I Have A Pool. Is Umbrella Insurance a Good Idea?

Posted on May 29, 2026May 18, 2026 by admin

Owning a swimming pool can be a great source of enjoyment, but it also introduces additional risk. Pools increase the likelihood of accidents involving slips, falls, and other injuries, which can lead to costly liability claims.

At L & S Agency Inc., servicing Buffalo, NY, we help homeowners understand how owning a pool can affect their insurance needs. Even with a standard home insurance policy, liability limits may not always be sufficient to fully protect your assets.

What Is Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance is a policy that provides extra liability coverage beyond the limits of your home insurance policy. If a liability claim exceeds your homeowners’ insurance limits, an umbrella policy may help provide additional financial protection.

This type of coverage is designed to help safeguard personal assets in the event of serious injury claims or lawsuits.

Who Should Consider Umbrella Insurance

Umbrella insurance may be appropriate for homeowners whose assets exceed their existing liability coverage limits. It is often considered by individuals who want added protection against large liability claims.

Homeowners who frequently choose umbrella insurance include those with swimming pools, trampolines, or other features that may increase the risk of injury on their property.

Why Pool Owners Often Choose Umbrella Insurance

If you own a pool, umbrella insurance can help provide added protection in the event of a lawsuit related to a pool-related injury. Serious injuries can result in medical expenses and legal costs that exceed standard liability limits.

L & S Agency Inc., servicing Buffalo, NY, works with multiple insurance carriers to help homeowners compare umbrella insurance options. Whether you are reviewing your home insurance or exploring umbrella coverage, our team is available to answer your questions and help you choose coverage that fits your needs.

What Doesn’t Home Insurance Cover for Homeowners in Buffalo?

Posted on April 30, 2026April 16, 2026 by admin

Home insurance is essential for homeowners in Buffalo, NY. However, a standard homeowners’ insurance policy does not cover every type of damage you may encounter. With heavy snowfall, harsh winters, and a large number of older homes in the area, understanding what your policy excludes is just as important as knowing what it covers. At L & S Agency Inc., we help homeowners navigate their insurance options to find policies that provide comprehensive protection when it matters most.

Flood Damage Is Not Covered

Standard home insurance policies do not cover flood damage caused by heavy rain, rapid snowmelt, or overflowing rivers and lakes. Homeowners in Buffalo, NY, may need a separate flood insurance policy to protect against these risks.

Sewer and Drain Backup Exclusions

Sewer and drain backups are typically excluded from standard homeowners’ insurance policies. Coverage is usually available only by adding a specific endorsement. Without this add-on, damage caused by backed-up drains or sewer lines may not be covered.

Normal Wear and Tear

Home insurance is designed to cover sudden and accidental damage, not routine maintenance issues. This means aging roofs, worn plumbing, foundation cracks, and HVAC system failures caused by normal wear and tear are generally not covered.

Ice Dams and Maintenance-Related Damage

Damage caused by ice dams may not be covered under some policies. Claims can be denied if the insurer determines the damage resulted from poor maintenance, such as inadequate insulation, ventilation issues, or failure to remove excessive snow buildup.

Coverage Limits on High-Value Items

Standard homeowners insurance policies place limits on coverage for high-value items, including jewelry, artwork, collectibles, electronics, and other valuables. If you own items that exceed these limits, you may need scheduled personal property coverage to ensure full protection.

A standard home insurance policy provides strong foundational coverage for homeowners in Buffalo, NY, but it is not all-inclusive. Understanding what is not covered allows you to add the appropriate endorsements and avoid unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. To learn more about policy exclusions and optional coverages, contact L & S Agency Inc. today to speak with one of our experienced insurance professionals.

Am I Required to Get Full Coverage Auto Insurance?

Posted on March 31, 2026March 20, 2026 by admin

Full coverage auto insurance is the most expansive type of coverage you can have. If you want to ensure that your vehicle is fully covered under your auto insurance policy, then you’ll want full coverage. But is full coverage required? Who should consider full coverage for their vehicle?

Knowing the answers to these questions can help you choose a policy that’s right for you. The professionals at L & S Agency Inc., servicing Buffalo, NY, are here to help. We can answer your questions about auto insurance and help you decide whether you should get full coverage, liability, collision, or something else.

About Full Coverage Auto Insurance

Full coverage auto insurance is a type of insurance that combines multiple types of coverage into a single policy. This means that if you’re getting full coverage, you are getting policies that include collision, comprehensive, and liability insurance. If you have questions about what’s covered under full coverage auto insurance, speak with your insurance professional to learn more.

Who Needs Full Coverage Auto Insurance?

You can benefit from full coverage auto insurance if you have a car loan. In fact, you’ll probably be required to get full coverage auto insurance before your car loan is approved.

Even if you don’t have an auto loan, you may still benefit from full coverage auto insurance if you’re buying a new car. Full coverage insurance can pay to repair or replace your vehicle if something goes wrong, which is helpful because you may not be able to afford to replace it on your own.

Contact Your Insurance Agent

Want to know more about auto insurance options like full coverage? The professionals at L & S Agency Inc., servicing Buffalo, NY, are here to provide you with information to help you make an informed decision as you choose your auto insurance policy.

Does Umbrella Insurance Pay For Legal Fees?

Posted on February 27, 2026February 12, 2026 by admin

Umbrella insurance is a valuable tool for individuals facing liability lawsuits in Buffalo, NY. These policies can help cover many of the expenses associated with lawsuits, but it’s essential to understand your policy’s details rather than make assumptions.

Legal Fees

Most umbrella insurance policies cover legal defense costs, but they may not allow you to hire just any lawyer. Typically, the insurance company will require you to choose from a list of approved attorneys. Additionally, legal fees must not exceed your policy’s coverage limits. Before hiring a lawyer, it’s crucial to consult with an agent at L & S Agency Inc. to ensure your legal expenses are covered.

Judgments

Umbrella policies often help cover judgments against you in liability or defamation lawsuits, protecting your assets. However, every policy has limitations and exclusions. For instance, claims involving malicious intent are commonly denied.

For example, if someone slips and falls on your property, your umbrella policy may provide coverage. However, if you intentionally harm someone, such as punching them, and they sue you, this is considered malicious intent, and your policy will not cover the claim.

Business Lawsuits

Another common exclusion is coverage for business liability lawsuits. Umbrella insurance is typically designed to cover personal liability, including bodily injury and property damage. These policies often supplement other insurance, like home or auto policies, once their coverage limits are reached.

However, umbrella insurance does not usually cover lawsuits against businesses. If you own a business, you’ll need a commercial insurance policy to protect your company in the event of a lawsuit.

An experienced representative at L & S Agency Inc. can help you better understand how umbrella insurance works, including its limitations and exclusions. We’ll work with you to ensure you have the protection you need. Contact us today to learn more! We proudly serve the Buffalo, NY area.

How Home Insurance Protects You Outside Your Residence

Posted on January 30, 2026January 7, 2026 by admin

A home insurance policy does more than protect your Buffalo, NY, residence. It can also help you when you are away from home. Many people are unaware of or overlook these advantages when shopping for a policy. L & S Agency Inc. can explain the additional protections your policy provides.

Protection for Personal Property

Your home insurance policy offers off-premises protection for personal property. You can find this coverage under Part C of your policy. It protects your personal belongings, wherever you travel, up to a specified limit. Covered risks include theft, fires, and accidental damage. For example, if you leave a laptop or camera in your vehicle and it’s stolen, your home insurance policy will cover their replacement. Similarly, if your luggage is damaged or stolen while traveling, its contents may be replaced.

Other off-premises provisions include belongings placed temporarily in storage units and items damaged or stolen from on-campus housing at colleges and universities. Note that off-premises coverage is generally limited to 10% of your Part C coverage limits.

Personal Liability Protection

Part E of your policy provides personal liability protection for you and members of your household if you’re sued for bodily injury or property damage you accidentally cause to others. As with personal property protection, this coverage applies wherever you are. If you accidentally damage your neighbor’s property, your home insurance will pay for the damage. Your policy will also cover damages from injuries or mishaps that you are liable for while away from home. Review your policy to determine which incidents are covered and which exclusions apply.

To learn more about what off-premises coverage is included in your home insurance policy, contact L & S Agency Inc. We’re currently serving Buffalo, NY.

Should You Update Your Auto Insurance After Installing Aftermarket Parts?

Posted on December 31, 2025December 5, 2025 by admin

If you’re purchasing aftermarket parts for your car, it may not occur to you to notify your auto insurance company. However, your auto policy carrier can only cover what it knows about. If you live in Buffalo, NY, it may make sense to update your auto insurance when installing aftermarket parts, depending on the cost and what you expect to be reimbursed for the parts.

Why Get an Updated Auto Policy?

The short answer to this question is that aftermarket parts can increase the value of your car. Once your car’s value increases, you may need to purchase a policy that covers its full value. Whether it’s new rims or a screaming stereo system, not everyone can afford to lose the value of those items if the car is stolen or the parts are damaged.

When Can You Skip Calling Your Carrier?

At L & S Agency Inc., we know that not every upgrade is worth calling your insurance carrier. For example, small upgrades on an older car that you only drive occasionally and keep securely locked in a garage may not require updated coverage.

If you choose to get aftermarket parts, though, it’s important to add up the costs. Too often, car owners purchase aftermarket parts, only to forget or vastly underestimate the value of each upgrade over time. This common trap can lead to a lot of headaches if you want to make the same upgrades on a replacement vehicle or if you need to repair the components on your current one.

Have questions about your auto insurance in Buffalo, NY? Contact L & S Agency Inc. to discuss your options, especially if you’re seeking custom coverage tailored to your aftermarket updates.

Should You Add Umbrella Insurance to Your One-Day Event Insurance Policy?

Posted on November 28, 2025November 12, 2025 by admin

Insurance for a one-day event in Buffalo, NY, is a wise investment. A lot can go wrong at a large event with lots of people, even if you’re cautious and take proper safety measures. However, even event insurance on its own may not be enough for the occasion. The liability insurance coverage that comes with a regular policy could have a limit that’s well below what you need to cover payouts, especially if there’s an accident or mishap resulting in a severe injury or lawsuit. Umbrella insurance can make up the difference if you need high coverage limits. It’s purchased as part of your event insurance policy and kicks in once you’ve reached the event policy limit, extending coverage for costs such as legal fees, settlements, and medical bills.

Which Events Need Umbrella Coverage?

Not all events need umbrella coverage. Small events and with minimal physical activity may fare well with a regular insurance policy. However, if there is a heightened risk of accidents at your event, purchasing umbrella insurance may be in order. A sporting event, for instance, could be a high-risk occasion, with people running around and engaging in competition increases the risk of an accident. A large gathering could likewise be risky due to the sheer number of people.

Call L & S Agency Inc. for Expert Advice

Are you hosting an event in or around Buffalo, NY? If so, our team at L & S Agency Inc. can offer expert advice and assistance to help you pick the right forms of coverage. Call us to learn more about our event insurance and umbrella insurance policy options, or to get quotes for the policies of your choice.

Does Home Insurance Cover Ice Dam Damage?

Posted on October 31, 2025October 21, 2025 by admin

An ice dam is a ridge of ice on your home’s roof that prevents melting snow from draining, leading to water buildup. It can form in the eaves of your roof, often due to the cold outdoors and the warmth in the home. When it happens, it can cause significant structural damage to your home, leading to costly repairs and even roof replacement in some situations. Many homeowners insurance policies will provide coverage for ice dam damage.

At L & S Agency Inc., our team is ready to help you. If you do not have homeowners insurance or you need to update your coverage in Buffalo, NY, or the surrounding area, contact us for a quote. Let us help you choose the right coverage for your situation.

What Ice Dam Damage Is Covered?

Ice dams can cause serious damage to your home’s roof, ceiling, and walls, especially if water leaks into the structure over time. Your home insurance may cover the damage, as long as it’s not from routine wear and tear or the aging of the roof or structure.

When your homeowners insurance does apply, it may cover structural damage to your home, including repairing the damage to your roof, ceiling, insulation, and any damaged walls. In addition, if the ice dam causes significant damage to personal property, that may be covered as well. This can include things like furniture and electronics.

Note that in situations where you cannot live in your home, additional living expense coverage could help pay for alternative lodging and necessities while your home is being repaired. However, you need additional living expenses coverage for that. One of our agents can review your homeowners policy to check your coverage.

Work With One of our Agents for Proper Protection

Now is a good time to be sure you have adequate home insurance for your Buffalo, NY, property. Contact L & S Agency Inc. to discuss your needs and build a policy that keeps you and your assets safe.

What is No-Fault Insurance and Why it Matters for Buffalo NY Drivers?

Posted on September 30, 2025September 22, 2025 by admin

Personal Injury Protection, also known as "No-Fault Insurance," is the statewide standard for all drivers in New York. This medically focused insurance ensures that drivers injured in an automobile accident have certain costs for medical expenses and lost wages covered by their own insurance companies.

Why Personal Injury Protection Matters for Buffalo, NY, Drivers

No-fault insurance from L & S Agency Inc. can help policyholders avoid the stress associated with the medical and financial challenges that often follow auto accidents.

PIP insurance holders benefit from not having to negotiate with outside insurance companies, receiving immediate medical treatment for accident-related injuries, and knowing their financial interests are protected in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

Winter Driving Hazards

Buffalo is known for its heavy snow and icy roads during winter. Snow and ice-covered roads significantly increase the likelihood of fender benders or serious crashes. Having no-fault insurance coverage ensures local drivers can access urgent medical care without waiting for lengthy approval processes from outside insurance agencies.

Medical and Financial Coverage

Drivers injured in auto accidents often need time off from work and strenuous activities to recover. Components of no-fault and PIP insurance policies provide financial relief for policyholders by covering lost wages during accident-related recovery periods.

Statewide Legal Requirements

Having no-fault insurance in Buffalo is a legal requirement that provides essential financial protection for both covered drivers and passengers who are injured in an accident. Starting a new policy is as simple as contacting a trusted local insurance agent and requesting an auto insurance quote.

Don’t wait until it’s too late to protect your financial interests in an accident. Contact the offices of L & S Agency Inc. today!

Excess Liability vs. Umbrella Insurance: What’s the Difference?

Posted on August 29, 2025August 25, 2025 by admin

If you are familiar with umbrella insurance, you might assume that excess liability coverage is just another name for the same type of policy. While this is an understandable assumption, the two are technically different. Here, we at L & S Agency Inc. explain the basics of how this coverage works and who it is best suited for.

The Basics of Excess Liability vs. Umbrella Insurance

Excess liability coverage is more restrictive than umbrella insurance. As the name suggests, excess liability provides additional protection but is limited to the terms of your existing policy. For example, if you are involved in a car accident and cause $300,000 worth of damage, but your car insurance policy only covers $100,000, excess liability can cover the remaining $200,000 to protect your personal finances. However, excess liability does not extend coverage beyond the scope of your primary policy.

Umbrella insurance, on the other hand, offers broader protection. For instance, if you are in a car accident and make a flippant remark about the other driver’s skills, and they decide to sue you for slander, umbrella insurance may help cover legal fees if your car insurance policy does not include slander coverage. Umbrella insurance provides additional protections on top of your current coverage, making it more versatile.

Which One Do I Need?

The choice between excess liability and umbrella insurance depends on the type of policy you have and your specific needs. If your primary policy is comprehensive, excess liability may be sufficient. However, if you want broader coverage for scenarios not included in your existing policy, an umbrella policy is a better option.

At L & S Agency Inc., we understand that insurance policies can be complex. That is why we help residents of Buffalo, NY, understand their coverage options and make informed decisions. If you are ready to go the extra mile for protection, contact us today for a quote!

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