Information Center

While our Independent Agents are trained and equipped with a wealth of information to help you purchase the products that are right for you, we want to make sure all your basic insurance questions are answered. Your confidence is extremely important to us.

For auto, homeowners, condo and renters insurance, you’ll find that your questions are actually pretty common. We’ve answered quite a few of them for you below.

Auto Insurance FAQs

Can I drive legally without insurance?

No, states require you to have Auto liability insurance or proof that you have sufficient assets to cover the cost of claims incurred if you cause an accident.

How can I save money?

Your premium can vary based on the type of vehicle(s) you are insuring, the area you live in, your driving record, and several other factors. Discuss the following topics with your agent to determine the best options for you:

  • Review your deductibles and consider increasing them.
  • Review coverage on older cars and consider decreasing it.
  • Get a multi-policy discount by purchasing your Homeowners policy and your Auto policy from CSE.
  • Ask about safe driver discounts.
  • CSE offers a multitude of discounts that you could be eligible for.

How much coverage do I need?

Each person’s needs will vary. Talk to your Agent about recommended coverages for your situation.

What determines the price of my policy?

Various factors influence your premium, including your driving record, annual mileage, where you live, age, the car you drive, and your marital status.

What information do I need to give to my agent or company?

Your agent will need to know the make and model of the vehicles you own, your estimated annual mileage, coverages you need, additional drivers and their age, your address, and additional detailed information. Be prepared to provide your vehicle(s) Vehicle Identification Number.

The agent will provide you with a quote and adjust coverages and deductibles at your request.

How do I insure my teenage driver?

Your first step is to contact your agent to inform them of your additional driver. Although the premiums for teenage drivers may be higher than yours, you may save on costs by:

  • Adding your teen on your own policy.
  • Encourage your teen to get good grades.
  • Talk to your teen about safe driving.
  • Take an active role in helping your teen learn to drive.

Should I purchase an Umbrella liability policy?

In the unfortunate event that you are sued, your Homeowners or Auto policy will provide some liability coverage. An Umbrella policy kicks in when you reach the limit on the underlying liability coverage in your Homeowners or Auto policy.

There are many situations where you may need more coverage than your Auto or Homeowners limit, and not having it could put your bank accounts, home and investments at risk.

For example, if you are at fault for a car accident and the other driver’s injuries are significant, you would be responsible for covering costs exceeding your policy limit. Considering the high cost of medical care, this amount could quickly reach the $100,000s. An Umbrella policy could cover the additional costs and protect your assets.

We strongly recommend you consider purchasing an Umbrella liability policy. Contact your Agent to learn more.

Will my insurance cover the cost of renting a car after an accident?

Rental reimbursement is not always automatically included in your policy. Review your policy declaration package to check if you currently have this coverage, and if so, what your limits are. If you do not have this coverage, contact your Agent to discuss adding it to your policy for a low cost.

Homeowners Insurance FAQs

Homeowners insurance is property and liability insurance that covers private homes. A policy can protect you from losses to the structure itself, the belongings in your home, and injuries and property damage to your guests and other people.

What types of disasters are covered?

Click here for examples of covered perils. Floods, earthquakes, and maintenance damage are not covered. Check your policy or ask your Agent for a complete list of perils covered in your policy.

Can I own a home without Homeowners insurance?

In many situations, yes. In some cases, your mortgage lender will require you to get Homeowners insurance. Owning a home is a large investment, and it is highly advisable to protect that investment and your belongings with Homeowners insurance.

What type of insurance do I need for a condo?

Condo owners are typically responsible for insuring a portion of the unit they own. Your condo covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) determine how much coverage you need. An Agent could help you determine the proper insurance coverage.

The condo board will have a master policy to cover common areas you share with others in your building, typically including the building structure, roof, walkways, elevator, basement, etc. for liability and physical damage. This policy is generally paid for and included in association fees.

You will need your own unit owner’s policy to protect your home. This will cover your belongings and living expenses if you are the victim of fire or theft. Ask your Agent for a list of disasters covered in your policy. You should also ask your Agent about additional coverages, such as unit assessment, water backup, Umbrella liability, flood, earthquake, and floaters/endorsements.

Does my Homeowners insurance cover earthquakes?

Earthquake damages are not included in your Homeowners policy. Your Agent can help answer questions about Earthquake insurance.

Does my Homeowners insurance cover flooding?

Standard policies do not cover flooding, but you may purchase flood coverage separately. Whether you are a homeowner or renter, if you live in a designated flood zone, it is highly recommended that you purchase flood insurance to protect your home and belongings.

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers flood insurance with limited coverage. Your Independent Agent can help answer your questions.

How do I take a home inventory and why?

A home inventory will help expedite the claims process, help you in the settlement of a covered loss, and help you determine the type of coverage(s) you need and coverage limits.

How much Homeowners insurance do I need?

Your CSE Agent will help you determine the coverages and limits that are right for you and your family to properly insure:

  1. The structure of your home.
  2. Your personal possessions.
  3. The cost of additional living expenses if your home is damaged and you have to live elsewhere during repairs.
  4. Your liability to others.

Do I need special coverage for jewelry and other valuables?

Probably so. Standard Homeowners policies include limited coverage for jewelry, watches, furs and other valuables for losses caused by the perils included in your policy. These items are covered for losses caused by all the perils included in your policy such as fire, windstorm, theft and vandalism.

The basic limits may not be sufficient to replace the item. Consider your wedding rings. In the event of theft, would your limit be sufficient to replace them?

Consult with your Agent to determine which, if any, items you should raise the limit of liability or purchase a floater policy for.

You can also add coverage for mysterious disappearance in the event you lose the special property.

How often should I review my policy?

We recommend an annual Insurance Checkup from your local Agent. Review the following list of questions to ask yourself and help guide your policy review:

  • Has the company offered additional, optional coverages since last year?
  • Should I raise my deductible to save money?
  • Am I taking advantage of all available discounts?
  • Do I need to raise the amount of coverage for LiabilityPersonal Possessions or the Structure?
  • Do I need a Flood, Earthquake or an Umbrella policy?
  • Do I have adequate limits of coverage for my jewelry, furs, art and rugs?
  • Have I made major purchases?
  • Have I made major improvements to my home?
  • Have I installed a burglar alarm system?

Should I purchase an Umbrella liability policy?

In the unfortunate event that you are sued, your Homeowners or Auto policy will provide some liability coverage. An Umbrella policy kicks in when you reach the limit on the underlying liability coverage in your Homeowners or Auto policy.

There are many situations where you may need more coverage than your Auto or Homeowners limit, and not having it could put your bank accounts, home and investments at risk.

For example, if you are at fault for a car accident and the other driver’s injuries are significant, you would be responsible for covering costs exceeding your policy limit. Considering the high cost of medical care, this amount could quickly reach the $100,000s. An Umbrella policy could cover the additional costs and protect your assets.

We strongly recommend you consider purchasing an Umbrella liability policy. Contact your Agent to learn more.

Renters Insurance FAQs

Am I legally required to have Renters insurance?

You are not legally required to purchase Renters insurance; however, for a low cost, you can protect your belongings and help protect you against liability lawsuits (if someone is accidentally injured in your home). Plus, a lawsuit against you for negligence could be financially devastating. Get the coverage you need.

I don't own much. Do I need Renters insurance?

You may be underestimating the value of your belongings. Do you own computers, tablets, jewelry, musical instruments, clothes and furniture? Add up the value of your belongings and you will quickly see how much it would cost to replace it all if it were stolen or damaged in a fire.

Do you travel? Renters insurance also covers your property while you travel.

How do I take a home inventory and why?

A home inventory will help expedite the claims process, help you in the settlement of a covered loss, and help you determine the type of coverage(s) you need and coverage limits.

What does Renters insurance cover?

A Renters insurance policy will allow you to recover the value of your belongings. Plus, if someone is accidentally injured in your home, Renters insurance will help protect you against a liability lawsuit. Click here to learn more.

How much coverage do I need?

A CSE Independent Agent in your area will be glad to help recommend the best coverages and deductible for your needs.

Do I need special coverage for jewelry and other valuables?

Probably so. Standard Renters policies include limited coverage for jewelry, watches, furs and other valuables for losses caused by the perils included in your policy. These items are covered for losses caused by all the perils included in your policy such as fire, windstorm, theft and vandalism.

The basic limits may not be sufficient to replace the item. Consider your wedding rings. In the event of theft, would your limit be sufficient to replace them?

Consult with your Agent to determine which, if any, items you should raise the limit of liability or purchase a floater policy for.

You can also add coverage for mysterious disappearance in the event you lose the special property.

How often should I review my policy?

We recommend an annual Insurance Checkup from your local Agent. Review the following list of questions to ask yourself and help guide your policy review:

  • Has the company offered additional, optional coverages since last year?
  • Should I raise my deductible to save money?
  • Am I taking advantage of all available discounts?
  • Do I need to raise the amount of coverages for Liability or Personal Possessions?
  • Do I need an Umbrella policy?
  • Do I have adequate limits of coverage for my jewelry, furs, art and rugs?
  • Have I made major purchases?
  • Have I installed a burglar alarm system?

Should I purchase an Umbrella Liability policy?

In the unfortunate event that you are sued, your Homeowners or Auto policy will provide some liability coverage. An Umbrella policy kicks in when you reach the limit on the underlying liability coverage in your Homeowners or Auto policy.

There are many situations where you may need more coverage than your Auto or Homeowners limit, and not having it could put your bank accounts and other assets at risk.

For example, if you are at fault for a car accident and the other driver’s injuries are significant, you would be responsible for covering costs exceeding your policy limit. Considering the high cost of medical care, this amount could quickly reach the $100,000s. An Umbrella policy could cover the additional costs and protect your assets.

We strongly recommend you consider purchasing an Umbrella liability policy. Contact your Agent to learn more.

Condo Insurance FAQs

Am I legally required to have Condo insurance?

You are not legally required to purchase Condo insurance; however, for a low cost, you can protect your belongings and help protect you against liability lawsuits (if someone is accidentally injured in your home). Plus, a lawsuit against you for negligence could be financially devastating. Get the coverage you need.

I don't own much. Do I need Condo insurance?

You may be underestimating the value of your belongings. Do you own computers, tablets, jewelry, musical instruments, clothes and furniture? Add up the value of your belongings and you will quickly see how much it would cost to replace it all if it were stolen or damaged in a fire.

Do you travel? Condo insurance also covers your property while you travel.

What type of insurance do I need for a condo?

Condo owners are typically responsible for insuring a portion of the unit they own. Your condo covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) determine how much coverage you need. An Agent could help you determine the proper insurance coverage.

The condo board will have a master policy to cover common areas you share with others in your building, typically including the building structure, roof, walkways, elevator, basement, etc. for liability and physical damage. This policy is generally paid for and included in association fees.

You will need your own unit owner’s policy to protect your home. This will cover your belongings and living expenses if you are the victim of fire or theft. Ask your Agent for a list of disasters covered in your policy. You should also ask your Agent about additional coverages, such as unit assessment, water backup, Umbrella liability, flood, earthquake, and floaters/endorsements.

What does Condo insurance cover?

A Condo Insurance policy will allow you to recover the value of your belongings; plus, if someone is accidentally injured in your home, Condo Insurance will help protect you against a liability lawsuit. Click here for examples of covered perils.

How much coverage do I need?

A CSE Independent Agent in your area will be glad to help recommend the best coverages and deductible for your needs.

Do I need special coverage for jewelry and other valuables?

Probably so. Standard Condo policies include limited coverage for jewelry, watches, furs and other valuables for losses caused by the perils included in your policy. These items are covered for losses caused by all the perils included in your policy such as fire, windstorm, theft and vandalism.

The basic limits may not be sufficient to replace the item. Consider your wedding rings. In the event of theft, would your limit be sufficient to replace them?

Consult with your Agent to determine which, if any, items you should raise the limit of liability or purchase a floater policy for.

You can also add coverage for mysterious disappearance in the event you lose the special property.

How often should I review my policy?

We recommend an annual Insurance Checkup from your local Agent. Review the following list of questions to ask yourself and help guide your policy review:

  • Has the company offered additional, optional coverages since last year?
  • Should I raise my deductible to save money?
  • Am I taking advantage of all available discounts?
  • Do I need to raise the amount of coverages for Liability or Personal Possessions?
  • Do I need an Umbrella policy?
  • Do I have adequate limits of coverage for my jewelry, furs, art and rugs?
  • Have I made major purchases?
  • Have I installed a burglar alarm system?

Should I purchase an Umbrella Liability policy?

In the unfortunate event that you are sued, your Homeowners or Auto policy will provide some liability coverage. An Umbrella policy kicks in when you reach the limit on the underlying liability coverage in your Homeowners or Auto policy.

There are many situations where you may need more coverage than your Auto or Homeowners limit, and not having it could put your bank accounts and other assets at risk.

For example, if you are at fault for a car accident and the other driver’s injuries are significant, you would be responsible for covering costs exceeding your policy limit. Considering the high cost of medical care, this amount could quickly reach the $100,000s. An Umbrella policy could cover the additional costs and protect your assets.

We strongly recommend you consider purchasing an Umbrella liability policy. Contact your Agent to learn more.

Does my Condo Insurance cover earthquakes?

Earthquake damages are not included in your Condo policy. Your Agent can help answer questions about Earthquake insurance.

Umbrella Insurance FAQs

How do Umbrella policies work?

An Umbrella policy can’t prevent serious accident from happening, but it can protect you from their financial consequences. In the unfortunate event that you are responsible for a serious accident, your Homeowners or Auto policy will provide liability coverage up to the stated limit. An Umbrella policy kicks in when you reach the limit on the underlying liability coverage in your Homeowners or Auto policy. It also covers the legal cost necessary to defend you and court costs.

There are many situations where you may need more coverage than your Auto or Homeowners limit, and not having it could put your bank accounts, home, investments, or take home pay at risk.

In addition to covering you for your negligent acts, an Umbrella policy can also protect you from the financial consequences caused by the acts of your dependent children.

For example, if you or your child is at fault for an accident, you would be responsible for covering any costs exceeding your policy limit. Considering the high cost of medical care, this amount could quickly reach the millions. An Umbrella policy provides you with peace of mind by covering the additional costs. It protects your assets and future lifestyle.

We strongly recommend that you consider if purchasing an Umbrella liability policy is right for your situation. Contact your Agent to learn more.

What kinds of accidents are covered by Umbrella policies?

We’re all human and accidents happen – that’s why you need protection from the financial consequences of serious accidents. Your Umbrella policy could cover your negligent acts as a driver, homeowner, renter, or landlord, more specifically:

  • Car crashes by you or your dependent children, especially when many passengers or pedestrians are seriously hurt.
  • Your dog bites someone – children are especially vulnerable to bites.
  • Slips and falls at your home or apartment that cause serious injury.
  • A fire on your property or apartment that spreads to a neighboring property.
  • Your dependent child starts a fire that burns a neighbor’s property.
  • Swimming pool or hot tub accident or drowning.
  • Boat accidents.
  • Personal injury lawsuits against you arising from slander, libel, defamation of character, false arrest, detention or imprisonment, shock/mental anguish.

Personal Umbrella liability coverage is available in increments of $1 million, with a maximum of $5 million. Your Agent can help you determine how much coverage you need for your bank accounts, home, valuables and earning capacity.

Am I legally required to have Umbrella Insurance?

You are not legally required to purchase Umbrella Insurance; however, for a low cost, you can protect your bank accounts, home, valuables, and future wages. It’s the peace of mind coverage that many people need.

Who needs an Umbrella policy?

We live in a litigious society. Umbrella policies cover your negligent acts as a driver, homeowner, renter, or landlord. Ask your Agent for a quote today.

I don't own much. Do I need Umbrella Insurance?

Your financial responsibility for your negligent acts can be recovered in numerous ways including garnishing your wages. With increasingly higher-cost settlements, it’s important to have the coverage you need to prevent this.

How do I purchase an Umbrella policy?

Contact your Agent to review your current Auto and Homeowners policies to ensure you have the limits required in order to purchase an Umbrella policy.

Your Agent will perform a free Insurance Checkup and provide you with a free quote.

What questions will my Agent ask me when I call?

As a part of your free Insurance Checkup, your Agent will review your current policies and what they cover, the value of your assets, and the risk of your lifestyle.