Is Home Insurance the Same as Hazard Insurance?

Posted on August 29, 2025August 15, 2025 by agentinsure

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

Posted on July 31, 2025July 14, 2025 by agentinsure

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

Posted on June 30, 2025June 5, 2025 by agentinsure

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

Posted on May 30, 2025May 21, 2025 by agentinsure

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

Posted on April 30, 2025April 18, 2025 by agentinsure

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.

Does Auto Insurance Helps When a Medical Emergency Causes a Car Accident?

Posted on March 28, 2025March 18, 2025 by agentinsure

Car accidents can happen for many reasons, but what if a sudden medical emergency is to blame? Imagine driving through town when, without warning, you lose consciousness or suffer a medical event that causes you to lose control of your vehicle. It’s a terrifying thought, but it raises an important question—will your auto insurance cover the damages? At Stalwart Insurance, serving the greater Pittsburgh, PA region, we help drivers understand how their policy applies in unexpected situations like these.

How Insurance Handles Medical Emergencies Behind the Wheel

If a medical emergency leads to an accident, coverage will depend on the details of your auto insurance policy. Most standard policies include liability coverage, which helps pay for injuries and damages to others if you’re at fault. However, proving that a medical emergency was unavoidable can sometimes shift liability. In some cases, the driver may not be held responsible if they had no prior indication that the emergency might occur.

Personal injury protection (PIP) or medical payment coverage can also help cover medical bills for you and your passengers regardless of fault. If your policy includes collision coverage, it may help repair or replace your vehicle after the accident.

Preventing Coverage Issues

Insurance companies may investigate medical-related accidents to determine whether the driver had a known condition that should have prevented them from driving. Coverage could be challenged if a condition was previously diagnosed and left unmanaged. This is why reviewing your policy and discussing any concerns with your insurer is essential.

For expert guidance on auto insurance and the protection you need, contact Stalwart Insurance, providing auto insurance products in the Pittsburgh, PA neighborhood. We’re here to help you navigate your policy with confidence.

End of Life Planning Begins with Life Insurance Solutions

Posted on February 28, 2025February 18, 2025 by agentinsure

End-of-life planning can be daunting and sobering for many. For some, it can feel overwhelming or uncertain. However, more people are discovering that with the right life insurance partners, end-of-life planning can be easier and more effective. This is one of the many reasons why residents in the Pittsburgh, PA, area turn to the friendly and professional team at Stalwart Insurance for all their life insurance inquiries, concerns, and needs.

End-of-Life Planning Begins with Life Insurance Solutions

The process of making arrangements for our inevitable end can cover many areas. Are we planning for a simple cremation and funeral or a full funeral procession? Do we have an inheritance, properties, or assets we wish to leave to our loved ones?

Considerations like these, along with handling final expenses or any remaining debts, are all factors that can be addressed through proper life insurance planning. That’s why working with experienced and trusted agents who can assist you with all your life insurance needs and end-of-life planning questions is beneficial.

Life Insurance Solutions for Pittsburgh Area Residents

If you’re a resident of Pittsburgh, PA or the surrounding area and have questions about life insurance or need help with end-of-life planning, we’re here to assist. Contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment with our helpful and knowledgeable team at Stalwart Insurance today for the life insurance solutions you need and deserve.

How to Insure Your Historical Home in Pittsburgh

Posted on January 24, 2025January 20, 2025 by agentinsure

Owning a historical home in Pittsburgh means owning a piece of property filled with rich local history. As a historical homeowner, protecting your unique real estate investment from common and uncommon perils, including theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and more is important. Get tips on keeping your historical home safe from harm from the experts at Stalwart Insurance.

Unique Risks Associated with Owning a Historical Home

Pittsburgh’s historical homes include a mix of Victorian-style, Craftsman-style, and unique architectural treasures. These timeless beauties require specialized insurance coverages that help keep your home as close to its original condition as possible.

Intricate woodwork, slate roofing, and outdated electrical systems can all pose challenges for modern homeowners seeking repair services or replacement parts for their homes. Limited access to original materials can also lead to costly out-of-pocket expenses when issues like accidental damage, property damage, or natural disasters occur.

Standard homeowners insurance policies act as financial security blankets, shielding your home’s contents and structure, and covering exterior components from devastating financial losses when the unexpected happens.

Talk to an experienced local insurance professional who understands your unique needs to ensure you have adequate coverage to protect your home and valuables from common and uncommon perils.

Historic Home Insurance – Pittsburgh, PA

Work with a licensed and knowledgeable insurance agent to get an accurate appraisal of your home’s value and estimate how much you can expect to pay for comprehensive insurance that covers a variety of perils.

Insurance professionals at Stalwart Insurance in Pittsburgh, PA, can help you choose the best coverage options for protecting your priceless investment, offer professional advice, and provide a historical home insurance quote when you contact our offices today!

How Renters Insurance Helps You Recover from Pittsburgh’s Seasonal Storms and Flooding

Posted on December 23, 2024December 17, 2024 by agentinsure

In areas like Colorado Springs, CO, prone to extreme weather events, including heavy storms, flooding, and tornadoes, renters are considering renters insurance to help protect their belongings and financial well-being. As climate change intensifies these events, it’s crucial to understand how renters insurance can help.

What Does Renters Insurance Cover?

Renters insurance is an affordable policy that covers personal property, liability, and additional living expenses if you’re temporarily displaced due to covered events. It supports financial recovery after storms or flooding and reduces the stress that comes with replacing possessions or paying for out-of-pocket expenses.

How Storms and Flooding Affect Renters in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh is surrounded by rivers and steep hills, making it susceptible to heavy rainfall and flooding, especially during spring and summer. Storms can cause water damage and structural damage and disrupt living conditions. Renters face the challenge of replacing damaged items, power outages, and temporary displacements.

Role of Renters Insurance in Recovery

Renters insurance covers the cost of replacing or repairing damaged property, unexpected hotel stays, and temporary housing. It also provides liability coverage for repairs if the renter is found responsible for causing damage to another’s property, such as when flooding occurs.

Stay Protected in Pittsburgh, PA with Stalwart Insurance

In Pittsburgh, having renters insurance is essential for tenants because of the seasonal storms and regular flooding. Insurance financially safeguards you for repairs and offers much-needed assistance with temporary housing. Be sure to prioritize checking your renter’s insurance policy to confirm that it covers the fallout of the unpredictable local climate conditions.

For personalized service and expert guidance for Pittsburgh renters, reach out to Stalwart Insurance. Our team of local agents can help you tailor a policy that suits your needs, offering peace of mind and reliable protection throughout the year. Contact an insurance agent at Stalwart Insurance agent today.

Umbrella Insurance: For What Your Standard Policy Doesn’t Cover

Posted on November 20, 2024November 18, 2024 by agentinsure

Insurance is the safety net many people rely on when they need help. From accidents to house fires and more, insurance can offer people the protection and coverage to deal with some of life’s most unpleasant events. Unfortunately, however, gaps in coverage or the damages or costs of certain misfortunes can exceed the limits of a policy, leaving people with the burden of dealing with the aftermath. The good news is that umbrella insurance can provide the extra protection you need to avoid these situations. That is why people in the Pittsburgh, PA area turn to the professional and friendly team at Stalwart Insurance for all their umbrella insurance needs.

For What Your Standard Policy Doesn’t Cover – There’s Umbrella Insurance

Most standard insurance policies provide sufficient coverage and protection for typical accidents and incidents. The problem, however, is how often accidents are typical or ordinary. And when those situations and unexpected events cause damage, bills, and costs that exceed your policy’s standard limits, guess who is left holding the bag?

The good news is that you can be better protected with the right umbrella insurance plan when those accidents and unexpected events go off script. That is also why reviewing your policies and talking to your agent about how an umbrella insurance policy could help you is a good idea.

Get Umbrella Insurance Solutions in Pittsburgh, PA

Do you live in or around the Pittsburgh, PA area? Do you have questions, or would you like to learn more about how umbrella insurance can help provide the extra coverage you need? If you need umbrella insurance or have questions, our knowledgeable and experienced team at Stalwart Insurance can help. Contact us to find out more and schedule an appointment today at Stalwart Insurance for the umbrella insurance solutions you need and deserve.

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