What Information is Needed for Insurance Quotes?

Curtis Rock • October 10, 2024

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One of the most common questions I get from potential clients is "How much is my insurance for XYZ going to cost?"  It could be their business insurance coverages, their car insurance, or their boat.  I wish I had a simple and instant answer for them, but unfortunately there is a lot more information required.  Below, I have outlined some basic information you should have prior to requesting a free insurance quote for Property, Autos, and Business.


Our Insurance Agency is located in Corpus Christi, Texas where the majority of our business is conducted.  Corpus Christi has its own identity and associated risks that present unique challenges to Insurance Underwriting such as climate and socioeconomic conditions.  It's not as simple as just asking "how much will my insurance cost for this car, or this house, or my entire business" because many factors come into play.

Property Information

  • Type of Property: This includes whether it's a home, apartment, commercial building, or other structure.
  • Location: The address of the property is crucial for determining factors like risk of natural disasters and theft rates.
  • Construction: The materials used in building the property, such as brick, wood, or stone, can affect insurance premiums.
  • Age: Older properties may require additional coverage or have higher premiums due to potential wear and tear.
  • Square Footage: The size of the property influences the amount of coverage needed and potential risks.
  • Security Features: Any security measures, such as alarms, surveillance systems, or gated communities, can help lower premiums.

Coverage Details

  • Desired Coverage Limits: Specify the amount of coverage you want for both property damage and liability.
  • Deductibles: Choose the deductible amount you're comfortable with. Higher deductibles generally result in lower premiums.
  • Additional Coverages: Consider any extra protections you may need, such as flood insurance, earthquake coverage, or personal belongings coverage.

Personal Information

  • Contact Information: Provide your name, address, phone number, and email address.
  • Claim History: Disclose any previous insurance claims, including the nature of the claims and the insurance company involved.
  • Policy History: If you have existing insurance policies, provide information about them, such as the insurer, policy numbers, and coverage amounts.

Financial Information

  • Payment Options: Indicate how you prefer to pay your premiums, such as monthly, quarterly, or annually.
  • Payment History: If you have a history of late payments on other accounts, it may affect your insurance rates.

When seeking auto insurance quotes, having the following information ready will help streamline the process and ensure you receive accurate estimates.

Vehicle Information

  • Make and Model: The specific brand and model of your vehicle.
  • Year: The year your vehicle was manufactured.
  • Mileage: The total number of miles your vehicle has traveled.
  • Usage: How often you drive your vehicle, such as daily commuting, occasional use, or pleasure driving.
  • Garage Location: Where your vehicle is primarily parked.

Driver Information

  • Age: Your age and the age of any additional drivers on the policy.
  • Driving Experience: How long you've been driving and any previous driving experience.
  • Driving Record: Any accidents, traffic violations, or suspensions on your driving record.
  • Occupation: Your occupation, as some professions may affect your insurance rates.
  • Marital Status: Your marital status, as it can sometimes impact insurance premiums.

Coverage Details

  • Desired Coverage Limits: Specify the amount of coverage you want for bodily injury liability, property damage liability, comprehensive coverage, and collision coverage.
  • Deductibles: Choose the deductible amounts you're comfortable with for comprehensive and collision coverage.
  • Additional Coverages: Consider any extra protections you may need, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, rental car reimbursement, or roadside assistance.

Payment Information

  • Payment Options: Indicate how you prefer to pay your premiums, such as monthly, quarterly, or annually.
  • Payment History: If you have a history of late payments on other accounts, it may affect your insurance rates.

By providing this information to insurance providers, you can help them accurately assess your risk and provide you with personalized auto insurance quotes that meet your specific needs and budget.


Business Information

Business Details

  • Business Name: The legal name of your business.
  • Business Type: The type of business you operate (e.g., sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation).
  • Business Location: The address of your business premises.
  • Number of Employees: The total number of employees working for your business.
  • Annual Revenue: Your business's annual sales or income.
  • Industry: The specific industry in which your business operates.

Risk Assessment

  • Operations: A detailed description of your business operations, including any hazardous activities or materials.
  • Property: Information about your business property, such as the size, construction, and security measures.
  • Claims History: Any previous insurance claims your business has filed.  This is usually in the form of "Loss Runs" that needs to be requested from your current or former Agents.

Coverage Needs

  • General Liability: The level of coverage needed to protect your business from lawsuits due to property damage, bodily injury, or personal injury.
  • Property Insurance: The amount of coverage required to protect your business property, including buildings, equipment, and inventory.
  • Workers' Compensation: If applicable, the level of coverage needed to provide benefits to employees injured on the job.
  • Commercial Auto Insurance: If your business owns or leases vehicles, the coverage needed to protect your vehicles and drivers.
  • Professional Liability (Errors and Omissions): If applicable, the level of coverage needed to protect your business from claims of negligence or errors in professional services.

Financial Information

  • Payment Options: Indicate how you prefer to pay your premiums, such as monthly, quarterly, or annually.
  • Payment History: If you have a history of late payments on other accounts, it may affect your insurance rates.

Recent posts

By Curtis Rock June 16, 2025
Your Business Runs on Trust. E&O Protects It. If you run a business where people rely on your advice, your service, or your expertise — then you need to understand what Errors & Omissions insurance (E\&O) does and why it’s critical to protecting your reputation and your bottom line. Even when you do everything right, misunderstandings happen. Details get missed. And if that mistake (or even a *perceived* mistake) causes a client to lose money, you could be held financially responsible. That’s where E\&O insurance steps in. Why Insurance Agencies Carry It Let’s start with us. At Ohana Insurance Group, we carry E&O coverage ourselves — and for good reason. If one of our agents fails to include key coverage, miscommunicates a deductible, or a client misunderstands their policy, that could lead to a lawsuit or claim. E&O insurance helps pay for legal defense, settlements, and other costs associated with that kind of professional liability. It doesn’t matter if the mistake was unintentional or if the client misunderstood — you still have to defend your business. Who Else Needs E&O Coverage? E&O coverage isn’t just for insurance agencies. It’s essential protection for any service-based or professional business that could be blamed for financial loss. Here are just a few examples: Accountants & Bookkeepers A simple error in tax filings could lead to penalties and lawsuits. E\&O helps cover those legal claims. Business Consultants Your advice has real financial impact. If a client claims your strategy caused losses, E&O can protect you. Real Estate Professionals Misrepresenting property features or failing to disclose information can result in expensive legal disputes. IT & Tech Professionals If your software fails, or your work leads to data loss or downtime, E\&O covers claims related to service failure or negligence. What Does E&O Actually Cover? * Mistakes or oversights in your professional work * Missed deadlines or failure to deliver agreed-upon services * Legal defense costs, judgments, and settlements * Claims of negligence, misrepresentation, or bad advice It’s important to note: E&O doesn’t cover physical injuries, property damage, or intentional misconduct. Those exposures are handled under different policies (like general liability or cyber coverage). Why It’s Smart Business You don’t have to be wrong to get sued. And defending your business — even from a claim with no merit — costs time, money, and stress. Errors & Omissions insurance protects your reputation, your finances, and your ability to keep working. It's a smart layer of protection for businesses that run on relationships, responsibility, and trust. At Ohana Insurance Group, we help business owners choose the right E\&O coverage for their industry — and explain it in plain language. Want to know if your business needs E&O insurance? Let’s talk. 📞 361-334-0539 🌐 [www.ohanainsured.com](http://www.ohanainsured.com) 📍 Corpus Christi | Houston
By Curtis Rock June 11, 2025
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By Curtis Rock June 5, 2025
Have you heard of the Texas FAIR Plan? The Texas FAIR Plan Association (TFPA) acts as an "insurer of last resort" for residential property insurance in Texas. It was established to ensure that eligible Texans who cannot obtain coverage through the traditional private insurance market still have access to essential property insurance. How to Qualify for the Texas FAIR Plan Qualifying for the Texas FAIR Plan isn't as simple as just wanting it. It's a specific process with strict requirements: Declinations from Private Insurers You must have been denied coverage by at least two insurance companies that are actively writing residential property insurance policies in Texas. This demonstrates your inability to secure coverage in the voluntary market. You'll need to provide proof of these declinations. No Other Comparable Offer You cannot have a current homeowners policy, a renewal offer, or a valid offer of comparable residential property insurance from another licensed Texas insurer. Property Eligibility Your property must meet certain underwriting standards. It cannot be condemned, vacant, or in disrepair. There are also restrictions on properties with excessive or unusual liability exposures (e.g., certain dangerous animals, unfenced pools/trampolines). Claims History Generally, you cannot have more than eight paid insurance claims (excluding glass claims) within the past three years. No Arson/Fraud Convictions You cannot have a conviction for arson, fraud, or any other insurance-related offense. Agent Application You cannot apply directly to the FAIR Plan. Applications must be submitted through a licensed property and casualty agent like Ohana Insurance Group, LLC. Benefits of the Texas FAIR Plan While it's a "last resort," the Texas FAIR Plan offers significant benefits for those who qualify: Access to Coverage The primary benefit is access to essential property insurance when it's otherwise unavailable. This provides a crucial safety net for homeowners. Basic Protection It offers coverage for perils like fire, lightning, sudden and accidental smoke damage, windstorm and hail (with exceptions in certain coastal areas), explosion, aircraft and vehicles, riot and civil commotion, and theft. Liability Coverage Homeowners, condo, and tenant policies typically include personal liability and medical payments coverage for injuries to others on your property. Various Policy Types The FAIR Plan offers different policy types, including homeowners, dwelling, condominium, and tenant (renters) insurance. Downsides of the Texas FAIR Plan It's important to be aware of the limitations and potential drawbacks of the Texas FAIR Plan: Higher Premiums Policies through the FAIR Plan are generally more expensive than what you would find in the voluntary market, reflecting the higher risk associated with the properties it insures. Limited Coverage While it provides essential coverage, it is not as comprehensive as what's typically available from private insurers. For instance, it may not cover damage from falling objects (like trees), building collapse, glass breakage, or the weight of ice/snow as part of its basic policy. Actual Cash Value for Personal Property Personal property coverage often pays out at actual cash value (replacement cost minus depreciation), unless you opt for replacement cost coverage at an additional premium on certain policy types. Coastal Area Restrictions If you live in a designated catastrophe area (e.g., certain coastal counties), windstorm, hurricane, and hail coverage may be excluded or require a separate policy through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA). Reapplication Requirement Policyholders are required to reapply for coverage in the voluntary market every two years, reinforcing its role as temporary coverage. Claims Processing Some policyholders have reported challenges with claims processing and communication, particularly during widespread catastrophic events. The Texas FAIR Plan serves a vital role in our state's insurance landscape. While it may not be your first choice, understanding its purpose, eligibility, and limitations is crucial for any Texas property owner facing challenges in the private insurance market. If you believe the Texas FAIR Plan might be an option for you, contact Ohana Insurance Group. We're here to guide you through the process.
By Curtis Rock June 2, 2025
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By Curtis Rock May 31, 2025
Premium Financing: A Practical Solution for Managing Insurance Costs At Ohana Insurance Group, we understand that managing substantial insurance premiums can strain your cash flow. Premium financing offers a strategic approach to maintain necessary coverage without the burden of large upfront payments. What Is Premium Financing? Premium financing involves obtaining a short-term loan to pay for insurance premiums, allowing policyholders to spread the cost over time. This method is particularly beneficial for businesses and individuals who prefer to retain liquidity for other investments or operational needs. Benefits of Premium Financing • Improved Cash Flow: By financing premiums, you can preserve working capital for other business activities or personal investments. • Access to Comprehensive Coverage: Financing enables you to obtain the necessary insurance coverage without compromising due to immediate budget constraints. • Flexible Payment Terms: Premium financing arrangements often offer customizable payment plans to suit your financial situation. Partnering with IPFS Ohana Insurance Group collaborates with Imperial PFS (IPFS), a leader in premium financing solutions. IPFS provides: • Flexible Financing Options: Including plans such as 25% down with nine monthly payments or 15% down with ten monthly payments. • Streamlined Processes: Their platform offers online payment options, eSignature capabilities, and real-time account management. • Experience and Reliability: With over 45 years in the industry, IPFS has a proven track record of supporting clients’ financing needs. Is Premium Financing Right for You? Premium financing is suitable for those who: • Require significant insurance coverage but prefer to maintain liquidity. • Seek to align insurance payments with cash flow cycles. • Desire flexible payment structures without compromising on coverage. Final Thoughts Premium financing is a practical tool to manage insurance expenses effectively. At Ohana Insurance Group, we are committed to providing solutions that align with your financial goals. Contact us today to explore how premium financing can benefit you. 📞 361-334-0539 🌐 www.ohanainsured.com 📍 Corpus Christi | Houston
By Curtis Rock May 30, 2025
For businesses operating within the diverse economic landscape of Texas, encompassing major metropolitan areas such as Houston, Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, and Corpus Christi a robust understanding of essential business insurance is paramount. Ohana Insurance Group, LLC, offers insights into fundamental coverages designed to protect your organization's continuity and financial stability. General Liability Insurance: Mitigating Operational Risks General liability insurance serves as a foundational element of risk management, providing protection against claims alleging bodily injury or property damage arising from routine business activities. Illustrative Scenario: Within a Dallas-based retail environment, should a customer sustain injuries due to a slip and fall, general liability coverage can address resultant medical expenses and potential legal defense costs. Statewide Relevance: The potential for such incidents transcends geographical boundaries within Texas. Whether your operations are based in Austin's service sector, Houston's industrial domain, or San Antonio's commercial districts, this coverage offers critical financial safeguards. Commercial Property Insurance: Preserving Tangible Assets Businesses that own or lease physical premises necessitate commercial property insurance to mitigate financial losses stemming from damage to buildings, equipment, inventory, and other business-related property due to covered perils, including fire, wind, and theft. Illustrative Scenario: If a Fort Worth-based office building incurs roof damage due to a severe hailstorm, commercial property insurance can provide resources for repair. Statewide Relevance: From the logistical hubs of Houston to the commercial centers of Austin, the physical assets of your enterprise are integral to its function. This insurance facilitates recovery following a covered loss. Commercial Auto Insurance: Addressing Vehicular Exposures For businesses utilizing vehicles, whether a single vehicle for deliveries within San Antonio or a fleet operating statewide, commercial auto insurance is indispensable. This coverage addresses liabilities arising from accidents involving company-owned or operated vehicles. Illustrative Scenario: Should an employee operating a company vehicle in Houston be involved in a collision, commercial auto insurance can cover associated damage and injury costs. Statewide Relevance: Given the extensive geography of Texas, many businesses rely on vehicular transport. This coverage ensures financial protection against vehicular incidents. Workers' Compensation Insurance: Supporting Workforce Welfare Employers with personnel are typically required to carry Workers' Compensation insurance, providing benefits to employees who experience work-related injuries or illnesses. This coverage can include medical expenses and a portion of lost wages. Illustrative Scenario: If an employee at an Austin-based technology firm sustains a back injury while handling equipment, Workers' Compensation can provide necessary support. Statewide Relevance: Protecting the well-being of your workforce is not only ethically sound but often legally mandated within Texas. This coverage supports your employees during times of occupational injury or illness. Additional Coverage Considerations: Depending on the specific nature of your business operations throughout Texas, supplementary coverages may be advisable, such as: Professional Liability Insurance (Errors and Omissions): Pertinent for entities providing professional services. Cyber Liability Insurance: Increasingly crucial for organizations managing sensitive digital information. Your Insurance Partner in Texas Navigating the complexities of business insurance requires informed guidance. Ohana Insurance Group, LLC, while headquartered in Houston, is committed to assisting businesses across all major Texas cities in identifying and securing appropriate insurance solutions tailored to their unique risk profiles. To discuss your business insurance requirements, please contact us or visit our website at www.ohanainsured.com.
By Curtis Rock May 13, 2025
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By Curtis Rock May 8, 2025
By Curtis Rock May 8, 2025
Houston presents unique challenges and opportunities when it comes to protecting property and assets. For today's blog, we want to share some key topics that are top of mind for us and should be for you too. The Ever-Present Reality: Severe Weather in Houston Houston is a fantastic place to live and work, but we can't ignore the reality of our weather. From hurricane season to intense thunderstorms and even the occasional flooding event, severe weather is a consistent factor in our insurance landscape. Rising Frequency and Intensity: We've observed an increase in the frequency and intensity of these events. This directly impacts insurance rates and the availability of certain coverages. Understanding your policy's protection against wind, hail, and flood is more critical than ever. Are you confident in your current coverage? Flood Insurance: Standard homeowner's policies typically do not cover flood damage. Given Houston's history, having a separate flood insurance policy, whether through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private carrier, is a crucial consideration for many. Let's discuss your flood risk and options. The Tightening Market: Property Insurance Challenges We're seeing a trend across Texas, including Houston, of a hardening property insurance market. This means: Increased Premiums: Due to the factors mentioned above (severe weather, increased claims, reinsurance costs), you might be experiencing higher premiums upon renewal. This isn't unique to you; it's a broader market trend. Stricter Underwriting: Insurance companies are becoming more selective about the properties they insure. This could mean closer scrutiny of a property's age, condition, and claims history. Coverage Adjustments: You might see changes in the terms and conditions of your policy, such as higher deductibles or limitations on certain coverages. Liability in Focus: Protecting Your Assets Property and casualty insurance isn't just about physical damage; it's also about protecting you from liability claims. Homeowner's Liability: This coverage protects you if someone is injured on your property. With Houston's active lifestyle and community engagement, ensuring you have adequate liability limits is essential. Business Liability: For our fellow business owners in Houston, general liability coverage is vital to protect against claims of bodily injury or property damage arising from your operations. Staying Ahead: What You Can Do While these challenges exist, there are proactive steps you can take: Regular Policy Review: Schedule a review of your property and casualty policies with us at Ohana Insurance Group. We can ensure your coverage aligns with your current needs and the evolving risks in Houston. Mitigation Measures: Taking steps to protect your property, such as installing storm shutters, maintaining your roof, and elevating appliances in flood-prone areas, can sometimes help with insurance costs and, more importantly, prevent damage. Understanding Your Coverage: Don't wait until a loss occurs to understand what your policy covers. We're here to answer your questions and clarify any aspects of your insurance. Houston, we have a problem... Ohana Insurance Group, LLC has the solutions. Since January 1, 2023, Ohana Insurance Group, LLC has been committed to serving the Houston community with personalized insurance solutions. We leverage our extensive experience and backgrounds in our respective markets to help you navigate these property and casualty topics and challenges. Ready to discuss your insurance needs? Contact us today!
By Curtis Rock May 7, 2025
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