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Knippenberg Insurance Inc

608 N Mechanic St
Cumberland, MD 21502

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Residential Insurance Coverage for New Decking Materials

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Installing a new deck increases your outdoor living space. This type of upgrade may prompt you to modify your home insurance policy. Consider the new feature and seek insurance coverage that will protect the decking materials.

Understanding Home Insurance Coverage Benefits

Home insurance coverage isn’t solely for the structure you live in. Any items of value can be added to your home insurance policy. A new deck is an extension of your home and may add considerable value to your property. Your home insurance coverage could protect the new decking materials from unforeseen damage, vandalism, theft, and other types of criminal activity. Home insurance coverage is designed to protect the homeowner from financial loss, covering the cost of repairing or replacing compromised materials.

Evaluating Your Residential Deck Project

Assess the new deck, either before or after the installation. Examine the type of decking materials used and the functional purpose of the deck. Consider any items of value that will be temporarily or permanently stored on the deck. Your insurance coverage can protect wood, laminate, or any other type of decking material used for the project. Consider the railings, steps, and other pieces attached to the deck. If your deck is going to be enclosed, inspect the screens, siding, and other materials used as part of the enclosure.

Scheduling an Insurance Consultation for Your Deck

Please schedule an appointment to consult with one of our agents about the new deck. An agent serving Cumberland, MD will assist you. Our Knippenberg Insurance Inc. agents are here to assist property owners like you.

Preparing for a Tough Crop Year

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If you are a farmer, you know that the success of your farm’s crops depends greatly on the weather. Many farms decide to buy farm and crop insurance to protect themselves against potential losses due to disasters (such as floods or droughts). If you are near the Cumberland, MD area and have questions about farm and crop insurance, our team at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. is ready to answer them. We’ve been working with clients in your area since 1967.

Preparing for a Tough Crop Year

According to Farm Progress, farm management expenses are increasing across the country while grain prices continue to decrease. The same website suggests that these trends have become concerning for farmers nationwide. Many Maryland farmers are wondering how to make a plan for financial survival to overcome these continued trends. Learning more about crop insurance can provide reassurance for worried farmers.

New technologies are now available to offer farmers better farm and crop insurance prices. By using newly developed crop analysis tools, farmers can help their insurance companies to calculate their premiums based on more accurate crop production. Our team at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. can educate you about whether you need to add to your current crop insurance with a supplemental policy.

Call Us Today for Your Appointment

When you buy farm and crop insurance, you’ll be better able to depend on a stable income from your farm. Farmers in the Cumberland, MD, area will feel more confident about their farms’ future by purchasing insurance from our team. All of the agents at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. are dedicated to helping design a policy that meets your needs. Call us for an appointment today, and let’s talk about protecting your farming future.

Why you may want to consider term life insurance

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At Knippenberg Insurance Inc., we believe informed consumers make better clients. Our Cumberland, MD office is available to answer your insurance-related questions before, during, and after your purchase and even assist with any claims.

We often get questions regarding life insurance and what type of life insurance may be best. Here is a quick look:

Term Insurance or Permanent Insurance?

Early on, you will be faced with choosing two basic types of life insurance. Permanent life insurance offers you protection for your entire life, provided premiums are paid in a timely manner. Term insurance provides coverage over a specific set period, typically for five to twenty years.

Term insurance is generally more affordable, making it an attractive choice for those looking for a large amount of life insurance protection.

Examples of When You May Want to Consider Term Insurance

Term insurance can appeal to those starting a family or having young children. It can help cover outstanding mortgage debt or anticipated college expenses. It is also a good choice for those who may be starting a business.

Term life insurance protects your income during your peak earning years.

The Best Time to Buy

The best time to buy life insurance is when you are young and healthy. This is when premiums are generally at their lowest, and you can qualify easily for large amounts of protection. Knippenberg Insurance Inc., in Cumberland, MD, can help.

Contact us for a free quote. Answer a few brief questions, and we can help you choose a life insurance plan that suits your needs and budget.

Of course, should you have any questions, we are here to serve you!

Auto Insurance Laws in Maryland: Understanding Your Legal Obligations

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Understanding the minimum coverage your auto insurance offers is essential for operating safely on the road and ensuring that you’re not subject to fines and other potential issues. If you’re a resident of Maryland, you may be curious about your legal obligations regarding auto insurance and how much you need. At Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD, we’ll help you secure the right insurance policy and educate you about essential topics like these. Here’s what you need to know about minimum coverage requirements.

Legal Auto Insurance Requirements in Maryland

If you’re looking to ensure you’re adequately covered, the good news is that it’s easy to find out the legal requirements in Maryland. According to the state website, all Maryland residents are required to have the following insurance coverage:

  • $15,000 for property damage.
  • $30,000 for bodily injury ($60,000 for two or more people).

As long as you meet the above requirements, you won’t run into any issues with the law or experience any problems should you find yourself involved in an accident. However, minimum coverage is rarely as desirable as coverage that further protects you and helps you replace the cost of your car. If you can afford the monthly premiums, paying a bit more will provide you with additional financial support should you find yourself in an accident, which can make all the difference!

Secure Your Auto Insurance with Knippenberg Insurance Inc.

Do you need to insure your Maryland vehicle? If so, the team at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland, MD, is always here to assist drivers like you! Contact us today to get started or compare quotes with us now!

A Guide to Commercial Leasing in Cumberland, MD – What Every Business Owner Should Know

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New and existing business owners in Cumberland, MD looking to establish a strong business presence – without committing to purchasing a business property have options. Learn what every business owner should know about commercial leasing from the insurance experts at Knippenberg Insurance Inc.

What is Commercial Leasing?

A commercial lease operates almost like a residential lease with a few key differentiators. Commercial leases are legally binding agreements that allow business owners, known as tenants, to rent out a commercial space for a specified lease term.

Examples of Commercial Properties Typically Available for Lease:

  • Distribution Centers
  • Office Spaces
  • Retail Locations
  • Shopping Centers
  • Warehouses

Commercial Leasing Responsibilities for Business Owners

Local business owners entering into commercial leases should clearly understand the terms and responsibilities of their prospective leases – before signing on the dotted line. Not adhering to crucial lease provisions can result in early lease terminations or fees that can devastate your bottom line.

Most commercial leases will have provisions that require the primary leaseholders to secure adequate commercial insurance to protect themselves, the business, and the leased property from devastating perils, which can include property damage claims, legal claims, damage from natural disasters, lost inventory from theft, vandalism, and cyber theft.

How to Get a Commercial Insurance Policy in Cumberland, MD

If you’re ready to enter into a commercial lease and need to invest in business insurance to seal the deal, contact the commercial insurance professionals at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. in Cumberland. Our trusted and knowledgeable insurance agents understand the needs of local business owners and can help you select the best policy that can include critical features like business interruption insurance, workers’ compensation insurance, and commercial auto insurance.

Contact us today for a quote!

What can occur if I do not have home insurance in Maryland?

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Those in the Cumberland, MD area need to ensure they have proper insurance for their most important assets. For many people here, this means getting an adequate home insurance plan. There are various consequences and negative outcomes that could occur if you do not have a home insurance plan.

No Support for Assets

One of the biggest challenges that could arise if you do not have a home insurance plan for your property in Maryland is that you will not have financial support to repair or replace your assets. If a fire or other covered risk damages your home, your home insurance plan will provide support to make repairs. If you do not have insurance, you will need to cover these costs on your own, which can be very expensive.

No Liability Support

Lack of home insurance coverage will also provide no liability support. There are various liability risks associated with owning a home. If you are found liable for an accident but do not have insurance, you will not receive financial support and will have to cover damages out of your own financial resources.

Lack of Compliance

Not having a home insurance plan can also lead to compliance violations. If you have a mortgage or live in a home association, you likely have specific home insurance requirements. If you are not covered, you could be penalized.

Having home insurance in the Cumberland, MD area is clearly very important, and speaking with our team at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. before you start your search is a great option. Our professionals at Knippenberg Insurance Inc. know how important this coverage is, and they will provide the support you need to evaluate your options and build a plan that will keep you appropriately covered.

What’s Covered by a Catastrophic Crop Insurance Policy?

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Navigating Catastrophic Crop Insurance in Maryland

Maryland is renowned for its agricultural output. It cultivates a variety of crops, including soybeans, wheat, corn, watermelon, apples, and grapes. However, no growing season is without its challenges or occasional setbacks. Thankfully, catastrophic crop insurance offers financial protection for farmers in Cumberland, MD.

Understanding Catastrophic Crop Insurance

Catastrophic crop insurance, or CAT insurance, is part of the federal crop insurance program. This insurance type compensates farmers who experience a crop yield of 50% or less. It covers losses caused by factors such as fire, extreme weather conditions, plant diseases, and damage inflicted by insects and wildlife. However, it’s essential to note that these types of damage are only compensated for if they physically affect the crop. Catastrophic crop insurance does not cover losses due to the inability to reach the market, even if the cause is a covered loss such as a fire.

Catastrophic crop insurance does not have monthly fees; farmers pay a $300 administrative fee per crop. Despite its affordability, this policy might not be ideal for many farmers because compensation is only available once over 50% of the crop is lost. Other crop insurance policies allow you to choose your level of compensation. These policies are pricier than catastrophic crop insurance but offer significant compensation if you encounter a poor growing season.

Find out more about Crop Insurance with Knippenberg Insurance Inc.

At Knippenberg Insurance Inc., we provide personalized assistance to farmers in Cumberland, MD, helping them assess their insurance options and make informed decisions. Feel free to contact us to find out more or to get a quote for an insurance policy.

How to Name a Beneficiary for a Life Insurance Policy

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Cumberland, MD, residents considering life insurance should be prepared to name one or more beneficiaries when buying a policy. This means you’ll need to take some time to think about who you want to leave money to upon your passing.

Who can Benefit?

Spouses and children are the most common beneficiaries. However, you can name any beneficiary you want. In fact, you can name more than one beneficiary and spell out the percentage of benefits each beneficiary receives. For instance, you may want to give your spouse a 50% benefit and divide the remaining 50% between your adult children. Alternatively, you can name a charitable organization as a partial or sole beneficiary. 

Making Contingency Plans

Your personal life may change drastically as the years roll by. You may get divorced, your spouse may pass on before you do, or your adult children may have kids. It’s wise to name one or more contingent beneficiaries to accept benefits if the original beneficiary can no longer do so. For example, you may stipulate that if you get divorced, your benefits will be divided between adult children or given to charity.  

Special Arrangements for Minors

Cumberland, MD, residents who name a minor child as the sole or partial beneficiary must make arrangements to keep the funds safe until the child reaches legal age. This can be done by setting up a trust or Uniform Transfers to Minors account.

Get More Information from Knippenberg Insurance Inc.

Buying a life insurance policy and naming one or more beneficiaries is a weighty decision. At Knippenberg Insurance Inc., we offer policy options and good advice to help you make sound decisions. Get in touch to find out more or to get a policy quote.

What is Temporary Car Insurance?

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While most car insurance policies last six months to a year, temporary coverage is also available. Temporary car insurance is perfect for students driving in their hometown during their summer break, those planning to sell their car soon, individuals visiting the United States, and those who will borrow a car from a friend or family member.

Is it the Best Option?

Drivers in Cumberland, MD, who require temporary vehicle coverage should explore all the available options. In certain circumstances, purchasing a six-month policy and then canceling it when it’s no longer needed may be more beneficial. Alternatively, if a friend or family member is loaning you a car, they could add you to their existing car insurance policy.

What Does Temporary Car Insurance Cover?

The scope of temporary car insurance coverage depends on how much you’re willing to pay for a policy. You will need to ensure you have the minimal amount of insurance required by Maryland law. However, it’s not always wise to restrict yourself to just the basics. Additional coverage can provide necessary compensation if your car breaks down, is stolen, or suffers damage due to natural disasters. If you’re traveling, a policy that covers your personal belongings inside your car would be ideal.

Contact Knippenberg Insurance Inc. for Coverage Options

At Knippenberg Insurance Inc., we offer personalized assistance to Cumberland, MD drivers who want to explore their temporary car insurance options. We can help you find a policy that precisely meets your needs so you can have excellent coverage without paying more than necessary. Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about your choices or get a quote on your policy.

Does a Home-Based Business Need Commercial Insurance?

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Cumberland, MD, is a favorable location for starting a home-based business. Tax credits, a Lenders Loan Pool, and Micro-enterprise Programs are available to help entrepreneurs save money while launching their venture. However, one inevitable expense is commercial insurance. Even home-based businesses will need several insurance policies to operate legally in the state.

Commercial Insurance Requirements in Maryland

If you have even one full or part-time employee, you’re required to have worker’s compensation insurance. If you use a vehicle for commercial purposes, which includes traveling to meet clients and business partners, transporting goods to and from markets, or allowing an employee to use your vehicle, you need a commercial vehicle policy. You’ll need liability insurance if you sell items on platforms such as Amazon and eBay.

Even though some policies aren’t legally required, they are worth considering. Cyber insurance safeguards your business if a hacker breaks into your system and steals data. Errors and omissions insurance protects your business assets if a client sues you. Liability insurance shields you from common risks such as customer injuries, destruction of customer property, and advertising injuries.

Commercial Insurance from Knippenberg Insurance Inc.

Knippenberg Insurance Inc., based in Cumberland, MD, offers premium insurance policy options to local business owners. We have a variety of policy options to meet the needs of entrepreneurs in any industry. Our knowledgeable staff members are eager to help you understand state insurance laws to ensure you choose the best policies for your business. Contact us to learn more about our offerings or to get one or more policy quotes.

Partner Carriers

  • Allstate
  • Amwins
  • Chesapeake
  • Foremost
  • Frederick Mutual
  • Guard
  • Hagerty
  • K&K
  • Liberty Mutual
  • MetLife
  • National General
  • Nationwide
  • Progressive
  • Safeco
  • State Auto
  • Tapco
  • The Hartford
  • Travelers
  • Zurich