1. Debris must generally be caused by a covered event: If the event that causes the debris is one that your policy covers you for, then you can expect for debris removal to be included, up to the limits of your policy. In some cases, policies will allow for an additional percentage above the limits for debris removal—usually no more than 5 percent.
2. Covered debris may be generated by certain other events, even if they do not directly damage the covered property: For example, a volcanic eruption and subsequent lava may not damage your home but if the ash from the eruption damages your property, then your policy may pay for the debris removal. Some policies will also cover the removal of hazardous materials, while others exclude it.
3. Fallen trees may be covered: In certain circumstances, a policy may cover the cost of felled tree removal if it blocks a driveway or ramp, or has fallen on your structure. It may cover a tree that has fallen due to natural events such as hail or windstorm. This may carry a separate limit.
4. Reasonable expenses: It is important to get a few quotes for debris removal and to go with a quote that offers a reasonable price. Your insurance policy likely limits the expenses covered to those considered reasonable.

1. Multi-policy discounts: The multi-policy discounts can work a few ways. First, if you have multiple cars and people to insure with a single insurance company, you may be able to get a discount when you do. Second, if you have a home and an automobile, or an automobile and a recreational vehicle to insure and you do so with one company, you may be eligible for discounts.
2. Safe driving courses: Being a safe driver is important to you and your family because it limits your risk of accident—but it’s also important to your insurance company for the same reason. When you take a safe driving course you not only show your insurance company that you are serious about being a safe driver, but you also gain the skills that allow you to actually become one. This reduces the amount of claims you are likely to have and makes you a less expensive risk for auto insurance companies. How do they reward you? With a discount.
3. Good student discounts: Insurance companies love to reward good behavior—because those clients who behave in that manner generally present less risk from an insurer’s perspective. High school students with good grades may find that their auto insurance company offers small discounts when they keep their GPA above a certain level.
4. Paid-in-full discounts: Insurance policy premiums can be paid monthly, quarterly, semi-annually and annually. Because insurance companies can earn more money on an annual premium paid-in-full at the start of the term, they often offer financial incentives for you to do so.
5. EFT discounts: The transfer of your insurance premiums directly from your bank account to your insurance company isn’t just an easy way to get your insurance policy paid, it’s a cost-effective way. You will have one less check to write each month, one less stamp to buy, and your insurance company may offer you a discount for doing so.
6. Home Ownership: Because you own your home, the insurance companies will give you a better price.
7. Level of Education:  Some companies will give a discount based on your level of education or occupation.
8. Higher Limits of Liability: Sometimes you can have more coverage for less money.  Ask about higher limits and see what happens to your premium. 
9. Multiple Car Discounts: If you have more car, make sure you include them on the same policy. 
10. Multiple Policy Discount: Try to get your home and autos with the same company.  It could save you up to 15% on both your home and auto.

When talking to ECI Agency about insurance policy options, make sure to discuss all of the relevant discount opportunities. Ask Patti or Amanda if they know of any other discounts that you may be able to take advantage of—after all, any discount is a good discount.

The two large earthquakes centered near Oklahoma City over the past few weeks have left many policy holders wondering if their home insurance policies would cover them in the aftermath of a major tremor.

The short answer is that property damage caused by the shaking movement of the earth is not covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy, although some subsequent damage may be eligible for coverage.

However, you can still buy earthquake insurance. In some cases, you may be able to add an earthquake endorsement to your home insurance policy. However, you need to know not every insurance company offers earthquake coverage.  If that is the case with your particular insurance carrier, there might be separate, standalone earthquake policies that could be available.

Unlike flood insurance, which is underwritten by the Federal Government, earthquake insurance is offered by private insurance companies.

Earthquake insurance covers both the structure and the contents of a home. Earthquake policies and endorsements have deductibles that usually are set as a percentage of the home's replacement value from 1 percent to 15 percent.  In the case of an endorsement, the earthquake deductible is separate from and in addition to the deductible on the home insurance policy.

If your car is damaged or destroyed by an earthquake, that damage is covered by your comprehensive coverage in your auto insurance policy.

If you would like for us to look into options on your particular insurance policy you can call us at 405-373-2977.  We will look at options that make the most sense in your particular situation.  Please do not hesitate to call if you have questions.

 Scott Cornelius CIC