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Twin Bridges Insurance Agency

1881 Western Avenue, Suite 210
Albany, NY 12203

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5 Business Changes That Warrant a New Insurance Quote in Albany, NY

No business owner in Albany, NY wants to think about insurance, but it is an integral part of their business. After all, without it, they are seriously exposed to major risk. While insurance may not be the most fun and exciting thing in the world, it is an obligation that must be continue to be fulfilled in order your business to remain intact and operate smoothly.

However, once you get that policy in place, you are from done. You still need o review your coverage yearly and make sure that it still covers you sufficiently after any changes that occurred throughout the year. If you aren’t sure what changes may require that you get a new business insurance quote, here are five:

  1. Employees Are Hired/Fired – When changes are made to your current staff load by any method, then your entire coverage may need to change. If you hire several new employees, then your Workers’ Compensation policy may need to be upped a notch to ensure all employees are protected if injured while working.

  2. Business Relocates – If you start off in a small home office or a small office building, you may move to a large space as your business grows. Even if you are currently protected with a BOP, it’s likely that you’ll need more due to changes in security risks, natural disaster exposure, etc.

  3. New Equipment – Your rate for Property Insurance will vary depending on the amount and type of equipment that you and your business use. When you purchase new pieces, it’s a good thing to consult with your independent agent to ensure everything is good. If it’s not, get it adjusted immediately.

  4. New Products/Services – When you introduce a new product or service, you may need to add to your Professional Liability or General Liability Products and Completed Operations coverage to ensure that you are protected in the event that something goes wrong with your new product/service.

  5. Revenue Declines/Increases – This is not by just a few bucks. If your revenue significantly jumps or declines, then you need to talk about your coverage. If you are seeing a decline in revenue, you can probably save money by lowering your premium for things that may no longer be necessary. If you re seeing a boost, then you need to make sure that you are protecting more assets.

If any of these five instances have occurred, then it’s time to give our agents a call so that we can evaluate your current commercial insurance, make the necessary changes and compare it to other available offers before settling on your new policy that will protect your business in the 12203 area.

Does Your Business in Albany, NY Need an Umbrella Insurance Policy?

If you currently own and operate a business, then it’s probably safe to assume that your business in Albany, NY, is properly insured with business insurance. However, have you ever wondered if that coverage was enough? What would happen if you encountered a loss that exceeding the current limits of your business coverage? Although you may think it would never happen to you, you can’t predict the future and the last thing you want is for your successful business to fail. Luckily, you have an option: umbrella coverage.

What Is a Commercial Umbrella Policy?

Essentially, an umbrella policy for your business is designed to provide an extra security blanket in the event that an adversity occurs, such as a lawsuit due to breach of contract, wrongful termination or bodily injury.

Why You May Need Umbrella Coverage

Let’s say that your current business insurance would cover $2 million in a general liability lawsuit. However, the settlement requires that you cough up $5 million. This means that you are left responsible for paying an additional $3 million. If you have an umbrella liability insurance policy, then it will cover that $3 million, assuming that the policy is at least $3 million.

Ultimately, it’s your decision whether you want to spend extra money on a separate umbrella policy to complement your regular insurance coverage. However, if a major loss occurs unexpectedly and you aren’t prepared, you could lose your business. Therefore, you may want to take the time to learn more about umbrella coverage and how it can benefit your business as a whole. For more information, contact our commercial insurance agents who serve the 12203 community in New York and can get you quotes umbrella insurance policy.

Prevenitng Guest Injuries In Your Home

It is another bustling day in Albany, NY. Maybe you are throwing a party to celebrate opening day of the upcoming Albany Devils hockey season, or having some girlfriends over before hitting Crossgates Mall for a day of fun. No matter your plans, you know that time with friends, family or acquaintances always equals a good time. The fun could quickly be brought to a halt if a guest is injured in your home or on your property.

As your independent agent in Albany, NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency wants to make certain that the enjoyable times stay that way. Here are ten things you can do to ensure your visits from guests stay delightful and accident-free:

  • Pick up toys and miscellaneous items on the floor
  • Use rugs and mats that grip the surface below
  • Make sure your stairs and handrails are up to code
  • Keep decorative items off of steps
  • Clean up spills immediately
  • Replace any flooring that has holes or tears
  • Keep rooms well-lit
  • Throw away mats that are curling on the edges
  • Keep walkways clear of leaves and snow, as well as free from ice
  • Secure any cords that may become entangled with feet

As your independent agent, we want you to feel confident in your homeowners insurance coverage in case an accident ever does occur on your property. We will be happy to look at your current policy to ensure you have an adequate level of insurance to suit your needs. We can also run a comparative quote to make certain you are paying the lowest price for homeowners insurance.

To get a live comparative quote, or if you have concerns about how a personal injury claim may affect your homeowners policy in the 12203 area, contact NY Twin Bridges Insurance Agency today. 

Why Are the Walls in Your Basement Cracking?

Not all homes in Albany, NY, have basements, but there are plenty that do. Basement walls are prone to cracking. In most cases, this is perfectly normal. However, when a small crack here and there turns into a very large crack or multiple cracks, then it is time to have them repaired. It can help to know what causes these cracks in your basement wall because your homeowners insurance may actually pay for the cracks to be repaired.

  1. Stress Points – This is the most common cause of small cracks in the walls and are generally nothing to worry about. They will typically occur when sewer, gas or electric lines are being installed. This is because the concrete weakens, which results in the cracking. These cracks are most noticeable around the edges and corners of the windows.

  2. Soil Saturation – This is when the soil underneath the foundation of the basement gets a little too wet. It causes the foundation to begin settling, which in turn results in wall cracks. The increased saturation could be a result of improper grading, poor guttering system or even lack of a sump pump.

  3. Concrete Shrinking – When concrete is incorrectly poured, it can result in a number of issues. This includes the cracking of your basement walls. This is why it is crucial to have a professional pour your concrete slab because they know how different variables impact the way the concrete dries.

  4. Drought – Just as too much saturation can cause cracks, too little saturation can as well. When the soil is too wet, it expands resulting in cracks. When the soil is too dry, it shrinks resulting in cracks. Although lack of rain can cause a drought and the basement cracks, it can also be a result of too many plants near your foundation.

What You Can Do About Basement Wall Cracks

If you just have a few hairline cracks here and there on your basement walls, then there really isn’t anything to worry about. However, when these cracks get longer and wider, it may be cause for concern. You should consult with your homeowners insurance company to see if the damage is covered and then hire a reputable foundation repair company to perform the necessary repairs.

If you’re unsure whether your insurance company will pay for concrete or porch damage caused by a sinking foundation, give us a call to speak to one of our independent agents who serve the Albany, NY 12203 area. We will gladly discuss with you your policy and your options.

Top Questions to Ask Your Insurance Agent

No matter how long you’ve went without having an auto accident, it’s still extremely imperative that you invest in car insurance. After all, you never know when you might get in an accident, and you never know how much the damages will add up to.

Fortunately, with insurance you can rest assured that you’ll be covered in auto accident, but it’s important that you make sure you’re adequately covered with the best policy. Here are a few questions that you’ll want to ask your insurance agent who serves the 12203 area.

Is comprehensive coverage offered?

If you opt for a minimum liability policy, you should understand that you won’t likely be covered for flood or animal damage, such as hitting a deer. To be covered under these circumstances, you would need comprehensive or full coverage.

Are discounts offered?

Are you in school? Have you been accident free for a long period of time? Do you have other policies with the service provider? Does your car have anti-theft features? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you most likely qualify for some type of discount on your auto insurance. The savings could be upward of 20 percent, so make sure to ask about them.

What happens after a collision?

If you want to make sure that your car is compensated for after an accident, then you’ll need a policy that includes collision coverage. In the event that you get in an accident that is your fault or with an at-fault driver who isn’t covered, then your collision coverage would kick in and compensate you.

If you have more questions about car insurance in Albany, NY, contact us today. One of our reputable agents can provide you with free quotes.

5 Things You Can’t Do with a Learners Permit

There’s a good chance that you’ve looked up the rules about driving with a learners permit in the 12203 area. And while you are probably very familiar with the things you can do with your permit, you must also consider the things you cannot do. Here’s a quick look at the five things you won’t be able to do with a learners permit when driving in Albany, NY.

Drive by yourself

With your learner’s permit, you are not allowed to drive by yourself. In fact, you must have someone in your car who is at least 21-years-old and has a valid driver’s license. In addition, this person must be legally allowed to operate the type of vehicle you are driving.

Speed

Just like any driver, you are not allowed to speed or break any traffic laws while driving with your learners permit. If you do, you may end up with your permit being suspended for an extended period of time.

Drive in a DMV driving area

With your learner’s permit, you are not allowed to drive in any areas where DMV tests are conducted.

Drive with your siblings in the car

Many people who are old enough to drive are considered old enough by their parents to babysit. What you must remember, though, is that you are not allowed to drive your siblings if you have only a learners permit. The only way you can do this is if a licensed driver who is at least 21-years-old is in the car with you.

Drive without wearing a seatbelt

You and everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt. If you have any small children in the vehicle, they are required at all times to be in proper child restraints too.

For more information on driving in New York with your learners permit, contact one of our highly-trained car insurance agents today.

Get Commercial Insurance Quotes From Our Agents in Watervliet, New York

Watervliet, New York 12189 is a rapidly rising star among New York cities, especially for businesses in this area. It's located at the epicenter of the NY tech valley, bringing in plenty of investors and stellar opportunities for tech related companies looking to find their footing. We've found that the city's hospitality to new businesses helps as well.

Part of properly protecting your new business is getting the appropriate amount of commercial insurance in place. There are some insurance types that are no-brainers, such as picking up liability insurance and worker's compensation. In the commercial insurance world, there are many specialty options you have the option of choosing.

Commercial auto insurance is an excellent option for businesses that require work trucks, extensive driving, and other car dependent activities. The primary differences between commercial auto and personal auto insurance are the higher coverage rates, loss of use payments, and the ability to easily add additional drivers to the insurance package. Fleet insurance provides heavily discounted rates when insuring multiple company vehicles, starting with 4.

Another specialty business insurance product is errors and omissions insurance. Are you working as a tech law attorney in NY? This insurance stops your financial liability if the legal advice you give ends up causing a loss for your client. It covers any errors in your judgment and knowledge omissions over the course of advising the client.

Need to figure out your overheads when setting up commercial insurance? Talk to our experienced agents once you use our free quotes tool to find out the best business insurance options for your up and coming business in New York.

Rotterdam New York Style

Fertile soil along the Mohawk River started corn marketing. Not too far away the Erie Canal and railroads fueled the growth of Rotterdam New York. Concentrating on agriculture, commercial, and industrial enterprises Rotterdam grew. Today sales, office, management, science and the arts create the economy. The larger city of Schenectady cooperates and puts on joint ventures with Rotterdam making it a grand place to live.

Honoring Food and Farms

The oldest farm Mabee Farm in the Mohawk Valley, has a stone house. Originally nine acres the attraction has a large number of artifacts from the Colonial period. More is being discovered by the archaeological digs. You get a close up personal view of how life was in the Colonial period. The nearby Schenectady Historical Society also has exhibits from the area. Originally a Dutch colony it has since transformed to mostly Italian. With all the produce available many unique eateries exist in the area such as The Villa Tuscan Grille, Lucia’s Two-Go and Paesan’s Pizza. Because of the agrarian background harvest festivals and dances dot the area as well. All watched over by Saint Gabriel the Archangel Church along with others.

Continual Protection

Just in case St. Gabriel is busy I your local insurance agent have homeowners insurance just right for you. Artic winds and snows do reach Rotterdam and a broken window or two happens. Replacement is a cinch with a good policy. I know the area and I know the needs. With replacement I can recommend options that can prevent the next broken window. Think about combination policies such as bundling your auto and life insurance with it. Often discounts become available. So while you are exploring life in Rotterdam stop by my office. Visit with your local agent. I will help you.

The Types of Insurance that You May Need

Life in Saratoga Springs, New York is appealing to residents. With so much to do on days off from work; life is never boring. When a young couple first starts out in life they are constantly facing things that a lot of people tell them that they must have. To help make an informed decision about what you may need to have, here are some insurance policies that you may want to consider buying for your family’s protection.

Different Types of Insurance Products for Your Family

  • Home insurance is a broad description that is used to cover different types of policies. If you are a renter or a home owner can affect what type of policy you can buy. A renter’s policy is used for people that rent a home, but will have various coverage benefits designed to protect the renter better than a regular home policy would.
  • Car insurance is straight forward. But, you can add different benefits to meet the needs that you have in different stages of life. For instance, you can add gap insurance for a new purchase and then drop the coverage once the loan is paid off.
  • Life insurance can be bought on a term period (a set number of years) or, what is called whole life insurance (builds cash value). Depending on what your needs are will help your agent determine which policy is right for you.

Whether you have need of property insurance or life insurance, you do not want to be hit with a big surprise in life in case something goes wrong. As your independent local agent, we can help you determine which policies are right for you. Call us today and set an appointment to go over the ways you want to protect your family.

Finding the Best Life Insurance in Albany, New York

As the capital city of New York, Albany is home to nearly 100,000 people and even more in the surrounding areas. From its bustling arts scene to its opportunities for outdoor adventure, life is good in upstate New York’s ‘Tech Valley’. At our independent insurance agency, we are proud to be a part of such a great community. Our team of agents work every day to bring our customers excellent life insurance coverage at the best possible rates.

Life insurance is security in a world where life – and finances – can change in a single moment. Our agents can help you find a policy that will give you peace of mind now and protect your family should the unexpected occur. We offer two types of life insurance to Albany area residents – whole life and term coverage. Both have different features which may be beneficial at various stages of life. Our job is to help you narrow down your options to find the policy that best fits your needs and budget.

No matter your age or level of current financial stability, there is no better time than the present to purchase life insurance for you and your family. Whether you need coverage that will replace your income or a benefit that will help ensure your children can attend college, we have a policy that is right for you. We can even help you learn how whole life protection can serve as a living benefit for the future.

Remember, our agency is an independent insurance provider working for our customers – not the insurers. When you shop with us, you have the opportunity to compare quotes from many of New York’s leading insurance providers in a single location. Contact one of our friendly agents today for a no-hassle quote and coverage consultation.