Frequently Asked Questions

Insurance policy premiums are determined by the carrier and submitted to the state's department of insurance for review. Generally speaking, policy premiums are set based on a combination of risk factors, coverage levels, and company-specific pricing models. Here’s a breakdown of key components: Risk Profile: Insurers assess the likelihood of a claim. This includes: Age, credit score, and claim history (for auto/home/life) Property location and condition (for home) Driving record and vehicle type (for auto) Health and lifestyle (for life/health) Coverage & Limits: Higher coverage amounts, lower deductibles, and add-ons (like roadside assistance or replacement cost) increase premiums. Underwriting Models: Each company uses proprietary data, actuarial models, and statistical analysis to predict losses and set rates. Regulations & Market Conditions: State laws, inflation, natural disaster frequency, and reinsurance costs also impact pricing.

An insurance agent can affect premiums in the following ways: Coverage Choices: Recommending higher or lower limits, deductibles, or optional coverages (like roadside or rental) impacts cost. Discount Application: Ensuring all eligible discounts are applied (e.g., bundling, claims-free, good student). Carrier Selection: Matching clients with the right insurance company—some carriers have better rates for certain profiles. Risk Assessment: Accurately reporting and explaining risks (like roof age, driving history, home updates) can avoid rating errors. Policy Structuring: Structuring policies efficiently (e.g., bundling home and auto) often reduces total premiums. Client Education: Helping clients understand how their behavior (claims, credit, lapses in coverage) affects future rates. While agents don’t set base rates (that’s up to the carrier and state regulations), they can significantly influence the final premium through guidance and expertise.

Please don't. We completely understand how frustrating the increasing cost of insurance is in the state of Texas, but yelling at your agent is never the appropriate course of action. Jason Ridley Agency, LLC employees are also consumers just like you, so we too, feel the sting of current insurance premiums and empathize with you Please remember no one at an insurance agency is responsible for setting your premiums - that's done by the carrier and your state's department of insurance. And no one at our agency would ever purposefully do anything to upset you. So when you get that renewal, and if there's a significant increase, take a few deep breaths before you reach out to us - because we really are here to help Keep in mind, the general ways an agency can help affect your premium costs are: Policy Customization – Although we don't typically recommend it, lowering coverage limits and raising deductibles may help lower your premiums. Carrier Selection – Comparing rates from multiple companies (if independent). Discount Optimization – Applying eligible discounts (bundling home/auto, safe driver, good student - with proof, home security, etc.). Risk Assessment – Advising on risk improvements (e.g., roof upgrades, security systems). Accurate Info Submission – Ensuring details like home value, driver info, and business operations are correct to avoid over- or under-rating. Note: Depending on the size of your policy's renewal increase, when you're within 30 days of renewing, as a courtesy, we will automatically review your coverages and shop your policy with our list of available carriers to determine if there's a better opportunity for you

The difference is in who they represent: Independent Agent: Works with multiple insurance carriers, offering a variety of coverage options and price comparisons. They work for you, not one company. Captive Agent: Works for only one insurance company (like State Farm or Allstate) and can only offer that company’s products. Bottom line: Independent agents offer more flexibility and choices, while captive agents offer products from a single source. Note: Jason Ridley Agency, LLC is an independent agent.

Here are key advantages of choosing an independent insurance agent over shopping online: Expert Guidance – Agents explain coverages clearly and help avoid costly gaps. Customized Policies – Online platforms use general algorithms; agents tailor policies to your specific needs. Carrier Comparison – Agents quote multiple top carriers, while online sites may be limited or biased. Claims Support – When applicable, an agent can advocate on your behalf; online platforms usually don’t. Relationship & Trust – You get ongoing support from a real person who knows you—not just a website. No Extra Cost – You pay the same or less than online quotes, with added service and peace of mind.

Here are common ways to lower your insurance premiums: Bundle policies – Combine auto, home, renters, etc., for a discount. Increase your deductible – Higher deductibles usually mean lower premiums. Maintain good credit – Many insurers use credit to help determine rates. Drive safely – Avoid tickets and accidents to keep your record clean. Take advantage of discounts – Good student, safe driver, multi-car, and more. Review coverage regularly – Drop unnecessary coverages on older vehicles. Install safety devices – Alarms, anti-theft, or driver tracking tools may help. Ask Your Agent to Shop around at Renewal Time – Different carriers offer different rates for similar coverage - depending on the amount of your increase, Jason Ridley Agency will automatically shop your renewal to determine the best price for your coverage Limit claims – Frequent claims can lead to rate increases. Take a defensive driving course – Some insurers reward completion with a discount. Always talk to your agent—they can uncover hidden savings based on your situation.

A deductible is the amount you agree to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in to cover a claim. How It works: If you have a $1,000 deductible and file a claim for $5,000, you pay the first $1,000, and the insurer pays the remaining $4,000. Deductibles apply per claim (not annually) on most property and auto policies. Higher deductibles = lower premiums, but more cost to you if you file a claim. It's your share of the risk, helping prevent small or frequent claims.

A bundle in insurance means purchasing multiple types of policies—like home and auto—from the same insurer. This often qualifies you for a discount on both policies, simplifies billing, and can improve claim coordination. Bundling can save money and streamline coverage.

Whether it's an auto or home claim, before filing, we suggest getting an estimate of damages. If the cost of repairs is less than or even slightly more than your deductible it may not be advantageous for you to file a claim as it may adversely affect future premiums and/or eligibility.

Before you file a claim, we suggest getting an estimate of damage. If the cost of repairs is less than, or even slightly more than your deductible, it may not be advantageous for you to file a claim as it may adversely affect future premiums and/or eligibility. If you decide to file a claim there are typically 3 primary ways to do so: File Online or via App - Most carriers recommend filing claims online via their website or by their app on your phone. This is often the quickest, easiest and most efficient experience. This method is especially helpful in downloading any photos you’ve taken regarding the accident Call your carrier directly - This allows you to speak with one of their claims representatives. This typically results in an efficient result because you’re speaking directly with the carrier and carriers have large teams of claims representatives to assist. Call the Jason Ridley Agency - If you’re one of our customers, you can call us for any assistance with filing your claim. 817.281.4500 or support@jasonridleyagency.com For carrier contact info to file a claim, click the button below

We've put together a comprehensive guide to help you through your experience - click the button below

We've put together a comprehensive guide to help you through your experience - just click the button below

You should expect an insurance adjuster to: Investigate the claim – They’ll review details, inspect damage, and gather evidence. Ask questions – Be prepared to discuss the incident, property condition, or injuries. Request documentation – Photos, receipts, repair estimates, or police reports. Estimate the loss – They’ll calculate the repair or replacement cost. Communicate coverage – They’ll explain what your policy covers and any exclusions. Negotiate settlement – They may offer a payment based on the policy terms and loss evaluation. Be honest, cooperative, and keep records of all interactions. IMPORTANT: Adjusters often work several claims simultaneously - anywhere from 20-30 and sometimes more in the case of a catastrophic event. This often leads to delays in an adjuster's response time. Typical response time can take up to 5 business days. If it's been more than 7 business days and you still haven't received a response, you may want to reach out to your agent for guidance It's also very common for an adjuster to communicate directly with a contractor, rather than the insured, so always check with your contractor first regarding any communications with the adjuster

Claims are typically paid to the insured in one of the following ways, depending on the type of policy and claim: Direct Deposit or Check – The insurer sends payment directly to the policyholder. Joint Payment – For property claims with a mortgage or lienholder, the check may include both the insured and lender. Paid to Repair Provider – In auto or home repairs, the insurer may pay the contractor or shop directly. Replacement or Reimbursement – You may be reimbursed after submitting receipts, or the insurer may replace the item directly. Staged Payments – Large claims, like home rebuilds, may be paid in parts as work progresses.

No, in Texas, it is illegal for a roofing company to waive your insurance deductible. This practice is prohibited under House Bill 2102, which took effect on September 1, 2019. The law mandates that homeowners must pay their insurance deductibles, and contractors are prohibited from waiving, absorbing, rebating, or offsetting any portion of the deductible. Violations can result in a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, or both . Furthermore, insurance companies may require proof that the deductible has been paid before releasing the full claim amount. Acceptable proof includes canceled checks, money order receipts, credit card statements, or an executed installment plan contract . Engaging with contractors who offer to waive your deductible not only exposes you to potential legal consequences but may also involve you in insurance fraud. It's advisable to work with reputable roofing contractors who adhere to Texas laws and ensure that all transactions are transparent and compliant.

A zero paid claim is a claim that was reported to the insurance company but resulted in no payment to the insured or any third party. This can happen if: The damage was below the deductible The claim was denied The insured chose not to proceed with repairs The at-fault party paid out-of-pocket instead Even though no money was paid, the claim may still show on your record and could potentially affect your premium.

If the amount of damages exceeds your insurance limits, you are personally responsible for paying the remaining balance out of pocket. For example: Auto accident: If your liability limit is $50,000 and you're found responsible for $100,000 in damages, your insurer pays $50,000, and you may be sued for the remaining $50,000. Homeowners or renters: If liability or property damage exceeds your policy limit, you cover the excess costs. To protect against this risk, many people buy umbrella insurance, which provides extra liability coverage beyond standard policy limits.

It might, depending on the type and severity of the claim.

The key difference lies in how and where the water enters the home and makes a great deal of difference when you're communicating to the carrier and adjuster about the type of loss you're experiencing: Flood (not covered by standard home insurance): Water comes from outside the home. Typically due to overflowing rivers, heavy rain, storm surge, or surface water entering multiple properties. Requires a separate flood insurance policy (usually through FEMA/NFIP). Rising water (non-flood) (may be covered depending on cause): Water rises from sources like burst pipes, backed-up drains, or appliance overflows. Covered under standard home insurance or with optional endorsements (like water backup coverage). Important: If water touches the ground before entering, insurers often classify it as flood—even if it affects only your property. Always clarify with your agent and consider flood insurance for full protection.