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Stalwart Insurance

2550 Boyce Plaza Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15241

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Are Solar Panels Covered by Home Insurance?

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When you buy a home, it represents your dreams for the future. Most homeowners know the best way to protect their investment in their home is with home insurance. If you are in the Pittsburgh, PA area, our team at Stalwart Insurance can answer your home insurance questions. We’ve been working with homeowners like you for decades.

Are Solar Panels Covered by Home Insurance?

Home insurance can help you repair your home if it is damaged by a weather event, fire, theft, or any other unforeseen circumstance. It’s a good idea for you to be aware of what the policy will cover. Solar panels may be covered by your homeowners insurance, but you should talk with your agent for more information about your specific situation.

You may be aware that having solar panels adds value to your home, so, if your solar panels are added after you purchase your home, you must notify your insurance agency about the installation. Look at the “attached structures” section of your home insurance policy document to confirm your panels are covered. Once you confirm that your solar panels are covered, you can rest assured that the insurance company will cover solar panel damage due to fire, wind, lightning, and vandalism.

Call Us Today for Your Appointment

Every home is unique, so we design each home insurance policy to fit your family’s needs. Clients in the Pittsburgh, PA area have learned they can rely on every member of our staff here at Stalwart Insurance. to live up to our agency’s name. Call us about your appointment today and let us help you to protect your home.

Winter Heating Hazards in Pittsburgh: Coverage Check for Renters

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Winter in Pittsburgh, PA, tests every rental unit in ways you can’t always see. Space heaters run much longer, old radiators pull excessive power, and the truth is, one missed detail can turn a warm evening into a nightmare. But it doesn’t have to be this way. A focused look at your winter risks can make all the difference before temperatures dip into the 20s.

How Your Heating Habits Create Hidden Winter Pressure

You already know the routine. A cold front rolls in, and you turn the thermostat higher. Maybe you even plug in a portable heater next to your couch or dinner table. We’ve all done it, but each of those little changes shifts how the heat moves through your home. Dry air builds up. Cords stay hot to the touch for hours, and dust collects near vents you rarely ever check.

Those are the perfect conditions where small problems escalate into major ones in a hurry. A frayed extension cord starts to heat up beyond the point of no return. A radiator drips onto the floor near a rug. Your space heater gets nudged closer to a wall or curtain without you noticing. 

Here at Stalwart Insurance, we help renters like you see these patterns clearly so your renters insurance reflects the risks you’ll encounter throughout a Pittsburgh winter.

Winter Checks for Renters

Here are a few quick winter checks worth doing:

  • Look for loose power strips or overloaded outlets near warm appliances.
  • Move soft items, blankets, and clothing away from vents and heaters.
  • Check window frames for drafts that cause your heater to run overtime.
  • Test your smoke alarms after the first cold snap.

These are small steps, but they’ll help prevent bigger nightmares.

Why You Should Review Your Coverage Before the Deep Cold Arrives

Winter heating hazards don’t come as a surprise. Here at Stalwart Insurance, we use our experience to help you make sure your coverage supports the way you use heat, appliances, and your living space during the colder months.

For a practical review of your renters insurance, contact us today. We’re here to help you stay protected all winter.

Umbrella Insurance That Provides Liability Protection for Franchise Owners

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Do you own a large franchise? Handling a lot of financial transactions and an influx of customers could affect your liability risk. Umbrella insurance could safeguard you against unexpected legal costs.

Franchise Essentials

Consider the franchise essentials used to operate your business. Think about your automated and manual equipment, your inventory, and your workforce. These essentials are what keep your business afloat. If a customer were to sue you, you may be bombarded with legal expenses that you may not be able to handle.

If you wouldn’t be able to maintain the condition of the franchise essentials you rely on daily, you may want to explore how an umbrella policy could help.

Umbrella Coverage

Your commercial insurance policy likely provides liability protection for your franchise. The amount of protection it provides may be based on your personal needs and financial capabilities.

Once you add umbrella insurance coverage to your policy, you will have additional liability protection. Once your commercial liability protection coverage limit is met, your umbrella insurance coverage will handle additional expenses.

Insurance Coverage for Legal Expenses

Umbrella insurance coverage may handle a wide range of legal expenses you can face as a franchise owner. For example, say a customer sues you. Your umbrella policy can help cover the cost of obtaining a legal representative.

Your umbrella may also handle the cost of filing paperwork and other expenses you face during the legal process. You may be reimbursed for each expense you are responsible for.

Agent Guidance from Stalwart Insurance

Contact one of our agents serving Pittsburgh, PA. They will set up a consultation to discuss your insurance needs as the owner of a commercial franchise.

How To Protect Your Property Against Things Flood Insurance Doesn’t Cover

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Insurance can give you the peace of mind of knowing you have financial support if something happens to your assets. But it’s important to know exactly what it covers. Believing that you’re covered, only to have to pay the bill when you run into something your policy doesn’t cover, can be a major shock. For example, what doesn’t flood insurance cover? What will you have to cover yourself? Here’s how to protect your property against things flood insurance doesn’t cover, and how to secure flood insurance for everything else through Stalwart Insurance in Pittsburgh, PA.

Tips for Protecting Your Property Against Damage Not Covered by Flood Insurance

While you should always focus on flood-proofing your home, focus especially on:

  • Protecting your landscaping from getting flooded and ruined, using smart strategies to redirect water. More than that, make sure your ground is firm and not likely to move. Flood insurance won’t cover landscaping damage or damage caused by earth movement, even if that movement is caused by flooding. 
  • Securing your outdoor furniture and making sure that it’s able to hold up against flooding. The same goes for outdoor areas, such as patios. All of the items outside your property won’t be covered by flood insurance, which can cost you a lot if everything is damaged or washed away. 
  • Looking for ways to protect certain valuables, such as stock certificates and precious metals. While flood insurance will cover some of your belongings, it won’t cover everything. Read over your policy to understand what you can expect coverage for and what you will need to take extra care of. 

Protect Your Home From Flooding With Stalwart Insurance

With help from Stalwart Insurance in Pittsburgh, PA, finding flood insurance is easy. Contact us to compare and get quotes today!

To Bundle or Not to Bundle? Classic Car Insurance

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If you enjoy collecting classic cars, having the right insurance is essential. Should anything happen to your classic car, you could face significant financial loss. For collectors who own multiple classic cars, insuring each vehicle individually can become costly and complicated. Should you bundle your classic cars under one policy, or should you cover each car separately? Here’s a look at the best strategy for classic car collectors. If you’re seeking classic car insurance, start here with the team at Stalwart Insurance in Pittsburgh, PA.

Should You Bundle Your Cars Under One Policy?

If you plan to expand your classic car collection over time, bundling your cars under one policy is often the best option. Why? Investing in a separate policy for each vehicle is rarely necessary unless specific add-ons are required for one car that aren’t needed for others. Separate policies result in more paperwork, fewer savings, and additional challenges that bundling can help you avoid. Bundling is typically the most efficient and cost-effective way to insure multiple classic cars.

Find Classic Car Insurance With Stalwart Insurance

While bundling is the preferred strategy for classic car collectors, finding the right insurance provider can be the biggest challenge. You want the best price and the most comprehensive policy for maximum protection. If you’re seeking classic car insurance, start your journey with the support of Stalwart Insurance in Pittsburgh, PA. We help you find classic car insurance with fewer difficulties. Get started by comparing quotes with us, or reach out if there’s anything we can assist you with!

Is Home Insurance the Same as Hazard Insurance?

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Although some people use the terms “home insurance” and “hazard insurance” interchangeably, this isn’t entirely accurate. Hazard coverage is actually part of a typical homeowners policy and is rarely offered as a standalone option. Home insurance provides significantly more protection than basic hazard insurance.

Hazard Insurance

A hazard policy primarily covers damage to the structure of your home. It can be helpful when fire or certain severe weather events damage components like roofing, siding, or flooring. Hazard coverage is typically included in home insurance policies. While standalone hazard insurance does exist, it is uncommon.

Force-placed insurance purchased by a mortgage lender may only provide hazard coverage. This type of insurance is often used when a homeowner fails to purchase their own homeowners’ policy as required by the bank. Force-placed hazard insurance is the most common example of hazard-only coverage.

Home Insurance

You may wonder what home insurance covers that isn’t included in hazard insurance. One major advantage of a homeowners’ policy is that it typically includes “personal property” or “contents” coverage. This protects items inside your Pittsburgh, PA home, such as furniture, electronics, and other belongings.

Another benefit of home insurance is liability protection. This coverage is helpful if someone suffers accidental injuries or their belongings are damaged while visiting your home. Liability insurance may also cover injuries caused by your pets, even if the incident occurs outside your property.

If you’re searching for a reliable home insurance policy, turn to Stalwart Insurance in Pittsburgh, PA. Our local independent agency can help you find the ideal coverage for your home by comparing options from multiple carriers. Call 412-677-2312 to contact Stalwart Insurance today.

Smart Auto Insurance Extras Pennsylvania Drivers Shouldn’t Overlook

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A standard auto insurance policy in Pennsylvania, through Stalwart Insurance serving Pittsburgh, PA, does a great job covering basic needs like liability, collision, and comprehensive damage.

However, there are several optional add-ons that can make a significant difference when unexpected problems arise. Choosing the right extras can help you avoid headaches and out-of-pocket expenses down the road.

Protect Yourself Against Everyday Road Hazards

Tires and wheels often bear the brunt of potholes, nails, or debris on Pennsylvania roads. Road hazard coverage is an affordable add-on that pays for repairs or replacements when your tires or rims are damaged by road hazards.

This coverage can save you from paying hundreds of dollars out of pocket for new tires after just one unlucky encounter.

Stay Mobile With Rental Reimbursement

If your car is in the shop after an accident, rental reimbursement coverage steps in to pay for a temporary vehicle. Without this coverage, you’d be responsible for rental costs on your own. This add-on is especially helpful if you rely on your car for commuting or getting the kids to school and can’t afford downtime.

Get Help With Towing and Emergencies

Adding roadside assistance is another smart choice. If your car breaks down, you lock yourself out, or need a tow, this add-on ensures help is just a phone call away. Plus, it’s far more convenient to have this service as part of your insurance policy than purchasing a separate membership through a third party.

Consult With a Local Expert

Auto insurance add-ons allow you to customize your coverage to fit your driving habits and lifestyle. Your Pennsylvania insurance agent at Stalwart Insurance, serving Pittsburgh, PA, can guide you through these options and help you determine which extras are worth considering. It’s a simple way to gain extra protection and peace of mind on the road. Contact us today to learn more.

Exploring the Benefits of Renters Insurance for Landlords

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A tenant carrying active renters’ insurance in Pittsburgh, PA, is a rare sight. Many renters obtain insurance only because their landlord mandates it, then cancel it after they move in; this is unfortunate. Renters’ insurance protects the people and belongings inside the rental property. However, it also covers the landlord.

How Renters’ Insurance Protects the Landlord

The primary reason landlords want renters’ insurance is to ease their liability risk. For damaged or stolen belongings, most tenants will call their renter’s insurance carrier instead of suing the landlord. For tenants who sue their landlords, the policy limits the landlord’s liability, requiring tenants to seek compensation from their own insurance provider. The landlord also bears no responsibility to an injured guest if the person tries to sue them for compensation. The liability section of renters’ insurance covers the medical bills and costs for the injured guest.

Other ways renters’ insurance is beneficial to landlords include:

  • Temporary housing and relocation living expenses after weather or fire damage
  • Coverage for injuries to a person or another pet caused by the tenant’s pet
  • Damage to rental property (assuming the tenant in question has appropriate coverage)

Tenants with renters’ insurance appeal to landlords because they have a greater chance of paying their rent on time. Tenants who secure renters’ insurance without fuss may be cooperative and compliant. However, it’s crucial to reserve judgment as those traits don’t apply to every tenant.

How Landlords Can Require Tenants to Get Renters’ Insurance

Adding renters’ insurance as a requirement in your lease is the fastest way to inform tenants. To prevent tenants from canceling coverage, include a clause stating that their lease will end unless they confirm their insurance is active each year. Landlords can partner with Stalwart Insurance to provide tenants with a reliable company to contact for renters’ insurance.

Renters’ insurance is a type of home insurance for tenants, but it also benefits the landlord. Our Stalwart Insurance team offers renters insurance for tenants who meet your lease requirements. Contact our Pittsburgh, PA office for more information.

Umbrella Insurance and Solar Investments in Pittsburgh, PA

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Homeowners need to safeguard their homes, which often necessitates a comprehensive insurance policy. However, if you’re making modern upgrades to your home, such as solar panels, you might wonder if your existing homeowners’ policy provides adequate coverage and protection. Understanding why umbrella insurance might be the solution can help ensure financial security. If you’re a homeowner in Pittsburgh, PA, Stalwart Insurance can help you determine if an umbrella insurance policy is the right choice for you.

Risks of Solar Investments That Require Umbrella Insurance Protection

With the right umbrella insurance policy, it’s much easier to maintain a sense of security year-round, especially if you encounter property damage, a fire, or even a potential lawsuit. Here’s what umbrella insurance can help with if you’re considering investing in solar panels or other solar-centric technology:

  • Power surges and/or electrical fires: Umbrella insurance can help cover judgments and legal costs associated with these types of accidents.
  • Property damage: If a windstorm or part of your solar panels damages a neighbor’s property, your umbrella insurance policy will provide added protection.
  • Injury to contractors/workers: If a solar technician or expert is injured while installing panels, proper insurance is vital. Homeowner liability insurance policies may not be sufficient if serious injuries occur.

Taking your homeowners’ insurance policy and protection seriously is important when you’ve invested in a home. If you’re already in the process of making solar investments or adding solar panels to your home, it’s crucial to assess existing policies to verify you have sufficient protection. To learn more about umbrella insurance policies that may be right for you as a homeowner in Pittsburgh, PA, contact Stalwart Insurance for your consultation and estimate today.

Flood Insurance and the National Flood Insurance Program

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When considering the need for flood insurance, which is virtually essential for everyone, you might have concerns about the reliability of this type of insurance. However, a program associated with this insurance ensures its reliability and dependability. When you secure flood insurance, you can rest assured knowing it will be there for you in the event of a flood. To learn more about flood insurance, reach out to us at Stalwart Insurance in Pittsburgh, PA.

The National Flood Insurance Program

This is a government-backed program that supports flood insurance in the U.S. It’s a federal initiative that guarantees funds will be available in the event of a flood. This became necessary because backing homeowners against flooding is so costly that people became skeptical about whether insurance companies could cover them when an area floods. But with this program, there’s no need for concern.

Covering Flood Damages

When you secure flood insurance, it can cover the damages incurred after a flood in your home. Home insurance typically does not cover floods. They are specifically excluded from those policies. You need both home insurance and flood insurance to ensure you have the coverage you need against risks. A home may need to be rebuilt after a flood, and this government-backed insurance can cover that cost. It can also cover repair costs that can be high after flood damage.

Secure Your Flood Insurance

If you’re not covered by a flood insurance policy, there’s no time to wait. You need to secure one as soon as possible to ensure you’re protected. To get started with a policy, contact us at Stalwart Insurance in Pittsburgh, PA.

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