debris from your gutters so rainwater can drain properly and not damage your roof or siding. 

5. Stock up on supplies:

Have an emergency supply kit ready with items such as non-perishable food items, first-aid materials, flashlights, batteries, etc., in case of a power outage during the storm. 

Keep Your Home Insurance Updated

By following these simple steps before a storm hits, you can rest assured knowing that you have taken every measure to protect yourself, your family, and your home from potential damage caused by severe weather conditions!

For more tips, give us at Harris Insurance a call today. We would be happy to help you find a homeowner’s insurance policy that meets both your needs as well as your budget. We are proud to serve the Jasper, AL area and look forward to serving you!

Understanding Auto Insurance for Ridesharing Vehicles

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Driving for a ridesharing company is more popular than ever before. Whether you’re driving at the weekends or the evenings to make some extra cash, or it’s your full-time gig, you need to make sure you have auto insurance coverage that protects you and your vehicle.

Here are some things to consider when choosing an auto insurance plan for your ridesharing vehicle:

Specialized Policies for Ridesharing

Many insurance companies offer specialized policies for rideshare insurance. You’ll be on the road far more frequently than most other drivers and driving in areas you don’t know. Specialized policies consider all of these factors, as well as the wear and tear your vehicle will accumulate after being driven so much.

Differences Between Ridesharing Coverage and Regular Coverage

Ridesharing insurance coverage has several different features from standard auto policies. It addresses the needs of ridesharing drivers, ensuring you are covered while actively working. 

Insurance Policies from Ridesharing Companies vs. Finding My Own

While ridesharing companies offer insurance coverage for their drivers, it is often limited. For example, it typically only applies to specific stages of being a ridesharing driver, such as when you physically have a passenger in the car. It doesn’t account for waiting for a ride request or driving to pick up a passenger. Therefore, you may not be protected if you’re rear-ended while waiting for a passenger to enter the vehicle.

Looking for Ridesharing Insurance Services in Jasper, AL?

Ridesharing is a business; like most business decisions, you shouldn’t choose your insurance policy alone. At Harris Insurance, we’ll advise you on the best coverage for your business needs to ensure that you, your vehicle, and your passengers are properly protected.

Learn more about ridesharing insurance options at Harris Insurance in Jasper, AL by calling us today.

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Jasper, AL 35501

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