In a world of apps, websites, 15-minute quotes, and endless commercials, it’s fair to ask: “Do I really still need a local insurance agent?”

The short answer? Yes—now more than ever.

At Bragg Insurance Agency, we understand that insurance isn’t always exciting. Most people don’t wake up in the morning excited to review deductibles, liability limits, or policy exclusions. But when life happens—a storm damages your roof, your teenager has an accident, your business gets sued, or your rates suddenly increase—you want someone in your corner who knows your situation and is ready to help. Here’s why working with a local independent insurance agent still matters.

When you purchase a homeowners insurance policy, you might think the process is complete once you’ve signed the application and your coverage is bound. However, most insurance companies nowadays conduct post-closing home inspections within the first 30–60 days of coverage. These inspections are a standard part of the underwriting process, designed to ensure the property meets the company’s safety and maintenance standards.

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense — especially here in Indiana, where storms, hail, and heavy winds can do serious damage. Here’s my ranking of the Top 5 roofing materials, including a score of how they hold up in a storm.

Sheridan is experiencing steady population growth with an increase from 2,665 residents in 2010 to over 3,250 in 2022. While growth brings new opportunities, it also impacts insurance rates in ways many you may not realize.

In recent years, homeowners have faced significant changes in how insurance companies handle roof claims particularly concerning wind and hail damage claims. Many insurers are transitioning from offering Replacement Cost Value (RCV) to Actual Cash Value (ACV) settlements for roofs older than ten years when they are damaged by wind or hail. This shift has substantial implications for homeowners, affecting claim payouts and out-of-pocket expenses for the homeowner.

Insurance is one of those things we buy hoping we’ll never need to use. And when we don’t, it can feel like we’re paying for something that doesn’t give us anything in return. But the real value of insurance isn’t in how often you “use” it—it’s in the security and peace of mind it provides every single day.

Have you noticed your home insurance premium creeping up lately? You’re not alone. Across Indiana—and the entire country—homeowners are seeing higher rates than ever before. But why is this happening, and more importantly, what can you do about it?

Renters insurance may be the most underrated yet essential types of insurance coverage available. Many renters mistakenly assume their landlord’s insurance policy protects their belongings, but this is not the case. Your landlord’s insurance typically only covers the physical structure of the building, leaving tenants responsible for their personal property and liability.

So, what does renters insurance actually cover? Let’s break it down.