This Veterans Day, Tennessee is saying thank you to the men and women who served. At All Seasons Insurance Group we want to do more than say it: we want to make sure veterans and active-duty families are not overpaying for, or underinsured on, the things they own. Here are practical insurance moves that matter most to military households in Tennessee.
Deployment and Your Vehicles
If a vehicle will sit unused during a deployment or overseas assignment, you may not need full coverage. Many carriers allow you to reduce a stored vehicle to comprehensive-only, which still covers theft, vandalism, fire, storms and falling trees (all real risks in East Tennessee) while cutting the premium. Tell your agent before you leave, and ask what is required to restore full coverage when you return. Keep in mind that a lender on the vehicle will usually require comprehensive and collision to stay in place.
Protecting a Home While You Are Away
An unoccupied house is a different risk than an occupied one. Many homeowners policies limit or exclude certain losses, such as vandalism or water damage, once a home has been vacant for 30 to 60 days. If you are deploying and leaving your home empty, talk with your agent about a vacancy endorsement, ask a trusted neighbor or relative to check on the property, and consider shutoff valves and a smart leak sensor. If you rent your home out while stationed elsewhere, you will likely need a landlord (dwelling fire) policy instead of a standard homeowners policy.
Stored Belongings and Personal Property
Military moves put belongings at risk. Standard renters and homeowners policies may cover items in transit or storage only in limited ways, and moving company liability is often far lower than the real value of your goods. Document your household inventory with photos and receipts, and ask about scheduling high-value items such as jewelry, firearms, collectibles and electronics so they are covered for their full value.
Renters Insurance Is Not Optional
Living in off-base housing or between duty stations? Renters insurance is inexpensive and covers your belongings, additional living expenses after a fire, and personal liability. Many landlords require it, and it follows you from rental to rental.
Discounts Worth Asking About
Many carriers offer military or veteran discounts, bundling credits for home and auto, and multi-policy savings. Ask about each one specifically. Discounts vary by company and change over time, so a quick review every year after a move or a change in status can add up to real savings.
Buying a Home with a VA Loan
VA loans still require homeowners insurance, and flood coverage may be required in certain zones. Read our guide, VA Loan Homebuyers in Tennessee, for the full checklist, and talk to our team early so your policy is ready before closing.
Real Estate and Mortgage Help
For real estate help anywhere in Tennessee, visit kingsofrealestate.com. For mortgage questions, including VA financing, AnnieMac Home Mortgage can be reached at (865) 518-6408.
Thank You, Veterans
To every Tennessee veteran and military family: thank you for your service. If you would like a no-pressure review of your home, auto and renters coverage, call All Seasons Insurance Group at (865) 263-1400 or visit asigtn.com.
