Tag Archives: Wayzata

Does Auto Insurance Cover Vandalism?

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Maybe it was the vengeful ex or bored teens or someone who didn’t like your Vikings bumper sticker. In any case, your vehicle was vandalized. This could mean graffiti, a keyed paint job, smashed windows or mirrors, or slashed tires. Will your auto insurance cover it? If you have comprehensive coverage, then yes, it most likely will. It will pay for damages minus your deductible. Do keep in mind that you will need to take photos immediately of the damage and file a police report in order to collect them. Because vandalism doesn’t fall under liability, you will need to have comprehensive coverage as part of your policy. Comprehensive coverage not only covers vandalism and theft but also damage from natural disasters and other events such as fire or hitting a deer. 

What To Do if Your Vehicle Is Vandalized 

First, you should keep in mind that if the repair cost is less than your deductible, it isn’t worth the trouble. Double check. Is that paint or something that will hose off easily? If you’re sure this isn’t something that can be fixed with a little soap and water, you should call the police. Your insurer will require you to have a police report of the incident on record. Document the damage by taking clear photos and video. You can then contact your insurer and submit a claim. Provide the photos and police report as proof. Do the same if the damage was due to attempted theft of the vehicle or theft of parts such as missing hubcaps.

Pizano Insurance, Serving Wayzata, MN

If you are in the Wayzata, MN area and need auto insurance, we here at Pizano Insurance are happy to help. Give us a call today. 

When and Why You Might Need a Home Insurance Endorsement

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Your standard homeowners insurance policy provides solid protection, but it doesn’t cover everything. As your life changes or you acquire valuable items, you might discover gaps in your coverage that need addressing. Insurance endorsements, also called riders, fill these gaps by adding specific protections to your existing policy. At Pizano Insurance, serving Wayzata, MN and surrounding areas, we help homeowners identify when endorsements make sense for their unique situations.

Common Situations Requiring Endorsements

Standard policies often have coverage limits for expensive items like jewelry, art, or electronics. If your engagement ring is worth $15,000 but your policy only covers $2,500 for jewelry, you need a scheduled personal property endorsement. Home-based businesses also require special coverage since most policies exclude business activities. If you run a consulting practice from your home office, a home business endorsement protects your equipment and liability exposure.

Water Damage and Natural Disaster Coverage

Many homeowners assume their policy covers all water damage, but standard policies typically exclude floods and sewer backups. If you live near water or in a flood-prone area, flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program becomes essential. Sewer backup endorsements protect against costly damage from blocked municipal systems, which can cause thousands in cleanup costs.

Identity Theft and Equipment Breakdown

Modern endorsements address contemporary risks like identity theft, providing funds for legal fees and lost wages while resolving stolen identity issues. Equipment breakdown endorsements cover expensive home systems like HVAC units, which standard policies often exclude when they fail due to mechanical breakdown rather than covered perils.

Understanding endorsement options helps you customize protection for your specific needs. Contact Pizano Insurance, serving the Wayzata, MN area, to review your current coverage and identify any gaps that endorsements could address.

Standard Auto Liability Insurance vs. Comprehensive and Classic Car Insurance in Wayzata, MN

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Driving requires the right insurance and protection, especially if you enjoy long road trips or if you’re a commuter who drives a significant distance each day in or near Wayzata, MN. Understanding the difference between standard auto liability insurance and comprehensive or classic car insurance is crucial before getting behind the wheel. At Pizano Insurance, we work with clients to determine optimal coverage routes for specific demands and lifestyle needs.

What is Standard Liability Insurance?

Standard liability insurance is the minimum coverage required in Minnesota. It covers bodily injury and property damage that you may cause to others when you’re in a collision. However, liability coverage does not protect your own vehicle and belongings. 

Comprehensive and Collision Insurance

Comprehensive and collision insurance are essential add-ons for peace of mind. Comprehensive and collision coverage helps to provide protection during unexpected events. They help cover:

  • Weather-related damage
  • Fire
  • Falling objects and/or animal strikes
  • Collision repairs after an accident (regardless of fault)
  • Theft or vandalism

Classic Car Insurance

If you have a classic or collectible vehicle, you may want to consider classic car insurance. Classic car insurance provides specialized protection and higher payouts for vehicles that gain value as they age. You’ll receive agreed value coverage with lower premiums for limited-use vehicles you own and operate. 

Knowing the difference between standard auto liability insurance, comprehensive insurance, and classic car insurance is key anytime you’re a collector of vehicles or when you drive excessively recreationally or even for work. The more familiar you are with the different types of insurance that are available to you, the easier it will be to find insurance that works for you. For more information regarding your existing car insurance policies in or near Wayzata, MN, contact us here at Pizano Insurance today. 

Do You Need To Update Your Homeowners Insurance Policy When You Buy a Hot Tub?

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Adding a hot tub to your home is a great way to relax, entertain, and enjoy your outdoor space year-round. But before you take the plunge, it’s important to understand how it can affect your homeowners insurance. Updating your policy ensures you’re protected against any resulting risks or liabilities.

Why Your Policy May Need an Update

A hot tub increases the value of your property and your liability exposure. If someone slips, falls, or gets injured while using it, you could be held responsible. Standard homeowners insurance may not automatically cover such incidents, so informing your insurance agent is essential.

Property Coverage Considerations

Your hot tub is considered part of your home’s structure or personal property, depending on whether it’s built-in or portable. You’ll want to confirm that your dwelling or personal property coverage limits are high enough to repair or replace it if it’s damaged by a fire, storm, or vandalism.

Liability and Safety Measures

Liability coverage helps protect you if a guest is injured in or around your hot tub. Many insurers require safety features such as locking covers, fencing, or signage to maintain coverage.

Check With Your Insurance Agent

Before installation, contact your insurance agent to review your current policy. They can help you update your coverage and ensure your new backyard retreat is fully protected.

Pizano Insurance: Proud To Serve Wayzata, MN

At Pizaon Insurance, we’re proud to serve the Wayzata, MN area, and we’re here for all of your home insurance needs. Contact our team to learn more.

Does Auto Insurance Cost More If You Have a Red Car?

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For years, a saying has circulated throughout Wayzata, MN, that auto insurance costs more for red cars. It has led people to believe that they can save more money by purchasing or leasing a blue or black car instead. Is there any truth to this?

Does Color Impact Your Insurance Premiums?

Although many people believe that red cars are more expensive, this is not true. The color of your car doesn’t impact how much your insurance costs. It doesn’t matter if a Corvette is red or white, or whether you have a red minivan. Instead, insurance companies look at several other factors. You can contact an agent at Pizano Insurance if you want to double-check. 

Factors That Can Impact Your Insurance

Companies will consider several factors, some of which may impact your premium. However, it’s important to know that these factors can vary depending on the company. 

Education Level

Some companies will ask about your highest level of education. People who have completed a college education may qualify for a discount. Some companies also offer student discounts to individuals currently enrolled in school. 

Age

Companies often consider how old you are and how much driving experience you have. A person who has been a licensed driver with zero violations for 40 years may get a lower rate than someone who just got their license and is still a teenager. 

Car Specifics

Companies will ask about the make and model of a vehicle. They’ll consider safety features and other specifics that pertain to the make, model, and year of your vehicle. The color usually doesn’t impact the policy. 

It’s essential to note that every company is unique and offers different discounts. An agent at Pizano Insurance can help you learn more about factors that impact your premium. We’re currently serving the Wayzata, MN, area. 

Auto Insurance Doesn’t Only Matter When You Have an Accident

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Problems can arise unexpectedly, especially when you’re on the road. It’s good to have a plan or at least some help for these unplanned troubles. Fortunately, auto insurance can often be the solution. That’s why people from the Wayzata, MN area rely on the experienced and friendly team at Pizano Insurance for all their auto insurance queries and needs. Insurance is a reliable plan for protecting the things and people you care about every time you drive, and auto insurance is how you can help ensure those plans.

Auto Insurance Offers More than Just Accident Protection

For many people, auto insurance is more of a necessity than a desire. However, the good news is that auto insurance can offer more than just accident protection on the road. From assistance with a breakdown on the side of the road to protection from events like theft or even fire, the right auto insurance can make a difference both on and off the road. That’s why many Wayzata, MN area drivers turn to the professional and helpful team at Pizano Insurance when they have questions or need insurance for their vehicles.

Auto Insurance Solutions for Wayzata, MN Area Drivers

Do you live in the Wayzata, MN area? Would you like to learn more about how auto insurance solutions at Pizano Insurance could benefit you? If you have questions or would like to find out more about auto insurance, we can help. Contact us for more information and schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable and helpful team at Pizano Insurance for the auto insurance solutions you need and deserve today.

Will My HOA Require Home Insurance?

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While home insurance is not an automatic requirement for owning a home, it may be necessary if you live in a Homeowners Association (HOA) community. If you’re a homeowner in an HOA community seeking home insurance, the professionals at Pizano Insurance, servicing Wayzata, MN, can assist. We work with various home insurance carriers, enabling us to help you find the right policy for your needs.

Do HOAs Require Home Insurance?

Not all HOAs require home insurance, but many do. If you’re considering buying a home in an HOA community, it’s important to read the community’s rules before choosing a home insurance policy. If you buy a home in an HOA community that requires home insurance, you’ll need to maintain a policy for as long as you own that home.

Even if your HOA doesn’t require home insurance, your mortgage lender might. Even if it’s not required, it’s still a good idea to have a policy. Home insurance policies provide reassurance and can help you recover when a covered event occurs.

How to Get Home Insurance For Your New Home

If you’re buying a home in an HOA community and would like to get home insurance, start by contacting the professionals at Pizano Insurance, servicing Wayzata, MN. We can help you shop around for the best home insurance policy for your needs.

Our helpful, courteous staff can also answer your questions. We can help you find a home insurance policy that can benefit you throughout your time as a homeowner. Call today.

Steps to Take to Prep Your Home for Winter

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It seems as though everyone loves fall and the weather it brings. While fall is great, winter is closely following. With the fall season so jam packed with events, it is easy to let the season slip by. If you are a home owner, you should take some time to prep your home for winter before it gets too cold. Use these tips from Pizano Insurance to get started today.

  • Get your Heater Examined. One of the biggest issues that people run into during the winter months is a heating system that will not work. When it gets cold, that is one of the things you need to work. Before running the risk of not having heat, get your heater looked at now before you need it. You probably haven’t used the system in many months and you should ensure it is ready to go. Another thing to do at this time is replace your filters around the home for increased efficiency.
  • Clean out Your Gutters. During the fall, many leaves will likely get stuck in your gutters which will not be good once it starts raining and snowing in the area. You should clean these out once all the leaves have fallen so they will continue to work well through the remainder of the year. Another thing that can happen is your gutters may become infested with bugs if they are not cleaned out.
  • Get a Home Insurance Policy. One of the best things you can do to protect your home no matter the season is get a home insurance policy. This is a great way to prepare for the unexpected. Even with prepping your home for the season, you will not be properly prepared without having a home insurance policy.

If you are interested in getting a quote for a home insurance policy, be sure to contact us at Pizano Insurance, serving Wayzata, MN.

How Your State Department of Insurance Can Help You

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Got questions about Pizano Insurance serving Wayzata, Minnesota? Tap into a resource that you help fund as a taxpayer, it’s right at your fingertips. Each state has a department of insurance that may have just the answers that you are looking for.

What is a Department of Insurance?

Pizano Insurance serving Wayzata, Minnesota-along with all insurance companies-is regulated at the state level for the protection of consumers. The department of insurance handles many different areas of service, inclusive of, but not limited to: information on licensing and filing for insurance companies, consumer assistance for many different types of insurance, energy data and reports, education, tips and tools about your money, and complaint resolution.

Your Home

With so many options to choose from for insurance coverage-it’s comforting to know that there are experts available with the information that consumers need to protect their home and what to do in case of damage or loss. Depending on a homeowner or renter’s needs- Commerce guides you to explore your policy annually offering a checklist to bring more comfort.  

Your Vehicle

Auto insurance is required by law, but do you understand how auto insurance in MN works? Commerce is there to help you understand the insurance basics and what you need to do to file a claim. Sign up for consumer protection e-mail updates.

Your Health

Get questions answered about health insurance, life & annuities, and long-term care insurance that will help you choose your insurance company.

Your Money

“Protecting and informing consumers is an important part of the work we do every day at the Minnesota Department of Commerce.”

Minnesotans are provided information and assistance through the Consumer Services Center which will help you choose the insurance company that would best meet your needs of protection. Got a question? Can’t resolve a dispute? Contact Commerce by phone or email.