5 Tips for Preventing a Fire in Your Home

House fires account for thousands of deaths each year and billions of dollars in property damage annually. It only takes roughly 30 seconds for a very small flame to turn into a significant blaze. Therefore, it is important that Austin, TX homeowners be familiar with how to prevent a fire in their homes. Here are a few tips that the team at Southwest Insurance Center wants to share.

Test the Smoke Alarms

Once per month, you should take the time to test your smoke alarms with the simple push of a [test] button. If it doesn’t sound or the batteries are 10 years old, replace them. You may even want to ensure you have the appropriate number of fire alarms throughout the homes as advised by the U.S. Fire Administration.

Identify Potential Household Fire Hazards

Your home is full of fire hazards, probably more than you realize. While you can’t do much about the oven, other than not leaving it unattended, there are others you can locate and remove or evaluate.

If you use a toaster frequently, make sure to shake it out regularly to get the crumbs out, as they spark easily. Dust is commonly flammable, especially if there is a buildup around an electrical outlet. Make sure to unplug hair straighteners, curling irons, and the like, as they can reach high temperatures if left plugged in and on. Candles may smell great, but they are very dangerous if left where a child or pet could knock them over.

Practice Safe Candle Use

Speaking of candles, they are a common cause of home fires. In fact, they result in more than 20 home fires every single day. However, more than three-fourths of those fires are completely preventable. Make sure you are using candles safely.

Inspect the Sources of Heat

Your furnace should be professionally serviced each year to ensure it’s working properly. Because if it’s not, it could result in an unnecessary fire. If a space heater is being used in the home, keep it away from flammable items, furniture, curtains, etc. If you’re using a wood-burning fireplace, have the chimney inspected and cleaned each year.

Store Combustible Materials Safely

It is imperative that any flammable materials are stored in a safe manner, which means away from the heat! Whether it is garden supplies, cleaning supplies, hairspray, or something else that is flammable, they should be kept in a cool, dark storage area. Kerosene, gasoline, and propane should be kept in their original containers outdoors.

Even with precautions in place, a fire may still occur. To ensure you are prepared and protected, make sure you have the proper home insurance. Contact us today to learn more. Southwest Insurance Center serves the Austin, TX area and can help you determine the proper amount and type of coverage for your situation.

Why Do I Need Auto Insurance in Austin?

Drivers in Austin, TX should maintain a personal auto insurance plan for many reasons. As a Texas resident, you know how busy the roads are and how much traffic there is on a daily basis. An auto insurance policy protects you as a driver anytime you’re on the road.

Southwest Insurance Center can not stress enough the importance of having a full coverage auto insurance policy. It’s the peace of mind you need anytime you get in the car, whether you’re headed out on your morning commute, to the grocery store, on a long road trip, or anywhere in between. 

Not only does auto insurance protect you from other drivers, but it also provides liability coverage if you’re in an accident and you are at fault. If anyone is injured in the accident, liability coverage will typically cover the costs of their medical bills.

An accident is already traumatic enough, but trying to come up with large sums of money to pay for damage or repair to a vehicle along with medical bills is not a situation you want to be in. If you can avoid it entirely by purchasing a full coverage auto insurance plan, be proactive and save yourself the headache.

Not to mention auto insurance is required by law in Austin, TX and most states in the country. Your insurance policy may cover additional features like rental cars, which can be a great benefit if you travel. 

If you aren’t sure about the coverage you need or want to shop around for better options, reach out to Southwest Insurance Center today. We have a team of agents ready to help you find the best plan for your driving needs and for reassurance that you’re safe on the road. 

Who Needs Umbrella Insurance in Austin, TX?

If you have protected yourself with auto, boat, and home insurance, you will be surprised if someone tells you that you need more coverage. The truth is that as you grow in life, your responsibilities and financial status change, putting you at a greater risk. And for this reason, you need coverage like umbrella insurance from Southwest Insurance Center to protect you.

Who needs umbrella insurance?

But isn’t umbrella insurance for the rich and famous only? While it’s true that umbrella insurance protects persons with a significant asset base, this coverage is suitable for anyone earning a livelihood. Because we live in a litigious society, you don’t have to wait until you reach the one-million-dollar mark for you to start investing in umbrella insurance. You can start today and continue increasing coverage as your situation changes.

But because situations aren’t the same for everyone, some people need umbrella insurance more than others because they are at a greater risk of being sued. You need umbrella insurance immediately if you:

  • Own a business: Businesses come with significant risks, including property damage, bodily injury, and advertising injury that can exceed your typical business insurance coverage.
  • Own a pet that can cause injury: If you own certain dog breeds that can bite, you need umbrella insurance to protect you when your pet inflicts damage to a third party.
  • Participate in high-risk hobbies: If you undertake hobbies like hunting, surfing, or skiing, you need umbrella insurance because the chance of you inflicting injuries to others is high.
  • Are a landlord: You need umbrella insurance to protect yourself from tenants’ liabilities that can be cost-prohibitive.
  • Coach youth sports: If your trainees sustain injuries during training sessions, you could face expensive legal suits that wipe away your assets.

Buy umbrella insurance today!

Would you like to boost your auto, boat, or home insurance today? Please invest in umbrella insurance from Southwest Insurance Center in Austin, TX.

Benefits of RV Insurance

Taking a trip with your family in an RV is a great experience that most people look forward to. And while an RV can be a great entertainment asset, it also comes with a few responsibilities for the owner. For those residing in Austin, TX, making sure you have insured your RV is essential. As Southwest Insurance Center explains, here are some benefits of insuring your RV.

Protecting Your Assets

Buying an RV is a significant investment. If anything were to happen to it, you would be set back financially. That is why you should protect it through insurance. When you purchase insurance, depending on the policy, you will protect not only the RV but also the contents inside. Therefore, if you get into an accident and the RV is damaged, or someone breaks in and steals the contents, you do not have to worry about the cost of repairs or replacing items.

Provides Liability Protection

You should be aware that every time you are on the road, there is the risk of liability you are exposed to. You may get into an accident and damage another car or someone’s property. When you purchase RV insurance, you get liability protection which helps cover the cost of damages if you were at fault.  

Peace of Mind

A drive in your RV is supposed to be fun where everyone is having a good time, and that is what buying insurance promises you. You do not have to drive your RV, worrying that if anything happens on the road, you will have to take care of the resulting expenses. Your insurance policy covers that.

Austin, TX RV owners can enjoy these benefits by reaching out to Southwest Insurance Center to discuss the different types of coverage available in the market. Contact us today for assistance on how to protect your RV.

What to look for in auto insurance

Auto insurance is of the utmost importance, but the important facts can often be overlooked in order to find the cheapest price possible. Below you can find some information on what to look for in auto insurance, so you can make sure you make the right choice. 

Southwest Insurance Center in Austin, TX is proud to offer auto insurance plans to Texas residents. They work with several providers to provide the best possible options for you and your car.

Insurance in Texas

Auto insurance requires different specifications in different states. Therefore, it is crucial you get insurance suitable to the policies set out in Texas state laws. For example, Texans need liability insurance that covers damage to vehicles and persons. 

Location

The area you live in is important when collecting quotes for auto insurance. The reason for this is that certain areas are more prone to car break-ins or other car-related crimes. 

Parking rates

While you can’t insure in order to get the best parking rates, the parking rates in your area can still be important when looking for insurance quotes. However, the car-related crime rates in your area influence where someone wants to park, which makes the difference between street parking and parking in car parks, which then affects insurance rates.

At Southwest Insurance Center you will be provided with several quotes, so you will know that the final price you land on is accurate for your car and location. If you want to get auto insurance or receive a quote, call Southwest Insurance Center today.

Boat Insurance Basics

Owning a boat in Austin, TX takes a bit of work and a lot of responsibility. However, all the hard work and responsibility are worth it when you get the boat out onto the water and spend a day with friends and family. To help protect you against paying high costs of repairs or medical bills for injuries from an accident, you should carry boaters insurance. The agents at Southwest Insurance Center understands the need for boat insurance and are ready to help get you the coverage you need. 

Small Craft Coverage

Small crafts, such as any watercraft with an engine less than a 25-mile per hour horsepower, small sailboats, and canoes, might be covered under your primary homeowners or renters insurance policy. Liability coverage is typically not included, but some endorsements can be added to your existing policy to provide you full coverage. 

Larger Boats

Larger and faster boats, such as yachts and speedboats, require a separate insurance policy. Your boaters insurance policy will cover physical damage to the boat, property damage if you hit another object, theft, and medical payments. Boat insurance policies have deductibles and caps on their payouts. Purchasing an umbrella insurance policy can help pay for any money owed over the cap of your insurance policy. 

Boat Insurance Coverage

Boat insurance coverage varies by policy, but most policies cover the following: 

  • Physical damage to the boat
  • Theft of the boat
  • Bodily injury to others than the boat owner
  • Damage caused to someone else’s property
  • Medical payment for injuries
  • Guest passenger liability
  • Trailer or boat accessories
  • Theft of belongings
  • Towing in the event of an accident

Those with a boat in Austin, TX should reach out to Southwest Insurance Center to learn more about their boater’s insurance options. 

Is Life Insurance Mandatory in Texas?

No one likes contemplating about their life ending abruptly. But the truth of the matter is that death is inevitable and unpredictable. When your demise strikes, you will want the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your loved ones get formidable care. Life insurance is a vital coverage that ensures that your family and loved ones don’t grapple with financial hardships upon your untimely demise. Contact our agents at Southwest Insurance Center serving Austin, TX and its environs, and they can assist with all your life insurance needs.

Is life insurance mandatory in Texas?

Life insurance is not mandatory in Texas. However, it’s prudent as an Austin TX resident, to buy life insurance to cushion your beneficiaries from experiencing any financial burden after your demise. Considering your mortgage and other debts, money to cater to funeral expenses, and tuition fees for your kids, it’s a wise decision to procure life insurance. There are life insurance coverage options in Austin TX which are vital to avert stress upon a policy holder’s demise. They include:

Term life insurance

This form of policy lasts for a specified period you set with your insurance agent at the onset of the policy. This term period could be ten years or twenty years, depending on which meets your needs. This type of policy comes to a halt at the end of whatever period you choose, but there is room for renewal at a higher premium rate.

Permanent life insurance

This policy lasts for a long spell without expiry, as the name suggests. This form of policy guarantees a specific payment on the amount you invest in your policy, and you can consider borrowing it later if you are still alive to settle your issues like paying a debt. This policy provides lifetime coverage as long as you submit your premiums consistently.

Universal life insurance

It’s similar to term life insurance. This type of policy matures after a specified period, but you can pay a premium that will maintain your death benefit in place. It also provides a savings account that can be utilized by your family and loved ones in the future.

Do you want to get spectacular life insurance that suits your family and loved ones best in Austin, TX? Please get in touch with our dedicated agents at Southwest Insurance Center to get your policy as soon as possible.

Why Texas Consultants Need Commercial Insurance

Southwest Insurance Center assists the Austin, TX community and surrounding areas. We have relationships with several carriers throughout the South. We help our clients find unique policies that evolve as their needs change. We will take the time to help you find the right coverage to live comfortably.

Why Texas Consultants Need Commercial Insurance

Austin, TX is home to several thriving businesses. As a business owner, one way that you can stand out from the competition is through having a strong commercial insurance policy. Commercial insurance covers all of your property and equipment if it is stolen or vandalized. The policy covers damage to the physical structure of your business. Liability coverage is extremely important, as there are a lot of risks associated with operating a business. You can add business interruption insurance to your policy. You will be covered if an accident causes your business to shut down for a few weeks.

This is especially true if you are a consultant. As a consultant, you help people achieve their personal goals. However, you may face legal action if your client is not satisfied with your advice. If you are accused of negligence, liability insurance covers your business. Even if the allegations are not true, you are still at risk. You can also face litigation if your client believes that you did not finish a job based on the terms of a contract. Liability insurance covers your business as you fight for your reputation. Commercial insurance is an asset regardless of the services that you provide.  

Southwest Insurance Center Can Help You Protect Your Investment

Visit our website to learn more information about commercial insurance.

What You Need to Know About Homeowners Insurance in Texas

Those shopping for homeowners insurance in Austin, TX have many options available to them regarding basic coverage and additional options. Before shopping for insurance, understand the amount of coverage and what is and is not covered by your policy. The experts at Southwest Insurance Center understand shopping for a homeowners insurance policy can be overwhelming and are ready to make the process go as smoothly as possible. 

Below are things you need to know and questions to ask before purchasing your homeowner’s policy in the state of Texas: 

Roof Repair

Depending upon the cause of the damage, some insurance policies cover the total costs to repair a damaged roof. Within an insurance policy, this is covered under “replacement cost coverage.” If the roof is older or showing signs of wear, the policy may pay less to repair the roof, taking into account the roof’s overall condition before the damage occurred. Paying based on condition is considered “actual cash value” coverage. When deciding on insurance coverage, consider replacement cost versus actual cash value to determine which coverage to purchase. 

Deductibles

Your insurance policy deductible is the amount of money you must pay before your insurance company pays for repairs or replacements. Deductibles vary for different types of damage, and the higher the deductible; the lower your premiums may be. 

Additional Coverage

It is possible to customize your homeowner’s insurance policy by adding additional coverage. For example, consider buying additional coverage if you have expensive jewelry and high-priced items in the home or if you have a pool or other buildings on the property. 

Austin, TX homeowners need to speak with their insurance agent about their insurance policy and coverage options. Understanding more about the policy and coverage options helps make the claim process easier should something happen at your home. For additional information about homeowners insurance coverage, call our agents at Southwest Insurance Center. 

Southwest Insurance Center News

Southwest Insurance Center, the ATX-area’s premier one-stop, independent insurance
agency proudly announces its new location at 901 Mopac Expressway, as well as other
exciting news.


Along with our new address, our agency is unveiling a new look, enhanced customer service
features available via text, instant ID cards, an online customer portal, faster life insurance
quotes and an increased referral program, all to ensure we continue to provide our customers
with the best insurance coverage to fit their needs.


New Office Location
With insurance moving into the digital age, we have decided to forgo having a drop-in office in
order to invest in the features that our customers say they are looking for. These include
digitizing the customer claims experience from end-to-end. Of course, for those customers that
prefer a more personal, face-to-face meeting, we are happy to accommodate you at any time. You
can schedule an office appointment by giving us a call, sending us an email, or through our
online scheduling system here
.


Text Features
One of the new features we are proud to offer is the ability to communicate with us via text at
any time of day. Simply text the words “ID card” to our office line at 512-280-6100, and one will
be sent to you instantly. Digital ID cards are accepted for any situation. You can also reach out
via text with customer service questions, and we will get back to you during normal business
hours.


New Customer Portal
Another enhancement to our customer service experience is the addition of our online customer
portal. You’ll find it under the Manage Your Policy tab on our website swinsurance.com. By
logging onto the portal, you can print your ID cards, view your policy information and make
customer service requests. All we need to ensure efficient communication is your updated email
address and phone number.


New Look
You may notice when you head to the website that it recently got a facelift. We hope you like the
new look as much as we do and find our site easier to navigate. Check it out here.


Instant Life Insurance Quotes
Instant Life Insurance Quotes Increased digitization means you can now get a free life insurance
quote from more than 20 companies in less than a minute to make planning for your future easier
than ever. Go to the Life Insurance section of our website to obtain a speedy, no-obligation
quote.


New Referral Program
Our business is built around referrals, and we greatly appreciate any potential customer you send
our way. To emphasize this, we have increased our appreciation gift from $5 to $10 per referral
(no purchase necessary.) Just make sure anyone you refer to us lets us know who sent them, and
you will receive a $10 H-E-B gift card with our thanks.


A Great Partnership
On a personal note, we are excited and honored to share that Jarrod has become an owner/
managing partner of the P&C insurance at the agency. Philip Doak remains owner and managing
partner of the life insurance, disability, annuities, and long-term care. After 14 years with
Southwest Insurance Center, Jarrod has likely worked with each and every one of you at one
point or another, and he looks forward to serving you for a long time to come.


We are so proud of our new office space, website, increased customer service features, and other
positive changes at the agency, and we believe these enhancements will allow us to focus on the
things that matter most to you: providing expert advice, getting you the best rates possible, and
serving as your advocate through your claims experience. We look forward to being your trusted
advisors for many years ahead!