Is Commercial Insurance Beneficial to Small Businesses?

Commercial insurance is something that any business can benefit from. Smaller businesses can benefit from commercial policies but larger businesses are going to get more out of a policy. For those that live in the Houston, TX area, the agents with Heydari Financial Group can help you find the perfect policy for you.

For the most part, commercial policies are going to benefit larger businesses the most. This is because commercial policies tend to cover things like employees, inventory, and the building that the business is housed in. Larger businesses usually have more invested in their company as well.

For those smaller businesses that are run out of a home or smaller space, a commercial policy may not be as beneficial. Though it may not be as beneficial for a smaller business, this type of policy can still protect business owners should something happen to themselves, an employee, inventory, or even a customer.

If you own a business and are thinking about taking out a commercial policy, it is always helpful to consider a few different factors. The first things to acknowledge is, do you have employees, how much inventory do you keep at the primary location of the business, and what type of building do you have your business in. If you are working from home, your home insurance is going to cover any inventory that you have. If you have no employees, you may not need a commercial policy due to workers comp laws.

If you have a business of any size you can benefit from a commercial policy but you are certainly going to benefit more if you have a larger business that has much more to insure. If you live in the Houston, TX area, the agents with Heydari Financial Group can help you get started on a commercial insurance policy. Reach out to our offices for more information.

Home Improvements that Could Lower Your Home Insurance Costs

As a homeowner, you want your home to be well protected. At the same time, you want to save on home insurance costs. By making certain home improvements, you can benefit from both. Home upgrades that improve the security and function of your home could save you money on your premium. By talking to a Heydari Financial Group agent, you can see if the following upgrades qualify you for a discount on your home insurance. 

Advanced Security System

Various factors affect the cost of your home insurance. Location is one of them. If you live in a high crime area in Houston, TX, you could pay more on your premium. By installing a security system, you reduce the risk of theft and vandalism, which could help lower your insurance rates. Be sure to inform your insurance agent of any changes you make to improve your home’s security whether it be installing deadbolts, sensors, security cameras, alarm system, or other upgrades.

New Roof

The roof of your home will protect your home’s structure and interior from storm, wind, or hail damage. If you have an older home, upgrading your roof could increase your protection against the elements. Your new roof should be able to withstand adverse weather conditions in Houston to include high winds, rainstorms, hail, etc. Investing in a new roof could help reduce your insurance premium.

Smart Home Add-ons

Smart home gadgets that improve the efficiency and security of your home could also make you eligible for discounts on your home insurance. With smart technology, homeowners can activate an alarm system, lock doors, turn lights on and off, or get video surveillance of their property, even when they’re far from home. These extra security measures could qualify you for lower insurance costs.

To learn more about home insurance coverage and costs, contact Heydari Financial Group in Houston, TX.

Is Texas a No-Fault State?

It is required by Texas state law that Houston, TX residents purchase auto insurance that will cover a certain amount of their legal fees as well as the medical expenses and property damage costs incurred to the other driver and his or her passengers. The key to knowing what other insurances may be required by law is understanding the no-fault state definition and whether this applies to Texas. 

What is a No-Fault State?

There are two types of states: tort and no-fault. Laws in no-fault states vary, but in general, it means that individuals can have their losses paid for by the other party without going through the court system. It isn’t necessary in no-fault states to determine who is at fault in order for someone to receive payments from an insurance company, and each insurance company typically pays out damages to their own client. 

This system lessens the chances of being sued, though the very real possibility of being sued still exists, especially if a driver has caused an accident with particularly severe consequences. No-fault state residents are required to purchase Personal Injury Protection or PIP insurance that will cover expenses related to property and medical issues, and this is not a requirement in Texas, as Texas is a tort state. This means that PIP is an option but not a necessity and that fault must be determined in an accident, insurance companies must pay for the other drivers’ damages, and parties are more likely to sue one another. 

Heydari Financial Group is Here to Serve You

At Heydari Financial Group, we offer a variety of insurance types, including auto, homeowners, condo, commercial, life, and flood. We take pride in serving the Houston, TX area, and we look forward to answering any questions you may have regarding auto insurance. Contact us by telephone, online, or stop into our office to discuss the insurance products that are right for you. 

Running a Home-Based Small Business, Is Your Home Insurance Enough?

With the advent of the internet, e-commerce, and the ability for anyone to set up an e-business about anywhere, home-based businesses and home office operations are becoming commonplace. Whether they provide a second income or a primary personal revenue source, the ability for a person to create a new company with a computer, desk, and an internet connection gets easier and easier. However, that doesn’t automatically mean that one’s homeowners insurance is the automatic coverage for a new small or micro-business based out of a person’s house. According to the experts at Heydari Financial Group, that kind of thinking can set up a budding new business for a fatal mistake.

Houston, TX homes, and related homeowner insurance are intended for residential risks and living, not for running a business. By simply reading a few policies, and it becomes pretty clear the terms and coverage assume normal residential living in a private family home, not an office. So assuming that a basic homeowner’s policy is going to be more than enough for property, casualty, and operational risks can be a big mistake that will bite later on when coverage is needed. The number one way a small business can get nuked quickly is with an unfortunate litigation turn. It’s practically the number one business killer, driving most small businesses into bankruptcy almost immediately after the first filings have been made in court.

Because setting up an internet business can be so easy, most folks, even in Houston, TX, don’t think about the insurance ramifications of a home office. However, the insurance professionals at Heydari Financial Group are well aware of what are normal homeowner insurance coverage options and what is not. We can guide a Houston homeowner down the right path and to the right kind of policy, both for residential living and starting a new home office venture. Give us a call today to find out more!

Is Home Insurance Necessary in Texas?

If you own a home in Houston, TX, then you probably want to consider getting home insurance as a way to protect your investment. Even though a lot of people want to have home insurance, it is important to know whether or not you legally need to have home insurance for your home in Texas. This is what you need to know according to Heydari Financial Group.

Is it a Requirement in Texas?

By law, you are not required to have home insurance on your home in the state of Texas. Just because it is not a requirement does not mean that it should not be something that you have. You may also still be required to have home insurance if you have a mortgage. Your mortgage lender may require that you need to have a certain amount of coverage so they know that if something were to happen to the home, they would still be able to secure the money they provided for the loan. You will need to check with your mortgage lender to see what may be required of you before you write off getting a home insurance policy altogether. Additionally, think about if you did not have a home insurance policy and something happened to your home. You would be left with nothing which is why it is good to have this home insurance in place. 

Even though it may not be a requirement for you, it is still a good idea to consider getting home insurance to protect your investment. If you are considering getting home insurance for your home or you want to make sure that you have the right amount of coverage, be sure to contact us here at Heydari Financial Group, serving Houston, TX, today.

The 5 Main Types of Auto Insurance

Are you a Houston, TX resident who is looking for auto insurance? Heydari Financial Group can help!

But first, you may have some questions about what types of auto insurance are out there. Below, we’ll outline the five main types of auto insurance that you may need:

  • Liability Coverage: This coverage takes care of personal property and bodily injury. You’ll find that you must have liability coverage in most states. In other words, it’s required by law unlike other types of coverage.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: This type of coverage covers damage from weather events such as hailstorms or tornados. It also covers you if your car is stolen or broken into.
  • Collision Coverage: This type of coverage — as the name suggests — will cover you in the event that you run into something such as a telephone pole, guard rail, or another vehicle.
  • Personal Injury Protection and Medical Payments: These are two types of auto insurance that take care of medical expenses. For example, if you were in an accident and you or your passengers were seriously injured, medical payments insurance would cover you. On the other hand, personal injury protection or PIP covers more than medical payments coverage. It may end up covering things like rehab as well as lost wages and costs for funerals, etc.
  • Underinsured and Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If you end up in an accident with someone who is underinsured or uninsured, you’ll want to have this form of liability coverage.

Contact Us Today for All Your Auto Insurance Needs

If you are a Houston, TX resident, Heydari Financial Group can help you find auto insurance that meets your needs. Give us a call or stop by one of our office locations to sit down with an agent. We hope to hear from you soon!

An introduction to commercial insurance

Businesses in Houston, TX can significantly reduce their business risk by carrying the appropriate insurance. Choosing the right coverage types takes careful consideration though. Heydari Financial Group can help you learn the ropes and determine the proper coverage options.

Ask yourself a few basic questions.

  • What kind of business do you maintain?
  • Where is the business located?
  • Do you run a sole proprietorship, hire contractors, or hire employees?

Your answers to these questions provide a starting point. For instance, if you run a sole proprietorship, you’re not legally required to carry worker’s compensation insurance. Living in the Houston, TX area means flood insurance may also be a smart choice for your business.

The following types of commercial insurance may fit your business’ needs:

  • Commercial property insurance
  • Business income insurance
  • Commercial crime insurance
  • Equipment breakdown insurance
  • Inland and ocean marine insurance
  • Commercial general liability insurance
  • Commercial auto insurance
  • Workers compensation and employers liability insurance
  • Business owners and farm insurance
  • Business interruption insurance
  • Group health, life or death insurance

Business interruption insurance provides coverage when an unforeseen event halts business. Commercial auto protects your commercial vehicle. Property insurance covers your building and its contents, including inventory, from theft or damage. Commercial liability insurance protects your business against lawsuits. Workers’ compensation insurance assists your employees if they incur an on-the-job injury. Group health, life, disability, or death insurance provides coverage to employees who opt for it and often provides reduced rate premiums to each employee.

Commercial insurance refers to a variety of policy types. Consider it more of a category of insurance that the agents at Heydari Financial Group will help you get to know and understand. Although it may seem overwhelming to read all the major types listed, most businesses only need a few policies. Reach out to our offices by phone or stop by for a visit to receive a quote and learn more about how to start a commercial insurance policy.

Why Liability Insurance Is Important for Your Home Insurance Plan

Houston, TX area residents who already have homeowners insurance plans may wonder whether or not they need liability insurance. For many people, liability insurance seems like a needless coverage option. However, it may be quite necessary for you and your family to prevent financial disaster. Let’s look at what liability insurance is and how it can help you.

What Is Liability Insurance?

Liability insurance refers to insurance coverage that protects your finances if you are sued by someone who is seriously injured on your property or someone who has their property damaged by you or something you inadvertently caused.

For example, if someone visiting your home was to slip and fall on your sidewalk because there was ice there, they may be able to sue you for negligence if they were seriously injured as a result. This lawsuit would claim that you should have cleaned up the ice on your sidewalk so that a slip and subsequent injury did not occur. If the plaintiff in this case (the person who slipped) wins the case, you could lose thousands of dollars that you would have to pay them in compensation for their injuries, pain, and suffering.

Contact Heydari Financial Group Today

If you are a Houston, TX area resident, Heydari Financial Group can help you get liability coverage for your homeowner’s insurance plan. As you can see, liability insurance can prevent you from having to pay thousands of dollars in compensation to people who sue you for things that are not your fault. To learn more about your options concerning liability coverage for your homeowner’s insurance policy, visit our nearest location or give us a call today. One of our agents would be happy to sit down and speak with you.

How Can You Protect a Car From a Break In?

We at Heydari Financial Group, serving Houston, TX, recommend taking certain steps to protect your car from a break in. Here are a few ways that you can do that. 

Close Your Windows

When it is hot outside, you may crack the windows on your car or leave your sunroof open a tiny bit. This may help to keep your car cooler. However, it also allows thieves easier access to your car. Close all of the windows to your car when you exit the vehicle. 

Park in Lit Areas

A thief wants to go undetected and remain under the radar. As such, they are less likely to break into a car that is in a well-lit area than they are into one that is in a darker area. It becomes easier for the thief to work in areas where it is hard to identify them should they be caught in the act.

Don’t Keep Valuables in the Car

The last tip to prevent your car from a break in is to remove all valuables from your car. If you are shopping and have bags, place them in a trunk. If a thief can see items, they are more likely to break into your car. However, if your car looks empty, there may be no incentive to break in and steal. 

If you are in the market for new auto insurance or are looking for quotes, be sure to visit Heydari Financial Group, serving the Woodlands and Houston, TX. Our agents can help answer your questions and guide you through the auto insurance process.

Is your startup ready for commercial insurance?

If you’re wondering whether it’s time to call Heydari Financial Group to help get your Houston, TX startup coverage, the short answer is: The sooner you get covered, the better. But, not all startups need insurance just yet.

There one main question to consider:

Can You Afford To Take On The Insurance Risks Yourself?

At the very start of a business venture, it’s all DIY and self-financed. Even if you’re going to be working with investors, you have to draw up the slideshow to pitch your idea, and you have to pay your phone bill while you make the calls. It’s all you, and you’re eating the costs while trying to keep it cheap because you have some faith in the idea and think it’s worth shopping around.

Maybe you’ve spent a hundred dollars on thrift store clothes and ten on gas to start a vintage fashion boutique. In any event, the business is in its infancy, and you’re covering your risks.

Suppose you start outfitting your home office. You’ve got a 3D printer and the fastest laptop you’ve ever owned in your life and a beautiful, luxurious leather chair. If any of this is destroyed in a fire, can you afford to replace it yourself? Do you have employees? Do clients visit you at your home office? If so, then you may need to look into general commercial liability.

From damages to liability, choosing when to call Heydari Financial Group in Houston, TX is a balancing act between what you own and what you can afford to cover. Many of your risks are already covered by home and liability insurance at the early stages, but you’ll want to take stock now and speak with one of our agents to make sure your business is protected.