Insurance Blog | Paragon Independent Insurance Agencies

Does Your Start-Up Need Commercial Insurance?

Posted on August 29, 2025August 6, 2025 by AgentInsure

Starting a business is exciting, but it also comes with risks. One of the smartest early investments you can make is commercial insurance. But how do you know if your start-up truly needs it?

What Is Commercial Insurance?

Commercial insurance protects your business from a variety of risks, including property damage, liability claims, employee-related issues, and more. Common types of commercial insurance include general liability, property insurance, workers’ compensation, and professional liability insurance.

Why Start-Ups Should Consider Coverage

Many start-up founders believe they can delay purchasing insurance until their business grows, but risks don’t wait for you to scale. Even in the early stages, a single lawsuit, accident, or natural disaster can disrupt or even shut down your business. If your start-up works with clients, handles customer data, rents a workspace, or sells physical products, you may already face exposures that require coverage.

For instance, a client could sue over a missed deadline (professional liability), a visitor might slip and fall in your office (general liability), or a fire could damage your equipment (property insurance). Commercial insurance helps protect your business from unexpected events.

Tailoring Insurance to Your Needs

While you don’t need every type of insurance, you do need the right coverage for your business. A home-based software start-up won’t require the same insurance as a food truck or retail store. Consulting with a business insurance agent can help you create a policy that fits your needs and grows with your business.

Paragon Independent Insurance Agency Is Proud to Serve Plano, TX

At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, we’re proud to serve Plano, TX, and assist with all your insurance needs. Contact our team or visit us today to speak with an agent and learn more about our plans.

Insurance Coverage for Residential Decking or A Similar Addition

Posted on August 15, 2025August 5, 2025 by AgentInsure

A new deck or similar residential addition can be added to your home insurance policy. It’s essential to consider the type of addition you’re pursuing and choose coverage options that will help preserve its condition.

The Intended Use

Think about how you plan to use your new deck or home upgrade. The intended use of the feature can help you identify potential risks. For example, if your deck includes steps, you may want to address the liability risks associated with the addition.

Adding liability coverage to your home insurance policy can protect you in case of accidents involving guests or family members. When evaluating the intended use, consider how often the feature will be used and whether others will be using it regularly.

Material Strength

Assess the durability of the materials used for your residential upgrade. Determine whether the materials are adequately protected from the elements. Exposed surfaces may qualify for additional insurance protection.

Consider whether the materials could be damaged by criminal activity, such as theft or vandalism. Adding coverage for these risks can ensure you’re reimbursed for stolen or damaged construction materials. Additionally, your insurance policy may cover damage caused by catastrophic conditions like high winds or heavy rain, helping you manage repair and replacement costs without significant out-of-pocket expenses.

Insurance Agent Support

When you’re ready to modify your insurance policy, contact one of our agents serving Plano, TX. An agent from Paragon Independent Insurance Agency will meet with you to discuss the coverage options that best suit your needs.

How Disruption Insurance Benefits Businesses in Texas

Posted on July 31, 2025July 8, 2025 by AgentInsure

If you’re managing a large corporation or a small tech start-up in Plano, TX, disruption insurance is highly recommended. In the event of a sudden disaster, such as a utility outage or severe storm, adequate protection is essential. At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, we specialize in helping our clients with business disruption insurance (also referred to as business interruption insurance) throughout Plano and beyond.

What Constitutes Business Disruption Insurance?

Dealing with operating expenses and a loss of income can be challenging for any business owner, entrepreneur, or investor. When a covered event forces you to temporarily shut down or close your business, disruption insurance provides financial benefits to help you stay afloat. At the same time, repairs are made after a direct physical loss has occurred.

Benefits of Disruption Insurance

As you operate your business in Plano, it’s essential to understand how business interruption insurance can help. Here are a few benefits that come with the right disruption insurance policy:

Replace Lost Wages: This option enables you to maintain your cash flow even if your business is temporarily shut down. It helps cover lost revenue as if you had not experienced a disaster.
Ongoing Expenses: Disruption insurance covers utility bills, mortgage or rent payments, and even employee wages. This can help you retain staff during downtime.
Prevent Temporary Relocation Costs: Provides financial relief for moving expenses or if you are required to rent a temporary location, allowing you to continue serving customers and clients.

Understanding the significance of business disruption insurance is essential anytime you’re running a business. If you’re located in Plano, TX, and want to feel more secure in your investment, we’re here to help. To learn more about the advantages of disruption (or business interruption) insurance, contact Paragon Independent Insurance Agency for your consultation today.

How the Mandatory Right to Appraisal Law Affects Your Auto Insurance

Posted on July 15, 2025July 8, 2025 by AgentInsure

Our team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency is closely monitoring the latest changes to Texas law that may affect your auto insurance policy. The newest law change aims to bring fairness in determining loss with Plano, TX auto insurance claims when your car needs repair.

What Is the Mandatory Right to Appraisal?

Senate Bill 458 became law on June 20 and takes effect on September 1. The bill mandates all auto insurance carriers to include an appraisal provision. This provision offers a third-party, independent, and neutral option to determine the amount of loss when the insurer and policyholder cannot agree on a number.

Previously, policyholders had no choice but to accept the amount provided by insurers, even if it was low or unfair. To recoup the difference for auto repairs, they had to sue or pay out of pocket. This new law gives policyholders and insurers the option to settle loss claims using an independent source that relies solely on evidence, resolving disputes and avoiding courtroom battles.

Why Does the Law Exist?

State Farm quietly removed the appraisal provision from their auto insurance policies in 2015, and only a few people noticed. Robert McDorman, founder of Auto Claim Specialists, along with his team and the Auto Body Association of Texas, led by executive director Jill Tuggle, discovered the change. Recognizing the risks associated with this move, McDorman launched a statewide campaign that lasted ten years, garnering support along the way.

When Joe Collins sued State Farm for appraisal and won, he donated his winnings to the Mandatory Appraisal Rights Advocacy Trust. This gained attention and pushed the movement forward. After being dismissed twice in the Texas House and Senate, the bill passed unanimously on the third attempt and was fast-tracked into law.

At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, we stand by the Mandatory Right to Appraisal law because we believe in fairness and accuracy. We are updating Plano, TX auto insurance policies to reflect this change. For more information on auto insurance or the mandatory r

Who Pays for Hit-and-Run Accidents?

Posted on June 16, 2025June 4, 2025 by AgentInsure

Hit-and-run accidents in Plano, TX, are one of the worst scenarios motorists face, especially if they are severe. If the other driver takes off, who pays for the accident damages? The answer is your auto insurance. However, you must have the proper provisions in place to protect yourself. Paragon Independent Insurance Agency can help you buy a policy to protect yourself, passengers, and your vehicle.

Find the Right Coverage

Texas requires motorists to have minimum liability insurance, but that will only pay for damage you cause to other vehicles in an at-fault accident. To pay for damages in an accident where the at-fault driver is unknown, you must have different provisions in place. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage typically pays for damage from hit-and-run accidents. This provision also helps you when involved in an accident where the at-fault driver has no insurance or liability limits that are too low to pay for vehicle damage fully. For some policies, collision coverage may also pay for damage in a hit-and-run accident.

What If I or My Passengers are Injured?

Again, your policy will pay if you never identify the at-fault driver. Personal injury protection (PIP) can help cover medical bills, lost wages, and even funeral costs after an accident. PIP is designed to help you with financial expenses after an accident, whether or not you were at fault. Your policy may also have medical payments coverage. Also known as MedPay, this provision can cover medical payments related to accident injuries. It can cover payment to you, your passengers, and even pedestrians who may be involved in a hit-and-run accident.

Learn how your auto insurance policy can protect you and your car when someone takes off after an accident in Plano, TX. Contact the staff at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency for an appointment to explore your options.

How Homeowners Insurance Works When You Rent Out Your Property

Posted on June 16, 2025June 3, 2025 by AgentInsure

Renting out your home can be a smart move, but it’s essential to understand how it affects your insurance coverage. At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, serving the Plano, TX community, we frequently receive questions from homeowners considering becoming landlords. The truth is, your standard homeowners insurance might not be sufficient once you start renting.

What Changes When You Become a Landlord?

When you rent out your property, even for a short period, the risk shifts. A traditional homeowners policy is designed for owner-occupied homes, not properties used for rental purposes. This means that if something goes wrong, such as a fire, water damage, or an injury on the property, your existing coverage may not apply.

Do You Need Landlord Insurance?

In most cases, yes. Once you’re no longer living in the home full-time, you’ll likely need a landlord insurance policy. This type of coverage typically includes protection for the structure itself, liability coverage in the event a tenant or guest is injured, and loss of rental income if the property becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event. It’s a specialized layer of protection designed for rental situations.

Don’t Overlook the Details

Every rental situation is unique. You might be renting out your entire home or just a single room. Some policies may have restrictions based on the rental duration or the number of tenants. That’s why it’s crucial to consult with an experienced agent who can guide you through the right coverage options.

If you’re planning to rent out your property, don’t leave your insurance to chance. Reach out to Paragon Independent Insurance Agency in Plano, TX for expert advice and customized coverage tailored to your specific needs.

Does Commercial Insurance Cover Damage to My Commercial Property?

Posted on May 30, 2025May 14, 2025 by AgentInsure

If you own a business, securing commercial insurance is crucial. Commercial insurance can protect you from financial liability when a covered event occurs.

Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, serving Plano, TX, can help you find the right commercial insurance policy for your business. A good commercial insurance policy can benefit you in many ways. Here’s what you need to know.

Understanding Commercial Insurance

Commercial insurance is a type of insurance that covers businesses, including their employees, property, and ownership. Commercial insurance can protect you from financial liability when various events occur.

There are many types of commercial insurance, so choosing the type that meets your needs is important.

What Does Commercial Insurance Cover? Does It Cover Damage to Property?

What commercial insurance covers depends on the type of commercial insurance you have. Some types of commercial insurance do cover property damage. If you’re concerned about getting commercial insurance that covers damage to commercial property, consider commercial property insurance.

This type of insurance is designed for businesses with commercial property, such as a building, inventory, furniture, and equipment. If you’re interested in commercial property insurance, talk to the professionals at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, serving Plano, TX. We work with many insurance carriers and can help you find the right commercial insurance product for your needs.

How to File a Claim

If you have commercial property insurance and need to file a claim for damage to your commercial property, start by contacting your insurance agent at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, serving Plano, TX. We can assist you in initiating a claim with your commercial property insurance.

Need to file a claim or get commercial property insurance? Call us today to get started.

Coverage Options for Home Insurance

Posted on May 16, 2025May 14, 2025 by AgentInsure

If you’ve recently purchased a home in Texas, it’s crucial to protect your investment by securing a homeowners’ insurance policy. Many new homeowners are unsure about the amount of coverage they need and have questions about home insurance. If you’re near Plano, TX, our Paragon Independent Insurance Agency team is ready to answer your questions and provide peace of mind. We’ve been serving homeowners in your area since 1993.

Home Insurance Coverage Options

When you buy an insurance policy, it’s important to understand what your policy covers. According to the Texas Department of Insurance, most homeowners’ insurance policies cover fire, lightning, or explosion damage. Insurance typically covers damage to your home if a sudden release of water or smoke causes it. However, damages from a continuous release of water, such as a flood, are usually not covered. If your home is damaged by an airplane or a car, your policy will cover those damages.

According to the Texas Department of Insurance, damage will usually be covered if a hurricane damages your home. However, homeowners who live on the Gulf Coast are more at risk of damage from hurricanes or windstorms so that they would need a separate windstorm policy. Homes that are victims of vandalism, civil riots, or malicious mischief would be covered.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

New homeowners can explore all these options for homeowners’ insurance and discuss auto, boat, or health insurance with our team. At Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, our goal is to represent "Blue Chip" insurance companies because our clients deserve the best. Homeowners in Plano, TX, can discover the benefits of working with an independent insurance agent. Call our office for an appointment today, and let’s work together to get the coverage you need.

Auto Insurance is Still People-Driven in a Technology-Driven World

Posted on April 30, 2025April 11, 2025 by AgentInsure

Today’s automotive industry boasts a wider variety of vehicles and technological features. From SUVs to sedans, hybrids, and more, drivers have a plethora of choices when deciding what type of vehicle they want to drive. However, this also necessitates the need for appropriate insurance to safeguard you and your vehicle in case of an accident or mishap. This is why many drivers from the Plano, TX area rely on the professional team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency for their auto insurance inquiries and requirements.

Auto Insurance Remains People-Centric in a Technology-Driven World

Indeed, vehicles are becoming smarter, and more safety features are now standard on vehicles than ever before. These advancements are positive indicators for drivers and road safety, but do not eliminate the possibility of accidents. Regardless of how much technology contributes to vehicle and driver safety, auto insurance still relies on intelligent and knowledgeable agents. For many drivers in Plano, TX, this means relying on the experienced and professional team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency.

Auto Insurance Solutions for Drivers in the Plano, TX Area

Do you reside or drive in or around the greater Plano, TX area? Do you have questions about auto insurance or need coverage and protection for your vehicle? We can assist and offer the kind of personal attention and help that technology can’t provide. Contact our team for more information and schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable and helpful team at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency for the auto insurance solutions you need and deserve today.

Does Home Insurance Cover Burglary?

Posted on April 15, 2025April 11, 2025 by AgentInsure

Home insurance serves as a safety net when unforeseen circumstances occur. If your home has recently been burglarized and you have home insurance, you might wonder if your policy can assist in the recovery process.

The experts at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, servicing Plano, TX, are ready to address your concerns and guide you through the claims process. Here’s what you need to understand.

Does Home Insurance Provide Coverage for Burglary?

While each home insurance policy differs, they typically provide coverage for burglary. If your home has been burglarized recently, your home insurance policy may cover the cost of repairing any damage caused by the burglars. It may also compensate for the replacement of stolen items.

What Steps Should I Take If My Home Is Burglarized?

If your home is burglarized, your immediate action should be to contact the police. After filing a report with them, reach out to your home insurance company to discuss the next steps in filing a claim. Your insurance company may require you to fill out certain forms. You will also need to interact with a claims adjuster to proceed with your claim.

Ensure you have photographs of the damage, as you may be asked to present them. Your insurance company may also request a copy of the police report you filed. If you have a home inventory, use it to identify any missing items.

Need assistance with filing a home insurance claim? The experts at Paragon Independent Insurance Agency, servicing Plano, TX, are here to help. Contact us today to initiate your home insurance claim related to your recent burglary.

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