Do I Have to Have Homeowners Insurance?

While homeowners insurance is not a legal requirement in the United States, it can be and is likely to be mandated by the lender if you have a mortgage because this helps protect their investment. Generally speaking, before even funding your mortgage or refinance application, the lender will request proof of homeowners insurance. If you choose not to purchase insurance and have a mortgage, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau allows the lender to purchase it on your behalf and charge you for the cost, which may result in a policy that is more expensive and/or offers less coverage than you need. For folks that have either paid off their mortgage or paid cash for their homes while you are not technically required to have insurance, your house is likely to be your largest investment, and a homeowner’s insurance policy will protect it in a multitude of ways. 

Typically speaking, a homeowner’s insurance policy will provide coverage for your home. Still, also it offers protection for your personal belongings, any other dwellings on the land like a shed, and medical bills if a visitor is injured while on your property or inside your home. Keep in mind that for each of the coverages you have, you will also select a limit, which means anything beyond that dollar amount is your responsibility. Hence, the more coverage you have, the less likely it is that you’ll be responsible for any out of pocket costs once your deductible has been met. 

At the Jason Ridley Agency in Colleyville, TX, our friendly team of insurance professionals are ready to find you the perfect homeowner’s policy for your needs, so give us a call today to schedule a no-obligation consultation and see how we can assist in protecting your home.

3 Ways to Protect Your Home From Vandalism

In Colleyville, TX, the agents of Jason Ridley Agency are often asked how clients can better protect their homes from vandalism and theft. The agents are well-versed in a variety of ways for homeowners to protect their property. Being proactive and knowing what is effective when it comes to keeping vandals and burglars at bay is an excellent place to start.

Add an Outdoor Security Light

Outdoor security lights can be installed to stay on from dusk to dawn or to come on when motion is detected. Either way, it shines the spotlight on intruders and makes it, so there is no place for them to hide.

Install a Home Security System

Installing a home security system with video surveillance cameras is a great way to catch intruders in the act. Not only will you have a visual image, but your local authorities can also be notified of an added layer of security. You can monitor the system on your own, or you can hire a professional monitoring service.

Install a Privacy Fence

Installing a privacy fence makes it difficult for intruders to gain access to the back portion of your property. This forces them to try and gain entry from the front where they will be more visible and at a higher risk of being caught in the act.

The agents of Jason Ridley Agency are always looking for ways to keep their clients’ homes safe from vandals. If you are a resident of Colleyville, TX, and would like to learn more about how you can keep your home secure and protected against vandalism, speak with an agent today!