A Texas Personal Insurance Update
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Personal umbrella Insurance provides extra protection, or limits, above the liability insurance you currently have.  Just as an umbrella protects you from heavy rain, an Umbrella Insurance policy protects you from losing the entirety of your wealth and assets in the event of a claim. Umbrella Insurance can provide limits above your personal auto and home policies.

The cost of a personal umbrella can be as low as $175 per year for $1,000,000 worth of coverage. If you own a boat, jet sky, snowmobile, or any other kind of recreational toy, you should consider a personal umbrella policy.  If you own your your home or have a 401 K plan, don’t jeopardize your future by having a liability claim that could cost you everything. 

Umbrella insurance provides broad insurance beyond traditional home and auto. It provides additional liability coverage above the limits of homeowner's, auto, and boat insurance policies. It can also provide coverage for claims that may be excluded by the primary policies.

Strive Insurance Group, Inc. is a full-service independent insurance agency that has been serving the insurance needs of the Dallas area since 1984 (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance). Don't worry, nothing has changed, but our name. In addition to having a presence in the Dallas and North Texas area, we have also expanded to Austin and Central Texas with agent representation and the same professional service.

We represent, and have established a strategic alliance, with only the highest quality insurance carriers. In doing so, we can provide you with the service and protection to meet your dynamic needs. As your needs change, we can review and collaborate to decide which insurance company or companies are best suited to your situation.

Whether it’s Auto, Home, Motorcycle, Boat, Business or Life Insurance, we are your consultant working with you as you determine your needs.

Many of us will be going to the ocean, rivers, lakes, or pools this summer to relax with friends and family.  Each year, over 1,200 children under the age of 14 drown, and another 17,000 are taken to the hospital because of water related accidents.  Whether you have a backyard pool or enjoy swimming in ponds, lakes, or oceans, the following summer safety tips for parents and kids should always be at the forefront of your mind.

• Adding locks and safety covers will create an extra barrier of protection around the pool or spa. 
• Know the water conditions before getting in. Many rivers have swift under currents that can be dangerous.
• Establish family swimming rules like never swim around drains, grates, or suction fittings.
• Never leave children unsupervised in, or around, the water. 
• Be sure every child wears a proper fitting life jacket when on a boat or near water.
• Have young children or inexperienced swimmers wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets around water, but do not rely on life jackets alone.
• Be sure that everyone knows how to swim. 
• Try to teach your children to swim as early as possible. 
• Develop a buddy system so no one is swimming alone. 
• Don't allow anyone who has been drinking alcohol to swim.
• Don't allow glass objects around the pool. 
• Learn CPR and have a first aid kit at a convenient spot.

• Enroll in Red Cross home pool safety, water safety, first aid and CPR/AED courses to learn how to prevent and respond to emergencies.
• Always check the depth of the water before swimming or diving. If swimming in the ocean, check the current and under-tow.

 
As an Independent Insurance Agency we represent many insurance companies to fit your businesses dynamic needs.  Whether you're a new business or a small business, we can help. Being an Independent Agent means we are not only your agent, but we are your insurance broker as well.  We understand every business and industry is unique, so we will work with you to find the best business insurance coverage at the lowest rate. Contact us today for a free quote.
Sources: CDC, coit.com., American Red Cross
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A Flood Insurance Update
​Winter will soon be over, and the arrival of spring rain can lead to major flooding.  In the past 5 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods.  Flood insurance cannot be purchased during a flood.  There is a 30 day waiting period once the application is processed. Therefore, it is a good idea to start thinking about flood insurance right now.

According to FloodSmart.gov, the official site of the National Flood Insurance Program, at least 25% of businesses that shut down after a flood never re-open. According to the same source, only a very small percentage of homeowners buy flood insurance.

Many business owners and homeowners are under the mistaken impression that their insurance policies cover them for damages arising from floods. While your personal insurance and/or business insurance policy may cover water damage, flood coverage is excluded.  Just like homeowner’s flood insurance, commercial flood coverage must be purchased separately in a dedicated policy.

Flood insurance policies cover physical damage to your property and possessions.  You can refer to the Summary of Coverage to help you better understand your policy and coverage.  (Read More)

Strive Insurance Group, Inc. is a full-service independent insurance agency that has been serving the insurance needs of the Dallas area since 1984 (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance). Don't worry, nothing has changed, but our name. In addition to having a presence in the Dallas and North Texas area, we have also expanded to Austin and Central Texas with agent representation and the same professional service.


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How To Celebrate July Fourth Safely
Fireworks during the Fourth of July are as American as apple-pie, but did you know that two out of five fires reported on that day are started by fireworks, more than for any other cause? So you think it cannot happen to you? Here are a few facts:
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In 2018 over 9,800 people went to the emergency room as a result of fireworks related injuries. There were an estimated 15,700 reported fires started by fireworks. These fires resulted in an estimated eight reported deaths, and $32 million in direct property damage. This is why it is a good idea to have a free home insurance review and quote, call us today!
 
Fireworks Safety Tips
 

• Buy fireworks only from licensed vendors
• Never combine fireworks
• Obey all local laws
• Never have any portion of your body directly over a firework while lighting
• Follow directions
• Never relight a firework
• Don’t smoke or drink while lighting fireworks
• Soak used fireworks in water before placing in trash 
• Make sure there is parental supervision
• Never experiment with homemade fireworks
• Use fireworks outdoors, in a safe area away from dry grass and buildings
• Keep a fire extinguisher, bucket of water, wet towels and a garden hose nearby
• Light one firework at a time - then move back quickly!
• Never shoot fireworks from metal or glass containers
• Never carry fireworks in your pocket
• Never point or throw fireworks at people or animals
• Clean up all used fireworks including debris

 “Fireworks and celebrations go together, especially during the Fourth of July and year end celebrations. Remember, fireworks can be dangerous, causing serious burn and eye injuries. You can help us prevent fireworks-related injuries and deaths” Consumer Products Safety Commission.

Strive Insurance Group, Inc. is a full-service independent insurance agency that has been serving the insurance needs of the Dallas area since 1984 (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance). Don't worry, nothing has changed, but our name. In addition to having a presence in the Dallas and North Texas area, we have also expanded to Austin and Central Texas with agent representation and the same professional service.

We represent, and have established a strategic alliance, with only the highest quality insurance carriers. In doing so, we can provide you with the service and protection to meet your dynamic needs. As your needs change, we can review and collaborate to decide which insurance company or companies are best suited to your situation.
Enjoy the holiday; we live in a great country, happy birthday America!

We are moving into Hurricane season and we to remind you of how important it is to have the right kind of insurance and to be prepared.
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Hurricanes bring two big problems: water and wind. Depending on where you live, you may need to buy these separate policies in order to cover hurricane damage:

• Flood insurance: No homeowner’s insurance policy will cover floods, including water from a storm surge. To get coverage, you’ll need flood insurance.
• Windstorm insurance: Homeowners insurance policies in some hurricane-prone states won’t pay for windstorm damage. If you live in one of these states and want coverage, buy a separate windstorm insurance policy.

Here are some basic emergency preparedness suggestions to include in your planning process.

• Create a family communication plan for children and adults to have. Put copies in children's backpack and in your wallet or purse.
• Flood insurance is not covered under your homeowner’s policy. While hurricanes are generally covered, if a flood ensues later, it may not be covered. You will need a separate flood policy.
• Install hurricane shutters.
• Prune all trees around your home.
• Keep a mobile emergency kit in your car.
• Monitor radio and local TV stations for evacuation orders. Act without delay to avoid traffic.
• Assemble/replenish disaster supplies kit: FEMA recommends three days of food and water for each member of the household, including pets. You can assemble a kit yourself, or purchase a pre-assembled kit online or from many local stores.  Store items in your household designated safe location.
• Discuss with your family the safe locations for shelter in the places you are likely to spend time: home, school, work, place of worship, etc.
• Find out your vulnerability to flooding, wind, and storm surges, and whether you live in a mandatory evacuation zone. Visit the FloodSmart.gov website to see updated flood maps.

Personal Insurance Update
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This time of year, many recent high school graduates are preparing for their next phase of life.  Their plans may include heading off to college in another city or state.  One of the most important things they will need at school is something that doesn’t have to be packed at all – the right insurance coverage. Here is a list of some of the items you should consider before your child heads off to the University.

Insurance Coverage for College Students

Personal property - Depending on the value, items like clothes and computers should be covered under your homeowner’s policy.  However, if your student has an expensive computer, smart phone, tablet, jewelry, or other items, you might not be covered.  Most homeowner’s policies have limitations on items valued at over $1,200.  This will depend on your individual policy, so we recommend contacting your independent agent.

Auto – If your student is taking a car to college, make sure your agent knows of the address change.  This can actually save you money depending on the location.  As a full-time student, your child may qualify for a Good Student Discount (if he maintains a grade point average of 3.0 or higher).

Health insurance - Children can remain on your health policy until the age of 26.  Many colleges will offer student health insurance at a very reasonable cost.

Persona Liability - This coverage is provided anywhere the student goes, inside the U.S.A.  Your student would be covered under your current homeowner’s policy, or even a renter’s policy, if one is in place.

Everyone has seen insurance advertisements that feature a lizard, a man who creates trouble, and a wacky woman in white trying to sell you insurance.  These ads may be entertaining, but how in the world can you really tell these companies apart?  What are the differences?  Is one company really better than any other?  Will the coverage, price, and service meet my needs?

There are two distinct kinds of agents in the United States; Independent agents/brokers, and direct writers.  Let’s define these for you.

Independent Agents
An independent agency is a business that is owned and operated by local business professionals.  Some larger agencies may have a board of directors and many partners, but usually the ownership is local and independent.  These agents offer many different insurance products through many different insurance companies.  Independent agents sell the products that most appropriately meet the needs of their clients. Independent agents typically are very well trained and knowledgeable of the complexities of the insurance market and insurance law.

Most independent agents have multiple companies from which to shop your insurance needs.  This makes it more likely that they will find the exact fit for your specific situation. It also allows for greater competition, which benefits their clients.

The goal of the independent agent is to provide their clients with the best possible combination of coverage, price, and service.  For example, independent agents have experience in understanding what services insurance companies provide and are able to match unique services with client needs. Not all insurance companies are alike.

Direct Writers
A direct writer is an agent who distributes policies for only one insurance company.  Direct writers are agents paid by the insurance company and cannot utilize the entire insurance market.

If your roof needed replacement would you go to just one roofer for a quote?  Would you hire a roofer because their ads are funny?  Wouldn’t it make good financial sense to go to more than one roofer to get options and pricing comparisons?

The True Value of Your Agent
The value of the insurance you buy truly is established when, and if, you have a claim.  Independent agents advise and help clients through the claim process. Our job is to find you the best possible combination of coverage, price, and insurance.  Independent agents/brokers work for the customer, direct writers work for the company.  Enough said!
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As an Independent Insurance Agency we represent many insurance companies to fit your businesses dynamic needs.  Whether you're a new business or a small business, we can help. Being an Independent Agent means we are not only your agent, but we are your insurance broker as well.  We understand every business and industry is unique, so we will work with you to find the best business insurance coverage at the lowest rate. Contact us today for a free quote.

Stop Porch Pirates This Holiday Season
The holiday season is filled with fun, parties, food, gift, overeating and unfortunately some risk. One of the fasted growing risks for many people is stolen packages by porch pirates. According to proopertycasualtiy360, over 26 million packages are stolen during the holiday season. Need more bad news?
Your homeowners or renter’s insurance generally may not cover this loss as it tends to be under your deductible. There could be coverage if you have personal property off premises insurance. Also for theft coverage to apply generally, you need proof of loss by a broker indoor, etc. Call our office for a review of your homeowner’s insurance, as each policy is unique to your circumstances.

Things To Do

• Delivery confirmation is a good way to prove the package was delivered.
• Thieves will follow delivery trucks, waiting for the perfect target.
• These thieves commonly strike during working hours as many homes are empty at that time.
• You can insure your packages.
• Consider having a person there when the delivery is scheduled.
• Install a security camera.

High Tech Solutions
There are a few high tech solutions to consider.

• Landport or BoxLock provides a delivery box on your porch that has an electronic lock.
• Amazon Key, which has a fairly simple premise: When a delivery arrives at your house, and you’re not home, the courier scans a barcode that sends a request to Amazon’s cloud. If it’s approved Amazon remotely unlocks your door and starts recording video through the online retailer’s Cloud Cam.
• Install a front door camera. Many shippers will not replace the item with this kind of device.

What To Do If A Package Is Stolen

• Track your package. Check the delivery confirmation and tracking number.
• Make sure a neighbor did not pick it up for you.
• Contact the seller. Different retailers have different policies and processes for handling stolen items, but usually, you are entitled to a refund or a replacement item.
• File a claim with the shipping company.
• Check your Credit Cards for Purchase Protection.

​Insurance coverage made easy. When it comes to buying your insurance, you have options.  You can go to a captive insurance agent, an agent that represents one company, or you can go to an independent insurance agent that represents many companies.  Strive Insurance Group, Inc. (formerly Gordon Lund Insurance Agency, Inc) is a full-service independent insurance agency representing many insurance companies.  This means that we shop many different insurance companies to obtain the best rate and coverage for your insurance.  We do this at no additional fee or service charge to you.  Simply put, our goal is to find you the best coverage and rate for your auto, home, business, or life insurance.  Whether you need a business insurance quote or an auto insurance quote, we can help.  To obtain an insurance quote, click on the tab and enter your information into the form.  If you have any questions along the way, please don't hesitate to contact one of our insurance agents

A Personal Insurance Update
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As you consider buying your first or second home, it pays to have a good understanding of just what you are getting into when it comes to home ownership. Here are a few tips for you to think about before you make that move.

• If you rent now, it would be good to have renter’s insurance. Even if it for a short period, renter’s insurance can cover certain losses during the move.
• When looking for a home consider things like the distance of the house to the nearest fire station and are there fire hydrants in your neighborhood?
• Think about the age of the house as some older home can be very costly to replace.
• If you are building a house, does it make sense to install sprinklers
• Is the location in a flood zone or prone to flooding?
• Is the area in an earthquake zone?
• Check with the local police to see the crime rate of the neighborhood.
• Always have your home inspected before you commit to buy.

Don’t wait until the last minute to think about homeowner’s insurance and don’t be shy about asking for estimates on more than one house. Ask if the house will qualify, and get an estimate of the premium. Call our office, and we can help you understand how these and other items will affect your homeowner’s insurance costs.

Choosing the right coverage for your home may depend on a number of factors. You generally need enough insurance to cover the cost of rebuilding your home and replacing your personal possessions. The homeowner's policy also provides liability insurance to defend you in the event of a lawsuit.

As our name implies, we strive to make your insurance experience positive. We understand you have many options when it comes to getting personal insurance, so we are going to strive to give you first class customer service you deserve.
 

Homeowners need to be aware of their home’s replacement cost, as this value is what will determine any claim settlement. Replacement cost is the actual cost to replace any personal property or structure to its pre-loss condition. Replacement cost can change from year to year, regardless of real estate trends.

How To Determine Your Replacement Cost
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Personal property
The most important thing you can do to determine the replacement values of your personal property is to create a home inventory.

• Create a digital record of every room. While you are videoing, describe each item and identify a replacement cost.
• It may be useful to categorize clothing. For example, 10 pairs of men’s pants, 12 tee-shirts, 6 pairs of Nike shoes, etc.
• Make sure you focus on high end items like jewelry, guns, computers and art work.
• If you have expensive art, guns or collections, it would be good to have it appraised.
• Update the inventory from time to time.
• Keep the inventory in a safe or at a secondary location.

Your Home
Having an accurate replacement cost is critical in having the right amount of insurance.

• Get an estimate or appraisal of the replacement cost of your home.
• Talk to a new home builder in your area.
• Determine the square foot construction cost (new) in your area and multiply by your home’s square footage.
• Your insurance agent will have resources for you.