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Roberts Family Insurance

306 S Friendswood Dr #C2
Friendswood, TX 77546

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Home Insurance for Fallen Trees

Trees can fall for many reasons, including severe weather, disease, or age. When a tree falls, it can cause serious damage to your home or other structures and lead to costly cleanup. If you are dealing with a fallen tree and are unsure whether your homeowners’ insurance will cover the damage, it is a good idea to contact your insurance agent for guidance.

At Roberts Family Insurance, we help homeowners secure the right type and amount of home insurance in Friendswood, TX, to protect against costly and unexpected risks.

Does Home Insurance Cover Fallen Tree Damage?

Homeowners’ insurance may cover damage from a fallen tree, but coverage depends on the cause of the loss. In most cases, insurance protects against damage caused by covered perils, such as wind, lightning, or storms. If a covered peril causes a tree to fall and damage your home, garage, fence, or another insured structure listed on your policy, repairs are typically covered.

Many policies also include coverage for debris removal, up to a specified limit, to help with the cost of clearing the fallen tree from your property.

If a neighbor’s tree falls onto your home, your own insurance policy usually covers the damage and cleanup. After paying the claim, your insurance company may pursue reimbursement from your neighbor’s insurance if negligence is involved.

The cause of the tree’s fall is critical. If a tree falls due to neglect, disease, or rot that was known or should have been addressed, your insurance policy may not provide coverage. These situations can result in significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Choose Coverage You Can Rely On

The team at Roberts Family Insurance can help you understand what your current policy covers and identify any gaps. We offer home insurance in Friendswood, TX, with a variety of coverage options to fit your needs. Contact us today for a quote or to review your homeowners’ insurance coverage.

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Are You Legally Required To Have Home Insurance?

A comprehensive homeowners insurance policy can help cover many natural disasters Texans face, including wind damage, fire, and more. Many first-time homebuyers wonder whether home insurance is legally required in the same way auto insurance is. Understanding state laws and lender requirements is key to protecting your property in Friendswood, TX.

State Laws

Homeowners in Friendswood, TX, are not legally required to carry home insurance. You will not face legal penalties, such as fines, for going without coverage.

Lender Requirements

While the state does not mandate coverage, most mortgage lenders do. Your lender will typically require you to maintain a homeowner’s insurance policy to protect their financial interest in the property until the loan is paid off.

Some lenders also require additional coverage if your standard policy excludes certain natural disasters, such as floods or storm surges. It is a good idea to speak with an agent at Roberts Family Insurance to ensure your policy meets all lender requirements.

Financial Protection

Even without a legal mandate, homeowners’ insurance is essential for protecting your finances. When Hurricane Harvey struck in 2017, more than 2,000 homes were damaged. Homeowners without insurance were forced to pay for repairs out of pocket. Disasters and emergencies, such as fires, can happen without warning, so having proper protection in place is critical.

Coverage To Ask About

Before purchasing a policy, always ask which natural disasters are excluded. Some policies exclude flood damage, and you do not want to discover this only after a surge from Galveston Bay affects your home.

You should also ask whether detached structures, such as sheds or garages, are included in your policy. Additional coverage may be required to protect these buildings.

The team at Roberts Family Insurance can help you find a policy that fits your needs. Contact us today to get started. We proudly serve homeowners in the Friendswood, TX, area.

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Bundling Home Insurance With Auto and RV Insurance in Friendswood, TX

Managing multiple insurance policies simultaneously can be tricky, overwhelming, and downright confusing. If you’re a homeowner, and you also have auto insurance and RV insurance, bundling may be the best path for you to consider. At Roberts Family Insurance, serving Friendswood, TX and surrounding areas, we work with clients who are interested in consolidating and combining insurance policies. Understanding your options can help you feel more in control over your insurance options year-round.

Why Bundling is a Good Idea

Bundling is a way for individuals to receive discounts, depending on the number of policies you’re planning to bundle and current coverage options. Homeowners who own vehicles and recreational vehicles, or RVs, can save every year on insurance with the right bundling solution.

Local Benefits

With unexpected weather risks and storms just outside Friendswood, TX, bundling your insurance may be best for the ultimate protection. Bundling your home and auto (or RV) insurance together is a way to coordinate deductibles and limits on policies. This can help significantly reduce coverage gaps, especially when it comes to weather-related claims. 

Convenience

Bundling your policies makes handling your insurance premiums and claims much easier. One renewal date, one payment, and one agent makes managing your insurance much easier. Simplifying record-keeping is one of the biggest advantages of bundling insurance. Adding roadside assistance, accident forgiveness, or replacement costs for both vehicles and homes is much easier to do once your insurance has been consolidated into one premium. 

Knowing your options when it comes to bundling home insurance with auto and RV insurance is key for residents of Friendswood, TX. If you’re considering the option of bundling, but you’re unsure of where to get started, we can help. For your quote and consultation, get in touch with Roberts Family Insurance in Friendswood, TX to learn mroe about your potential bundling solutions today.

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Homeowners Insurance and AirBnB: What Hosts Need to Know

Renting out your home or spare room through Airbnb can be a great source of income, but it also introduces new risks. Understanding how homeowners’ insurance applies and where it may fall short is key to protecting yourself and your property.

Standard Homeowners Insurance Limitations

Traditional homeowners’ insurance is designed to cover personal use, not business activity. When you host paying guests, many insurers may view it as a commercial endeavor. This could leave gaps in coverage if a guest is injured or causes damage during their stay.

Liability Concerns for Hosts

Accidents can happen, from a guest slipping on the stairs to a kitchen mishap. If you’re found responsible, liability costs can quickly add up. Relying solely on a standard policy may not provide adequate protection, leaving you vulnerable to legal and medical expenses.

Property Damage Risks

While homeowners’ insurance typically covers accidental damage, it may exclude losses caused by paying guests. Airbnb offers Host Protection and Host Guarantee programs, but these have limitations and may not fully replace or repair your property in every situation.

Specialized Coverage Options

Many insurance companies now offer endorsements or short-term rental policies explicitly designed for hosts. These plans can extend liability and property coverage to fill the gaps left by standard homeowners policies.

Why Work with a Local Insurance Expert

An experienced insurance agency can review your current policy, explain where coverage may be insufficient, and recommend tailored options to keep your home, income, and guests protected while you host through Airbnb.

Visit Roberts Family Insurance in Friendswood, TX

At Roberts Family Insurance, we’re proud to provide Friendswood homeowners with the coverage they need. Contact our team today to schedule a consultation and learn more.

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When Do I Need to Tell My Home Insurance Agent About Pets?

Welcoming a new pet into your home can bring joy and add value to your life in many ways. However, this change may require updating your home insurance policy to reflect the new addition to your household. This is especially important if your pet could be considered a risk to others.

At Roberts Family Insurance, our team can help you select home insurance in Friendswood, TX that fits your needs, even when you’re welcoming a furry family member.

Why Inform Your Home Insurance Agent About Your Pets?

It’s essential to inform your insurance agent about any changes in your household, including the addition of pets. This is particularly important if you have a dog, as dogs can pose bite risks to visitors, even if they are smaller or non-aggressive breeds.

Additionally, you should notify your homeowners insurance company about other pets, such as cats, reptiles, or exotic animals. These animals can present unique risks. For example, a reptile enclosure may be valuable, and if it’s damaged due to a covered claim, you’ll want its value documented in your policy. Your insurance company also needs to be aware of potential risks, such as the possibility that the enclosure’s heating element could pose a fire hazard if improperly installed.

How Your Agent Can Help

At Roberts Family Insurance, our home insurance agent in Friendswood, TX can help you determine the type of insurance necessary for your home and lifestyle. We’ll help you select a policy that offers the ideal level of liability and property coverage to meet your specific needs.

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Are Other Structures on Your Property Covered by Home Insurance?

If you own your own home, it’s wise to have it insured. But your home isn’t limited to just the house you live in. You may have a fence to mark the edge of your property. Perhaps you have a shed, workshop, stable, cabana, barn, or gazebo on your property. Maybe you’ve had a well on the property for centuries, or you’ve installed a decorative fountain or birdbath. Perhaps you built a small house for Fido or an even smaller one for wild birds or bats. Will your insurance cover them, too?

Coverage B

Check out your home insurance policy. It should have Coverage B, also known as other structures insurance coverage. This should protect structures on your property that are not physically connected to your home. Generally, the coverage limit is set at ten percent of the dwelling coverage of your policy, but you should check to be certain. Attached decks and garages that are connected to your house are covered under dwelling coverage. Anything that is detached from the house proper or only connected by a fence falls under other structures coverage. If you have a pool, it may also be covered by Coverage B, although many companies may require you to put a fence around it, as pools tend to be considered attractive nuisances. If you have one or more large structures on your property, it would be beneficial to research their replacement costs. Structures used for business purposes may not be covered. Check your policy to find out what precisely you are covered against.

Contact Roberts Family Insurance in Friendswood

If you are in the Friendswood, TX area and need homeowners insurance, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Roberts Family Insurance. We’re here to help.

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Signs Your Roof Needs Repair After Strong Wind Gusts

After a storm with powerful winds, your home might appear unscathed at first glance. However, wind damage isn’t always evident, and delaying addressing roofing issues can lead to expensive repairs. At Roberts Family Insurance in Friendswood, TX, we understand the importance of a robust roof. Being aware of what to look for after a storm can help you identify problems early.

Displaced or Loose Shingles

One of the most prevalent signs of wind damage is displaced or loose shingles. High winds can lift shingles, break them, or even rip them off entirely. If you notice bare spots on your roof or find shingles scattered in your yard, it’s a sign that repairs are necessary. Even slightly lifted shingles can allow water to infiltrate, leading to leaks.

Leaks and Water Marks

If you start noticing water marks on your ceilings or walls after a storm, your roof may have sustained damage. Wind can create small openings that allow water to infiltrate, leading to mold growth and structural issues. Even if the stains seem minor, they could be a sign of a more significant problem that needs attention.

Damage to Gutters and Flashing

Powerful winds can also loosen gutters, bend flashing, or pull them away from the roof. Gutters play a crucial role in directing water away from your home, and if they’re damaged, water can accumulate in areas that lead to long-term structural issues.

Secure Your Home with Appropriate Insurance

If you suspect wind damage to your roof, it’s vital to act quickly. Roberts Family Insurance in Friendswood, TX is here to assist you in navigating home insurance claims and ensuring your home remains protected. Contact us today to review your coverage and safeguard your home from future storms.

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Does My Current Home Insurance Policy Provide Adequate Coverage?

Protecting your investment from liability claims, severe storms, and even theft is a top priority as a homeowner in Friendswood, TX. Even with a standard home insurance policy, it’s essential to review your coverage to avoid potential gaps in protection periodically. Knowing how to assess your home insurance policy effectively can help you find a solution that meets your needs. At Roberts Family Insurance, we’re here to help you maintain peace of mind with adequate, year-round home insurance that you can rely on.

Replacement Costs

Review the replacement cost coverage in your current homeowner’s insurance policy to assess its adequacy. Consider whether the home’s market value is covered or potential rebuilding costs are included in your policy. Keep in mind inflation and rising construction costs.

Personal Belongings Coverage

Many home insurance policies limit personal property coverage, especially for high-value items like antiques, art, and jewelry. If you require additional coverage for collectibles or high-value items in your home, be sure to address this.

Natural Disasters

Check if your homeowners’ insurance policy covers risks such as natural disasters, which are often unique to Friendswood and other regions throughout Texas. Determine if your policy protects against hail and windstorm damage and if you need a separate flood insurance policy for excessive water damage.

Assessing your current home insurance policy in Friendswood, TX, has numerous benefits as a homeowner. From adjusting your existing policy to adding more protection, a review can significantly protect your investment over time. To learn more about your current home insurance policy and to determine if it’s adequate for your household’s protection needs, contact Roberts Family Insurance for your consultation and quote today.

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Making sure your home is safe during the holidays

It’s that time of year again when families gather at homes nationwide to celebrate the holidays. When everyone is together, it is more important than ever that your home be as safe as possible. Part of safety is knowing that no matter what happens, you have home insurance to protect what matters. In Friendswood, TX, Roberts Family Insurance makes sure that what you have for home insurance is what you need.

Clean the furnace and chimney.

Getting your furnace cleaned and tuned should be part of every autumn. If you have a fireplace and want to gather around it for the holidays, ensure your chimney is clean to prevent a house fire.

Don’t overload electric plugs.

There is a temptation during the holidays to have a lot of decorations, and plug-in ones are particularly popular. However, there are limits to how many items any electrical system can take. If you must have lots of decorations, make sure some are battery-powered, and the others are LED so they use less electricity.

Keep your real tree watered.

If you believe in having a real Christmas tree, it is important not to let it dry out and become a fire hazard.

Avoid falls

Slips and falls are among the biggest dangers in your home, and if Grandma or Great Aunt Agatha is visiting, not to mention all the kids or grandkids, you don’t want anyone to slip and fall. It is also important to avoid clutter on stairs and extension cords anywhere. Make sure that any dark area has plenty of artificial light so everyone can see where they are walking inside and out.

Friendswood, TX residents and the surrounding area can contact our office at Roberts Family Insurance for all their home insurance needs.

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Does Your Home Insurance Policy Cover Broken Windows?

To protect your home effectively, it’s crucial to understand what your insurance policy covers. At Roberts Family Insurance, serving Friendswood, TX, we frequently ask whether home insurance covers broken windows? Let’s delve into this topic to help you gain better insights.

Standard Coverage Explained

Most standard home insurance policies typically cover window damage resulting from unforeseen incidents. If a storm in Friendswood causes a tree branch to crash into your window, your policy will likely cover the repairs. Similarly, vandalism is generally included—meaning if someone intentionally damages your window, you should be protected.

Accidental Damage and Negligence

On the other hand, if your window shatters due to an accident within your home, like a wayward baseball, coverage might not be automatic. Some policies offer additional protection against accidental damage, but verifying with your provider is essential. Negligence—like failure to maintain your windows’ integrity—is typically not covered. Regular maintenance is key in keeping your home protected under your policy.

Filing a Claim

If you encounter a broken window, the first step is to document the damage. Take clear photographs and promptly contact your insurance provider. At Roberts Family Insurance, we are committed to guiding you smoothly through the claims process and answering any queries you might have.

Review and Update Your Policy

We recommend an annual policy review to ensure you have adequate coverage. Life changes, and so do your insurance needs. If you’re unsure whether your current policy includes coverage for broken windows, contact us at Roberts Family Insurance, serving the Friendswood, TX area. Our team is here to help you at every step.

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Partner Carriers

  • Allied Trust
  • Fema
  • Hagerty
  • Hippo
  • Homeowners Of America
  • Infinity
  • JC Taylor
  • Mercury
  • Mission Select
  • Neptune
  • Progressive
  • Safeco
  • Sagesure
  • Selective
  • State Auto
  • Swyftt
  • Texas Mutual
  • The Hartford
  • Wellington
  • Wright