Boat Insurance Port Angeles, WA

Do you have the coverage you need?

A lot of people think their homeowners insurance policy covers their boat. Truth is, most homeowners policies cover very little in terms of boats or may exclude them completely.

Since boat insurance isn’t required in Washington State, a lot of people skip it in order to save money.  But that’s a very risky idea!

What If? What if a boat hits you? What if a passenger gets hurt? What if you hit a neighbor's dock?

Make sure your boat and boating equipment are protected with quality boat insurance from Allstate. It can cost as little as $20/mo.  

Call Matt Elwood at 360-452-9200 for a free quote on your boat or watercraft.

9 Ways To Save on Auto Insurance in Port Angeles

Looking for ways to keep your auto insurance premiums manageable? Today we'll
share 9 ways you can save on your insurance without sacrificing coverage.

1. Driving Record

Your driving record plays a big role in how much you pay for insurance. By keeping a
clean record for 3-5 years, you can save hundreds of dollars! Be a cautious driver, don't
speed, and you'll lower your premiums.

2. Driving Course

Defensive driving courses are an easy way to achieve an extra discount. They can also
help keep a ticket from showing up and messing up your clean driving record. Make
sure to call us before taking the class if you're using it for a discount so we can verify
that your policy qualifies.

3. Anti-Theft Devices

Installing an alarm or other anti-theft device can lower premiums on your vehicle. Make
sure to discuss all features with us, sometimes even power locks and a remote can
count!

4. Your Credit Score

While insurance uses a different formula then the credit bureaus, your credit still affects
the rate you pay. Good credit can save you hundreds (even thousands) on your
premiums! Make sure to review your report on a regular basis and have any mistakes
corrected.

5. Where You Live

Rural areas like Port Angeles and Sequim pay less for insurance than the big cities do. It's all about risk and with a large population, there is more chance for an accident. Therefore, where you choose to live can impact your rates. Consider visiting with us before purchasing a home if you're
concerned about the costs (it is based on the zip code).

6. Your Vehicle

The vehicle you choose to purchase also makes a difference! Some vehicles cost a lot
more to repair than others, which drives up their rates. Easy way to avoid buying a
money-sucker? Call us first and let us quote the vehicle before you sign on the dotted
line.

7. How Often You Drive

If you take public transportation and only drive on the weekend, you'll pay less than
someone with a long commute. Make sure to review your annual mileage and daily
commutes with us (especially if they change) so that you can receive the extra savings.

8. Raise Your Deductible

A higher deductible (your out of pocket cost in a claim) means a lower monthly rate. If
you have $1000 in savings and could afford to use it if you had an accident, then you'll
save on your insurance cost by having a $1000 deductible instead of a $250. We can
help you review the costs and benefits in your specific situation.

9. Call Matt Elwood - Allstate Insurance

And the best way to save? Work with a local agent! You'll get the coverage you need
plus you'll have an advocate working on your behalf to find the best rate, all the
discounts, and an easy explanation of any gaps in your coverage. It's the #1 to control
your risk, maximize your savings, and protect your family.
We want to be your agent. Call us at 360-452-9200 to discuss your policy today.

What To Do After An Insurance Claim In Washington State

Claims can be a stressful process.  I've worked with my clients after car accidents, home fires, storm damage, and even a death in the family.  Insurance claims are tied to the most stressful events in our lives.

That's why it's extremely important that you work with an agent and a company that you trust.

After an insurance claim, you will work with an adjustor to evaluate your loss.  Depending on the type of claim, they will examine the property and gather more information.  You will then be offered a settlement and the process will begin to restore your loss.

So what happens if things don't go smoothly at first?  Maybe you don't agree on the amount or can't get the right documentation?

That's where I come in.

My job, as your agent, is to also be your advocate.  My office goes to work to help you communicate with your adjustor if there is a problem.  That means that when you need help, we're there.

Yes, sometimes you can get cheaper rates with unknown companies.  And you might love being able to buy online without talking to an agent.

But when it comes down to those stressful moments, it's great to have someone on your side.  If you live in Washington State, call my office today at 360-452-9200 and let us protect you family next.

For more information, please visit Matt Elwood - Allstate Insurance.

Insuring a Vacant Home in Port Angeles

Selling your home can be a stressful process, especially when it doesn't move quickly.  With a new job looming, you may have no choice but to leave the home vacant for a short time until it sells.  

The problem?  Vacant homes fall under different insurance rules and can leave you at risk.  Here are a few things you need to know before leaving town.

A vacant home is determined  when there is not enough furniture inside for a reasonable person to live.  It can also apply if all of the utilities have been shut off.  

If a home is vacant, the insurance company can deny a claim or drop your policy altogether.  (The rules vary by company.)

Insurance companies view a vacant home as a higher risk.  There are more opportunities for vandalism and no one living there to protect the home from fire or damage.  

Many companies will exclude any coverage for vandalism or glass breakage while a home is vacant.  This can leave you responsible for a huge repair bill if a vandal were to cause major damage.  

First you need to talk to your insurance agent and get the details on your policy.  Since policies vary by state and insurance company, there is no single right answer.  

Explain the situation to your insurance agent.  Ask what coverage is included and what is excluded (specifically for vandalism).  

You also need to find out if your policy will be non-renewed or canceled while the home is vacant.  If so, now is a good time to start contacting other companies and looking for the coverage you need.

Some insurance companies will continue to cover you, but might increase your premium.  Ask if you can purchase an endorsement for your homeowner's policy that will extend coverage while the property is vacant.  

Selling a home doesn't always follow a quick timeline.  If you're facing the possibility of leaving your home vacant, contact Matt Elwood - Allstate Agent first at 360-452-9200 and find out how to best protect yourself and your property. 

July Home Maintenance Tasks

You purchase insurance in order to protect your home but there are other things you can do to protect your large investment as well.

Regular home maintenance is important and frequently overlooked.  We tend to forget about our HVAC system until it quits working on a hot day! 

That's why, we're providing a few simple tasks you can do each month to keep your home in tip top shape all year long.

Here's where you can get started in July:

Do an Energy Audit

Hot weather is a great time to find all the spots in your home where air may be sneaking in. Plugging those leaks can save as much as 20% on your heating and cooling bills!  

Looks at every door and window area for places where you can see daylight through a crack or feel a draft.  Don't forget the mail slots and fireplaces too!  

If you'd rather use a professional, contact your utility company for a recommendation on a home energy auditor.

Protect Your Patio Furniture

You probably have all of your nice outdoor furniture in use right now.  Make sure to take a few minutes to clean it each week and it will last for many more years.  

Check the tags on pillows and cushions for specific cleaning instructions and regularly hose down the furniture itself. Remember, patio cushions are a favorite place for busy squirrels so try to keep them protected!  

Save on Home Insurance

If we don't currently insure your home, call us at 360-452-9200 for a quote today.  We'll look for every possible discount without sacrificing important coverage.  Great insurance coverage is the best protection you can have! 

For more information on homeowners insurance or other Allstate products and services we offer in the Port Angeles area or anywhere in Washington State, please visit Matt Elwood - Allstate Insurance.

Long-Term Care Insurance in Port Angeles

Are you one of the 70% of people in Port Angeles over the age of 65 who will need long-term care?

People Are Living Longer

Many adult children are finding themselves in the role of care-giver for aging parents.

It's Not Just For Nursing Home Care

People often associate long-term care with nurse homes, but long-term care services can also cover home health care, adult day care, and assisted living care.

Costs Are Increasing

In fact, a recent article named the 10 most expensive long-term care markets and Seattle-Tacoma-Bremerton, WA was ranked 9th most expensive.

Don't Wait For Something To Happen

Planning before a health issue arises can help keep your policy costs lower. I understand how important long-term care planning can be. Please call my office at 360-452-9200 for a review of your strategy.

Want more information? Please visit Matt Elwood - Allstate Insurance to get more information on Long-Term Care Insurance or other Allstate products and services we can offer in the Port Angeles area or anywhere Washington State.