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7700 E Arapahoe Rd., Ste. 330
Centennial, CO 80112

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Featured Insurance Blog

“We Thought We Were Covered”

A Cautionary Tale from the Thomases

When the laundry room light started flickering, Mrs. Thomas made a mental note to have someone look at it. But with three kids, two jobs, and a dog that hated the vacuum, that mental note was soon buried beneath her ever-growing to-do list.

One week later, while the Thomases were out at a soccer game, a short circuit sparked a small electrical fire. The fire was contained quickly, thanks to a neighbor who had called 9-1-1. But the smoke and water damage made the home completely unlivable. Their entire downstairs was soaked, and the air reeked of melted plastic and scorched drywall.

Still, the Thomases felt relatively calm. They had homeowners insurance. This is why you have it, right?

But when they sat down with their claims adjuster, they made a horrifying discovery:

Their policy didn’t include loss of use coverage.

No hotel reimbursement. No meal allowances. No transportation help. Just the home repairs — nothing more.

Where Do You Go When You Can’t Go Home?

With no coverage for temporary living expenses, the Thomases were left scrambling.

Mrs. Thomas and the kids stayed with her sister in a small two-bedroom apartment. Mr. Thomas took Moose, their anxious golden retriever, to a pet-friendly motel nearly 45 minutes from work. It wasn’t ideal. But it was all they could do.

What started as a minor inconvenience turned into a logistical and emotional mess. The kids missed school because of transportation issues. Mrs. Thomas had to take unpaid time off to juggle pickups and paperwork. Mr. Thomas was exhausted from the commute. And everyone missed their routines — their beds, their dog, their dinner table.

After just two weeks, the family had spent nearly $2,000 on food, gas, and makeshift housing. The worst part? None of it was reimbursable.

“We thought we were covered,” Mr. Thomas sighed. “But we didn’t know what we didn’t know.”

So, What Is Loss of Use Coverage?

The Thomases didn’t know either — until they needed it.

Loss of use coverage, sometimes called Additional Living Expenses (ALE), helps pay for your everyday costs if your home becomes temporarily unlivable after a covered event.

Things like:

  • Hotel stays or short-term rentals
  • Restaurant meals or groceries
  • Laundry and clothing
  • Pet boarding
  • Mileage or transportation
  • Even moving or storage fees

It’s not automatically included in every policy, and when it is, the limits might not be enough for a full family displacement. That’s why it’s so important to talk to a trusted agent about your actual coverage needs, not just your square footage.

Don’t Let This Be Your Story

The Thomases eventually moved back home. Their house looks great. But the stress, financial strain, and months of disjointed living left a real impact.

Don’t let this become your story, next. At Avalue Insurance, we’re not just here to protect your house; we’re here to help protect the life you’ve built inside it.

Let us review your policy, explain what’s covered (and what’s not), and help you fill in the gaps before life throws you a curveball. Because peace of mind shouldn’t be optional.

Request a quote online today or give us a call at 303-773-3332— we’re here to make insurance easier to understand, and easier to trust.

Centennial Business Owners Shouldn’t Overlook Employment Practices Liability Insurance

Running a business means managing not only operations but also relationships with employees. As workplace dynamics evolve, so do the risks associated with employment practices. Claims of wrongful termination, discrimination, or harassment can arise unexpectedly, even in the most well-intentioned businesses. Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) is a crucial safeguard for Centennial business owners, offering protection against these potentially costly and reputation-damaging claims.

Understanding the Risks of Employee-Related Claims

Employee-related claims can happen to businesses of any size or industry. Whether it’s a misunderstanding during the hiring process or a dispute over workplace policies, these situations can escalate quickly. Centennial businesses, especially those experiencing growth, are particularly vulnerable as they navigate expanding teams and new roles. EPLI provides coverage for legal defense costs, settlements, and judgments, ensuring your business is protected from financial strain.

Why Centennial Businesses Are at Risk

Centennial, CO, is home to a diverse range of businesses, from tech startups to retail stores. As the city continues to grow, so does its workforce. With more employees comes a higher likelihood of disputes or claims. Additionally, Colorado’s employment laws and regulations can be complex, making it essential for business owners to stay compliant. EPLI helps Centennial businesses manage these risks, providing peace of mind in an ever-changing legal landscape.

How EPLI Can Save Your Business

Without EPLI, a single claim can lead to significant financial losses and damage to your business’s reputation. Legal fees alone can be overwhelming, not to mention potential settlements or judgments. EPLI ensures that your business has the resources to handle these situations effectively, allowing you to focus on what matters most: running your business. At Avalue Insurance, we work with Centennial business owners to find the right coverage for their unique needs.

Tailored Coverage for Centennial Businesses

Every business is different, and the risks you face depend on your industry, size, and operations. Whether you’re a small startup or an established company, EPLI can be customized to fit your needs. At Avalue Insurance, we understand the challenges Centennial businesses face and are here to help you navigate them with confidence.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Employment-related claims can happen when you least expect them. Protect your business today with Employment Practices Liability Insurance. Contact Avalue Insurance to learn more about how EPLI can safeguard your Centennial business and ensure its long-term success.

Contractor Insurance Tips for Colorado’s Construction Boom

If you’re a contractor in Colorado right now, then you already know that we’re in the middle of a major construction boom. From new homes in Centennial to commercial buildings going up across the Front Range, there’s no shortage of work. But with big opportunity comes big risk. And having the right insurance can mean the difference between a project that builds your reputation… and one that puts your business on the line.

Here are a few key tips to help you lock in the right coverage for your crew, your clients, and your peace of mind.

You Might Not Need a Full BOP (and That’s Okay).

A lot of business owners are sold on Business Owner’s Policies (BOPs) because they bundle several coverages together—like property, liability, and business interruption. But as a contractor, you may not need all of that. Why pay for coverage you’ll never use?

Instead, many Colorado contractors can opt for standalone general liability insurance, which gives you the core protection you need without all the extras (and often at a lower rate). It’s tailored, streamlined, and focused on the unique risks contractors face every day.

General Liability is Your First Line of Defense.

Even one mishap, like a customer tripping over tools or accidental damage to a client’s property, can result in a claim or lawsuit. And without coverage? Your business assets could be at risk.

Contractor’s general liability insurance helps protect you by covering:

  • Bodily injury claims
  • Property damage on a job site
  • Legal defense costs
  • Settlements or judgments (up to your policy limits)

It’s also essential for working with larger clients or landing commercial jobs. Many require proof of coverage before you can even bid.

Your Rate Should Reflect You.

Your premiums don’t have to break the bank. At Avalue Insurance, we look at factors like:

  • Your safety record
  • Project type and scope
  • Company size
  • History of claims (if any)

That means your quote isn’t a one-size-fits-all number. It’s based on your actual risk and track record. And we work hard to find policies that give you the best value for your coverage.

Protect Your People, Too.

General liability doesn’t just protect the business itself; it also helps shield you and your employees from personal liability in covered claims. It’s about keeping your team secure and your company strong, no matter what comes your way.

Build Smarter. Insure Smarter.

You’ve worked hard to build your business. Now, let’s make sure it’s protected.

At Avalue Insurance, we understand the ins and outs of Colorado’s construction industry because we live and work here, too. Whether you’re a one-man crew or running multiple job sites, we’ll help you find the coverage that best fits your business, your budget, and your goals.

Give us a call at 303-773-3332, shoot us an email at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

Insurance Should Build Communities, Not Just Balance Sheets

Let’s be honest: when most people think about insurance, the first word that comes to mind probably isn’t inspiring. Forms, policies, premiums… Sure. But impact? Connection? Community? Not usually.

We think it’s time to change that.

Because insurance, at its core, is about people. It’s about helping someone rebuild after a fire, get back on their feet after a break-in, or keep their doors open after a once-in-a-lifetime curveball. It’s about protecting the places where dreams come to life — restaurants, coffee shops, construction companies, nonprofits, and everything in between. It’s about walking alongside and supporting small business owners, nonprofits, and families.

At Avalue Insurance, we don’t believe insurance should just protect communities. We believe it should help build them. That’s why we’re not interested in just being policyholders. We’re interested in being partners.  

More Than a Transaction

Some agencies keep it transactional. A quote, a binder, a renewal notice. Done.

Not us.

We believe in walking into your business, shaking your hand, hearing your story. We want to know what keeps you up at night — and what you’re working so hard for. Because when we understand what matters most to you, we can protect it better.

Whether it’s a fledgling coffee shop with a mission to hire the unhoused or a family-run auto shop that’s been serving the same neighborhood for three generations, we treat every client like their story is worth protecting — because it is.

Our Work with Cross Purpose

We’re proud to partner with Cross Purpose, an organization that’s changing lives by helping people step out of poverty and into purpose-filled careers. Their mission is bold — and honestly, the kind of thing that would make any spreadsheet blush. It’s not always easy to quantify impact, but we’ve seen it in the faces of the graduates we’ve met, the businesses that have hired them, and the ripple effects that reach families and neighborhoods.

Our role? Partner and long-time support beam. Because to us, a strong community isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s the reason we do what we do.

Businesses with Beating Hearts

We’re not perfect. But we are intentional. We choose to work with clients and partners who are building something real, something good, something that lifts others up. We support nonprofits not because it’s good PR, but because we want to see our city thrive. We show up for our clients on hard days and celebrate with them on the good ones.

Our team believes that protecting businesses means investing in the people behind them. And while we’ll always make sure your policy is sound, we care just as much about making sure you feel seen, supported, and ready to grow.

Let’s Build Something That Lasts

If you’re looking for an insurance agency that sees you as more than a balance sheet, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re starting small or scaling big, dreaming bold or rebuilding something broken, we’re here to help protect what matters most. Let’s talk about how we can help protect your purpose — and your place in the community.

Pet-Proof Policies: What Homeowners and Renters Need to Know About Insurance

Your dog may be your best friend, but he’s not your landlord’s. Just ask the renter whose golden retriever turned on the tub faucet while chasing a toy and flooded three apartments!

Pet damage is a lot more common (and expensive) than many homeowners and renters realize. From scratched-up hardwood floors to waterlogged ceilings, our furry companions can leave more than just paw prints behind. Understanding how (and when) your insurance policy steps in is essential for anyone with a pet at home.

So, does your insurance cover pet damage?

The short answer: it depends.

For Homeowners

Most standard homeowners insurance policies include liability coverage for pet-related incidents involving others. If your dog bites someone or knocks over a neighbor’s expensive electronics, your policy will likely help cover medical bills or property damage. However, if your own dog chews through your drywall or floods your living room, that’s usually considered damage to your own property — and it’s not covered.

In other words, your homeowners policy will help if your pet damages someone else’s property, but not if they destroy your own.

For Renters

Renters insurance also includes liability protection. If your cat knocks over a candle and damages a neighbor’s unit, your policy may kick in. But, like homeowners policies, renters insurance typically doesn’t cover damage to your own belongings caused by your pet. So, if your puppy tears through your new couch, that cost is likely coming out of your pocket.

Many landlords now require renters to carry insurance — and if you have a pet, they may also require a separate pet deposit or even specific pet liability coverage. This varies from lease to lease, so it’s always a good idea to ask and get clear in writing.

What Can Pet Owners Do?

Here’s how to stay ahead of potential pet problems:

  • Review your policy. Look specifically at liability coverage and any exclusions related to pets.
  • Consider pet liability insurance. Especially if your pet is large, high-energy, or has a track record of chaos.
  • Talk to your landlord. Understand what their insurance covers and what they expect you to carry.
  • Keep documentation. If you do end up filing a claim, photos of the damage and a clear record of what happened will help speed the process along.

At Avalue, many of us are pet owners ourselves. We know firsthand how much joy pets bring to our lives. But we also know that accidents happen—and when they do, you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re covered.

That’s why we offer comprehensive home insurance solutions. We’ll help you understand what’s covered, what’s not, and how to fill in the gaps so you’re not caught off guard when your four-legged friend gets a little too curious.

Not sure what your current policy includes? Let’s talk. We’re happy to review your coverage with you and help you find a home insurance policy that works best for you and Fido. Give us a call at at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

The Top 5 Weirdest Business Insurance Claims

(And What They Teach Small Business Owners)

We’ve seen some wild things in the insurance world. But some claims are so strange, you just have to laugh. Here are five of the weirdest business insurance claims out there — and what small business owners can learn from the chaos.

The Exploding Soup Cup

A catering company carefully packed sealed containers of soup into a hot delivery van. But as the temperature rose, so did the pressure inside those containers, until one finally gave way, unleashing a tsunami of chicken broth all over the van’s interior. The cleanup was messy, to say the least, and the damage extended beyond just a soggy van floor.

Lesson: Property damage can come from the most unexpected places — even a tiny container of soup. If your business involves transporting food, goods, or equipment, make sure you have the right coverage to protect all of your assets, even on the move!

The Falling Antelope Head

At a taxidermy shop, a mounted antelope head decided to make an unscheduled leap from the wall, landing squarely on a customer below. Thankfully, no one was seriously hurt, but the fallout was real: a lawsuit that could have been a major headache.

Lesson: Accidents happen, sometimes in the weirdest ways. General liability insurance is your safety net, protecting your business when something goes wrong on your property, even if it’s as bizarre as a flying antelope head.

The Buried Bulldozer

On a construction site, a bulldozer vanished beneath the ground without warning, swallowed whole by a sudden sinkhole. What looked like a routine day turned into a costly loss, with equipment gone and work delayed.

Lesson: In high-risk environments like construction, site-specific policies aren’t optional; they’re essential. Don’t assume your general coverage will handle all the curveballs the job site can throw your way.

The Runaway Goat

At a petting zoo, a mischievous goat found its way out of the enclosure and promptly headbutted a customer’s car in the parking lot, leaving dents and a disgruntled vehicle owner in its wake.

Lesson: When your business involves animals or interacts closely with people, your liability policy needs to cover those unique risks — including the furry, four-legged troublemakers. It’s all part of protecting your business and your customers.

Be Ready for the Unexpected

At Avalue, we’ve seen it all — and if something new comes along, we’re ready to handle it. We protect businesses of all types and sizes, and offer customizable insurance solutions for every kind of business need. Whether you’re launching a big idea or are growing steadily toward your goals, we’re here to make sure your coverage keeps pace with your vision. Let us help you protect your business from the unexpected! Contact us today, and let’s talk about your coverage options. You can give us a call at at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

Grease Fires & the $100,000 Mistake

What Every Restaurant Owner Needs to Know About Fire Coverage

It happened in under 60 seconds. A fry basket was left unattended, the oil overheated, and suddenly the entire kitchen was swallowed in smoke and flames. No one was hurt, thank God, but the fire destroyed thousands of dollars in equipment, halted business for weeks, and left the owner wondering how things could’ve gone so wrong, so fast.

Unfortunately, stories like this aren’t rare. Grease fires are one of the most common and costly hazards for restaurants. And for many small restaurant owners, one fire can mean the difference between staying open and closing for good.

Our heart breaks for the business owners who pour their lives into their restaurants, only to have it all disappear because of one flash flame. That’s why we want to talk about what you can do before disaster strikes.

Here’s what every restaurant owner needs to know.

Standard Property Insurance Isn’t Always Enough

While most restaurant policies include fire coverage, there are exclusions that could leave you exposed. For example, if your fire suppression system hasn’t been maintained properly or if your kitchen isn’t up to code, your insurer could deny your claim. Not every policy automatically covers business interruption or spoiled inventory either, so it’s worth double-checking.

Business Interruption Insurance Is a Lifesaver

Imagine not only losing your equipment, but also weeks (or maybe even months) of revenue. Business interruption insurance covers your lost income while your doors are closed for repairs. It can help you pay rent, employees, and keep your business afloat while you get back on your feet.

Prevention Still Matters

Having the right insurance is only half the equation. Regular hood cleanings, fire extinguisher training, and a functioning suppression system are all critical to minimizing damage — and to keeping your claim valid.

Let Us Help You Protect Your Passion

When you choose Avalue Insurance, you’re not just getting an insurer; you’re getting a partner in your passion. We understand that every restaurant is unique, whether you’re running a cozy neighborhood spot or a bustling multi-location brand. That’s why we tailor our insurance solutions to fit the wants and needs of every restaurant we insure.

If you’re unsure whether your restaurant is fully protected by your current insurance plan, let’s talk. We’ll review your coverage, walk you through your risks, and make sure you’ve got everything you need to withstand the heat — literally. Contact Avalue Insurance today to start review your policy and go over your coverage options! Give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

The Top Home Insurance Claims in Centennial: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Centennial, CO, is a beautiful place to call home, with its stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and vibrant community. However, like any area, it comes with its own set of risks for homeowners. From hailstorms to plumbing leaks, Centennial residents face challenges that can lead to costly repairs. Understanding the most common home insurance claims in Centennial can help you prepare for the unexpected and ensure your property is protected.

1. Hail Damage

Colorado is known for its unpredictable weather, and Centennial is no exception. Hailstorms are a frequent occurrence, often causing significant damage to roofs, siding, and windows. Even a brief hailstorm can leave dents, cracks, and leaks that require immediate attention.

Home insurance typically covers hail damage, but it’s important to document the damage and file a claim promptly. Regular roof inspections and maintenance can also help minimize the impact of hailstorms on your home.

2. Water Damage

Water damage is another common issue for Centennial homeowners, often caused by plumbing leaks, burst pipes, or appliance malfunctions. A small leak can quickly escalate into a major problem, damaging walls, floors, and personal belongings.

Most home insurance policies cover water damage caused by sudden and accidental incidents, but they may exclude damage from gradual leaks or poor maintenance. To protect your home, consider installing water sensors and regularly inspecting your plumbing system.

3. Fire Damage

While Centennial is not as prone to wildfires as other parts of Colorado, fire damage remains a significant risk for homeowners. Fires can start from cooking accidents, electrical issues, or even lightning strikes during storms.

Home insurance typically covers fire damage, including repairs to your home’s structure and replacement of personal belongings. To reduce your risk, install smoke detectors, keep fire extinguishers on hand, and create a fire evacuation plan for your family.

4. Theft and Vandalism

Centennial is a safe community, but no area is completely immune to theft or vandalism. Break-ins and property damage can leave homeowners feeling vulnerable and result in costly repairs or replacements.

Home insurance can provide coverage for stolen items and vandalism-related repairs. To protect your home, consider installing a security system and ensuring all doors and windows are properly secured.

5. Liability Claims

Liability claims are often overlooked but can be financially devastating. If someone is injured on your property—such as slipping on an icy driveway—you could be held responsible for their medical expenses and other damages.

Home insurance includes liability coverage to protect you from these claims, but it’s important to take preventative measures, such as clearing walkways and addressing potential hazards around your home.

Real-Life Examples from Centennial Residents

At Avalue Insurance, we’ve helped many Centennial homeowners recover from unexpected events. One family faced extensive roof damage after a hailstorm, but their home insurance policy covered the repairs, allowing them to restore their home quickly.

Another homeowner experienced water damage from a burst pipe during the winter. Thanks to their insurance coverage, they were able to replace damaged flooring and furniture without financial strain.

Partner with Avalue Insurance

Homeownership in Centennial comes with its challenges, but you don’t have to face them alone. At Avalue Insurance, we specialize in helping Centennial residents find the right home insurance coverage to protect their properties. Visit our blog for more insights, or contact us today to learn how we can help safeguard your home.

Don’t wait until disaster strikes—get the coverage you need to protect your home and enjoy life in Centennial with confidence.

Is Your Insurance Ready for Summer?

You’ve booked the flights, packed the bags, and even remembered to water the plants before leaving town (go you!). Whether you’re off for a two-week beach vacation or heading south for the season, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of a good old fashioned summer vacation.

But here’s a friendly reminder: taking a break doesn’t mean you’re immune to risks, and life can still happen even while you’re on vacation.

While you’re away relaxing, life keeps moving back home — and unfortunately, so do potential risks. From frozen pipes to break-ins or even liability issues, things can go sideways when no one’s around to notice. So, before you hop on that plane or head off in your RV, here are a few insurance tips to keep your peace of mind packed right next to your flip-flops.

1). Check Your Home Insurance Before You Leave

If your house is going to be empty for a while, especially for long-term travelers or snowbirds, make sure your homeowners insurance covers extended absences. Some policies have time limits, and certain coverages may be limited if the home is unoccupied.

Quick tip: Let your agent know how long you’ll be gone and ask if you need an endorsement for a vacant or unoccupied home.

2). Update Your Auto Insurance (Even if You’re Not Driving)

If your car will be parked in the garage while you’re away, you might be tempted to cancel or reduce your auto insurance. But hold up! If your vehicle is still registered or financed, dropping coverage could cause headaches (or even penalties).

Instead: Talk to your agent about switching to a “comprehensive-only” policy while it’s in storage. It can still protect your car from theft, fire, or weather damage without paying for unnecessary liability coverage.

3). Snowbirds: Don’t Assume One Policy Covers Two Homes

Owning homes in different states? That’s awesome! But you’ll want to make sure both properties are properly insured, especially if one sits vacant for part of the year. Insurance requirements (and risks) can vary depending on location, climate, and time of year.

Pro tip: Work with an independent agent who can help coordinate your coverage across multiple properties and states.

4). Consider Umbrella Insurance for Extra Protection

Because what summer vacation is complete without a good umbrella?

When you’re away, accidents can still happen. And if something goes wrong, your standard liability coverage might not be enough. That’s where umbrella insurance comes in. It provides additional protection beyond your home and auto policies, covering things like major accidents or lawsuits.

Why it matters: If someone slips on your icy sidewalk while you’re out of town, or you’re held liable for damages that exceed your policy limits, umbrella insurance helps pick up where your other policies leave off.

5). Let Someone You Trust Check In

This one’s not exactly an insurance policy, but it might as well be: have a neighbor or friend check on your home while you’re away. Not only can they catch any small issues before they turn into big ones, but some insurance policies even require regular check-ins to maintain full coverage!

Let Us Help You Enjoy Your Summer

Vacations are for relaxing — not worrying about what could go wrong back home. With the right insurance coverage and a little planning, you can fully enjoy your time away knowing you’re protected.

Ready to talk insurance? Get in touch with us today before you hit the road or runway! We’ll make sure you’re fully covered so you can enjoy your summer vacation to the fullest. You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

How Umbrella Insurance Can Protect Residents from High-Cost Lawsuits

In Centennial, CO, residents enjoy a high quality of life, but they also face the risk of high-cost lawsuits. Whether it’s a serious car accident or an incident on your property, these events can lead to significant financial loss. This is where umbrella insurance from Avalue Insurance comes into play, providing an extra layer of liability protection.

Understanding the Risks in Centennial

As a Centennial resident, you may face a variety of risks that could lead to a lawsuit. For instance, if you’re at fault in a car accident where someone is injured, or if someone is injured on your property, you could be held liable for damages. These damages can quickly exceed the limits of your standard insurance policies.

The Role of Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance policies from Avalue Insurance, located in Centennial, CO, provide additional liability coverage beyond the limits of your standard insurance policies. This means that in the event of a major claim or lawsuit, your umbrella insurance can help cover the excess liability costs, protecting your assets and financial future.

Benefits of Umbrella Insurance

  • Provides additional liability coverage beyond your standard insurance limits
  • Covers legal fees and damages if you’re sued
  • Offers peace of mind knowing your assets are protected

Secure Your Financial Future in Centennial

While we can’t predict when a major claim or lawsuit will occur, we can prepare for it. By understanding the benefits of umbrella insurance and ensuring you have adequate coverage, you can protect your assets and secure your financial future. Contact Avalue Insurance today for a comprehensive review of your umbrella insurance needs.

Partner Carriers

  • Allstate
  • Assurant Flood
  • Auto Owners
  • Bristol West
  • Builders Risk/US Assure
  • Chubb
  • Markel
  • CNA
  • Foremost
  • Hull & Company
  • Liberty Mutual
  • Nationwide
  • Pinnacol
  • Progressive
  • Safeco
  • The Hartford
  • Travelers