Insurance Resources FAQs
About Southwest
Auto Insurance
Home Insurance
Life Insurance
Umbrella Policies
Claims
About Southwest
Does Southwest Insurance represent more than one insurance company?
Yes, we are directly contracted with these AM Best A rated Insurance carriers:
Erie, Travelers, Nationwide, Progressive, Kemper, Mercury, AAA, ASI, State Auto and others.
How can I save money on my insurance?
Bundling two or more policies offer substantial discounts and savings. We also compare over 10 insurance carriers for best coverages and premium.
What type of insurance does Southwest Insurance Center offer and in what areas?
Home, Auto, Business, Life, and Health Insurance in the primary locations of:
Plainfield, Naperville, Shorewood, Romeoville, Oswego, Aurora, Crest Hill, Joliet Southwest suburbs, and all of Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
Auto Insurance
Should my auto insurance coverages be at State minimums?
We do not recommend state minimums. Your auto insurance coverages should be at the level of protection needed for your unique situation, in the event of a covered loss you are able to recover.
When should I remove collision and comprehensive coverage on my auto insurance?
You might consider changing your coverages as your auto ages and the value is decreased. However, you should always consult your insurance agent prior to making any coverage changes.
Why should I contact my agent prior to filing a claim?
Filing a claim may affect your future premium. Your agent is skilled in this area and should be your first point of contact. The cost of repairs should always be considered regarding the deducible.
Should I file a claim with another carrier if I am rear-ended in an auto accident?
Yes, if you feel you are not “at fault,” you should file with the other driver’s insurance company. Assuming the other carrier assumes fault, you won’t be responsible for your deductible and it won’t show as a claim against you on your insurance record.
Do I need to purchase insurance when I rent a car?
We advise our customers to purchase additional insurance with the rental car company as there could be additional risks in this situation. Usually you won’t have a deductible if in an accident and it won’t appear on your insurance record. Contact our office for more information.
What do I do if I am in an auto accident?
Proceed to a safe location, make sure everyone is ok and always call the police. Take pictures, exchange information and call your agent.
Home Insurance
If someone knocks on my door and says I have hail damage what should I do?
Call a licensed reputable roofing company to inspect your property and inform your agent. Door knockers are often called “storm chasers” and oftentimes don’t reside in your state. If you have roof problems after completion, it is quite possible the company cannot be found for repairs.
Why is my home insurance dwelling coverage more than what I can sell my home for?
Market value is based upon the current condition of the home, land and location. The dwelling coverage limit is derived based upon the replacement cost, subject to policy limitations, which includes debris removal and cleanup. The dwelling limit of the policy is typically higher than the market value or purchase price of the home which varies by state.
Should I add water back up coverage to my home policy?
Water back up covers the cleanup of water that has come up through a drain system or sump pump pit. If extended coverage is purchased, personal belongings, the structure and furnishing are also covered subject to policy language and subject to the home policy deductible. Water back up is one of the most common claims.
Are water alarms expensive and what are the benefits?
Water alarms are a great investment for the protection of your home, while some carriers offer an additional discount for having the devices. These devices can offer substantial peace of mind and are not costly.
Why should I contact my agent prior to filing a claim?
We can help walk you through the claim process to be sure it is handled correctly, as well as answer any questions you may have prior to filing a claim.
If I hire someone to work on my home, why should I request a certificate of insurance ?
Illinois Homeowners need to protect themselves from uninsured workers they hire while they are working on their property to help in avoiding unforeseen liability issues.
Life Insurance
Who needs life insurance?
We believe everyone needs life insurance no matter what stage of life. We offer many choices of life insurance solely based upon the needs of the customer, including Erie Life Insurance.
Why is life insurance best to purchase when your young and healthy?
This is typically the time to lock in the best health rating to receive the lowest premium.
I have life insurance at work so why do I need my own coverage?
Life insurance through an employer is generally a low amount of coverage and is not able to be converted once the employee leaves the company. You may leave a company when you are older and could have health issues, which affect the cost and your insurability.
Should I protect my home and its loan with life insurance?
Yes. Term life insurance is the most cost-effective way to cover an unpaid mortgage balance in the event of the unforeseen death of the homeowner. This assures your family can stay in the home, schools, and community.
I cosigned my child’s college loans. What benefit would we get if we had a term life policy in the amount of the loan?
Yes. Term life insurance is the most cost-effective way to cover outstanding debt, such as a student loan in the event of the unforeseen death of the homeowner
Umbrella Policies
What is an Umbrella policy?
An extension of additional liability coverage above the auto and home liability limits beginning at $1 Million up to $10 Million. This is a great policy for asset protection.
Should I have an umbrella policy?
The point of umbrella insurance is to protect your assets from a lawsuit, and if your assets are over the limits on your auto and home policies you should consider. People choose to buy an umbrella policy because they want to prevent the possibility of financial ruin due to an unforeseen accident. Umbrella insurance can provide the protection most need.
If you have young drivers should you consider an umbrella insurance?
Young drivers are a high risk and have more frequent and severe accidents, often due to lack on experience. Discuss this with your agent.
Claims
How do I file a claim and what is the process?
Call your agent and he/she will advise the process as each carrier is different.
Will my agent assist in the process?
Yes. At Southwest Insurance Center we work with our customers to provide advice & assist in the claims process.
Why does the deductible matter in a claim?
The deductible matters because if the cost of repairs is below the deductible, it may not be beneficial to file a claim.
Will my insurance premium go up if I file a claim?
It is possible that your premium may increase due to a claim. That is why it’s important to work with your agent to make sure it is beneficial in your unique situation.
