Either choose a specific topic below, or choose browse to view all questions and answers.

Browse   General   Auto   Home   Renters

    General Questions 
~What do I lose by not using an agent to purchase insurance?

~Can I be at risk if I don't use a licensed insurance agent?

   Automobile Insurance Questions
~What insurance am I required to have by law?

~What is the difference between collision physical damage coverage and comprehensive (or "other than collision") physical damage coverage?

~What factors can affect the cost of my automobile insurance?

~What is my best option to be fully insured and aware of my insurance options?

~How do I know if someone I lend my car to is covered under my automobile insurance policy?

   Homeowners Insurance Questions
~What is homeowners insurance and who should buy this type of coverage?

~What factors should I consider when purchasing homeowners insurance?

~What are some practical things I can do to lower the cost of my homeowners insurance?

~What is the difference between "actual cash value" and "replacement cost"?

   Renters Insurance Questions
~Why would I want to buy renters insurance?

~How does a renters policy protect my personal property?

~What if I share my apartment with a roommate? Do we both need to have renters insurance?

             General Questions

What do I lose by not using an agent to purchase insurance?

The main disadvantage of not using an agent to purchase insurance is that the policyholder does not receive quality personal service. We are qualified agents that will take the time to understand your needs and explain all available insurance options. We want to make sure you are covered in all areas that you may face a risk or liability. While our caring and detail oriented attitude will put you at ease, our expertise will truly show in your time of need. If you are unfortunate and need to file a claim, we will act as your personal advocate during the process, answering your questions and looking after the details. At Manger Insurance, we look after our insureds. Without an agent, you will be left on your own to figure out what insurance you need, how to make a claim, and who to call in your time of need.  

Can I be at risk if I don't use a licensed insurance agent?

Many "direct writing" insurance companies use call centers to take information and even issue policies. These call center personnel are often unlicensed and thousands of miles away. They are unfamiliar with you as a customer and your needs. Without this information, they may lack the professional knowledge required to write a complete and wide ranging policy. This could leave you underinsured or even uninsured in certain cases, leaving you open to huge losses that are not covered by your policy. In our litigating society, are you willing to compromise your financial future?      

            Automobile Insurance Questions

What insurance am I required to have by law?

Most states, including North Dakota, South Dakota, and Montana, have enacted laws that require drivers to carry at least some automobile liability insurance. These laws were put in place to ensure that victims of automobile accidents receive compensation when their losses are caused by the actions of another individual who was negligent.

What is the difference between collision physical damage coverage and comprehensive (or "other than collision") physical damage coverage?

A collision loss occurs when your automobile collides with another car or object. An example would be if you hit a car in a parking lot. This would be covered and the damages to your car will be paid, after deductible requirements are met.

Comprehensive provides coverage for most other direct physical damage losses you may incur. For example, damage to your car from a hailstorm will be covered under your comprehensive coverage.

Comprehensive and collision coverages are sold separately with each having its own deductible amount. This deductible amount will generally range from $100 to $1000.

What factors can affect the cost of my automobile insurance?

There are a number of different factors that can affect the cost of your automobile insurance. Some are under your control and some are not.

Some main factors include the type of car you drive and the purpose the car serves. Your driving record and the cars safety features may also drastically raise or lower your rates.

Marital status can also affect your cost of insurance. Statistics have shown that married people tend to have fewer and less costly accidents than single people.

Discounts that are commonly offered include having low annual mileage, having more than one car insured, having other policies with the same company, being a good student, attending drivers training, being accident free, and owning a home.

What is my best option to be fully insured and aware of my insurance options?

Talk with a licensed professional who can help explain what is available and what may best suit your needs.

How do I know if someone I lend my car to is covered under my automobile insurance policy?

Whenever you knowingly loan your car to someone, they will normally be covered under your insurance policy. As a precaution, their actions in your vehicle may affect your insurance premiums and claims history.

            Homeowners Insurance Questions

What is homeowners insurance and who should buy this type of coverage?

Homeowners insurance provides important protection for you and your possessions. Section I on a policy covers the property of the insured. Section II provides personal liability coverage to the insured. Almost anyone who owns or leases property has a need for this type of insurance. Also, in most cases homeowners insurance is required by the lender as part of the requirements in obtaining a mortgage.

What factors should I consider when purchasing homeowners insurance?

There are a number of factors that should be considered. A short list of some of the most important follow.

First and foremost, purchase the amount and type of insurance that you need. Remember that if your policy limit is less than 80% of the replacement cost of your home, any loss payment from your insurance company will be subject to a coinsurance penalty.

Second, determine the amount of personal property insurance and personal liability coverage that you need.

Also, determine which, if any, additional endorsements you want to add to your policy. For example, do you want the personal property replacement cost endorsement, sewer backup, scheduled items, etc..?

What are some practical things I can do to lower the cost of my homeowners insurance?

There are a number of things you can do to lower the cost of your homeowners insurance.

One way to lower the cost is to look for any discounts that you may qualify for. For example, many insurers will offer a discount when you place both your automobile and homeowners insurance with them. Insurers may also offer discounts for things such as security systems or safety devices. Be sure to ask us about any discounts you may qualify for.

Another easy way to lower the cost of your homeowners insurance is to raise your deductible. Increasing your deductible from $250 to $500 will lower your premium, sometimes by as much as five or ten percent. However, be careful to make sure that you have the financial resources necessary to handle the larger deductible.

What is the difference between "actual cash value" and "replacement cost"?

Covered losses under a homeowners policy can be paid on either an actual cash value basis or on a replacement cost basis. When "actual cash value" is used, the policy owner is entitled to the depreciated value of the damaged property. Under the "replacement cost" coverage, the policy owner is reimbursed an amount necessary to replace the article with one of similar type and quality at current prices. The choice of which policy best suits your needs or desires is up to you when purchasing a homeowners policy, although if you currently have an actual cash value policy we can upgrade your protection to replacement cost for additional premium.

            Renters Insurance Questions

Why would I want to buy renters insurance?

If you live in an apartment or a rented house, renters insurance provides important coverage for both you and your possessions. A standard renters policy will often protect your personal property in cases of theft or damage and may pay for temporary living expenses if your rental is damaged. (including loss of use). It can also shield you from personal liability. Anyone who leases a house or apartment needs to consider this type of coverage.

How does a renters policy protect my personal property?

A renters policy provides named perils coverage. This means your property is protected from all the perils that are specifically listed on your policy. These usually include:

Fire or lightning; windstorm or hail; explosions; riots; aircraft; vehicles; smoke; vandalism or malicious mischief; theft; falling objects; weight of ice, snow, or sleet; accidental discharge or overflow of water or steam; sudden and accidental tearing apart, cracking, burning, or bulging; freezing, sudden and accidental damage from artificially generated electrical current; and volcanic eruptions (but this doesn't include earthquake or tremors).

Renters coverage applies to your personal property no matter where you are in the world. This means you're covered when you are on vacation as well as at home.

What if I share my apartment with a roommate? Do we both need to have renters insurance?

Standard renters policies cover only you and relatives that live with you. If your roommate is not a relative, each of you will need your own renters policy to cover your own property and to provide you liability coverage for your own actions.