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Larry Burkman Agency

4820 University Dr., Ste. 7
Huntsville, AL 35816

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Planning Home Renovations? Find Out if You Should Update Your Home Insurance First

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From kitchen remodels to adding a room, home improvements can enhance the value and functionality of your home. Before you start construction, meet with your qualified agent at Larry Burkman Agency, serving Huntsville, AL. You’ll learn how renovations affect your home insurance policy and have the opportunity to modify your coverage to include the upgrades.

Why Do I Need More Coverage After Renovating?

After building a new addition or redoing the bathroom, consider adding coverage to your policy. Why? Your house becomes more valuable following a major overhaul. You may need additional insurance to protect it against possible risks. Our experienced agents can provide the guidance needed to make an informed decision.

What Home Renovations Typically Require Insurance Changes?

Let’s talk about which renovations typically affect your insurance. Expanding your home, adding a pool or deck, or renovating the kitchen or basement will most likely raise your property’s value and insurance needs. Your agent can explain how these changes compare with your dwelling or liability coverage. For example, replacing your roof or installing a new HVAC system may generate changes to your home insurance needs. Make sure your policy accounts for any new risks and values.

Beyond structure, design and safety features also play a role. Adding rooms, installing a pool or deck, upgrading the kitchen, finishing the basement, or replacing the roof are just a few of the remodeling projects that can increase the value of your home. Safety features, such as grab rails and anti-slip flooring, may significantly reduce risks. High-end designs and finishes make your home aesthetically pleasing and harmonious. To maintain your peace of mind, you’ll want your home insurance to include these improvements.

Before you sign off on the build design, talk to a dedicated agent at Larry Burkman Agency, serving Huntsville, AL.

How Your Auto Maintenance Routine Can Influence Auto Accidents

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Many drivers in Alabama consider car maintenance a means to avoid breakdowns, but routine upkeep does much more than protect your engine—it can also help prevent accidents. Neglecting certain parts of your vehicle can lead to sudden failures that put you, your passengers, and others on the road at risk. At Larry Burkman Agency, serving Huntsville, AL, we’re here to explain why maintenance matters for safety.

Why Maintenance Matters for Safety

Key components, such as tires, brakes, lights, and steering systems, play critical roles in keeping your vehicle under control. For example, worn brake pads or low brake fluid levels can reduce your car’s ability to stop quickly in an emergency. Uneven tire tread decreases traction, especially on wet roads, increasing the risk of hydroplaning. Burned-out headlights or taillights make it harder for you to see and for other drivers to notice your vehicle.

Even smaller issues can impact safety. A cracked windshield can distort your view, while worn wiper blades may fail during heavy rainstorms in Alabama, leaving you vulnerable in poor weather conditions.

Small Checks That Make a Big Difference

Maintaining your car doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple tasks, such as checking your tire pressure monthly, replacing your windshield wipers annually, and monitoring warning lights, can go a long way. Regular oil changes often include inspections that catch potential problems early. If your brakes start squealing or your steering feels loose, don’t wait—have it checked by a professional right away.

Being proactive about car care isn’t just smart for your wallet—it’s essential for staying safe on the road. By keeping your vehicle in top condition, you reduce the risk of accidents and help protect everyone around you. If you have questions about how maintenance is related to your auto insurance or liability coverage, our team is here to assist. Contact Larry Burkman Agency, serving Huntsville, AL, today!

Will Commercial Insurance Cover Cost of Returned Merchandise?

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Imagine a customer bought something at your store and now wants to return it. The reason for the return might not even be your fault—it could have been an unwanted gift, a factory defect, the wrong size, or a color that wasn’t as advertised. Perhaps the item was damaged or spoiled during transportation. Regardless of the reason, the customer is always right, and you’ll need to either refund their money or provide an equivalent replacement. But can commercial insurance help cover these costs?

Check Your Policy

Whether commercial insurance covers the cost of returned merchandise depends on the type of policy you have. Here are some scenarios where specific types of commercial insurance may apply:

  • Commercial Property Insurance: If returned merchandise is stolen or damaged, this type of insurance can cover the loss.
  • Product Liability Insurance: If merchandise is returned due to defects, product liability insurance may cover the associated costs.
  • Product Recall Insurance: In the event of a product recall, this insurance can help you recoup losses related to returned items.
  • Business Interruption Insurance: If a disaster like a fire or flood damages your merchandise and leads to a significant number of returns, business interruption insurance may provide coverage.
  • Chargeback Protection Insurance: If a customer claims merchandise was purchased using a stolen credit card and demands a refund, chargeback protection insurance can safeguard your business against such incidents.

Understanding your policy and its coverage limits is essential to ensure you’re prepared for these situations.

Contact Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL

If you’re in the Huntsville, AL, area and need commercial insurance, contact Larry Burkman Agency. Our team is here to help you find the right coverage to protect your business. Reach out to us today!

Tips for creating and storing a home inventory

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Home insurance is all about protecting your house. While you hope you’ll never have to file a claim, having a home inventory will make the process much smoother if you do. At Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL, we have the expertise you need to make the best decision about the coverage that suits you best.

Creating a Home Inventory

Creating a home inventory can seem daunting. It does take some time, but the value it provides will more than compensate for it. Set aside a few hours, grab a pad and pen, and your phone or camera, and pick a room to start. Write down everything you can see, then start opening drawers, cupboards, and closets. Write down as much detail as possible, including brand names, number of items, and, where possible, model and serial numbers. Take pictures of each room from several different angles.

Go through all the rooms and continue until you’re done. Don’t forget to inspect the attic and basement, if you have them. Attach any receipts or sales slips that you have for any items.

Storing a Home Inventory

Once the inventory is complete, you need to find a safe place to store it. Storing it in your home may not be the best option. A safe deposit box is a good choice. If it must be kept in your home, ensure it is stored in a fire-resistant, waterproof container. Placing a copy of the home inventory in the cloud will allow you to access it at any time from any location, which is beneficial.

In Huntsville, AL, you can count on our team of independent insurance agents at Larry Burkman Agency to be there for you when you need us. Give us a call today.

Is the Minimum Liability of 25/50/25 Enough?

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Alabama is one of the states that requires only minimum liability when you purchase auto insurance. The insurance is split into three types, usually referred to as 25/50/25, which means $25,000 for bodily injury per person, a maximum of $50,000 for total bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage. While this may seem like a substantial amount, with rising costs, it’s worth considering whether it’s truly sufficient. Even if you purchase comprehensive and collision coverages, it’s important to scrutinize the amount of liability you buy. You may want to speak with an insurance agent at the Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL about increasing it.

There’s Coverage, and Then There’s Better Coverage

You may be able to meet the legal requirements to drive with only the minimum liability insurance coverage. You may also decide to buy additional coverage, such as comprehensive, to ensure you’re covered in other types of accidents and events involving your car. But it’s not just the type of coverage that will help protect you; it’s the amount. And that minimum 25/50/25 may not be enough.

Costs are rising, including those for car repair, car rental, medical expenses, and more. If you really want to be sure you’re covered, you need to ensure the amounts you buy are enough. It’s difficult to predict precisely what you may encounter in terms of bills, so arranging for coverage that’s as high as you can afford is better than going with the legal minimum. You may be a careful driver, but ensuring you have coverage for the unthinkable will give you more assurance.

The Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL can help you customize your auto insurance coverage so that your premiums are affordable while your coverage is also as high as it can be. Contact us to arrange for an appointment.

Do One-Person Businesses Need Commercial Insurance?

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Larry Burkman Agency has assisted many Huntsville, AL companies in finding commercial insurance that keeps them secure. But what if you run a one-person business? Will you need protection? Absolutely! Here’s what you need to know about the insurance type that makes sense for you.

Yes, One-Person Companies Need Insurance: Sole Proprietorship Policies

While it might seem odd to insure a business when you’re the only employee, sole proprietorship protection is critical! It’s available to exactly who the name suggests: firms with only one employee! How do you know if you qualify? Did you file organization articles with Alabama? If not, you count!

Note: Sole proprietor companies and self-employed individuals are different! Typically, self-employed individuals include freelancers and independent contractors who work and get paid by other businesses. Sole proprietors literally own a business and control assets, debts, etc.

Insurance Types You’ll Need

When drafting your sole proprietorship business insurance policy, it’s critical to add a variety of protection types! After all, if you’re the only person liable for your business financially, protecting yourself is critical! Just a few types of insurance you should add to your company include:

  • Liability protection to keep you safe from third-party claims (bodily injury lawsuits, etc.)
  • Professional liability support to pay for negligence or mistakes in your business
  • Business owner’s policy (BOP) that combines liability and property coverage
  • Cyber insurance (if you handle sensitive information for your customers)
  • Commercial auto (especially if you make deliveries, haul tools, transport passengers, etc.)

We’re Ready to Support You!

Do you run a one-person business and need commercial insurance you can trust? Call us at Larry Burkman Agency to get started! We’ll support your Huntsville, AL company by finding reliable commercial protection that keeps you safe and minimizes unnecessary and costly expenses.

Does Home Insurance Cover the Septic?

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Not every home in and around Huntsville is on a town sewer system. If you aren’t, you may be delighted to have your septic system, as it gives you more control, and you don’t have the bills associated with town sewer. The downside is when something goes sideways with the septic, and a lot can go wrong, believe us. From tree roots cracking the pipes to overflows that wreck your lawn (think "Meet the Parents" movie), you may hope that your home insurance covers the septic. Does it?

When Home Insurance Covers Septic Damage

Standard home insurance policies, like the ones available through Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL, may cover septic system damage in certain situations. If a covered event occurs, such as fire, vandalism, or something else, the insurance company might be responsible for paying for repairs or replacement.

What Home Insurance Doesn’t Cover

Home insurance generally doesn’t cover damage caused by wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or gradual deterioration. If the septic system fails due to age, rust, or tree root infiltration, homeowners will likely have to pay for repairs out of pocket, which won’t be cheap.

Additional Coverage Options

Some insurance companies offer optional riders or endorsements that can provide extra protection. You should look into these. One common add-on is sewer backup coverage, which may help cover the cost of cleaning up if the septic system overflows into the home.

Understanding what is and isn’t covered under a home insurance policy is essential for homeowners who rely on a septic system. Reviewing the policy details and speaking with an insurance representative at Larry Burkman Agency serving Huntsville, AL can help ensure the right coverage is in place to avoid unexpected repair costs.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Why It’s Essential

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Imagine driving home after a long day, only to be hit by another driver who has no insurance or a policy that doesn’t entirely cover the damages. Instantly, you could be stuck with mounting medical bills, vehicle repairs, and financial stress. This scenario is more common than you might think, but there is a solution. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage acts as a financial safety net, stepping in to protect you when the at-fault party fails to do so. Without it, you could be paying the price for someone else’s lack of preparation.

What Is Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage are two types of auto insurance that help protect drivers in accidents involving other drivers who lack sufficient coverage.

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage provides financial protection if you’re in an accident with a driver without auto insurance. On the other hand, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage steps in when the at-fault driver’s insurance is inadequate to cover your vehicle repairs, medical bills, and other related expenses.

What Does Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage Typically Cover?

While each policy is unique, a UM/UIM policy may cover:

  • Medical expenses for you and/or your passengers if injured
  • Lost wages due to an injury
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage (if applicable under certain auto insurance policies)

Get Coverage with Larry Burkman Agency in Huntsville, AL

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is a vital aspect of your auto insurance policy that offers financial security in the event of an accident. Serving Huntsville, AL and the surrounding areas, Larry Burkman Agency can get you the coverage you need to stay protected on the road. Contact us today to discuss your coverage needs.

Commercial insurance for food service businesses

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Opening a food service business, such as a food truck, bakery, restaurant, or catering service, is often driven by a passion for cuisine. However, it’s crucial to understand the challenges and risks associated with such an establishment and to ensure you’re taking steps to protect yourself and your business from potential perils.

Commercial insurance for food service businesses in Huntsville, AL, can mitigate various liabilities commonly associated with these companies. Knowing you’re covered for many adverse events can provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on growing your business.

What Does Commercial Insurance Cover?

Every food service company’s commercial policy should address the unique risks associated with that specific business. Here are some of the most common types of coverages included in many policies:

  • Property damage: This coverage can help offset the costs of repairing or replacing equipment, furniture, or the building when they’re damaged due to events like fires, natural disasters, water leaks, and other covered incidents.
  • Liability coverage is often one of the most crucial coverages for food service businesses. It offsets costs associated with medical expenses, legal fees, and settlements if a customer suffers an injury, foodborne illness, or allergic reaction.
  • Food and inventory loss: This coverage can help cover the costs of equipment malfunctions or power outages that lead to food spoilage or other inventory loss.

Some food service businesses may also need to consider liquor liability or commercial auto insurance coverage. Our team at Larry Burkman Agency can help individuals in Huntsville, AL, learn about the types of coverage they need for a food service business.

Does My Home Insurance Cover My College Student’s Apartment?

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College students take valuable assets to school, including electronics, furniture, jewelry, and other items, so it is essential to understand whether and how your home insurance protects those assets. Generally, home insurance policies cover children’s assets if you claim them as dependents and they are 26 or younger. However, significant limitations exist that you should know before they leave for school. Contact our Larry Burkman Agency team, serving Huntsville, AL, if you need answers concerning your home or other insurance coverage.

Home Insurance Coverage Limits for College Students

Home insurance typically covers your dependent children’s personal belongings for theft, fire, or other covered perils, as well as their liability for injuring someone or damaging the property of others.

A key consideration is that many insurers do not cover students in fraternity, sorority, or off-campus housing. Many only cover university-controlled housing, so talk to your agent in advance.

In addition to the university-controlled housing issue:

  • Coverage generally applies only to full-time students.
  • Some insurers stop their coverage when your child reaches 24 or 25 years old.
  • Belongings like jewelry, bicycles, and electronics often have low claim limits.
  • Every claim is subject to your policy’s standard deductibles.
  • The loss of belongings at "off-premises" locations is commonly capped at 10% of your personal property limit.

Talk with your agent to confirm how your policy handles your college student’s property so you can adjust your housing or insurance decisions as needed. Many college students buy affordable renters insurance that covers their belongings, much like their parent’s home policy.

Insuring with Larry Burkman Agency

Larry Burkman Agency, serving Huntsville, AL, will help develop an insurance plan that meets your family’s needs. Visit our office or call us today at 256-830-1123 to protect your family and possessions.

Partner Carriers

  • ASI
  • Foremost
  • National General
  • Orion
  • Progressive
  • Safeco
  • Safeway
  • The Hartford
  • Travelers
  • Universal