Insurance Dilemma's - Who do you use?

[WarrenG]

Well I have functioned with the floater on my homeowners insurance for as long as possible and now it is time to move up to full aggregate, auto, etc.

I have been looking at the Hill & Usher insurance they promote through WPPI but I am curious if anyone has ever actually used them and if so, how was the experience? Also, if anyone else has any other companies they could recommend or share that would be great.

I am looking at the obvious which is usually Cost, but also for ease of claims, support / service, etc. I would rather spend a few dollars more now, to not have the hassle when I really need it.

Thanks much in advance,

Warren

[Lucid Photo]

I wouldn't normally recommend an insurance guy on the internet, but I feel strongly enough about him that I would recommend him anywhere. I originally talked to him about home owner's, but he now carries my cars, wife and kid's health insurance, and business insurance. I like him because he is honest and straight forward and will give you the best bang for your buck and explain everything in terms that anyone can understand. Here is his cell # and name.

Brett Vance
817-690-8110

If nothing else just give the guy a call and see if he can help you out or point you in the right direction. Officially he is with Farmers, but he is licensed to sell for several different companies, so he can really find the best policy for you.

[WarrenG]

Thanks for the info Ben.

[brad]

I have the Hill & Usher policy, but I've never had to actually use it (and hope I never do).

They have been very cooperative for getting things I need like proof of insurance... and I hear good things about them from people who have had to make claims.

[WarrenG]

Thanks for the feedback Brad...good to hear you have not needed to make a claim. I generally try to lock my gear down like Ft Knox but at the end of the day, locks and cables just keed the good people honest.

[peteg]

I have a Hays policy through the National Press Photographers Association. The discount could very well be worth the cost of the NPPA membership (as well as the meager Apple discount!). The contact is very friendly, or if you choose, the website is easy to use. And they have been very responsive to my needs. I have never, knock on wood, had to file a claim. The policy covers loss or damage.

http://nppa.org/member_services/special_offers/

[hhscr]

Check with State Farm for a Personals Equpment Policy. It is a completly seperate policy from any other and is an all perils policy. Be sure and ask questions, if the equipment you want to cover is used for business, this may make the policy void. It works for me since the equipment is not used to provide my main source of income. Price is right, but I have not had to file a claim.

Good Luck

[Wil_Bloodworth]

Hill & Usher. Their policy totally rocks!

- Wil

[WarrenG]

Thanks to everyone that replied. I faxed in my info to Hill & Usher so we will see how much the policy comes back at. I assume 1mil General with 2Mil Umbrella is acceptable for most applications?


W

[Wil_Bloodworth]

Warren,

It should be in the neighborhood of $500... if you're like me.

- Wil

[CobyPhoto]

Originally Posted by WarrenG

Well I have functioned with the floater on my homeowners insurance for as long as possible and now it is time to move up to full aggregate, auto, etc.

If you are looking for a firm that will carry your Equipment, Business, O & E and Auto all together, you probably won't find that at Hill & Usher. (Though I haven't looked to see, they may...most companies do pretty comprehensive coverage.) I utilize an local firm, that handles all of my insurance needs for business, O & E, Flood, Windstorm/Hail (Yea I have to carry that too...) and Auto all from one business and with fantastic customer service. The only thing I have in addition to this, is my Marsh Affinity Equipment coverage when I am away from the studio.

I shopped around and found that most are pretty competitive on price...but customer service determined my choice. One company I would NEVER go with is ALLSTATE. They completely SUCK and will try to screw you on claims every time. Stay away from them. (This is my Opinion...after having dealt with them.)

If you can find an independent agent that will handle all your needs and set it up, it will definintely save you alot of headaches in the long run and probably money...not to mention their customer service will be personal and first rate.

I never call my respective insurance company...just my agent and they take over and handle it for me. So much less headache to deal with.

CJ

[speedshot]

I use my State Farm agent for my business INS and from some I have talked to it is a good deal I have been with them for years and that may help but 15K equip and 1M lib it cost me $39 a month and the equip is replacement not value .... Just my 2cents

[mdurisseau]

Anyone have any other recommendations? I was considering the policy that one has access through PPA, but I would like to stay away from having to spend the money for a membership, right now, anyway...

[picasso]

Originally Posted by mdurisseau

Anyone have any other recommendations? I was considering the policy that one has access through PPA, but I would like to stay away from having to spend the money for a membership, right now, anyway...

I could be wrong but I thought membership included the insurance.

[mdurisseau]

So, are you saying if I pay my $144 or $236 (I think it is) that insurance is included? I didn't see that...can anyone confirm this?