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Kimberly J Brennan Agency

83 Haviland Dr, Suite 3
Patterson, NY 12563

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Featured Insurance Blog

Will Renters Insurance Cover Temporary Relocation?

Renters in Patterson, NY, understand the importance of having insurance to protect their personal belongings. Renters insurance typically covers items inside the home, as long as the replacement cost does not exceed the policy limits. But what happens if a disaster, such as a fire, makes your New York rental uninhabitable? Will your policy help pay for a hotel stay?

Standard Policies

Most renters’ insurance policies include coverage for temporary relocation costs, such as meals and lodging, when you cannot stay in your home due to a covered event. For example, if a fire is listed as a covered peril in your policy, your insurer will likely help pay for your temporary accommodations. However, if the cause of the fire or damage is not a covered event, your policy may not provide assistance.

Some basic or minimal renters insurance policies do not include loss of use or additional living expenses coverage. This varies depending on the insurer and policy type. It is important to speak with an agent at Kimberly J Brennan Agency to review your policy and understand what is included.

Accommodation Limits

Many renters’ insurance policies that offer temporary relocation benefits place limits on the types of accommodations they cover. Most policies will pay for standard lodging, such as a hotel room or an affordable short-term rental like an Airbnb. However, luxury accommodations, such as suites with premium amenities, are generally not covered.

Paying for Meals

Some policies also provide limited coverage for meal expenses while you are displaced from your home. How this works depends on your insurer. Many companies reimburse policyholders after they submit receipts, meaning you must pay for the meals upfront and then file a claim.

Understanding renters’ insurance can feel overwhelming during a crisis. The team at Kimberly J Brennan Agency is here to support you and help you understand your options. Contact us today to learn more. We proudly serve the Patterson, NY, area.

Exploring Motorcycle Insurance: Is Theft Covered By Your Policy?

Stolen motorcycles are prevalent in New York, and most of them are not found. Of the returned bikes, the majority are not in one piece. Having theft coverage would help immensely. The Kimberly J Brennan Agency team, servicing Patterson, NY, will discuss how motorcycle insurance handles theft.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Theft of a Motorcycle?

It depends on the type of coverage you have in your policy. Comprehensive coverage is the only coverage in motorcycle insurance that covers theft. Minus your deductible, the carrier will pay an amount close to what your bike was worth when the policy was active to replace your bike. If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, you must pay for a new motorcycle out of pocket if your bike gets stolen.

Many riders make the mistake of believing that motorcycle liability covers theft. It does not. Liability coverage covers injury and property damage caused by you to another person or property. It also covers their medical bills and legal fees. Liability does not protect you, your passengers or your motorcycle. 

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Stolen Parts, Gear, and Accessories?

It depends on the coverage listed in the policy. Carriers offer a rider called "accessories/custom parts & equipment (CPE)" as part of comprehensive coverage. Certain carriers bundle it with collision, while others offer it as an add-on. The coverage has an adjustable limit on stolen items. For coverage of stolen gear, request the separate add-on for apparel and headgear. If you don’t have the required add-ons when theft occurs, you’ll be responsible for replacing the stolen items on your own.

Call Us for a Quote

The Kimberly J Brennan Agency has handled several claims involving stolen motorcycles in and around the Patterson, NY area. Occasionally, we’ve had to inform clients that their motorcycle insurance doesn’t cover theft. We don’t want that to happen to you. When you speak to one of our agents, we will review your policy, compare insurance carriers and advise you on plans that suit your needs. Contact us for more information.

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent for Motorcycle Insurance?

If you own a motorcycle, it’s essential to obtain motorcycle insurance. The professionals at Kimberly J. Brennan Agency, serving Patterson, NY, can help you find a motorcycle policy that meets your needs.

Our insurance professionals have years of experience prioritizing their customers and answering their questions. We understand the importance of finding an insurance policy that provides the right level of coverage, and we have the expertise and resources to make that happen. Here’s what you need to know. 

What Is an Independent Insurance Agent?

An independent insurance agent is someone who isn’t limited to selling for one insurance company. Instead, independent insurance agents have many insurance carriers as partners.

It’s a good idea to shop around when you’re looking for an insurance policy. This allows you to find the policy that fits your needs at the best price. When you use an independent insurance agent, you can be confident that your insurance agent is doing the shopping around for you. They work for your interests, not the insurance company’s.

Why Choose an Independent Insurance Agent for Your Motorcycle Insurance?

Independent insurance agents excel at providing their clients with a range of options. You don’t have to settle for policies from one carrier when you’re working with an independent agent, because your agent has many carrier partners to work with. This helps ensure that you will get a policy that offers the coverage you require. 

Get Started on Your Motorcycle Insurance Policy

Kimberly J Brennan Agency, servicing Patterson, NY, is an independent insurance agency staffed by insurance professionals you can trust. We’re committed to helping our customers get the best policy for their needs. To get started with your motorcycle insurance in New York, call today to speak with one of our insurance experts. 

Insurance Coverage That Protects Your Boat While It Is Towed

Towing your boat and accessories may be necessary occasionally. Even while your boat is not occupied, you need to be wary of an accident occurring. Acquire adequate boat insurance coverage that protects your investments while they are being transported. Learn more, courtesy of the professionals at Kimberly J Brennan Agency, serving Patterson, NY and surrounding areas.

Towing Essentials

Prepare a list of the towing essentials that you depend upon when transporting your boat. Tie down straps, lights and other electrical components, tow-bars, ramps, and trailers are some pieces of equipment that you may own. These essentials could become damaged while you are actively transporting your boat and boating accessories.

If your vehicle is involved in an accident, for example, all the equipment that is being towed behind your vehicle may be vulnerable to damage. 

Accidents

Consider the risk of an accident and the amount of damage that you may incur. If you will be transporting your boat in New York and surrounding regions, you may want to add comprehensive coverage to your boat insurance policy.

Liability coverage will protect against accidents that are your fault. Collision coverage will protect against damages that your boat and equipment incur due to the fault of someone else. Personal property protection will cover any materials that are severely damaged or that need to be replaced.

Natural Disasters

Natural disasters could damage your investments. Flooding, hurricanes, and other extreme weather could compromise the condition of your boat and accessories. Insurance that provides protection against natural disasters will help you regulate the cost of repairing or replacing your damaged boat or boating accessories.

Consultation at Kimberly J Brennan Agency

Would you like to add more coverage to your boat insurance policy? Schedule a consultation with us today at the Kimberly J Brennan Agency, serving the Patterson, NY region.

Umbrella Insurance Offers Additional Protections for Special Circumstances

Umbrella insurance is coverage in addition to the liability limits provided by your regular insurance policy. Most policies include certain limits on their liability coverage. If you have significant financial assets that may be at risk for a lawsuit, you may wish to add umbrella coverage to ensure they are protected. At Kimberly J Brennan Agency, serving Patterson,NY, we help our New York clients acquire the additional umbrella coverage they need.

Do You Need Umbrella Insurance?

Individuals whose income exceeds $250,000 annually may wish to acquire umbrella insurance to increase their liability coverage in case of lawsuits. This insurance can help cover settlements for damages in case someone is injured on your property. Many people purchase umbrella coverage for a special event they host, such as a home wedding or family reunion.

How Umbrella Insurance Protects You

Your umbrella insurance policy kicks in after the liability coverage of your standard home insurance is exceeded. It can cover such issues as bodily injury to someone on your property, damage to the property of others, legal costs to defend yourself from these lawsuits, and lawsuits regarding libel, slander, defamation, or invasion of privacy. Umbrella coverage will also protect you from such incidents when you are outside the United States.

Choose Kimberly J. Brennan Agency for Your Insurance Needs

You may be unsure whether you need umbrella insurance to protect you against expensive liability claims. We can help with detailed information that allows you to make a good decision for your unique needs. We offer many types of insurance coverage for home, auto, renters, flood, recreational vehicles, life, and business. Contact Kimberly J Brennan Agency, serving Patterson, NY, when you need umbrella coverage for special situations.

Does Condo Insurance Cover a Condo-Based Business?

Thanks to the internet, nearly any New York resident can run a business from their condo. You can become a blogger or marketer, sell handmade items, offer online classes, and more. However, working from your condo doesn’t mean you can skip business insurance. Having the right policies to protect your venture can make the difference between long-term success and an unexpected closure.

What About Condo Insurance?

Condo insurance is designed to protect your personal belongings and provide compensation if you need to move out of your condo after a covered incident temporarily. However, it won’t cover any of your business assets or provide business interruption insurance. Condo insurance also doesn’t offer compensation for business-related liability claims for incidents that occur in your condo.

Even more importantly, condo insurance won’t provide liability coverage for your business in the event of a lawsuit. Every business should have a reliable liability insurance policy that covers claims related to product liability, marketing liability, bodily injury, and property damage. Cyber insurance is another valuable form of coverage to consider, especially if your business processes clients’ personal or financial information.

Call Kimberly J Brennan Agency in Patterson, NY for More Information

Your commercial insurance needs will vary depending on your business setup and industry. However, the Kimberly J Brennan Agency is well-equipped to handle any commercial coverage requirements you may have. We specialize in serving entrepreneurs and small business owners in and around Patterson, NY, and can provide you with multiple policy options along with personalized advice on choosing a stand-alone policy or bundle. Contact us today for more information or to request price quotes.

Auto Insurance Gaps You Don’t Notice Until It’s Too Late

Let’s be honest—most drivers in Patterson, NY, rarely take the time to review their auto insurance policy. You sign, you pay, and you forget about it. That is, until the day something unexpected happens. Suddenly, all those overlooked details and unchecked boxes you skimmed past come back to haunt you.

Coverage You Might Be Missing

The basics of auto insurance only go so far. Liability? Sure. Collision? Maybe. But what about rental reimbursement if your car is stuck in the shop for weeks? Or uninsured motorist protection in case the driver who hits you doesn’t have insurance? These “optional” coverages may seem unimportant—until you need them. In New York traffic, with winter ice, summer congestion, and impatient drivers, those gaps in coverage can leave you vulnerable.

Why Patterson Drivers Should Review Their Policies

Driving in Patterson means dealing with daily risks like commutes, construction zones, and unpredictable weather. Your insurance coverage should reflect these realities. At Kimberly J Brennan Agency, we’ve seen it time and time again—drivers assume they’re “covered,” only to discover gaps in their policy when it’s too late. That’s why we take the time to walk you through every detail of your policy, ensuring you understand how it protects you before life throws you a curveball.

Secure Your Coverage Today

Insurance isn’t about dwelling on worst-case scenarios—it’s about being prepared to move forward when the unexpected happens. The best way to avoid frustration and financial losses later is to review your auto policy now. If you live in Patterson, NY, and want to ensure your coverage matches your needs, contact Kimberly J Brennan Agency. We’ll explain your policy line by line, so you can drive with confidence knowing there are no hidden gaps.

Why Should I Get Home Insurance? Benefits You May Not Be Considering

While mortgage lenders often require homeowners to purchase home insurance, those who pay for their homes in cash are not obligated to have it. For these individuals, the decision to get home insurance is a personal choice based on their needs and preferences.

The professionals at Kimberly J Brennan Agency, servicing Patterson, NY, can help you determine whether home insurance is the right option for you. Below, we’ve outlined some of the key benefits of home insurance to assist you in making an informed decision.

Benefits of Home Insurance

Here are some of the advantages of having home insurance:

  • Peace of mind: Home insurance provides reassurance, knowing you’re protected in the event of a covered incident. It offers support during the recovery process, helping you navigate challenging situations.
  • Financial protection: If your home is damaged or destroyed in a covered event, your home insurance policy helps cover the costs of repairs or rebuilding, reducing your financial burden.
  • Expedited rebuild: Insurance ensures a quicker response to repair or rebuild your home after damage. Without insurance, you may need to save money for repairs, which can significantly delay the process.

Need Home Insurance? Contact Us!

There are many compelling reasons to invest in home insurance. To learn more about how this type of coverage can benefit you, contact the professionals at Kimberly J Brennan Agency, servicing Patterson, NY.

We work with multiple carriers to offer our customers a range of options when selecting a home insurance policy. Let us help you find the right coverage for your needs. Call today to get started with your home insurance policy.

Different Types Of Commercial Insurance You Need To Know About

Business owners often juggle numerous tasks, including selecting the right types of insurance. Most states require businesses to carry specific types of insurance, such as legal liability and workers’ compensation, to protect against injuries or other risks. However, understanding the various types of insurance available is crucial to determine what’s best for your Patterson, NY, business.

Property Insurance

Property insurance protects New York businesses against damage to the building’s structure caused by covered events, such as vandalism or accidents. It often includes the option to add natural disaster protection for events like floods or hurricanes.

Auto Insurance

Anyone using a vehicle, including a personal vehicle, for work purposes is typically required to upgrade their insurance policy. Business owners may face claim denials if they’re involved in an accident and don’t have proper coverage.

Business Interruption Insurance

Business interruption insurance is typically offered by companies that provide commercial insurance. This policy helps cover lost income and expenses resulting from covered events, such as fires or vandalism. It’s essential to consult with a professional at Kimberly J Brennan Agency to understand what events are covered in New York.

Natural Disaster Insurance

Many insurance policies, including property coverage, exclude certain natural disasters or only provide limited coverage for specific events. For example, a policy may cover named storms, meaning if a storm isn’t named, it doesn’t qualify for hurricane coverage. To address these gaps, many business owners purchase additional natural disaster insurance to cover specific risks, such as floods.

A professional agent at Kimberly J Brennan Agency can help you determine the type of coverage you need to protect your assets. We’ll review your area, common natural disasters, and any concerns you have. Contact us today to explore your options. We proudly serve the Patterson, NY, area.

Protecting Your Rights: Filing a Claim for Insurance Fraud Explained

Insurance fraud is on the rise in New York, and law enforcement is diligently working to curb it. At the Kimberly J Brennan Agency, we are contributing to this effort. While law enforcement tackles large-scale fraud, we focus on smaller cases. With our extensive experience in dealing with home insurance fraud, we aim to transform this stressful situation into a manageable one.

Procedure to Report Home Insurance Fraud in New York

To report a home insurance fraud, visit our office and file a claim. We will require photographs, videos, and documents related to the alleged incident. Following this, our fraud team or a third-party agency will conduct an investigation. The outcome of their investigation will decide whether to proceed with the case. It is crucial to respond to any follow-up inquiries to strengthen your case. We aim to resolve the issue within a few weeks, but the timeline may vary depending on the complexity of the case.

If your mortgage or government program is linked to the alleged issue, we will notify your lender and HUD. We refer significant cases to the New York State Department and the National Insurance Crime Bureau, who may request additional information.

Importance of Reporting Home Insurance Fraud

Regrettably, many New Yorkers do not report insurance fraud. By not reporting, you indirectly aid criminals in evading justice, allowing them to continue their illegal activities until they are caught. Reporting halts their activities and prevents them from committing more serious crimes in the future. It also helps other potential victims avoid falling into the same trap and keeps repeat offenders under surveillance, thereby keeping them away from the public.

Victims of insurance fraud often require support to return to everyday life. We are with you every step of the way as you report home insurance fraud. We will explain the process in detail and keep you updated until the issue is resolved. Contact Kimberly J Brennan Agency or visit our office in Patterson, NY, for more information on home insurance fraud.