When you buy a home, it represents both a major investment and your future. Because home insurance policies can vary widely, many homeowners turn to the team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency for guidance. If your home is near Plano, TX, our experienced agents can provide personalized insight to help you choose the right coverage. We have been helping homeowners protect what matters most since 2003.

What Additional Home Insurance Coverage Should You Consider?

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that a standard home insurance policy primarily covers property damage and personal liability if someone is injured on their property. However, depending on your location and specific risks, you may need additional coverage. When you speak with one of our knowledgeable agents, they can help you identify policy options that better protect your home.

For example, most home insurance policies do not include flood insurance. Homeowners in flood-prone or coastal areas should strongly consider adding separate flood coverage. Additionally, the Texas Department of Insurance notes that damage caused by insects such as termites, rats, or mites is generally not covered under standard policies. If you notice signs of infestation, it may be worth exploring specialty coverage options.

Water-related issues are another common concern. Ongoing water leaks can lead to mold growth, which is typically excluded from basic home insurance policies. Purchasing mold coverage proactively may help protect you from costly repairs. While vandalism is often covered, damage caused by normal wear and tear is not. You should also discuss whether you need added protection for risks such as windstorms, hail, or other severe weather events common in Texas.

Contact Paragon Independent Insurance Agency Today

Having the right home insurance coverage can provide peace of mind and financial security. The team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency is ready to review your current policy and help you explore additional coverage options to ensure you are adequately protected.

Homeowners in the Plano, TX area can rely on us for attentive service and knowledgeable guidance. Contact Paragon Independent Insurance Agency today to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward protecting your home.

Home insurance provides important protection, including coverage for your home’s structure, personal property, liability, and other structures on your property. However, a standard policy may not cover every situation. For homeowners in Plano, TX, insurance riders are a practical way to enhance coverage for specific needs without purchasing separate insurance policies.

How Do Home Insurance Riders Work?

Insurance riders, also known as endorsements, allow you to customize your home insurance policy by adding coverage for specific risks or situations. Plano, TX, homeowners can choose from a variety of riders, and it is often possible to add more than one to a single policy. Riders help fill coverage gaps and tailor your policy to better match your lifestyle and property.

Common Home Insurance Riders to Consider

Short-Term Rental Insurance

This rider provides coverage if you rent your home on a short-term basis through platforms such as Airbnb or Vrbo. Some policies limit coverage to periods when guests are staying in your home, helping manage costs while maintaining protection.

Business Property Insurance

For homeowners who operate a home-based business, this rider can cover business inventory, equipment, and other assets stored in the home. Standard home insurance policies typically offer little to no protection for business property, making this rider an important addition.

Scheduled Personal Property Insurance

If you own high-value items such as jewelry, artwork, or collectibles, standard policy limits may not fully cover their replacement cost. A scheduled personal property rider increases coverage for these valuables and often provides broader protection.

Building Code Coverage

Older homes may not meet current building code requirements. This rider helps cover the additional cost of bringing your home up to code if it is damaged by a covered event and must be repaired or rebuilt.

Contact Paragon Independent Insurance Agency for More Information

Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets, and adding the right riders can help ensure it is fully protected. If you need help reviewing your policy or adding riders, the team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency is ready to assist. We have extensive experience helping Plano, TX homeowners find coverage solutions tailored to their needs. Contact us today to learn more about available riders and how they can strengthen your home insurance policy.

Many homeowners in Plano, TX, leave their houses unoccupied for extended periods. Some travel frequently for work, while others spend part of the year in warmer or cooler climates. No matter the reason, it is important to understand how being away for weeks or months can affect your home insurance coverage.

What some Plano, TX, homeowners do not realize is that leaving a house empty for a long period can change how a home insurance policy responds to certain claims. Paragon Independent Insurance Agency encourages homeowners to review their policy before they travel to ensure they have the protection they need while the home is unoccupied.

How Long Can You Leave Your Home Empty in Plano, TX?

Most home insurance policies include vacancy clauses. These clauses limit or exclude coverage if a home is left unoccupied for an extended period, typically between 30 and 60 days. The exact time frame depends on the insurer and the policy, but in Texas, 60 days is common.

The reasoning is straightforward. Unoccupied homes face greater risks. A leaking pipe may go unnoticed and cause severe water damage. Thieves may target a home if they see no activity, such as an empty driveway or an overflowing mailbox.

What Home Insurance May Not Cover for an Empty Home

Water damage and vandalism are the two types of claims most commonly limited under vacancy clauses. Some insurance carriers may also reduce claim payments once the home passes the vacancy threshold.

The Texas Department of Insurance requires insurers to clearly outline these exclusions in the policy. However, many homeowners do not review these details before heading out of town, which can lead to surprises if a claim is filed during an extended absence.

Steps to Take Before Leaving Your Home Unoccupied

Your first step should be to speak with your agent at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency. They can explain your current coverage and recommend options if needed. In many cases, homeowners can add a vacancy permit or endorsement to maintain full coverage while they are away. Some insurers also offer specific solutions designed for extended absences.

Additional practical steps include:

• Ask a friend or neighbor to check on your home regularly.
• Arrange for someone to collect your mail every few days, or place a temporary hold with the post office.
• Consider using a house sitter, even part-time, to ensure the property is not completely unoccupied.

Make Sure Your Home Is Fully Protected Before You Travel

You should not have to take unnecessary risks when leaving your home for an extended period. The key is understanding your home insurance coverage and ensuring it meets your needs. Contact Paragon Independent Insurance Agency before you leave so you know your home is protected while you are away.

Operating a business from home is often cost-effective and convenient. However, many business owners may not realize that standard home insurance provides limited coverage for business activities. If you’re relying solely on your home insurance, you could be leaving critical gaps in coverage. If you’re running a business in Plano, TX, Paragon Independent Insurance Agency is here to help you determine the type of insurance you need.

What Home Insurance Might Cover

Most home insurance policies provide very limited business coverage, including:

• A small amount of coverage for business equipment (often capped at $2,500 or less)
• Protection against certain losses, such as fires or theft

However, this coverage typically applies only to property damage and does not include income loss or liability.

Where Home Insurance Falls Short

Home insurance generally does not cover:

• Business liability if a client or delivery person is injured
• Professional mistakes, errors, or negligence
• Loss of business income after a covered event
• Employees, contractors, or business vehicles

When Additional Coverage Is Necessary

As a business owner, knowing when additional coverage is necessary is crucial. You may need to look beyond standard home insurance if your at-home business:

• Has regular client or customer visits
• Employs others or works with contractors
• Stores inventory or products
• Generates significant income
• Uses specialized or expensive equipment

Working with an insurance agent can help you determine which policies are best for your unique situation.

Understanding the type of home and business insurance you need is essential when running a business from your home. If you’re located in Plano, TX, Paragon Independent Insurance Agency is here to assist you. Contact us today for a quote and consultation to learn how we can protect your business from all angles.