TOLEDO, Ohio — As we continue rolling with what the pandemic throws at us, many people have been commuting less and spending and more time at home. That means, for many of us, our insurance needs have changed.
Whether you're calling your kitchen table your new workspace or putting some miles in for Uber, your pandemic lifestyle may mean changes to your home and auto insurance needs. It's important to always update your insurance company about what’s changed in your life and what's changed inside your home so they can properly insure you for that.
Stephen Kates with Bankrate Insurance says the pandemic has led to many insurance companies charging less for coverage. He says if your insurance company didn't automatically lower your premium, you should try checking in with them.
"If you think that your commute is going to be permanently reduced,” said Kates, “go out and tell them how much that it's going to be shortened and you can get a permanent rebate on your insurance."
For those of you who use your car for work, whether you're driving deliveries or maybe driving for Uber of Lyft, then Kates says your personal insurance does not cover you in any way.
He also says, “if you are in a wreck while working, be sure and tell your insurance provider and make sure the company you work for provides you with coverage, or you’ll have to get separate coverage.”
But what about your home?
Kates says that's a gray area, because there’s a difference between using a room as an office so you can work home, and building out a permanent office to bring clients in.
"As you add additional foot traffic to your home, that could be added liability and you may need to have added liability and medical coverage for your home."
You’ll also need to fill your insurance provider in if you've brought in expensive equipment, audio/video equipment, computer systems, or items like that.
Bottom line, if you're looking for the best deal this year, your best bet is to just reach out to your insurance agent and talk to them about what you're using your home for, what you're using your auto for, and they can give you an honest assessment about what coverage you may need.