Umbrella Insurance Restrictions for Homeowners

Posted on January 30, 2026January 12, 2026 by admin

As a homeowner in Folsom, CA, you may be wondering how much your homeowners’ insurance covers and whether or not you can benefit from an additional umbrella insurance policy. At T.D. McNeil Insurance Services, we’re proud to represent residents of California, whether you’re a new homeowner or an investor looking to extend coverage to additional properties. If you have a home and auto insurance policy, a personal umbrella will extend liability coverage to both policies. It steps in when one or both of the policy liability limits are exhausted. But it doesn’t cover everything. To better understand umbrella insurance, it’s important to understand the restrictions that you may encounter.

Underlying Requirements

Umbrella insurance is not a standalone policy. In most instances, homeowners will already have a homeowners’ insurance policy in place when investing in an additional protective policy, such as a personal umbrella policy. If the basic limits of your underlying policies are not met, an umbrella policy may not apply to the claim. Additionally, an umbrella policy doesn’t create insurance protection where none existed, but it may broaden the protection once an underlying policy reaches its limits.

Liability Only

One of the biggest misconceptions about umbrella insurance is that it will cover physical damage to your home. Umbrella insurance is strictly for liability claims, such as property damage to others, bodily injury, and certain personal injury claims (such as slander or libel cases). Damage to your own home or belongings remains the responsibility of your traditional homeowners’ insurance policy.

Exclusions

Personal umbrella insurance typically excludes:

Intentional or criminal acts
Business-related activities
Professional liability claims
Certain high-risk assets, such as recreational vehicles or trampolines

Knowing how umbrella insurance works is crucial. If you’re new to Folsom, CA, or the idea of umbrella insurance, T.D. McNeil Insurance Services is here to help walk you through the process. If you’re ready to move forward with your homeowners policy and want to learn more about potential restrictions you might encounter with an umbrella insurance policy, contact us for a consultation and quote.

How to Maximize Flood Protection as a Homeowner in Folsom

Posted on December 31, 2025December 2, 2025 by admin

Owning a home in Folsom requires an understanding of insurance options and potential liability limitations. It’s not always possible to protect your home from water or flood damage with a standard homeowners insurance policy. You’ll need additional coverage for that. If you’re located in CA, working with T.D. McNeil Insurance Services is a convenient way for you to address your water damage and flood protection needs year-round.

Securing Flood Insurance

Most floods happen outside of designated flood zones. Unfortunately, floods and water damage are not covered with standard homeowners insurance, even if you have a policy that provides maximum protection for other events. When you’re thinking of investing in flood insurance, you’ll want to do so via the National Flood Insurance Program, also known as the NFIP. In addition to flood insurance or NFIP, consider adding water or sewer backup and sump pump overflow coverage to your existing policy.

Insurance Policy Add-Ons

Sewer backup and sump pump overflow insurance coverage helps protect your home from damage caused by heavy storms, flash floods, and rainfall. These events can lead to backups in your drains, sewer lines, or sump pumps. In addition to insurance, installing flood vents and maintaining clear drainage and sewer systems year-round can significantly reduce your risk of damage.

At T.D. McNeil Insurance Services, serving Folsom, CA, we work with clients to determine when flood insurance is necessary while also finding policies that provide proper protection for families across the region. Whether you’re investing in a home for the very first time or live in a high-risk area that is prone to flooding, we can help. Contact us for a consultation to learn more about your flood insurance and water damage protection options.

Do Health Changes Affect Your Life Insurance Policy?

Posted on November 28, 2025November 7, 2025 by admin

Health changes, for better or worse, can affect your life insurance policy. Understanding how this works can help you secure a great policy at a great price and avoid future price hikes.

Positive vs. Negative Impacts

When you purchase life insurance, your insurer will ask about your medical history. You will need to list any current health conditions as well as genetic conditions that run in your family. At the same time, your insurer will also take the way you manage your health into account. For instance, if you have diabetes or high blood pressure but regularly see a doctor and follow the doctor’s advice, you will likely qualify for a lower premium than someone with the same conditions who does not receive or follow medical advice and help. If a health condition develops after you’ve purchased a life insurance policy, your coverage and premiums remain the same. However, the insurer may charge more for policy add-ons than you would have been charged if you didn’t have a health condition.

Health changes can also have a positive impact on your life insurance policy. If you were overweight but lost weight over the years, stopped smoking, exercised more and saw a doctor more often, your insurer will take these changes into account. You may be able to qualify for lower life insurance premiums if you renew your policy or buy a new one.

Call T.D. McNeil Insurance Services serving Folsom, CA, for More Information

T.D. McNeil Insurance Services specializes in helping Folsom, CA residents purchase the life insurance that meets their current needs. Call us to find out more about your policy options and how your health affects the premiums for your chosen policy.

Does Motorcycle Insurance Cover Stolen Saddlebags?

Posted on October 31, 2025October 20, 2025 by admin

Motorcycle insurance in Folsom, CA, offers various levels of coverage. If you’ve upgraded your bike or purchased accessories, such as saddlebags, it’s important to make sure they’re covered if something happens.

Coverage Levels

There are different coverage levels for motorcycles, just like there are with auto insurance. Liability does not cover theft. It only covers the other person’s property damage and bodily injury expenses if the accident is your fault. Comprehensive may cover theft, but it depends on the company.

Accessory Coverage

Some companies specifically exclude accessories and upgraded parts from standard policies, even if you have comprehensive coverage. Instead, you must purchase accessory coverage, which protects any accessories on your bike, including saddlebags. An agent at T.D. McNeil Insurance Services can help you learn what type of coverage you need.

Should You File a Claim?

Even if you have insurance that covers theft, you may not want to file a claim. It’s important to determine the replacement cost of your saddlebags or stolen accessories. Then, compare the cost with your deductible. It may be cheaper to replace the saddlebags if your deductible is higher.

Filing a Claim

It’s essential to take the necessary steps if you want to file a claim. You’ll need to contact the police and file a police report. Gather any evidence you can to support the investigation. Your insurance company will want to know any information you have about the saddlebags, such as the brand and material, to determine their value. It’s helpful if you have a receipt from when they were purchased.

Contact one of our agents at T.D. McNeil Insurance Services to learn more about policy coverage or how to file a claim. Our knowledgeable agents will be happy to assist you. We’re currently serving the Folsom, CA, area.

Weathering California Storms: Why Motorhome Insurance Matters

Posted on September 30, 2025September 22, 2025 by admin

Folsom is known for its RV community and local scenery, including beautiful nature trails and the shimmering waters of Lake Natoma. However, one challenge for local RV owners is the area’s unpredictable weather.

High Winds and Seasonal Storms

Unpredictable weather patterns in Folsom can bring high winds and severe thunderstorms with sudden downpours, leading to localized flooding of roads, vehicles, and homes. Falling branches during storms can cause significant damage to motorhome roofing or siding.

Motorhome insurance from T.D. McNeil Insurance Services can help protect the exterior of your RV and its contents from devastating losses.

Comprehensive Coverage for a Variety of Risks

Local RV owners can benefit from comprehensive coverage that protects both the interior and exterior of their motorhomes from damage, theft, vandalism, and other covered risks. RV campers can feel secure knowing their personal belongings, such as laptops, tablets, cell phones, and onboard appliances, are covered in case of unexpected events.

Coverage for RV Accidents and Wildlife Collisions

Accidents and road hazards can result in collisions with other RVs, vehicles, wildlife, or property. Adding collision coverage to your motorhome policy ensures your RV and passengers are protected from significant financial loss in the event of an accident.

Financial Protection from Theft and Vandalism

Luxury motorhomes can be tempting targets for thieves, even in upscale campgrounds. Motorhome insurance provides protection for your valuables when parking, camping, or boondocking at local tourist attractions and venues.

Coverage for Legal Liability Claims

Liability coverage for your RV can help cover the costs of property damage and legal claims in the event of an at-fault accident. This coverage is especially useful if someone is injured at your campsite or if your motorhome causes damage to another person’s property.

Contact T.D. McNeil Insurance Services today to learn more!

Does RV Insurance Cover My Vehicle If It Is Damaged in a Flood?

Posted on August 29, 2025August 22, 2025 by admin

With the increasing number of severe weather events in Folsom, CA, and surrounding areas, you may wonder what happens if your recreational vehicle sustains damage in a flood. If you have the right RV insurance policy, it may cover repairs to mitigate water damage. T.D. McNeil Insurance Services can help ensure your policy provides adequate coverage for flood-related water damage.

You Need Comprehensive Coverage

Comprehensive coverage in your RV policy is similar to automobile insurance, as it protects against non-collision events such as theft, vandalism, fire, and water damage. For flood-related damage to be covered, the event must be sudden and unexpected, not the result of neglect, poor maintenance, or gradual leaks.

Storm damage from catastrophic floods or tornadoes can cause significant water damage to your motorhome or trailer. Vandalism, such as broken windows or a damaged roof leading to water intrusion, may also qualify for coverage. Additionally, falling debris like leaves, tree branches, and dirt can clog your RV’s gutters and drainage system, causing water damage.

Read Your Policy for Specifics

Many insurers have strict guidelines regarding water and flood damage coverage for RVs. For example, some policies may not cover damage from a burst pipe if the vehicle is in storage and the incident is deemed to result from improper maintenance. Other exclusions may include water damage caused by normal wear and tear.

It’s also important to note that insurance won’t cover manufacturer defects that result in water damage. In such cases, you’ll need to contact the RV manufacturer for compensation. If you live in your RV full-time and travel to areas with freezing temperatures, water damage from burst pipes may not be covered.

Learn how to protect your RV from various situations that can cause damage. Contact T.D. McNeil Insurance Services, serving residents in Folsom, CA, to schedule an appointment and discuss your coverage options.

Why It’s Wise to Buy More Than the State Minimum for Your Auto Insurance

Posted on July 31, 2025July 21, 2025 by admin

State minimum auto insurance levels are designed to provide drivers with basic protection in the event of an accident. In Folsom, CA, the minimum required coverage includes $30,000 for bodily injury or death to one person, $60,000 for bodily injury or death to multiple people in the same accident, and $15,000 for property damage. These limits represent the maximum amounts your insurance company will pay for injuries and property damage caused to others. T.D. McNeil Insurance Services can help you design a policy that offers more comprehensive protection.

Why State Minimum Coverage Is Insufficient

While state minimum insurance allows you to operate a vehicle legally, it provides limited protection if you are found liable in an accident. The average cost of a motor vehicle accident in 2024 ranged between $5,000 and $6,000, which typically covers damages to your own car. However, costs can quickly escalate if you are responsible for damage to another driver’s vehicle. If injuries occur, especially severe ones, expenses can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars. Without adequate insurance, you may face lawsuits from injured parties.

Managing Premium Costs

Drivers on tight budgets often opt for minimal insurance policies, believing it will save them money. However, these drivers are the ones who can least afford the financial risks associated with insufficient coverage. To keep premiums low while maintaining better protection, consider raising your deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage. This approach reduces your financial risk and can save you money compared to relying solely on a state minimum policy.

Protect yourself with a tailored auto insurance policy in Folsom, CA, by scheduling a consultation with T.D. McNeil Insurance Services.

Is Watercraft Insurance Worth it for Jet Skis and Boats in California?

Posted on June 30, 2025June 18, 2025 by admin

As a boat or jet ski owner in Folsom, CA, it’s essential to determine your insurance needs before heading out onto the water. Without proper insurance, you risk losing your investment due to accidents, unexpected storms, or other unforeseen events. At T.D. McNeil Insurance Services, we work closely with our clients to help them find the ideal watercraft insurance policy that fits their budget, lifestyle, and specific coverage requirements.

California Law

In California, watercraft insurance is not legally required. However, if you plan to use a rental or dock at a local marina in the Folsom area, you may be required to have adequate insurance. It’s important to review the specific requirements of your chosen location or marina before making arrangements for your watercraft.

Risks

While watercraft insurance is not mandatory, there are several compelling reasons to consider it:

Traditional Risks: Watercraft insurance can protect against sinking, weather damage, vandalism, collisions, and theft.
Natural Threats: Boats and jet skis face unique risks, such as capsizing, fire, and unexpected storms. These incidents can occur without warning, making comprehensive coverage essential for safeguarding your investment.

Understanding the importance of watercraft insurance is crucial for boat and jet ski owners, regardless of experience level or location. If you’re in Folsom, CA, the right insurance policy can provide the protection and peace of mind you need. To learn more about watercraft insurance options tailored to your lifestyle, contact T.D. McNeil Insurance Services today to schedule your consultation.

Hidden Risks that Umbrella Insurance Helps Eliminate

Posted on May 30, 2025May 27, 2025 by admin

Umbrella insurance is a crucial tool for many auto and homeowners to ensure that they have the appropriate level of insurance coverage. At T.D. McNeil Insurance Services, we frequently help people add umbrella coverage to their home and auto policies. We have seen many Folsom, CA residents come to us after discovering that they are liable for damages they were unaware of. Here are three common hidden risks that could expose you to financial liability, requiring the protection of an umbrella insurance policy.

1. Recreational Vehicles

You could be liable for damages that aren’t covered if you don’t have umbrella insurance on a recreational vehicle. This includes ATVs, jet skis, electric bicycles, and many other types of vehicles. These types of vehicles come with an increased risk that you must be properly covered against, unless you want to be on the hook for thousands of dollars in medical bills down the road.

2. Owning a Rental Property

You need more than just traditional home insurance if you are renting a piece of property out to tenants. You never really know who is staying on your property. You don’t want to be on the hook for medical bills if someone gets injured on your rental property.

3. Carpooling

If you carpool with another family to school or events, make sure you are properly covered if one of the other children gets hurt in a car accident while you are driving. Some traditional auto insurance policies may not cover you in this instance. As your children get older, you are going to want to update all of your insurance policies.

We provide Folsom, CA residents with the umbrella coverage they need to get proper peace of mind at T.D. McNeil Insurance Services. Give us a call today if you want to learn how we can help you.

Do Renters Need Flood Insurance Too?

Posted on April 30, 2025April 24, 2025 by admin

As a renter, your insurance needs differ from those of landlords. Often, renters lack coverage for personal property in the event of a flood. While renters aren’t responsible for structural damage, it doesn’t mean they should overlook insurance.

Does Renter’s Insurance Cover Flood Damage?

Renter’s insurance is a popular choice among renters. This insurance often covers theft and damage to personal property, such as in the event of a fire. However, many renters’ insurance policies exclude natural disasters, including floods.

Renters’ insurance may provide limited coverage. Many policies have limits that only cover a portion of your valuables, because this insurance isn’t designed to replace all your belongings. Other types of insurance can provide additional protection.

Renter’s Flood Insurance

Most renters in Folsom, CA, don’t realize they can also get renters’ flood insurance. A renter’s flood insurance policy is typically a contents-only policy, meaning it covers your personal belongings but not structural damage, which is typically covered by homeowner’s insurance.

Renter’s flood insurance can provide renters with a sense of security. They’ll know that they can easily replace personal belongings when disaster strikes. It’s specially designed to cover flood damage, so you don’t have to worry about natural disasters being excluded.

However, some policies exclude things stored in basements. Every policy also has coverage limits, so it’s crucial to work with an agent at T.D. McNeil Insurance Services to understand your policy limitations.

Many flood insurance policies have exceptions and exclusions. Here at T.D. McNeil Insurance Services, we believe in transparency. You won’t be left wondering what’s covered if there’s a flood. Contact our experienced customer service representatives today to learn more about our policies. We’re currently serving the Folsom, CA area.

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