Design a Top-Notch Employee Benefit Package

Posted on August 29, 2025August 21, 2025 by admin

As a business owner in North Carolina, one of your key responsibilities is purchasing commercial insurance. Many business owners need guidance when selecting the right policies for their companies. If you’re in Ramseur, NC, our team at Allen Insurance Agency is here to help. Since 1958, we’ve been working with businesses like yours to provide tailored insurance solutions.

Designing a Competitive Employee Benefits Package

Commercial insurance policies are essential for protecting your business assets, and your employees are among your most valuable resources. Offering an excellent employee benefits package is a great way to show your team how much you value them. Many companies use competitive benefits packages to attract top talent during the hiring process.

According to Affinity, research by human resources experts shows that most employees prioritize health insurance and life insurance plans. Additionally, mental health benefits and flexible workplace options are becoming increasingly popular. Regularly polling your staff to assess their satisfaction with the current benefits package can provide valuable insights. Using this feedback to make adjustments to your insurance offerings can improve employee recruitment and retention.

Schedule an Appointment Today

As a locally owned and operated company, we take pride in serving businesses in our community. At Allen Insurance Agency, we take the time to evaluate your company’s insurance needs and recommend affordable policies that meet those requirements. Businesses in Ramseur, NC, have trusted us for over 65 years. Call us today to schedule an appointment, and let us help you protect your business and support your employees.

Home Insurance and Aging Properties: What You Need to Know

Posted on July 31, 2025July 22, 2025 by admin

Statistics show that North Carolina residents often pay higher home insurance premiums than the national average, with recent hurricanes contributing to the increase. While newer homes are easier to rebuild, older homes are more vulnerable to damage. If you own an older home, it’s essential to have insurance that protects it from natural disasters and other incidents. The agents at Allen Insurance Agency discuss whether home insurance is available for older houses.

Will Home Insurance Cover Old Homes in Ramseur, NC?

Outdated systems, discontinued materials, frequent maintenance needs, and weakened structures make older homes riskier for insurance companies to cover. Fortunately, there are home insurance plans available for older houses. Most providers categorize old houses as being 30 to 50 years old or older, with 40 years being the average benchmark. However, premiums for older homes are typically more expensive than those for newer homes.

A home insurance policy with HO-8 modifications is designed explicitly for historic homes and houses that are 40 years old or older. It includes coverage for the structure, liability, and personal property. Additional riders may consist of dwelling protection, water backup, service line coverage, and ordinance/law/building code coverage. Older homes may also qualify for HO-1 home insurance, which offers minimal coverage. For historic homes, high-value home insurance is another option to consider.

Can Standard Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Old Homes in Ramseur, NC?

Most standard home insurance policies offer HO-3 coverage. Homes that are less than 40 years old, regardless of their age, have a better chance of qualifying for this type of policy. Depending on the insurance carrier, homes over 40 years old may also be eligible for HO-3 coverage. If your home doesn’t qualify for HO-3, HO-8 coverage is a reliable alternative.

At Allen Insurance Agency, we believe every home in the Ramseur area deserves protection from uncontrollable incidents. Our partner carriers offer home insurance plans tailored to meet the unique needs of aging homes at reasonable prices. Contact us today for more information on home insurance for older houses.

Does My Auto Insurance Policy Cover International Trips?

Posted on June 30, 2025June 19, 2025 by admin

A car trip abroad can be an exciting adventure any time of the year. Driving allows you to stop at will and explore sites you might miss if you traveled by plane. However, before heading to Mexico or Canada, it’s essential to ensure you have the right auto insurance coverage for international travel.

What Type of Auto Insurance Is Needed for International Trips?

Before planning your trip, check with your insurance agency to verify coverage, as it may vary depending on your policy. In most cases, your current auto insurance policy will be sufficient for a trip to Canada. However, if you’re traveling to Mexico, you’ll likely need to purchase a separate policy from a licensed insurance agency in Mexico. Some U.S.-based agencies work with Mexican insurance companies, allowing you to secure coverage before your trip.

In addition to basic coverage, you may want to consider supplemental policies to enhance your trip’s safety and convenience. Comprehensive coverage can provide compensation if your vehicle is stolen or vandalized, while roadside assistance coverage ensures you can get help if your vehicle breaks down during your journey.

Need More Information? Call Allen Insurance Agency in Ramseur, NC

Allen Insurance Agency is a family-owned business that has been serving drivers in and around Ramseur, NC, since the 1950s. Our team is knowledgeable about international insurance laws and regulations and can help you review your options to select the best coverage for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our policy options or to request price quotes.

When to Review and Reassess Commercial Insurance Policies in Ramseur NC

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

Whether you own a retail store, a local mechanic’s garage, or a manufacturing plant in Ramseur, NC, securing and maintaining commercial insurance is essential for optimal protection. Regularly reviewing your commercial insurance policy needs is a way to stay updated with potential risks, growth factors, and regulatory changes. At Allen Insurance Agency, we work with clients to determine the right time to reassess and reevaluate commercial insurance needs throughout the year.

When to Review and Assess Commercial Policies in North Carolina

When operating your business in North Carolina, it’s advisable to review and assess your commercial insurance policies:

After hiring new employees. Businesses with 3 or more employees are required to obtain and maintain workers’ compensation coverage.
Annually, to ensure your policy aligns with any changes made to rates, exclusions, regulatory requirements, and policy language.
When investing in renovations, or if you’re in the process of expanding or relocating. You’ll want to assess flood and fire risks and estimate the costs of complete replacements.
When investing in company vehicles, property, or new inventory. If you’re transporting equipment or tools in North Carolina, you may also want to consider inland marine coverage.
After experiencing a major claim. Reviewing policies can help you understand exclusions, endorsements, and deductibles for future peace of mind.

Whenever you run a business in Ramseur, NC, it’s crucial to ensure you’re adequately protected with the right commercial insurance. Even if you’re new to business management, sufficient insurance can significantly reduce liability risks, legal battles, and losses. To determine the right time for you to reassess and review your commercial insurance policy, contact Allen Insurance Agency for your consultation today.

How to Prepare Your Home for Extreme Weather Conditions

Posted on April 30, 2025April 28, 2025 by admin

Owning a home in North Carolina offers residents a high quality of life that is rare, even in the United States. However, homeowners in Ramseur, NC, and surrounding areas face various extreme weather threats in certain seasons, including heavy thunderstorms, high winds, hail, and even the occasional effects of tropical storms. At Allen Insurance Agency serving Ramseur, NC, we want our new and current clients to know how to prepare their homes for these eventualities.

Inspect and Secure the Roof

Strong winds and hail are common in this region, especially during spring and summer. Inspect your roof for loose shingles, damaged flashing, or signs of wear. Repair any weak spots and consider impact-resistant materials if you’re replacing your roof.

Clean Gutters and Drains

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your home’s structure. Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris to ensure proper drainage during heavy rains. This reduces the risk of water intrusion and damage to the foundation.

Protect Windows and Doors

High winds can cause flying debris that shatters glass. Install storm shutters or use impact-resistant windows where possible. Ensure that doors, especially garage doors, are properly reinforced to withstand wind pressure.

Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items

Falling limbs and unsecured furniture can cause significant damage during storms. Trim trees near your home and store or anchor outdoor items such as patio furniture, grills, and tools.

Review Your Home Insurance Coverage

Ensure your policy includes coverage for wind, hail, and water damage. If you need help with this, you can contact Allen Insurance Agency, serving Ramseur, NC.

Preparing your Ramseur-area home for extreme weather helps reduce potential damage and ensures you’re ready to act quickly when storms strike. Proactive maintenance and the right insurance coverage work together to safeguard your home!

Should I Get Full Coverage Auto Insurance for a New Vehicle?

Posted on March 28, 2025March 25, 2025 by admin

When you have a brand-new vehicle, you know how important it is to keep your vehicle looking beautiful and functioning well. One way to keep your vehicle looking and functioning its best is to get the right level of auto insurance.

The right level of auto insurance gives you the resources to repair your vehicle when it is damaged. The professionals at Allen Insurance Agency, serving Ramseur, NC, can help you decide which level of auto insurance is best for your vehicle. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Full Coverage Auto Insurance

Full coverage auto insurance provides maximum damage coverage. Full coverage auto insurance is a range of insurance types, including:

Liability insurance, which provides protection for the other driver and their car if you cause an accident
Comprehensive insurance, which provides coverage for a range of non-collision events
Collision insurance, which provides coverage for your vehicle if you are involved in a collision

In other words, if you have full coverage auto insurance, your new vehicle is covered in many ways. If your vehicle sustains damage for a covered event, you’ll have a policy to help it get repaired.

Do I Need Full Coverage Auto Insurance for a New Vehicle?

You are not required to get full coverage auto insurance for a new vehicle unless you have a car loan. Your lender will likely require this level of insurance for you to be approved for your loan. However, many people choose to get this level of insurance for a new vehicle because they want resources to keep their vehicle in good condition.

How Can I Get Full Coverage Auto Insurance?

To get full coverage auto insurance, contact Allen Insurance Agency, serving Ramseur, NC. We can help you find a policy that meets your needs.

Should My Small Business Have Commercial Insurance and Commercial Vehicle Insurance?

Posted on February 28, 2025February 24, 2025 by admin

Commercial insurance is a crucial component for small businesses to meet their legal and contractual obligations and manage their risks. However, small business owners sometimes unknowingly take risks when they rely on their personal auto insurance to cover their business vehicle use. To avoid this potentially costly mistake, let the Allen Insurance Agency team, serving the Ramseur, NC market, create a tailored commercial and commercial vehicle insurance plan for your business.

Understanding Commercial and Commercial Vehicle Insurance

Small businesses in North Carolina come in all shapes and sizes, and their commercial insurance needs vary based on their industry, legal entity, number of employees, and how they use motor vehicles in their business. Nearly every small business uses motor vehicles to conduct business, and that vehicle use should be covered by commercial vehicle insurance.

While small business owners often acquire property, liability, and workers’ compensation coverage, some fail to acquire commercial vehicle insurance, assuming their personal auto policy offers the necessary protection. However, only commercial vehicle policies properly cover vehicles:

That is leased or owned by the business
Used by you or an employee for business purposes, such as taking a client or employee to lunch or a business meeting
That transport tools or deliver products to clients or work locations

Personal vehicle insurance generally has lower liability limits than commercial vehicle policies.

If any of the factors mentioned above apply to your vehicle use, talk to your agent to ensure you adequately protect yourself and your business while avoiding unnecessary risks.

Working with the Allen Insurance Agency

The Allen Insurance Agency proudly serves the Ramseur, NC, and surrounding business communities. Our commercial insurance experience can help guide your commercial insurance planning. Stop in today or call us at (336) 824-4130 to schedule an appointment.

Does Home Insurance Cover the Sewer Line?

Posted on January 31, 2025January 27, 2025 by admin

Homeownership in Ramseur, NC, is idyllic, with properties surrounded by rolling hills and scenic views of the distant Blue Ridge Mountains. Part of life here is having home insurance to help cover you when things go wrong. But at Allen Insurance Agency serving Ramseur, NC, we’ve noticed that many homeowners don’t often think about an important aspect of their homes, which is understandable because it operates sight unseen.

What is a Sewer Line?

We’re talking about the sewer line. This underground pipe is a vital component of a home’s plumbing system. It carries wastewater from the house to the municipal sewer system or a private septic tank. The sewer line connects to your home’s plumbing fixtures, such as sinks, toilets, showers, and appliances like dishwashers or washing machines, ensuring that all waste and gray water are safely transported away from your property.

Vulnerability of Sewer Lines

Sewer lines are typically made of durable materials like PVC, cast iron, or clay, designed to withstand the pressure of wastewater and the weight of the soil above them. However, they can become vulnerable to issues such as blockages, cracks, or collapses caused by aging, tree root intrusion, and ground shifting over time. All properties are vulnerable to these issues, not just the ones in Ramseur, NC.

Sewer Lines Not Usually Covered

Problems with the line can lead to serious issues like sewage backups, slow drains, or unpleasant odors. In severe cases, a damaged sewer line can cause flooding in the yard or inside the home, potentially resulting in costly repairs and health hazards. Home insurance may not cover this without adding this specific coverage to the policy.

To ensure your home is covered for the eventuality of a sewer line problem, contact Allen Insurance Agency in Ramseur, NC, today.

Self-Insured Drivers: Is It a Viable Option for High-Net-Worth Individuals?

Posted on December 23, 2024December 22, 2024 by admin

For high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) in and around Ramseur, NC, traditional auto insurance may not always be the most appealing or cost-effective option. The concept of self-insuring, which involves opting out of traditional insurance policies in favor of setting aside funds to cover potential damages or liability, is becoming an increasingly viable alternative. However, this approach requires careful consideration, especially in terms of the potential risks involved.

Exploring the Concept of Self-Insurance

Self-insurance involves setting aside a designated fund to cover potential losses. HNWIs often have the financial capacity to assume the risk of paying for damages out of pocket, especially if they own valuable, low-risk vehicles or have an excellent safety record. This model can save money on premiums and administrative costs but also exposes the individual to significant financial risk in the event of a major accident or liability claim.

Assessing the Viability of Self-Insurance for High-Net-Worth Individuals

Self-insurance can be an attractive option due to the potential for reduced insurance costs and more control over risk management. However, having a well-funded reserve is crucial to cover significant liabilities such as medical costs, vehicle repairs, or legal expenses. Additionally, self-insured drivers must ensure they comply with local laws, which often require certain levels of liability coverage, especially in accidents involving others.

Understanding the Risks and Considerations

The main challenge with self-insurance is the unpredictable nature of accidents. A major incident, such as an accident causing injury to others or extensive property damage, could lead to significant financial strain. It’s always advisable to explore options with a financial advisor or insurance agent for protection.

Allen Insurance Agency: Tailored Insurance Policies for Your Needs

Allen Insurance Agency underwrites policies to meet customers’ needs. We serve Ramseur, NC, and the surrounding cities. Contact us today.

How commercial insurance can save your small business?

Posted on November 25, 2024November 23, 2024 by admin

The overall failure rate for small businesses is relatively high. The potential is excellent, but the risks are many. Being aware of potential pitfalls can help you mitigate them to some extent. That is where commercial insurance comes in. At Allen Insurance Agency in Ramseur, NC, we work with our small business clients to help them get the right commercial insurance to protect their small businesses.

Commercial liability coverage

Being sued is arguably the most significant risk that every small business faces. One in three businesses is sued every year. Commercial liability coverage will protect you from customers, vendors, or even a disgruntled employee who sues you. Not only does it cover a judgment, but it also helps with legal costs. It can be costly to defend yourself.

Business interruption insurance

Things happen. If one of the things that happens makes it impossible for you to do business, your expenses will not go away. With business interruption insurance, you will be able to pay your bills and make payroll for your employees and yourself until you can reopen your doors.

Commercial property insurance

Commercial property insurance covers not only the physical building but also its contents—all the things you need to do business. Having the right insurance can replace these things and get you back in business as quickly as possible.

Commercial flood insurance

Over 70% of small businesses are unprepared for a natural disaster. Floods are America’s number 1 natural disaster. Typical business property insurance won’t cover flood damage, which can cost you your business.

Give our office at Allen Insurance Agency in Ramseur, NC, a call to discuss the risks facing your small business and how we can help you protect yourself.

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