How to Prepare Your Car For Winter Weather

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When temperatures drop and snow begins to fall, your car needs more than just a warm-up in the driveway. At Schneider Insurance Agency, serving Gahanna, OH, we understand how important it is to keep your vehicle safe and road-ready during the winter months. A little preparation now can make a big difference when the roads turn icy.

Start with a Winter Inspection

Before winter fully sets in, it’s a good idea to have your car inspected. Ensure your battery is strong, your brakes are responsive, and your tires have sufficient tread. Cold weather can be tough on these components. If your tires are worn, consider switching to winter tires for improved traction on snow and ice.

Keep Your Fluids in Check

Fluids play a critical role in winter vehicle performance. Make sure your windshield washer fluid is rated for freezing temperatures, and top off your antifreeze. Additionally, oil can thicken in cold weather, so check your owner’s manual to see if a winter-grade oil is recommended for your vehicle.

Don’t Forget Emergency Supplies

Even if your car is in excellent condition, winter driving can be unpredictable. Keep an emergency kit in your trunk that includes a blanket, flashlight, ice scraper, jumper cables, and a small shovel. These items can be lifesavers in unexpected situations.

Stay Safe and Covered

Preparing your car for winter is about more than convenience; it’s about safety. Just like your vehicle, your auto insurance should be ready for anything. If you’re unsure about your coverage, reach out to Schneider Insurance Agency, serving Gahanna, OH. We’re here to help you stay protected no matter what the season brings.

How to Inform Your Insurer About Commercial Property Renovations

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There are many compelling reasons for a Gahanna, OH business owner to renovate their business premises. Renovations can make a property safer, more convenient, and easier to navigate. Additionally, improvements such as replacing windows, enhancing insulation, and installing energy-efficient lighting can help reduce long-term overhead costs.

However, renovations require proper planning, and one critical aspect of this planning is ensuring that your insurance agency approves the proposed changes.

How to Communicate with Your Insurance Agency About Renovations

Before reaching out to your insurance agency, it’s important to do your homework. Gather detailed project specifications so your insurer can determine whether the renovations will be covered under your current policy. Additionally, identify which projects require permits and provide evidence of approved permits. Without proper permits, your insurance agency may refuse to cover the renovated property or could even cancel your policy.

Carefully review your current policy to determine if you need additional coverage. For example, expanding your store may increase liability risks, while renovations that significantly raise your property’s value may require increased property insurance coverage.

Document all communications with your insurance agency to avoid misunderstandings. Follow their guidelines closely to ensure a smooth process and prevent issues down the line.

Need Assistance? Schneider Insurance Agency Can Help

Every business is unique and has specific insurance coverage needs. If you’re searching for affordable commercial insurance policies or policy bundles, Schneider Insurance Agency in Gahanna, OH is here to assist. Contact us today to learn more or to request policy quotes tailored to your situation.

Ohio Storm Season: What Gahanna Homeowners Should Know

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When storm season approaches your home in Gahanna, OH, it’s essential to be prepared. Protecting your home involves not only storm-proofing but also ensuring your home insurance policy is ready to handle any claims you may need to file.

At Schneider Insurance Agency, we’re here to help you review and optimize your policy.

Storm-Proofing Your Home

There are several steps you can take to storm-proof your home. Once you’re notified of an approaching storm, act quickly to minimize potential damage:

  • Board up your windows.
  • Bring in any loose items from outside.
  • Place sandbags by all doors to prevent flooding.
  • Trim low-hanging branches near your home.

By taking these precautions, you can reduce the impact of a storm on your property.

Adding Storm Coverage

Many standard home insurance policies lack sufficient storm coverage. For example, wind damage and flooding are often considered add-ons rather than included in the base policy.

If your policy doesn’t include these coverages, your claim could be denied, or you may face higher out-of-pocket costs than expected. Understanding your coverage and deductible allows you to make informed decisions as a homeowner. With the right coverage in place, you can face storm season with confidence.

Get a Policy You Can Depend On

Storm season will arrive whether you’re ready or not. The good news is that you can take steps now to prepare yourself in Gahanna, OH better.

At Schneider Insurance Agency, our knowledgeable agents can review your policy to identify gaps in storm coverage. Updating your policy is often easier than you think—and it may not even increase your costs. To ensure you’re ready for storm season, contact us today!

How to Minimize the Impact of an Accident or Ticket on Your Auto Insurance Rates

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Even the most careful drivers can occasionally find themselves facing a speeding ticket or a minor accident. At Schneider Insurance Agency in Gahanna, OH, we understand the frustration of seeing your auto insurance rates increase after a single mishap. The good news is, there are effective strategies to mitigate the impact and keep your premiums affordable.

Stay Calm and Review Your Driving Record

A single ticket or minor accident won’t necessarily cause your rates to skyrocket, especially if you have a clean driving history. Insurance companies consider your overall record, so a single incident might be viewed as a minor hiccup rather than a major concern. However, it’s beneficial to stay proactive.

Think About a Defensive Driving Course

In many instances, completing a state-approved defensive driving course can help reduce points on your license or even qualify you for a discount. It demonstrates to your insurer that you’re committed to safe driving, which can be advantageous when it’s time to renew your policy.

Compare Quotes and Review Your Policy

Insurance companies vary in their handling of violations. If your current insurer significantly increases your rates, it might be worthwhile to get quotes from other companies. You could also adjust your coverage or increase your deductible to lower your premium, but ensure it still meets your needs.

We’re Here to Help You Navigate

At Schneider Insurance Agency, we assist drivers in Gahanna, OH, in finding the right coverage at the right price, even after a ticket or accident. If you’re concerned about your rates increasing, give us a call. We’ll guide you through your options and help keep your journey on track.

Ohio’s Plan to Cut Workers’ Compensation Rates

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As an Ohio business owner, you understand the necessity of commercial insurance to protect your business assets and employees. Many business owners have questions about their commercial insurance options. If your business is near Gahanna, OH, our team at Schneider Insurance Agency is ready to answer those questions and help you get the right types of insurance for your company. We’ve been working with companies like yours since 1987.

Ohio’s Plan to Cut Workers’ Compensation Rates

One of the essential types of commercial insurance is workers’ compensation insurance. According to the Insurance Journal, a recent decision by the Ohio Workers’ Compensation Board has resulted in a significant decrease in premiums paid by private employers. The cut in workers’ compensation premium costs for 2025 will be 6%, which will allow private employers in Ohio to pay $60 million less in premiums.

According to the Insurance Journal, Ohio’s Governor Mike DeWine has stated the decision represents Ohio’s dedication to workplace safety. The decrease in premiums means that over 258,000 Ohio businesses are paying the lowest premiums in over 60 years. Ohio’s Bureau of Workers’ Compensation has reported that it is happy to issue these reductions, as they allow businesses to reinvest in their business assets and employees.

Contact Us Today for Your Appointment

Our team at Schneider Insurance Agency has more than 35 years of experience helping businesses like yours. Each member of our team is dedicated to providing excellent service and support to each of our clients. Business owners in the Gahanna, OH area have learned they can put their trust in our insurance solutions. Call us today to schedule an appointment and let us help you protect your company.

Will My Home Insurance Cover My College Student’s Housing?

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Many college students head to school with valuables that include electronics, clothing, bicycles, and jewelry, so it is comforting to know that home insurance policies generally cover the assets of children 26 or younger, assuming they are claimed as dependents. However, coverage can vary, and there are limitations for college students, so speak with your agent to confirm your coverage. If you live in or near Gahanna, OH, contact our Schneider Insurance Agency team regarding your home and other insurance needs.

Home Insurance Coverage Limits for College Students

Home insurance covers your belongings and those of your college students against covered perils, including theft and fire. It also handles their liability for some injuries or damages to others. However, some insurers do not cover those living in non-university housing, including off-campus apartments, sorority, and fraternity housing. Many insurers cover only full-time students or stop covering students who reach 24 or 25 years of age.

Besides issues of which students receive coverage, home insurance policies generally have low limits for jewelry and electronics unless you add a rider enhancing your coverage. Also, college housing that is outside your primary residence is "off-premises," which often tops out at 10% of the policy’s limit for losses that occur at home. In addition, claims on your student’s property are subject to your policy’s standard deductible.

These factors may affect whether and how much your policy will cover your college student, so speak with your agent about your specific situation. Buying renters’ insurance for your student can be an effective solution.

Insuring with the Schneider Insurance Agency

The Schneider Insurance Agency, serving Gahanna, OH, creates insurance plans to protect your family and its assets. Visit our office or call (614) 471-8444 today to begin the process.

Auto Insurance Protects Good Drivers – and Bad Drivers

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For many, driving is more than a luxury; it’s necessary. Whether it’s commuting to work, ferrying the kids around, or tackling the myriad of tasks on our to-do lists, a vehicle often plays a crucial role. This reliance on motorized transportation is why we see so many vehicles on the roads today. It’s also why drivers in Gahanna, OH, turn to the professional and friendly team at Schneider Insurance Agency for their auto insurance needs.

Auto Insurance: A Safety Net for All Drivers

Most people consider themselves excellent drivers, with some even jokingly claiming they’re ready for NASCAR. However, the reality is that not everyone is a great or even good driver. Some are even mature, responsible, and honest enough to admit they’re "bad" drivers. Fortunately, the right auto insurance can protect all types of drivers and their vehicles. That’s why working with a reputable and proven agent is crucial to finding the auto insurance solutions you need, regardless of your driving skills.

Auto Insurance Solutions for Drivers in the Gahanna, OH Area

If you live in or around Gahanna, OH, and have questions or want to learn more about car insurance for your vehicle, we’re here to help. Contact us to find out more and schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable and experienced team at Schneider Insurance Agency. Get the auto insurance solutions you need and deserve today.

Commercial Insurance for A Business That Offers Mobile Services

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Does your business plan include a list of mobile services? If so, your business may require a custom insurance policy that provides adequate coverage for both ‘in-house’ and remote services.

Understanding Mobile Services

Mobile services can expand your business offerings and increase sales. However, they also carry risks. The person responsible for rendering the services will likely need to drive to the client’s location.

Using equipment outside your business premises increases the risk of an accident. Mobile services can contribute to bodily injury and property damage, potentially leading to lawsuits. Adequate insurance coverage will protect your business. If you ever need to file an insurance claim, you won’t face high out-of-pocket costs. The commercial insurance you have for your mobile services may reimburse you for many of the costs resulting from an accident or criminal activity.

Commercial Insurance Considerations

Review your existing business plan. Analyze the mobile services that you and your employees offer. Consider the risks involved with rendering each service.

If an employee is responsible for driving long distances, you might purchase more commercial liability coverage and personal possession coverage. If an employee handles dangerous materials, adding commercial liability insurance could be beneficial.

Contact an Insurance Agent in Gahanna, OH

An insurance agent can assist you in preparing a custom commercial insurance plan. We request that you meet with one of our representatives at Schneider Insurance Agency.

An insurance agent will review your business plan and recommend commercial insurance products that provide adequate protection when mobile services are rendered.

Insurance Coverage for Your Refinished Residential Attic

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Refinishing your residential attic can enhance its utility, potentially requiring changes to your home insurance policy. Consider the following guidelines and update your current policy as needed.

Assessing Use Value

Consider the intended use of the attic. Whether you plan to convert it into a bedroom, game room, office, or simply storage space, the type of insurance needed to protect its contents will depend on this.

Insurance designed to protect the attic’s contents can provide coverage against inclement weather and criminal activities. You can decide which possessions to include in your home insurance policy.

Considering Building Materials

Examine the building materials used to refinish the attic. A refinishing project can significantly increase the space’s value.

If you’ve invested heavily in the refinishing project, you may want to enhance your home insurance policy. The policy can cover insulation, windows, floor coverings, paint, trim, and other materials used in the upgrade.

If an uncontrollable event damages any of the covered materials, your insurance coverage may cover the cost of repair or replacement.

Contact an Insurance Agent in Gahanna, OH

Once you’ve evaluated possible insurance upgrades, please connect with one of our agents. To update your insurance policy, contact a representative from the Schneider Insurance Agency. An agent will assess the upgrades you’ve implemented and offer suitable guidance.

When should you review your auto insurance policy?

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For most people, auto insurance is renewed every six months or yearly. When the new policy is due, the company will send you the new information, the rate, and any changes that have been made to your coverage. In Gahanna, OH, our team at Schneider Insurance Agency often contacts our clients at this point to see if all the information on the policy is correct.

When the renewal is issued, the front page is the declaration page. This is a synopsis of your coverage. It lists the types of coverage you have, the deductible, and the pricing for each part. All of these need to be considered. How much liability coverage do you have? If you no longer have a car loan, do you still want to have collision and comprehensive coverage?

Has your policy increased in price? Do you know why? A call to your agent should clear this up. Is the policy offering anything unique in particular? Then, it’s time to start looking at how the price compares to other companies. That is the beauty of having an independent insurance agent. They don’t represent just one company; they work with several or many companies, and they can compare you to ensure you are getting the most for your money.

If you have added a new young driver, your rates will increase. You should review your liability coverage to make sure it is high enough to feel safe and even consider adding an umbrella policy. Roadside service may also provide peace of mind for your young driver.

Give our team of independent insurance agents a call at Schneider Insurance Agency in Gahanna, OH, to discuss how we can ensure that your auto policy is the right fit.

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