At American Riviera Bank, we're committed to providing our community with valuable financial insights that go beyond traditional banking. In our latest Regional Pulse podcast episode, we delve into a topic that's crucial for every Central Coast resident: insurance preparedness.
Hosted by our Chief Financial Officer, Michelle Martinich, this episode features local insurance experts Kait Hamilton and Kelly Weiser. Their combined experience and deep roots in our community make them ideal guides for navigating the complex world of insurance in our unique coastal region.
Both experts stress the importance of thoroughly documenting your belongings. As Kate Hamilton advises, "Photograph or video within your house so that you can see all of the items that you have." This simple step can be invaluable in the event of a loss.
Kelly Wiser emphasizes, "It's important to know what your coverage is." This includes understanding your policy limits, deductibles, and specific coverages like dwelling, personal property, and loss of use.
California Fair Plan Insights: For those in high-risk areas, the California Fair Plan might be necessary. However, as our experts point out, it primarily covers fire and has limitations. Supplementing with additional policies is often recommended for comprehensive coverage.
Stay Informed About Policy Changes: With the changing insurance landscape in California, it's crucial to stay informed. Insurance companies must provide 75 days notice before non-renewal, giving you time to explore alternatives if needed.
Regular home maintenance, from roof upkeep to tree trimming, can significantly reduce your risk profile. Consider upgrades like automatic shut-off devices and central fire alarms.
Renters, Take Note: If you're renting, don't overlook the importance of renter's insurance. As our experts highlight, it's an affordable way to protect your personal property and provide loss of use coverage.
For Property Owners: If you're renting out your property, ensure your policy specifies it's a landlord policy. Regular policy reviews are essential to keep up with changing property uses and values.
At American Riviera Bank, we believe that financial well-being extends beyond your bank account. It encompasses protecting your assets and being prepared for the unexpected. We hope this podcast and blog post serve as valuable resources for our Central Coast community.
We invite you to listen to the full podcast for more in-depth insights and to reach out to us with any questions about how we can support your financial journey. At American Riviera Bank, we're more than just your local bank – we're your partners in building a secure financial future.
Kait Hamilton, a third-generation Santa Barbara native, opened her insurance office in 2019 to serve her local community. With a UCSB biology degree and years of experience at State Farm, she leads a knowledgeable team offering personalized insurance solutions. Sarah's agency serves customers across California, Nevada, Arizona, and Oregon, providing auto, health, and life insurance.
Kelly Weiser is Managing Partner and owner of the Weiser Agency. With a background in business and corporate insurance experience, she leads a local team of 15 that's passionate about helping clients create wealth through strategic insurance planning, while also actively contributing to her community through organizations like the Junior League and Dream Foundation.
