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Tips to make your condo more energy efficient

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Energy efficiency is a great way to save money on your monthly bills and help the environment at the same time. Making your San Antonio, TX area condo more energy-efficient can be as simple as changing a few habits or making a small investment in energy-efficient home appliances and fixtures. Here are a few tips from us at Ellis Insurance Agency to get you started.

Tips to make your condo more energy efficient

1. Install LED light bulbs, which use less energy than traditional incandescent light bulbs. Not only do LED lights last up to 25 times longer, but they also save around 75 percent of the electricity used by traditional incandescent bulbs. 

2. Invest in energy-efficient windows and doors. These products will help keep air from escaping or entering your home, which will reduce energy costs. Additionally, if you opt for double-paned windows, you’ll have better temperature control throughout the year. 

3. Make sure all of your appliances are ENERGY STAR certified. This certification indicates that an appliance has been tested for energy efficiency and meets certain criteria set forth by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

4. Use power strips to control electricity flow in your condo and switch them off when not in use. Doing so will prevent any electronics from drawing unnecessary power (known as “phantom loads”), which will help you save money on your electric bill each month! 

Give Us A Call

By following these tips, you can start making your condo more energy-efficient today! For more energy-saving tips, or if you want to review your insurance policy, give us at Ellis Insurance Agency a call today. We are proud to serve the San Antonio, TX area and would be happy to help you find a policy that meets your needs and your budget.

Top 3 Safety Tips Teen Drivers Need To Know

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It is not unusual for parents to feel frightened and stressed out when teens start driving. Properly educating your teens on safe driving tips is crucial to their overall safety and well-being. At Ellis Insurance Agency, serving San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas, we hope to help with this job by providing safety information for teen drivers.

Here are the top 3 safety tips teen drivers need to know:

No Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a broad term, and it is broad on purpose. There are so many different things that can distract your teen when they are driving. The most common distraction is phones. Texting, calling, or any way touching a phone while driving can cause a dangerous situation. Phones are not the only distraction though. Passengers, eating, grooming, or doing any other activity other than paying attention to the road, can pose a threat to your teen’s safety. 

Seat Belts

Although seat belt laws have been enforced for decades, this is still a habit that is difficult for some. Make seat belt usage a non-negotiable even before kids are driving age. This way, they will know that there is simply no option. You must wear your seat belt. 

Follow The Speed Limit 

Teens have a bad habit of pushing boundaries, and this applies to the boundaries of the roads as well. Speeding contributes to deadly accidents. Decreasing speed can decrease the damage that may be done to a vehicle or to a driver if they do happen to get into an accident. 

Get Auto Insurance Today

If you would like to learn more about vehicle safety and insurance, please contact us at Ellis Insurance Agency serving San Antonio, TX and the surrounding areas. We will be happy to help you. 

What Are The Benefits Of Renters Insurance?

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When you are renting a house, it is almost as if you own it in part. This is because you most probably have most if not all your property there, from the things that meet your most basic needs to the ones that give you comfort. If something were to happen to your dwelling and belongings, it would be devastating. We at Ellis Insurance Agency. serving San Antonio, TX residents, offer a renters insurance policy that can cover this and restore your comfort.

Benefits Of Renters Insurance

Renters insurance may be a requirement of some landlords. However, having this coverage is more beneficial for the renter. These benefits include:

Protection of belongings.

In the event of a disaster that have resulted in the destruction of valuables, or if there has been a theft, your renters insurance is able to cover the replacement of the item depending on the present market price of the item.

Covers the treatment of individuals who may have sustained injuries while on your property.

In some cases, lawsuits may be filed against the owner of the premises in the case of injury. The renters insurance works to shield you from these.

Service to your dependents.

You may choose to rent an apartment for your child in San Antonio, TX. Renters insurance will then cover your child’s property as well.

Cushioning against constraints from additional living expenses.

In the event that your rental is temporarily inhabitable, and you have to stay elsewhere, your insurance will help you cover the extra cost.

Contact Us Today

Did you just move out of home or have not yet insured your property by getting renters insurance? Are you worried about how long it may take to rebuild your savings after a sudden loss of your property? Consider getting a renters insurance policy from Ellis Insurance Agency and secure your investment.

 

3 Most Common Types of RV insurance

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More than 11 million U.S. households own a recreation vehicle. In the last decade alone, ownership grew by 26%. This isn’t a passing fad. Studies show that another 9.6 million households expressed a desire to buy their own RV in the next five years.

While these numbers continue to skyrocket across all demographic groups, every RV owner is different. But, whether you are a casual camper or escapist, RV insurance is always a must. Ellis Insurance Agency is here to assist San Antonio, TX RV owners with all their insurance needs. 

Here are the three most common RV types and the coverage needed to ensure you are protected:

Fifth Wheels & Trailers

Towable trailers and "pull behind" campers are less expensive to insure since they are without motors. Yet this also means fewer coverage options overall. Most over-the-road issues are likely excluded. These would be covered as part of your towing vehicle’s plan.

Motorhomes

Every motorized RV is different, ranging in size, cost, and quality. Motorhomes are typically divided into one of three groups. Yet Class A, B, and C motorhomes should require the same insurance as any other vehicle on the roadway. At a minimum, collision, comprehensive, and liability coverages are key.

Full-timers

"Full-timer" is a name applied to anyone who lives in their RV. This status calls for additional insurance protection. You’ll want a policy that covers your belongings too, much like a homeowners’ or renters’ plan.

Give Us A Call

No matter what type of recreational vehicle you own, RV insurance is a must. Serving the greater San Antonio, TX community, our team of experts at Ellis Insurance Agency can find a policy that best meets your needs while traveling with your family. Schedule an appointment today.

Best Motorcycle Insurance for Bikers in Texas

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Motorcycle insurance is a policy that covers losses or damage to your motorcycle, as well as injuries to yourself or others if you are involved in an accident. In most cases, the policy will usually cover both personal and property damage, along with medical expenses should you be injured during a crash. 

An experienced insurance agent at Ellis Insurance Agency can provide detailed information about the best coverage for motorcycle riders in San Antonio, TX. 

What Types of Motorcycles Are Covered Under Motorcycle Insurance in Texas?

Motorcycle insurance policies in Texas typically cover many motorcycles–from dirt bikes to sports bikes like ATVs. Having a motorcycle insurance policy in place at the time of an accident can save policyholders time and money on filing a claim. 

How Much Does Motorcycle Insurance Cost in Texas?

The price of a motorcycle policy can vary depending on the type and amount of coverage that you choose, as well as your personal credit score and history with insurers.

What are the Benefits of Motorcycle Insurance in Texas?

One of the benefits of motorcycle insurance is that it can help protect you financially in the event of an accident. Coverage may include personal injuries, loss or damage to your bike, and even property damage. In addition, motorcycle insurance can provide financial assistance if you are unable to work due to an injury sustained in a crash.

Contact Us Today

San Antonio, TX residents who need motorcycle insurance to protect motorcycles, dirt bikes, ATVs, and similar vehicles can talk to the insurance experts at Ellis Insurance Agency to learn about the best motorcycle insurance for covering vehicles with two or three wheels and an engine, powered by gasoline or diesel.

Why does someone need to have a boat insurance plan in Texas?

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If you are in the San Antonio, TX area, owning a boat can be a great option. When you are a boat owner here, you will be able to have a lot of fun during the warmest months of the year. While boats can be a lot of fun, you do need to make sure that you are properly insured with a boat insurance plan. 

Why Boat Insurance?

Cover Your Watercraft

An important reason to have a boat insurance plan is so they can cover their watercraft. Any type of boat is going to take a big purchase and investment to acquire and care for. When you do own a boat, you will want to know that it is as well covered as possible. With a boat insurance plan, you will have coverage that can mitigate the risks of various types of loss including theft or accident damage. 

Reduce Liability Risks

While a boat can be a lot of fun to operate, it can also come with risks. If you have a boat insurance plan, you can offset some of these concerns. When driving a boat, if you were to cause an accident, you would need to cover the damages incurred by the other parties. Your liability insurance in the boat coverage plan will provide the support you need to offset this risk.

Get Coverage Today

If you want to invest in a boat in the San Antonio, TX area, you also need to make sure that you have the right insurance for it. When you are looking for a new boat insurance plan, you can start your search by calling the team with the Ellis Insurance Agency. There are a lot of choices to make when shopping for coverage and the Ellis Insurance Agency can help you build your next policy. 

Is umbrella insurance only for the rich?

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Umbrella insurance is something that is a mystery to most people. What it is and why they need it is something they know nothing about. At the Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX, our knowledgeable team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. As independent agents, we represent a selection of the top carriers in the business. 

What is umbrella insurance? 

Umbrella insurance is what is known as excess liability coverage. It is a supplemental policy to a policy that you already have with liability coverage. That includes policies like home, auto, condo, motorcycle, RV, renters, and commercial insurance. What it does is add an additional layer of liability protection to what your primary policy has. When needed, the primary policy will pay up to its limit and then the umbrella insurance will kick in. 

Who can benefit from umbrella insurance?

Anyone who has assets can benefit from this important coverage. It doesn’t matter if you own a mansion or a double-wide, you have worked hard to get where you are, and in the event you ever get sued, you want to protect your assets and your future earnings from a judgment against you. These days, the size of judgments can be quite astronomical and if you are not adequately covered, it could mean that your future earnings could be attached and nobody wants that. 

How much umbrella insurance is enough?

Only you can determine that, but consider what liability you have on your primary policy and how much a judgment could be, you need to at least have enough to cover the difference between the two. Most umbrella policies start at about a million dollars of coverage. 

Get Umbrella Insurance Today

Contact Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX to discuss how you can benefit from umbrella insurance. 

What All Homeowners in San Antonio Should Know About Flood Insurance

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A common misconception that homeowners in San Antonio, TX often have is if their home has flood damage, it will be covered by their homeowner’s insurance. Unfortunately, the truth is damage caused by flood waters is often not covered by your homeowner’s policy. To ensure your home is protected from flood waters, you’ll need to purchase a flood insurance policy.

Do San Antonio Residents Need Flood Insurance?

In Texas, homeowners are not required by law to purchase a flood insurance policy. However, if your property is located inside a high-risk flood zone, it is recommended that you purchase coverage, especially if it is a condition of your mortgage.

Still, even if you don’t have a mortgage, it is a good idea to have a flood insurance policy. While this may not be as necessary for those living in low-risk areas, it is highly recommended for anyone living in moderate to high-risk areas.

Is Flooding Serious in San Antonio, TX?

According to SARA (San Antonio River Authority), San Antonio is one of the most flood-prone and flash-flood-prone regions in the country. It is estimated that around 28,000 residents in Texas live on exposed land that is 4 feet below sea level. Since Texas is prone to heavy rains and flooding, those who live in San Antonio and other high-risk areas are in danger during the storm season.

Contact Ellis Insurance Agency for More Information About Flood Insurance 

If you have concerns about flood safety and would like to learn more about flood insurance coverage, get in touch with our team here at Ellis Insurance Agency today. We look forward to providing you with peace of mind by answering any questions you may have.

Do I Need To Get Insurance If I’m Renting A Condo?

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If you’re renting a condo, the answer to this question is yes – you do need insurance. Although your landlord may have insurance that covers the property, this does not mean that your belongings are protected.

If something happens to your home or possessions while you’re renting, you’ll be responsible for the costs yourself if you don’t have insurance. Here we discuss why it’s important to get insurance when renting a condo and how it can protect you in an emergency.

What’s Condo Insurance?

Condo insurance is a unique type of homeowners insurance specifically designed for condominium owners. Unlike traditional homeowners insurance, condo insurance covers the interior of your unit as well as any common areas owned by the condominium association. Condo insurance also provides liability coverage in the event that someone is injured while in your unit.

Why Do I Need Condo Insurance if I am Renting?

You may think that your landlord’s insurance will cover any damages to your belongings or the unit itself, but this is not always the case.

Even if you’re renting, it’s important to have your own condo insurance policy in place. This type of insurance can help to protect your personal belongings in the event of a fire, theft, or other covered peril.

Condo insurance can also provide coverage if you accidentally damage someone else’s property while living in the unit. If you do not have your own policy, you could be held responsible for paying for the repairs out of your pocket. This makes it essential to get a policy from a professional company such as Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX.

Get Coverage For Your Condo

It’s important to get insurance when renting a condo. Condo insurance can protect your belongings in the event of damage or theft, and it can also provide liability coverage in case someone is injured while on your property. Now that you know how much you need a condo insurance policy, Ellis Insurance Agency in San Antonio, TX can help you find the right coverage for your needs. Give us a call today to learn more.

How Do I File An Auto Insurance Claim?

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If you have auto insurance and a peril covered under the policy occurs, you need to file a claim to receive a settlement. However, it’s critical that you file your claim correctly because failure to do so can result in the claim being rejected by the insurer. Ellis Insurance Agency provides this guide on how to correctly file your car insurance claim in San Antonio, TX. 

Filing An Auto Insurance Claim: What You Need To Know

1. Call the 911 and Your Insurance Company

Depending on what has happened, the first thing you should do after an incident that is covered by your car insurance policy occurs is to call 911 and your insurance company. If it’s a criminal incident like theft or vandalism, your first call should be the police, then your insurer. If it’s an accident, call the police and emergency services so that anyone injured can receive timely medical attention, and then call your insurer. If the incident is damage to your vehicle due to a natural disaster, all you have to do is call the insurer.

2. Collect Evidence of the Incident

At Ellis Insurance Agency, we recommend that during your call with your insurer, you inquire what evidence they would need of the incident to assess your claim. In the case of an accident, vandalism, or damages by a natural disaster, use your smartphone to take detailed photos of the damage to your vehicle. Ensure that also capture wide-angle images of the location of the incident. In the case of theft, capture pictures of where the car was when it was stolen and get a police report.

3. Submit Your Claim With Evidence

Fill out the claim form from your insurer and submit it with the evidence you collected. Your auto insurer will review your claim, and if everything matches up with the terms of your policy, your claim will be approved.

Contact Us Today

Do you need auto insurance in San Antonio, TX and the surrounding areas? Call Ellis Insurance Agency today.