Our team is here to answer all your insurance questions!
At Pietila Family Agency, we take great pride in being a trusted resource for our community, and providing answers to all of your insurance questions is a big part of what we do. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we get about our services, your insurance options, coverage, and more.
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Where are your offices located?
Our two primary offices are located in Williamston, Michigan (610 W. Grand Ave) and Kennesaw, Georgia (4400 Bells Ferry Rd).
What are your normal business hours?
Both locations are open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM until 5:00 PM.
What does it mean to be an “independent” agency?
It means that, unlike “captive” agencies that can only sell one brand, we are able to represent several major carriers, including AAA, Progressive, Safeco, Travelers, and Nationwide. This means we can shop around on your behalf to help you find the best value for your money that offers coverage for your specific needs and within your budget.
Do you offer insurance evaluations?
Absolutely – we offer free, complete insurance evaluations. Our team will take the time to get to know you and your coverage needs so that we can make recommendations that help ensure there are no gaps in your coverage.
What are the benefits of working with a local agency over a national call center?
The biggest benefit you’ll enjoy is personalized, local service. We’re locals ourselves, not distant operators who have no idea what our community is like. When you work with us, you get a dedicated advocate who knows you and your community and is thus able to better serve you.
Do you offer complete insurance management?
Yes, we’re a “one-stop shop” for all of your insurance needs, including home, auto, life, and business insurance. Allowing us to manage all of your policies under one roof makes it easier to track coverage and can even help you qualify for multi-policy discounts.
What factors will impact my auto insurance rates?
There are several main factors that determine your coverage rates. These include your driving record, the type of vehicle, your location, and even factors like your credit history. Our team will help you navigate the variables and find a policy that works for your needs.
Can you insure recreational vehicles?
Yes, we offer policies for far more than just cars! You can turn to us for motorcycle, RV, ATV, boat, and jet ski insurance, just to name a few.
Will my car insurance cover me if I get in an accident with a driver who is uninsured?
That will depend on your specific policy – during your evaluation, we can assess your coverage and make recommendations to ensure comprehensive coverage. We often recommend our customers get uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage for this exact type of situation.
What is included in a standard homeowners’ insurance policy?
A typical policy will include coverage for the physical structure of your home (the dwelling), your personal belongings, liability protection in the event that someone is injured on your property, and additional living expenses if you are temporarily displaced by a covered loss.
Does a standard homeowners policy include flood coverage?
In most cases, no. A standard policy does not usually cover flood damage, so if you are located in a high-risk area (or even a moderate risk area), we can help you secure a separate flood insurance policy.
How do they determine the “replacement cost” of a home?
The replacement cost is calculated based on the amount of money it would take to completely rebuild your home from scratch. It is based on the current labor and material prices and is different from the market value of your home. Our team uses specialized tools to help estimate the replacement cost of your home and help ensure you’re not underinsured.
Do I have to have insurance if I am renting?
Yes – your landlord’s insurance will cover the building itself, but it will not cover your belongings or any personal liability. Renters insurance offers affordable coverage that protects your assets from events like fire, theft, and lawsuits and is often required as part of a rental agreement.
What is “umbrella insurance,” and why might I need it?
An umbrella insurance policy offers an extra layer of liability protection that extends beyond what your typical auto and home policy would cover. It is considered to be a cost-effective way to protect your savings and future earnings if you are ever faced with a major lawsuit.
What kinds of business insurance do you provide?
We offer a broad range of options, including general liability, commercial auto, property insurance, workers’ compensation, and professional liability coverage.
Why would a small business need general liability coverage?
This type of coverage provides protection from claims that involve bodily injury, property damage, or personal injury caused by your business operations. It serves as a safety net around your business and is vital for small businesses.
What are the differences between term and permanent life insurance?
Term life insurance offers coverage for a specific period, such as 20 years. It is generally considered a more affordable option. Permanent life insurance, such as whole or universal, lasts for your entire lifetime and can build cash value over time. Our team can help you determine which option is best for your lifestyle and goals.
How much life insurance do I really need?
The amount of coverage you need is based on factors like your debt, income replacement needs, and future goals like securing children’s education. We will perform a needs assessment to help you determine a death benefit amount that offers true protection for your family’s future.