Tag Archives: Colling Insurance Services

What Does Homeowners Insurance Not Cover?

A homeowner’s insurance policy provides coverage for a broad range of risks or perils that can potentially impact your home and its occupants. If you live in the greater Lakewood, CO, the insurance professionals at Colling Insurance Services Inc. are available to help you understand what a homeowner’s policy may cover and what it excludes.

Common Scenarios Typically Not Covered By Standard Homeowners Insurance

These events are typically excluded from a standard homeowners policy:

Flood damage

Most home policies exclude flooding – defined as excess water on land that is typically dry. According to the insurance industry, flooding is not the same as water-related damage (i.e., damage from a leaky roof). To protect against flood damage, homeowners can buy a separate flood insurance policy.

Maintenance-Related Issues

Homeowners insurance is not designed to provide coverage for your home’s routine maintenance or normal wear and tear. Damage from a lack of maintenance/pre-existing conditions will typically be excluded.

Sewer Backups

Damage caused by a sump pump failure/sewer backup may not be covered; however, a rider or endorsement is typically available. 

Intentional Acts

An intentional or illegal act that causes damage is typically not covered.

Earthquakes

A standard policy for homeowners doesn’t typically cover earthquake damage. A separate policy or endorsement may be available for those in an area prone to earthquakes.

Home-Based Business Liability

A home business may need an additional policy (a Business Owners Policy) to protect business-related liabilities.

Acts of War/Nuclear Hazards

Damage resulting from nuclear hazards, acts of war, or will typically be excluded.

Contact a Leading Insurance Company Today

To speak with an insurance professional at Colling Insurance Services Inc. in Lakewood, CO about available homeowners insurance coverage options, contact a staff member at 303-987-3331 or reach out online.

Boat Safety Tips and Insurance Implications for Lakewood, CO Boaters

If you’re a boater in Lakewood, CO, it’s essential to prioritize safety while out on the water. Not only can safe boating practices help prevent accidents, but they can also have an impact on your boat insurance rates. Colling Insurance Services Inc. can help you find the right insurance coverage to protect you and your boat while potentially saving you money. Here are some boat safety tips to keep in mind:

Boat Safety Tips

  • Always wear a life jacket, and make sure your passengers do as well.
  • Follow all boating laws and regulations, including speed limits and no-wake zones.
  • Be mindful of weather conditions and keep an eye on the forecast.
  • Keep a close watch on children and inexperienced boaters.
  • Never operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Insurance Implications of Boat Safety

In addition to the obvious benefits of safe boating, practicing good boating habits can also help you save money on your insurance premiums. Insurance companies consider several factors when determining your rates, including your boating history, the age and condition of your boat, and your claims history. Demonstrating a commitment to safety can reduce your risk of accidents and claims, which may result in lower insurance premiums.

Working with Colling Insurance Services Inc.

We’re committed to helping Lakewood, CO boaters stay safe and protected on the water. Our knowledgeable agents can guide insurance options and help you find the right coverage to meet your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about our boat insurance options and how we can help you save on premiums.

Does Umbrella Insurance Cover Property Damage?

At Colling Insurance Services Inc. in Lakewood, CO, we ensure that our umbrella insurance policies cover what homeowners care about most. That being said, every policy is different, just like every homeowner’s needs are different. Generally, you might wonder what umbrella insurance policies cover regarding property damage. As you keep reading the article below, you will find that we have an answer to that question.

What does umbrella insurance cover?

An umbrella insurance policy may cover a combination of liability, property damage, and other considerations for those with a home insurance policy. If you reach the limit of your existing policy, an umbrella insurance policy might be able to help pick up the rest of the bill for repairs or related costs if they happen under certain qualifying conditions.

The point of umbrella insurance is to serve as an “umbrella” that gives you an extra layer of protection for metaphorical rainy days. When difficult events like certain qualifying natural disasters hit your home, your umbrella insurance policy may be able to assist you with rebuilding by covering some of the property damage. Of course, this all depends on the policy’s terms and the limits set on both your home and umbrella insurance policies.

In the best-case scenario, your standard home insurance policy will cover the damage, and you will not need to rely on your umbrella insurance to cover some or all of the costs. In the worst-case scenario, most of our clients are thankful to have the foresight to purchase umbrella insurance before this kind of emergency strikes so close to home.

For specific details on our umbrella insurance policies, call our office at Colling Insurance Services Inc. in Lakewood, CO today!

Three misconceptions out there about long-term care insurance

Long-term care insurance is crucial if you want your finances and have confidence that you’ll get the healthcare you need down the road. At Colling Insurance Services Inc., we provide long-term care insurance in Lakewood, CO. 

Being accurately informed about long-term care insurance is important. Unfortunately, misconceptions about this type of coverage are common.

Consumers only very rarely end up needing long-term care insurance

Assuming that you’ll never need long-term care is a bad idea. Even if you are very healthy, you could experience an accident or an unexpected illness that leaves you in need of costly long-term care. 

My Medicare plan will cover long-term care.

Your Medicare plan may cover long-term care in certain situations. However, you cannot always rely on Medicare to cover long-term care costs. How much Medicare coverage you receive for long-term care costs depends on what type of injury/illness you experienced and what Medicare plan and supplements you have. 

Purchasing a separate long-term care insurance policy gives you more confidence that any long-term care costs you face will be covered. 

Only the elderly need long-term care insurance.

Long-term care is associated with the elderly. However, even young, healthy individuals can benefit from having long-term care insurance. Individuals at any age could experience a severe injury that leaves them handicapped and needing long-term care. 

If you want to learn more about long-term care insurance, we’re here for you. Consumers in Lakewood, CO can get a long-term care insurance policy quote from us at Colling Insurance Services Inc.

Understanding Life Insurance Payouts: Taxes, Timing, and Tips

Navigating life insurance payouts can be complex, but understanding the process is crucial. As a trusted insurance provider in Lakewood, CO, Colling Insurance Services, Inc. is here to clarify a few key aspects of life insurance payouts, including taxes, timing, and valuable tips.

It’s essential to consider the tax implications of life insurance payouts. Generally, death benefits paid to beneficiaries are tax-free. However, certain situations may involve taxes, such as when the payout is part of the policyholder’s estate. To understand the tax implications specific to your policy, consult with a tax professional or one of our knowledgeable agents at Colling Insurance Services, Inc.

The timing of life insurance payouts can vary based on factors like policy type and claim processing time. Beneficiaries often receive payouts within weeks or months after the insurance company gets the claim and necessary documentation. To ensure prompt payouts, policyholders should inform beneficiaries about policy details and provide clear instructions for filing a claim.

Navigating life insurance payouts becomes easier by keeping essential tips in mind. Periodically review your policy to ensure it aligns with your current needs and those of your beneficiaries. Update your beneficiary information as life circumstances change, and store policy documents in a safe, accessible place. Let your beneficiaries know where they can find these documents. If you have questions about your policy, consult with a trusted insurance agent like those at Colling Insurance Services, Inc.

Our team at Colling Insurance Services, Inc., serving Lakewood, CO, is committed to helping you understand life insurance payouts. Don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or assistance with your life insurance needs.

Why do I need dental insurance if my teeth are fine?

Residents living in Lakewood, CO might wonder, "Why do I need dental insurance if my teeth are fine?" The answer is simple: dental insurance can help you save money in the long run and provide preventative care that keeps your teeth and gums healthy. Colling Insurance Services Inc. explains why dental insurance can benefit everyone – even when their teeth are in fine shape. 

Preventative Care for Your Teeth and Gums 

Regular visits to the dentist are essential for maintaining good oral health. Dental insurance plans cover preventive services like cleanings, check-ups, x-rays, fluoride treatments, sealants, and more. Preventative care is essential for catching potential issues before they become more severe and expensive! 

Affordable Dental Treatment 

Dental procedures can be costly without insurance coverage. With dental insurance coverage, you’ll have coverage for some of the most common dental procedures, such as fillings, crowns, bridges, root canals, extractions, dentures, and others. You may not need any of these now, but you might in the future. It is tempting to put off dental problems without dental insurance because of the expense. Access to these affordable treatments can help keep your mouth healthy and help you save money in the long run. 

Dental care is integral to overall health but often gets overlooked until an issue needs addressing. Investing in dental insurance from Colling Insurance Services Inc. makes getting regular check-ups and preventive care easier so that your teeth stay healthy for years. Plus, it also gives you coverage for dental treatments should any issues arise. So don’t wait— if you are near Lakewood, CO, contact us to enroll in dental insurance today!

Can I still get health insurance if I smoke?

It’s no secret that smoking is bad for your health and can cause several serious diseases. But what about getting health insurance? Can you still get coverage in Lakewood, CO if you smoke? The answer is yes, but the premiums may be higher due to the increased risk associated with smoking. Colling Insurance Services Inc. breaks down what options are available. 

Health Insurance Providers and Smoking Habits 

Most health insurance providers consider an applicant’s smoking habits when calculating premiums. This means that, depending on the provider, smokers may pay anywhere from 10% to 50% more than nonsmokers in monthly premiums. Most providers also impose age restrictions on smokers—for example, some plans will not cover those over 50 who smoke.  

That being said, many options are still available to smokers looking for coverage. Depending on where you live and the type of plan you choose, you may be able to find a plan that does not increase your premium due to your smoking habits. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) also prohibits discrimination based on pre-existing conditions like smoking or other lifestyle choices such as alcohol or drug use, so it’s important to remember this when shopping for coverage. 

In addition to lower premiums, quitting smoking has many other benefits, such as improved breathing, cardiovascular function, and overall health. Quitting can also help reduce stress levels, improving mental clarity and focus. If you have been considering quitting smoking but haven’t taken the plunge yet, now is a great time! Most insurance companies will allow smokers who quit within the last year to apply for lower rates without any additional paperwork or proof of quitting required.                       

If you live in Lakewood, CO, and need help finding an affordable healthcare plan that meets your needs, contact Colling Insurance Services Inc today for more information about your options!

What Does Toy Insurance Cover?

Toy insurance is a type of protection you secure for recreational vehicles such as golf carts, jet skis, four-wheelers, and more. Owners need protection from liability, accidents, and other covered events to provide them with financial security. Our team of experts at Colling Insurance Services Inc. is proud to provide policies for the residents of Lakewood, CO.

Toy Insurance Protection

Recreational vehicles are an investment that needs to be protected just like any other asset. It’s also worth noting that toy insurance also offers liability protection. Just like you would secure insurance for a car, you also need insurance for a vehicle or method of transportation. 

Suppose you want to learn how much toy insurance coverage is necessary for your situation. In that case, you can sit down with one of our knowledgeable insurance agents, who can provide an overview of your options. Our team is committed to providing exceptional customer service before, during, and after the policy purchase. We can assist you with submitting the necessary documentation if there are any changes or claims. In addition, we can also provide you with insurance protection for any other insurable assets you own.

Call Us Today 

We look forward to providing you with the insurance protection you trust. Individuals living in the Lakewood, CO, area can call or stop by the office of Colling Insurance Services Inc. to speak to one of our knowledgeable agents. We can help you find a policy that matches your needs,  so schedule a consultation to learn more about toy insurance and the items it covers. Don’t wait to get the protection you need to protect your assets. Get top-quality insurance coverage that’s reliable and gives you peace of mind.

How To Find the Right Commercial Insurance for Your Business

When it comes to running a business, there are a lot of things to keep in mind. From product development and marketing to sales and customer service, there’s much to stay on top of. And one of the most important things to think about is commercial insurance. Commercial insurance protects businesses from liability in an accident or injury. But with so many different types of coverage available, how do you know which one is right for your business? Here’s a quick guide to finding the right commercial insurance for your business.

1. Understand Your State’s Insurance Requirements

Every state has different insurance requirements for businesses. So, the first step in finding the right commercial insurance is understanding what your state requires. Some states require companies to carry a certain amount of liability coverage, while others don’t have any specific requirements. Once you know what your state requires, you can start shopping around for a policy that at least meets those requirements.

2. Determine What Type of Coverage You Need

There are many different types of commercial insurance coverage available. Some common types of coverage include property damage, liability, workers’ compensation, and product liability. Depending on your business type, you may need one or more of these types of coverage. For example, if you have a lot of employees, you may need to carry workers’ compensation insurance. And if you sell products, you’ll need product liability insurance. Once you know what coverage you need, you can start shopping around for a policy that meets your needs.

3. Get Quotes from Multiple Insurers

Once you know what you need, it’s time to start shopping around for a policy. The best way to find a policy that meets your needs and budget is to get quotes from multiple insurers. When you request a quote, provide the same information to each insurer so that you compare apples to apples. And don’t forget to ask about discounts.

4. Read the Policy Carefully

Once you’ve found a commercial insurance policy you’re interested in, it’s essential to read it carefully. This will help you understand what’s covered and what’s not. And it will also help you ensure you’re comfortable with the coverage limits.

5. Work with an Insurance Agent

If you’re having trouble finding the right commercial insurance policy for your business in Lakewood, CO, you may want to work with an insurance agent. Insurance agents are familiar with the different types of coverage available and can help you find a policy that meets your needs.

Keep these tips in mind when you’re shopping for commercial insurance. By following these tips, you can be sure that you’re getting the right coverage for your business. Colling Insurance Services Inc is here to help with any questions about finding the right commercial insurance for your business. Give us a call today to learn more.

How Colorado’s Worker’s Compensation Laws Affect Small Businesses

Small businesses in Colorado must comply with the state’s workers’ compensation laws. These laws provide specific protections for employees who are injured or become ill due to their job. Colling Insurance Services, Inc. understands Colorado’s workers’ compensation laws are complex, so we’re here to help small business owners in Lakewood, CO become familiar with them before they open their doors.

How does workers’ compensation insurance work in Colorado?

Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to help cover the costs of medical treatment and lost wages for employees. In Colorado, small businesses must have workers’ comp insurance when they have one or more employees. Most business owners in Colorado purchase workers’ compensation insurance through a commercial insurer or the state-sponsored Workers’ Compensation Insurance Pool. Large employers may self-insure their workers’ compensation risks by obtaining approval from the Colorado Division of Workers’ Compensation.

Colorado Workers’ Compensation Benefits

  • Workers’ compensation insurance pays for medical benefits for injured workers. These benefits include:

  • Payment of medical bills related to the injury

  • Reimbursement for travel expenses related to treatment

  • Vocational rehabilitation

In addition, workers’ compensation insurance pays benefits for lost wages for employees who cannot work because of their injuries. The wage replacement benefits are based on a percentage of the employee’s pre-injury earnings.

What are the penalties for not having Colorado workers’ comp insurance?

You could be fined up to $500 per day if caught without insurance. If an employee is injured while uninsured, you will be liable for the entire claim plus a 25% penalty fine. You may also be subject to civil and criminal penalties. The local government might shut down your business until you comply with the law.

Colling Insurance Services Inc. in Lakewood, CO, offers workers’ comp insurance to protect you and your employees. We have the experience and knowledge to help you get the coverage you need at a price you can afford. Call us today to learn more about our workers’ comp insurance options.