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Why You Really Need To Upgrade Your Insurance if You Start Living Full-Time in Your RV

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Because most people use their RVs for travel, rather than full-time living, most insurance companies offer RV insurance that’s suitable for travel situations. The policies cover the times you take trips — they’re meant for intermittent use, and they otherwise cover storage. But those policies often aren’t enough to cover the issues you might face if you were to live in your RV full-time. If you’re making the transition from part-time to full-time RV life, we here at the Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, serving Lansing, IA, want you to know why you should update your insurance policy.

Making Your Vehicle Your Home

When you live full-time in your RV, you’re treating the vehicle as your home. This is not intermittent use and brings with it a lot of the insurance issues that houses and other stationary dwellings face. Things like liability if someone trips while walking across your RV space suddenly become an issue. You need insurance that covers situations like this 24/7, and not just when you choose to activate the policy for a trip.

Yes, full-time RV insurance can be more expensive, and you may have to hunt around for an insurance agency that offers it. But if you’re tempted to stick with part-time RV insurance and activate it only before storms, for example, you’re setting yourself up for a lot of trouble because you never know what can happen. Plus, if you keep part-time insurance but try to file a claim for something that happened when you were living in the RV full-time, you risk your insurance company finding out — and that can result in you losing the policy.

If you’re looking for RV insurance and aren’t sure if the time you spend in the RV is in the part-time or full-time category, call us here at the Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, serving Lansing, IA. Find the right policy that covers how you really use your RV.

Does RV Insurance Apply to Trailers?

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Add a trailer to your RV and you’ll find hauling add-ons is that much easier. However, there is some question and concern among RV owners about insurance after adding a trailer. Fret not, as the Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency has the answers.

RV Insurance and Trailers

The addition of a travel trailer to your RV has the potential to complicate insurance. Some insurers offer specialized travel trailer insurance that is separate from RV insurance.

If you already own an RV that is insured, take a look at the small print of your policy. You can also call your insurer for more information about your policy details. There’s a chance your existing coverage in Lansing, IA is already applicable to a connected trailer.

Trailer Coverage Through Other Insurance

There is a common misconception that trailers are insured through regular auto or home policies. Though there might be some instances when an auto or home policy has the potential to apply to a trailer, these policies generally do not cover trailers.

As an example, many auto and RV insurance policies do not cover trailers when they are not in transport. This means if the trailer is parked in your driveway, garage or other space, coverage might not apply.

The same is true for home insurance. Though the trailer’s presence on the property that the home is located on might trigger coverage, there is the potential for gaps. Moreover, there is also the potential for storm damage or other damage to compromise the parked trailer, meaning home insurance might be applicable.

Contact Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency for Your Quote

Our insurance is fair and affordable. If you are in the market for coverage in Lansing, IA or a nearby area, give us a call for a personalized quote.

Motorcycle Insurance: Does The Color of Your Bike Matter?

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Every bike owner knows the importance of motorcycle insurance in Lansing, IA. However, there are several myths surrounding coverage that can make it seem like a policy is out of reach or make you feel like you shouldn’t get a certain bike. For example, the often-repeated myth that policies for red bikes cost more. 

Does Color Matter?

No, the color of your bike does not impact your insurance. It doesn’t matter whether your bike is red or black or purple; color isn’t considered a risk factor. Instead, agencies typically consider factors such as your age, driving history, and other relevant details. 

When Color Does Matter

Although the color of your bike doesn’t matter when it comes to paying for an insurance policy, that doesn’t mean it’s irrelevant. The color can play a role in accident probability because certain colors are less visible. For example, a black motorcycle is more difficult to see at night, thereby increasing the risk of an accident. Colors like yellow and green are more visible. 

Custom Paint and Insurance

Although the color of your paint job doesn’t matter, you may want to speak with an insurance agent at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency if you have a custom paint job. Policies typically only cover a basic paint job, so you’ll need additional coverage to fix the paint on your bike if you’re in an accident. 

Several things impact the cost of your policy, but the color of your bike isn’t one of them. Our experienced agents will ask you questions to determine if you qualify for a discount, and we’ll explain how everything impacts your policy so you know the facts. Contact a representative at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency today. We’re currently serving the Lansing, IA area.

How To Make a Boating Emergency Plan

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If you have a boat or watercraft in Lansing, IA, it pays to have an emergency plan. While you may not think that it’s a pressing concern, especially if you don’t have kids on board, you should at least have a basic idea of what you’ll do when things go wrong.

Once you have an emergency plan, you’ll want to update it periodically, especially as your boat ages. At Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, we see how accidents happen, so we have a few tips to help you protect yourself. 

Tips To Improve Safety on the Water

Many boating safety issues are due to poor planning. Here are some tips to remember whenever you take your boat out:

  • Have a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for everyone on board.
  • Inspect your boat regularly. Check your engine, lights and hull.
  • Look at the weather forecast to make sure it’s safe.
  • Keep a first-aid kit, a flashlight, a whistle, flares and a flotation device on board.

We also recommend taking a boat/watercraft safety course to learn practical boating safety tips. For example, you should have someone in charge of monitoring the carbon monoxide levels to prevent toxic exposure. 

Upgrade Your Boat Insurance 

At Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, serving Lansing, IA, we know that emergencies are inevitable. If you’re looking for the best way to protect yourself, having the right coverage means more than just getting repairs on your boat. To protect yourself and your loved ones, contact us today to learn more about upgrading the coverage on your boat/watercraft insurance. 

Why Families Benefit From The Added Security Of Umbrella Insurance

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When it comes to safeguarding your family’s financial future, standard insurance policies may not provide sufficient coverage. Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, serving Lansing, IA, and surrounding areas, understands that modern families face unique liability risks that require comprehensive protection beyond basic homeowners and auto insurance policies.

Understanding Coverage Gaps

Most homeowners and auto insurance policies have liability limits that may have seemed adequate years ago but can fall short in today’s litigious society. A serious car accident or an injury on your property could result in claims that exceed these standard limits. Without proper protection, your family’s assets, including your home, savings, and future earnings, could be at risk.

Affordable Protection for Major Risks

Umbrella insurance provides an additional layer of liability coverage that activates when your other policies reach their limits. This additional protection typically covers legal fees, medical expenses, and damages that could otherwise jeopardize your family’s financial stability. The cost is surprisingly affordable, often just a few hundred dollars annually for substantial coverage.

Comprehensive Coverage for Active Families

Families with teenage drivers, swimming pools, or active social lives are at higher risk of liability exposure. Umbrella insurance protects against claims from various scenarios, including auto accidents, injuries at your home, or even certain personal liability situations away from your property. This comprehensive approach ensures your family can maintain their lifestyle without constant worry about financial vulnerability.

Secure Your Family’s Future Today

Protecting your family’s hard-earned assets doesn’t have to be complicated. Contact Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, serving Lansing, IA, and nearby communities, to discuss how umbrella insurance can provide the extra security your family deserves at an affordable price.

How Flood Insurance Handles Mold and Mildew After a Claim

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Iowa is no stranger to the devastation caused by floods. Whether from heavy rains or overflowing rivers, flood damage can be extensive, often leading to the unpleasant smell of mold and mildew. Mold spores not only pose health risks but are notoriously difficult to eliminate. Understanding how flood insurance addresses mold and mildew is essential for homeowners in Iowa, where flooding is a recurring concern. Your insurance representative at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, serving Lansing, IA, can help, but here’s what you should know in the meantime.

What Flood Insurance Will Cover

Standard homeowners insurance typically excludes flood damage, which is why many Iowans rely on separate flood insurance policies. When it comes to mold and mildew, coverage generally applies if the growth is a direct result of flood damage and you have taken reasonable steps to mitigate further harm. For example, if floodwaters soak your drywall and mold forms before repairs can be completed, your flood policy may help cover cleanup and replacement costs.

What’s Not Typically Included

Flood insurance does not provide blanket protection for all mold and mildew issues. If the insurer determines that the damage could have been prevented—such as leaving standing water untreated for too long—coverage may be reduced or denied. Similarly, mold that develops in areas unaffected by the initial flooding is typically not covered.

Taking Preventive Action Matters

Quick action is crucial in minimizing mold growth and protecting your coverage. Drying out your home, removing wet materials, and using dehumidifiers can help limit the spread of mold and mildew.

If you are unsure about how your current flood policy handles mold and mildew, contact Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, serving Lansing, IA. We’ll review your coverage and help ensure you are prepared before the next flood. Call us today.

Drivers Who Use Their Cars for Profit

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If you’re an Iowa driver, state law requires you to carry auto insurance. Many drivers have questions about their coverage, particularly in situations such as using their vehicle for commercial purposes. If you live near Lansing, IA, the team at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency is here to help. We’ve been assisting drivers like you since 1949.

Drivers Who Use Their Cars for Profit

All drivers must have auto insurance. However, if you decide to use your car for commercial purposes, such as working for a rideshare company like Uber or a delivery service like DoorDash, your standard auto insurance policy will no longer cover damages to your vehicle. According to the Iowa Insurance Division, drivers using their cars for commercial reasons are required to carry additional liability coverage to protect against potential damages.

When you transport passengers or deliver goods, it’s important to ensure they feel confident that you’re properly insured. Our team at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency can help you understand the additional liability coverage needed for commercial use. Additionally, if your car has an active loan, you must notify your loan company before using the vehicle for profit.

Call Us for Your Appointment Today

Every driver’s insurance needs are unique, and our team is dedicated to helping you find the right policy to meet your requirements. At Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, our agents are trained to provide exceptional customer service. Drivers in the Lansing, IA, area trust us to offer the support they need to make informed insurance decisions. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and let us assist you with your insurance needs.

The Critical Role of Medical Underwriting: Ensuring Fair Coverage

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A key component of life insurance policies is medical underwriting. It serves as an initial assessment of your health status. Many Lansing, IA, customers reach out to us with questions about medical underwriting and its impact on their policy.

What Is Medical Underwriting?

Medical underwriting is a process in life insurance where your health is evaluated to determine eligibility and premium rates. After submitting your application, you will undergo a medical exam conducted by a doctor. During this exam, the doctor will ask questions about your lifestyle, medications, family history, medical history, and current health status. The doctor then provides this information to our team at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency. Our underwriter reviews the documents to verify the details provided.

How Does Medical Underwriting Affect Your Life Insurance Policy?

Medical underwriting plays a crucial role in determining your life insurance eligibility and monthly premium amount. The results are used to classify policyholders based on their risk level. Individuals considered high-risk—such as those with pre-existing conditions, smokers, drinkers, or those with risky lifestyles—may face higher premiums and fewer carrier options. Conversely, healthy individuals typically have access to more policy options and lower premiums due to their lower risk.

The results of your medical underwriting are valid for two years. After this period, you will need to undergo another exam to update your policy. Changes in your health—whether improvements or declines—can lead to adjustments in your coverage. Additionally, if you provide false information on your application, your coverage may be denied.

At Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency, we encourage our customers to maintain a healthy, low-risk lifestyle to access a wider range of policy options. However, we also partner with life insurance providers that offer coverage for individuals who may not meet these criteria. For more information on life insurance, call or visit our office in Lansing, IA.

Tornado damage that home insurance covers

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Over the past 150 years, more than 3500 tornadoes have wreaked havoc in the state of Iowa. Each year, several tornadoes tear through the state, causing varying degrees of damage. In 2024, a record-breaking 125 tornadoes were recorded.

Our team at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency in Lansing, IA, possesses the local knowledge to help our clients secure the right coverage to protect their homes and property from tornado-induced damage.

Damage Caused by Wind

Wind speeds in a tornado can range from 65 miles per hour to over 300 miles per hour, with the average being 110 miles per hour. The higher the wind speed, the more extensive the damage. The average width of a tornado is 50 yards, but it can extend to over two miles. Damage can range from torn-off roof tiles, uprooted trees, and shattered windows to complete home destruction at higher wind speeds.

Hail Damage

Hail often accompanies a tornado, and it’s not uncommon for hailstones to reach the size of a baseball. The damage caused by such large hailstones can be substantial.

Water Damage

If your roof is damaged by the winds or by a tree falling on your home, it can allow rain to enter. Your home insurance covers this type of water damage. However, flood damage is not covered. Roof damage can also lead to damage to the contents of your home.

Contact our team of independent insurance agents at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency in Lansing, IA, to ensure that you have the right coverage. You can reach us by calling our office or through our website.

Do Snowmobiles Require Power Toys Insurance?

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Power toys insurance is specifically designed to provide a minimum level of liability protection for motorized items, such as snowmobiles, jet skis, and other personal watercraft, as well as ATVs like four-wheelers. It can help cover medical bills and personal property damage in the event of an accident, among other things.

Legal Requirements

Iowa takes snowmobile operations seriously. Riders aged 12-17 are required by law to take and pass an education course, and must have a certificate when riding on trails or public land, including ice.

The state also mandates minimum liability insurance for snowmobiles driven on public roads and highways. Previously, snowmobiles were one of the few exceptions to the law. However, this was revoked in 2012, making liability insurance mandatory for all motorized vehicles driven on public roads and highways.

Types Of Coverage

Many insurance agencies throughout Lansing, IA offer different levels of coverage for snowmobiles. Owners can opt for liability insurance, which is often the most affordable option. This covers the other person’s bodily injury and property damage costs. Collision coverage will also help cover your damages, and comprehensive coverage covers damage that isn’t related to an accident. An agent at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency can help you determine which level of coverage you need.

Assurance and Security

Power toys insurance is designed for all your motorized toys. It can cover four-wheelers, snowmobiles, etc. Homeowners’ insurance typically doesn’t cover these vehicles when damaged, making coverage necessary to provide you with assurance and security.

Agents at Kerndt Brothers Insurance Agency have years of experience regarding power toys insurance and the Lansing, IA law. We’ll ensure you have the coverage you need to meet minimum requirements. Contact us before you hit the trails.