• There is serious property damage (e.g., fire, major water damage, storm damage).
• You’ve been involved in an auto accident with injuries or significant vehicle damage.
• There is a theft, burglary, or vandalism that requires a police report.
• Your home is uninhabitable and you need temporary living arrangements.
• There is liability exposure, such as someone being injured on your property.

2. When should I consult my agent before filing a claim? (Always!)

• The damage is minor and may cost less than your deductible.
• You’re unsure whether the incident is covered by your policy.
• You want to understand how filing a claim might affect your future premiums.
• You need advice on whether to repair the damage yourself or involve the insurer.
• You have questions about coverage limits or exclusions.

3. Why consult the Atkinson Insurance Agency before filing?

• We can help you review your options and avoid unnecessary claims.
• We’ll explain your policy details and potential out-of-pocket costs.
• We can guide you on next steps to prevent further damage and protect your coverage.

4. What happens if I delay filing a claim?

• Delaying can lead to denial of coverage if the insurer believes the damage worsened due to inaction.
• Always report serious incidents promptly to avoid complications.

5. How do I contact the Atkinson Insurance Agency for guidance?

• Phone: 804-789-0795
• Email: Claims@atkinsonins.com
• Office Hours: 8:30 – 4:30 Monday through Friday
• Or use our online contact form for quick assistance.

Homeowners Insurance FAQs

1. What should I do immediately after a loss at my home?
   Secure the property if safe, document damage with photos, and contact your insurer promptly. For specific steps, call the Atkinson Insurance Agency.
2. How do I file a homeowners insurance claim?
   Most carriers allow online or phone filing. We can guide you through the process—contact us first.
3. What information will I need to provide when filing a claim?
   Details of the loss, photos, and any receipts. Requirements vary—check with the Atkinson Insurance Agency.
4. Should I make temporary repairs before the adjuster arrives?
   Yes, if it prevents further damage and is safe. Keep receipts. Confirm with us before major repairs.
5. Are emergency repair costs reimbursed?
   Often yes, if related to covered damage. Contact us to confirm coverage.
6. How long do I have to file a homeowners claim?
   Time limits vary by policy and state. Call us for your specific timeline.
7. Will filing a claim affect my premium?
   It can. We’ll review your situation before you file.
8. What is my deductible and how does it apply?
   It’s the amount you pay before coverage applies. We can confirm your deductible.
9. Does my policy cover water damage?
   Depends on the source (burst pipe vs. flood). Contact us for details.
10. Is mold damage covered under my homeowners policy?
    Often limited or excluded. We’ll check your policy specifics.
11. What is the difference between replacement cost and actual cash value?
    Replacement cost pays for new items; ACV factors depreciation. We can explain your coverage.
12. Does my policy cover damage from floods or earthquakes?
    Usually excluded unless you have separate coverage. Ask us about options.
13. How do I know if my claim will be approved?
    Depends on policy terms and investigation. We’ll help you understand your coverage.
14. What happens if my home is uninhabitable after a covered loss?
    Additional Living Expense coverage may apply. Contact us to confirm.
15. Does my policy cover stolen personal property?
    Typically yes, up to limits. We’ll review your policy.
16. How do I provide proof of ownership for damaged or stolen items?
    Receipts, photos, or inventory lists help. We can advise on documentation.
17. What is Additional Living Expense (ALE) coverage?
    Pays for temporary housing and related costs. We’ll confirm your limits.
18. How long does it take to settle a homeowners claim?
    Varies by complexity. We’ll help manage expectations.
19. Can I choose my own contractor for repairs?
    Usually yes, but check if your insurer has preferred vendors. We’ll guide you.
20. What happens if I disagree with the adjuster’s estimate?
    You can request a review or appraisal. Contact us for assistance.

Auto Insurance FAQs

21. What should I do immediately after an auto accident?
    Ensure safety, call police if needed, document details, and notify your insurer. Call us for guidance.
22. Do I need to file a police report for an accident?
    Often required for injuries or major damage. We’ll confirm based on your situation.
23. How do I file an auto insurance claim?
    Online, by phone, or through us. We’ll walk you through it.
24. What information should I collect at the accident scene?
    Driver info, photos, and witness details. Contact us if unsure.
25. Does my policy cover rental cars while my car is being repaired?
    If you have rental reimbursement coverage. We’ll check your policy.
26. Will my premium increase after an accident?
    Possibly. We’ll review your options before filing.
27. What is collision coverage and how does it work?
    Covers damage to your car from a crash. We’ll confirm your limits.
28. What is comprehensive coverage and what does it include?
    Covers non-collision damage (theft, hail, etc.). Ask us for details.
29. Does my policy cover windshield damage?
    Often under comprehensive coverage. We’ll verify for you.
30. How long does it take to process an auto claim?
    Varies by severity. We’ll help manage expectations.
31. Can I choose my own repair shop?
    Usually yes, but some insurers have preferred shops. We’ll advise.
32. What happens if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
    Uninsured motorist coverage may apply. Contact us to confirm.
33. Does my policy cover towing and roadside assistance?
    If you added that coverage. We’ll check for you.
34. What is gap coverage and do I need it?
    Covers loan/lease payoff if your car is totaled. Ask us if it’s right for you.
35. How do I file a claim for a hit-and-run accident?
    Police report required. We’ll guide you through the process.
36. Does my policy cover injuries to passengers?
    Typically under liability or medical payments coverage. We’ll confirm.
37. What happens if my car is totaled?
    You’ll receive ACV or replacement cost if applicable. We’ll explain your options.
38. How is the value of my car determined after a total loss?
    Based on market value minus depreciation. We’ll review your settlement.
39. Does my policy cover rental cars when traveling?
    Depends on your coverage. Contact us for details.
40. What should I do if my car is stolen?
    File a police report and notify your insurer. We’ll assist you.

Umbrella Insurance FAQs

41. What is an umbrella policy and how does it work?
    Provides extra liability coverage beyond home and auto. We’ll explain your limits.
42. When does my umbrella coverage apply?
    After underlying limits are exhausted. Contact us for specifics.
43. Does umbrella insurance cover legal defense costs?
    Usually yes, within policy terms. We’ll confirm for you.
44. How do I file a claim under my umbrella policy?
    Through your primary insurer first, then umbrella. We’ll guide you.
45. Does umbrella insurance cover auto accidents?
    Yes, if liability exceeds auto limits. Ask us for details.
46. Does umbrella insurance cover incidents at my home?
    Yes, for liability beyond homeowners limits. We’ll confirm.
47. What types of liability are excluded from umbrella coverage?
    Business activities, intentional acts, etc. Contact us for exclusions.
48. Does umbrella insurance cover rental properties?
    Sometimes, if scheduled. We’ll review your policy.
49. How much coverage should I have under my umbrella policy?
    Depends on assets and risk. We’ll help you choose.
50. Will an umbrella claim affect my underlying policies?
    It can. We’ll explain how claims interact.