Happy 2026!
As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to review your insurance policies. At Goodrich & Watson Insurers, we understand that changing circumstances can lead to different insurance needs. Whether you’ve had a baby, gotten married, or purchased a new home or car, it’s essential to ensure your coverage fits your current situation.
Take a moment to connect with our team to review your policies. We can help determine whether your current coverage is adequate or if adjustments are needed. Even if life hasn’t changed dramatically, you may still be eligible for discounts or new insurance products that better meet your needs.
Quick Insurance Checklist
-
Update Your Home Inventory List
Keep an up-to-date record of all valuable items in your home. This list will help streamline the claims process in case of loss or damage. -
Review Your Policy Limits on Valuables
Ensure your policy’s coverage for possessions matches their current value. If needed, adjust the limits to protect your assets adequately. -
Stay Proactive with Home Maintenance
Regular maintenance on heating, cooling, roofing, plumbing, and electrical systems can help catch issues early and prevent costly repairs. Think of it as a routine health check-up for your home. -
Report Home Improvements to Your Agent
If you’ve added square footage or upgraded features like a kitchen or bathroom, notify your agent. These changes can affect your home’s value and coverage needs. -
Consider Bundling Your Policies
If you have separate home, auto, or other insurance policies, bundling them often leads to significant discounts. For new purchases like a boat, RV, or motorcycle, ask about multi-policy discounts. -
Tidy Up the Landscape
Trim overgrown trees and remove dead vegetation to reduce risks like fire or storm damage. Proper landscaping can also help prevent liability issues. -
Know Your Policy Inside and Out
Review your policy details to understand your coverage fully. Consider what’s most valuable to you and confirm that it’s adequately protected.
Homeowners/Rental Insurance
The new year is an ideal time to update your home inventory and review your homeowners insurance or rental insurance policy. Take photos or videos of valuable possessions and include detailed descriptions. Antique or high-value items might require additional coverage, so let us know if you’ve acquired new gifts or possessions over the holidays.
If you’re in an area prone to flooding, we can discuss adding coverage for these perils, as standard policies may not cover them.
Life Insurance
Life events like a birth, divorce, remarriage, a new mortgage, or a job change are good reasons to review your life insurance policy. Here are some questions to guide your review:
-
Do premiums or benefits vary from year to year?
-
How much do the benefits build up in the policy?
-
What part of the premiums or benefits is not guaranteed?
-
What is the effect of interest on money paid and received at different times on the policy?
-
In what situations and through what procedures can you access cash values?
-
Can the policy be converted into another form of insurance or annuity?
If you’ve welcomed a new family member or gotten married, consider increasing your death benefit. On the other hand, milestones like paying off your mortgage, retiring, or seeing your children graduate might mean you can reduce your coverage and premiums.
Ask us about options like converting your term life policy to whole life or expanding death benefits for use while you’re still living.
Auto Insurance
Changes to your driving habits might require updates to your auto insurance. Here are some tips to ensure your policy is up to date:
-
Confirm that your liability coverage is sufficient to protect against potential lawsuits.
-
Review your deductibles for comprehensive and collision coverage to balance premiums and out-of-pocket costs.
-
Keep a copy of your insurance card and our contact information in your vehicle for quick access.
More Information
At Goodrich & Watson Insurers, we’re here to help you choose the best coverage for you and your family. If you have questions about your policies or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Or, want to add a new policy? Request a quick quote today! Let’s make 2026 the year you feel confident and secure in your insurance protection.
