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Is Your Insurance Ready for Summer?

Posted on by Emilie Hagopian

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

Posted on by admin

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.

Teen Driver in the House? You May Need an Umbrella

Posted on by Emilie Hagopian

Because teaching them to drive isn’t stressful enough already…

Let’s be honest. Having a teen driver in the house can be equal parts exciting and terrifying. Sure, they’re gaining independence and maybe even helping out with errands (finally!), but behind the wheel of a car, they’re also carrying a hefty dose of risk. In fact, teenagers are among the most accident-prone drivers on the road, simply due to their lack of experience and tendency to multitask (hello, phones).

So, while you’re teaching your teen how to merge onto the freeway and parallel park without panic, there’s another kind of lesson to consider: how to protect your household if something goes wrong.

That’s where umbrella insurance comes in.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance is extra liability coverage that kicks in when the limits on your auto or homeowners insurance are maxed out. Think of it like a financial safety net. It doesn’t replace your current insurance; it simply extends your protection after your standard policy reaches its limit.

So, if your teen rear-ends a Lexus, your auto policy might only cover a portion of the damages. If the total cost exceeds your policy limits (which is more common than you’d think), the rest comes out of your pocket… unless you’ve got umbrella insurance!

Why Teen Drivers Raise the Risk

Even the most responsible teens are still new to driving, which makes them statistically more likely to cause accidents. And unfortunately, accidents involving teen drivers can get expensive fast — especially if someone gets injured or if multiple vehicles are involved.

Let’s say your teen causes a serious accident and the other party sues for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If your auto insurance only covers $250,000 in liability, but the lawsuit settles for $750,000, you’re on the hook for the remaining half a million dollars. That could mean dipping into your savings, college funds, retirement… not exactly ideal.

But with an umbrella policy in place, you could be covered for that extra amount — and then some.

How Much Coverage Do You Really Need?

Umbrella policies typically start at $1 million in coverage (and go up from there), and the good news is… they’re surprisingly affordable. For many families, it costs less than $300 a year. That’s less than the cost of your teen’s Spotify subscription and weekend Starbucks runs combined.

So, Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. If you have a teen driver in the house, umbrella insurance is a smart move. It’s a low-cost way to protect your high-stakes assets, and it makes sure one accident doesn’t turn into a financial catastrophe.

Want to learn more about adding umbrella coverage to your policy?

The team at Avalue Insurance is here to help you make smart, stress-free decisions for your family’s protection. Give us a call today, and let’s talk about keeping you — and your newly licensed teen — safe and covered. Give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

Are You Accidentally Underinsured? 5 Quick Questions Every Business Owner Should Ask

Posted on by Emilie Hagopian

Running a business is no small feat. You juggle everything from hiring and sales to branding and budgeting. But one thing that often falls into the “I’ll deal with it later” pile? Business insurance.

Truth is, many business owners don’t realize they’re underinsured until something unexpected happens. And by then… well, let’s just say it’s not the best time to find out you’re missing coverage.

So, how do you know if you’re fully protected or quietly skating on thin ice? Ask yourself these five quick questions:

1). Have You Grown Since You Last Updated Your Policy?

Let’s say you started out as a solo freelancer, but now you’ve got a team of five and a snazzy office space. If your coverage hasn’t been updated since your one-person show days, there’s a good chance it’s not keeping up with your growth. New employees, new equipment, and new square footage often mean new risks.

2). Do You Know Your Policy’s Limits (And What’s Excluded)?

It’s easy to assume your insurance will cover just about everything… until it doesn’t. Take a closer look at your policy limits and exclusions. For example, does it cover cyberattacks? Business interruption? Water damage? If you’re not sure, it’s time for a policy check-up.

3). Have You Added New Services or Products?

Expanding your offerings is exciting. But it can also change your risk profile. If you’re doing more than you used to, make sure your policy reflects those updates. You don’t want to be on the hook for something your insurer didn’t know you were doing.

4). Are You Covered for Liability Outside the Office?

If your business involves work offsite, like construction, consulting, or delivery, you’ll want to ensure your coverage extends beyond your business address. A slip-and-fall at a client’s location or damage during a delivery might not be covered unless it’s spelled out in your policy.

5). Have You Hired New Employees or Contractors?

Growth is exciting! But it can also come with extra responsibility. If you’ve recently added new team members, even on a contract basis, your insurance may need to be updated to reflect that. Certain policies, like workers’ compensation or professional liability, may be required depending on your staffing changes. Protecting your business means making sure everyone who works with you is properly covered — and that you are, too!

Time for a Business Insurance Check-Up?

At Avalue Insurance, we specialize in helping businesses like yours find coverage that fits — not too much, not too little, but just right. Whether you’re starting fresh, scaling up, or just want peace of mind, our team is here to make the process easy and stress-free.

Ready for a quick coverage review? Let’s make sure your business is protected from the inside out. Contact Avalue Insurance today and let’s build a safety net that actually works for you. You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

Is It Time to Review Your Coverage? Here’s a Checklist for Life Changes

Posted on by Emilie Hagopian

Life moves fast. One minute you’re unpacking boxes in your first apartment, and the next you’re researching minivans or planning retirement. While you’re busy living, it’s easy to forget that your insurance should grow and shift right along with you.

If it’s been a while since you looked over your insurance policies, now might be the perfect time. Why? Because big life changes often mean big insurance needs.

Here’s a handy checklist to help you decide whether it’s time to review your coverage.

You Should Review Your Coverage If:

You Moved

Bought a new house? Downsized? Moved to another state? Whether you’re renting or buying, changing your address is a great reason to update your homeowners or renters policy. Your location can also impact your car insurance rates.

You Got Married (or Divorced)

A relationship change can affect more than your social media status. You might need to combine (or separate) auto policies, adjust your beneficiaries, or reevaluate your life insurance coverage.

You Had a Baby (or Adopted)

Welcoming a child into your family is a major milestone — and one that definitely calls for a look at your life insurance and health insurance. Protecting your growing family means making sure they’re financially secure if the unexpected happens.

You Got a New Job (or Lost One)

A change in employment could mean changes in your benefits, income, or even your commute. It’s smart to make sure your policies match your new financial situation and lifestyle.

You Started a Business or Side Hustle

Freelancing? Running an Etsy shop? Offering consulting services? If you’ve become your own boss, it’s time to explore business insurance options and make sure your personal policies still cover what you think they do.

You Bought a New Car or Home

Any time you make a big purchase, especially something like a car, boat, or new property, you’ll want to make sure it’s covered properly. Don’t wait until it’s too late!

You Had a Major Financial Change

Maybe you got a raise (yay!) or had to dip into your savings (not so yay). Either way, financial shifts can affect how much coverage you need — and what you can afford.

Life Changes. Your Insurance Should Too.

At Avalue Insurance, we’re here to help you stay protected through every phase of life. Whether it’s your home insurance, your car insurance, or your new business, we’ll make sure you have the coverage that you need at any given time.

Ready to make sure your coverage still fits your life? Contact Avalue Insurance today for a full policy review! You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a consultation right here online!

Top 5 Ways Small Businesses Accidentally Invite Hackers In

Posted on by Emilie Hagopian

You might think hackers are only after the big guys — giant corporations with millions in revenue and high-profile data. But here’s the truth: small businesses are some of the easiest and most common targets for cyberattacks. Why? Because they often don’t realize they’re vulnerable.

It’s not always some dramatic movie-style breach with a hacker in a hoodie typing furiously in a dark basement. Sometimes, cyberattacks happen because of simple, everyday mistakes — things many small business owners don’t even realize are risky.

Let’s talk about the top 5 ways small businesses accidentally roll out the welcome mat for hackers.

1). Weak (or Reused) Passwords

We know it’s tempting to use “CompanyName123!” for everything, but hackers love predictable passwords. If your team is using simple or repeated passwords across multiple logins, you’re asking for trouble. One compromised password can open the door to everything — from client data to payroll systems.

Tip: Use a password manager and require strong, unique passwords for every platform.

2). Skipping Software Updates

You know those “Update Now” pop-ups you keep snoozing? Yeah… those updates often contain important security patches that fix known vulnerabilities. Ignoring them leaves the door wide open for hackers who are actively looking for systems running outdated software.

Tip: Set software and system updates to run automatically whenever possible.

3). Falling for Phishing Emails

Phishing emails have come a long way since the old “Nigerian prince” scams. Today, they’re clever, realistic, and often look like they came from someone you know. All it takes is one team member clicking on a bad link — and suddenly, your entire network could be at risk.

Tip: Train your team regularly on how to spot suspicious emails and verify before clicking.

4). No Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Relying on just a password is like locking your front door but leaving the windows wide open. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection by requiring a second verification step (like a code sent to your phone).

Tip: Enable 2FA on all important accounts — especially email, financial platforms, and file-sharing apps.

5). Assuming “It Won’t Happen to Us”

When you’re running a small business, cyber insurance might not feel urgent. But here’s the thing: small businesses often suffer the most after a cyberattack. The recovery costs (lost data, legal fees, reputational damage) can be devastating.

Tip: Take cyber threats seriously before something happens. Prevention and protection go hand in hand.

Avalue Insurance Has Your Back

You don’t have to be a cybersecurity expert to protect your business — you just need the right team behind you. At Avalue Insurance, we help small businesses get the cyber liability coverage they need to bounce back when things go sideways.

Contact us today to learn how cyber insurance can protect your business, your clients, and your peace of mind! Give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a quote right here online!

Oops! 4 Wild Scenarios That Umbrella Insurance Could Actually Cover

Posted on by Emilie Hagopian

Let’s face it: insurance talk isn’t usually the most exciting topic at the dinner table. But umbrella insurance? Oh, it’s got stories. It’s the kind of coverage that sits quietly in the background… until something big (and often bizarre) happens.

Umbrella insurance is all about extra protection. When your regular policies (like home or auto insurance) reach their limit, umbrella coverage steps in to cover the rest. Think of it as the “just in case life gets weird” insurance. And trust me: it sure does.

Here are Four Wild (But Real) Scenarios that Umbrella Insurance Could Help Cover:

1). Your Dog Has a “Bad Day”

We all love our furry friends, but even the gentlest pup can have an off moment. If your dog bites a neighbor, a delivery person, or anyone, you could be held liable for medical bills and even legal fees. Most homeowners insurance policies offer some liability coverage — but if the claim is big? That’s where umbrella insurance steps in to cover the damages.

2). You’re Sued Over a Social Media Post

Yep, it’s 2025 and we’re still learning that the internet is forever. If you or your teenager posts something online that someone considers defamatory, offensive, or damaging to their reputation, they might sue. And lawsuits, even frivolous ones, get expensive fast. Umbrella insurance can help cover legal fees, settlements, or judgments if your standard policies don’t.

3). A Guest Trips at Your Backyard BBQ

You invite the neighbors over for some burgers, hot dogs, and cornhole. Sounds innocent, right? Until someone trips over your garden hose, breaks an ankle, and decides to sue you for medical expenses and lost wages. Your homeowners insurance may cover some of it, but if they’re asking for more than your policy limit, umbrella insurance can keep you from paying out of pocket.

4). Your Teen Driver Causes a Major Wreck

Teen drivers are wonderful… and also statistically risky. If your kid is at fault in a serious accident that causes major injuries or property damage, your auto policy might not be enough. If the medical bills, legal costs, or repair estimates exceed your auto coverage, umbrella insurance helps cover the rest.  Statistically, 80% of umbrella insurance pays out for at fault accidents. 

Coverage for When Life Gets Crazy

No one plans for these things — but they do happen. Umbrella insurance is one of the most affordable ways to add a layer of financial protection to your life, especially when the unexpected takes a turn for the chaotic.

At Avalue Insurance, we make it easy to figure out if umbrella coverage is right for you. We’ll walk you through the details, explain your options, and help you get the right protection for your lifestyle.

Give in touch with us today to get started! You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a quote right here online!

Borrowed Vehicles, Borrowed Trouble: Are You Covered?

Posted on by Emilie Hagopian

So, your employee borrows a vehicle to run a quick work errand. Maybe it’s your company’s van, or maybe it’s their own pickup truck with your logo magnets slapped on the sides. Either way, everything’s fine until — bam! — they get into a fender bender. Suddenly, you’re not just worrying about the damage, but also wondering: Are we even covered for this?

If you’ve ever asked yourself that question, you’re not alone. Commercial auto insurance is one of those things business owners don’t always think about until something goes wrong. And when it comes to borrowed vehicles, things can get a little tricky.

Let’s break it down.

What Counts as a “Borrowed Vehicle”?

A borrowed vehicle can be:

  • A personal vehicle used for business purposes
  • A rented truck or van for a one-day job
  • A friend’s or employee’s vehicle being used temporarily for business

Now here’s the catch: your commercial auto insurance may not automatically cover these situations. In many cases, you’ll need special endorsements or separate coverage, depending on the vehicle’s ownership and how it’s being used.

Wait… Doesn’t My Employee’s Insurance Kick In?

Sort of. If your employee uses their own car for a work-related task (like delivering products or picking up supplies), their personal insurance is typically primary in the event of an accident. But most personal policies exclude business use — which means their claim could be denied.

What If We Rent Vehicles for Work?

If you’re renting a vehicle for short-term business use, you might assume the rental company’s insurance has you covered. But that coverage is often limited (and expensive). Many business owners skip that extra protection because they think their regular auto insurance will fill the gap.

Spoiler alert: not always.

Without the right commercial auto coverage, you could be stuck paying out of pocket for damage, injuries, or legal costs. Yikes.

How to Avoid Borrowed Vehicle Headaches

The best way to avoid these awkward insurance gaps? Get clear on how your team uses vehicles and talk to your agent about the right protection. Whether your business owns a fleet or occasionally borrows or rents vehicles, having the proper coverage in place can save you from a world of stress later on.

Get Covered with Confidence

Don’t let a borrowed vehicle turn into a costly mistake. At Avalue Insurance, we help business owners like you make sense of the fine print so you’re never caught off guard. Whether you need commercial auto insurance or a complete policy review, our team is here to help you feel confident and protected, both on and off the road.

Contact Avalue Insurance today, and ask us about our commercial auto insurance options! You can give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a quote right here online!

The Role of Commercial Insurance in Employee Safety and Compensation

Posted on by admin

As a business owner in Centennial, CO, ensuring the safety of your employees is a top priority. But despite your best efforts, accidents can still happen. This is where commercial insurance comes in. At Avalue Insurance, we’re here to help you understand the role of commercial insurance in employee safety and compensation.

Workers’ Compensation: A Key Component of Commercial Insurance

Workers’ compensation insurance, a key component of commercial insurance, provides benefits to employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. This can include coverage for medical care, rehabilitation costs, and a portion of lost wages while the employee is unable to work.

Protecting Your Employees and Your Business

Having adequate workers’ compensation insurance not only protects your employees, but it also protects your business. If an employee is injured on the job and you have proper coverage, workers’ compensation insurance can help protect your business from a potential lawsuit.

Creating a Safer Workplace

While workers’ compensation insurance provides protection after an accident, commercial insurance can also play a role in preventing accidents in the first place. Many insurers offer risk management resources to help businesses create safer workplaces.

Securing Your Business in Centennial, CO

Commercial insurance is a crucial part of protecting your business and your employees. If you’re a business owner in Centennial, CO, contact Avalue Insurance today. We can help you understand your commercial insurance options and choose the coverage that best fits your needs.

Top 5 Things Colorado Homeowners Forget to Insure

Posted on by Emilie Hagopian

Let’s be honest. Home insurance can be a little… boring. And it’s not something we think about every day — until something goes wrong and we wish we’d paid a little more attention. The truth is, most homeowners have coverage for the big stuff (your house, your roof, maybe even your favorite couch), but there are a few sneaky items and situations that often slip through the cracks.

Here are five things that Colorado homeowners commonly forget to insure — and how to make sure you’re not caught off guard when life throws a curveball.

1). Your Favorite Jewelry

Most home insurance policies cover personal belongings, but high-value items like jewelry, watches, and collectibles often have coverage limits. So, if you’ve got a sparkling engagement ring, grandma’s antique necklace, or a custom piece from a Colorado artisan, you’ll want to ask about adding extra coverage for those high-value items. We recommend insuring them on a separate personal articles policy rather than adding them to your homeowners insurance.

2). Your Home Office Setup

Since the work-from-home world exploded, we’ve seen an uptick in people with expensive tech setups — dual monitors, ergonomic chairs, high-end laptops. If you’re running a business from your basement or just have a killer setup for Zoom calls, don’t assume all that gear is automatically covered. Business property in the home often needs special attention in your policy.

3). Detached Structures

Detached garages, sheds, and workshops are common in many Colorado homes — especially in places with more land, like Falcon or Black Forest. But guess what? That gorgeous shed you spent your summer building might not be fully covered unless your policy specifically lists it. Same goes for fences, gazebos, and even tiny greenhouses.

4). Sewer Backup and Flooding

In Colorado, we might not get hurricanes, but heavy rain, flash floods, and even snowmelt can cause some major headaches. Standard home insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage or sewer backups — and trust us, nobody wants to deal with a basement full of water (or worse).

Groundwater entering your basement is typically excluded from coverage.

That means if water seeps in through the foundation, walls, or floor due to heavy rain, melting snow, or rising groundwater, your homeowners policy likely won’t pay for the damage.

This type of water intrusion is usually considered a maintenance issue, not a sudden and accidental event, which is why it’s not covered under standard policies. Adding flood or sewer backup coverage is usually affordable and totally worth it. 

5). Your Liability for What Happens on Your Property

If your friend slips on your icy driveway in the winter or your dog decides to play linebacker when the mail carrier shows up, you could be held liable. Liability coverage is included in most policies, but the default limits might not be enough if things get serious. It’s worth reviewing, especially in Colorado where weather and wildlife keep us on our toes year-round.

Don’t Let a Gap in Coverage Catch You Off Guard

Home insurance isn’t just about checking a box; it’s about protecting the life you’ve worked hard to build. At Avalue Insurance, we help Colorado homeowners take the guesswork out of coverage. Whether you’re in Denver, Colorado Springs, or anywhere in between, we’ll help you review your policy, identify potential gaps, and make sure you’re fully protected — without paying for things you don’t need.

Get in touch with us today, and let us help you get fully covered! Give us a call at 303-773-3332, email us at info@avalueinsurance.com, or request a quote right here online!

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