Name: Insurance Solutions
Address: 6265 Rivers Ave, North Charleston, SC, 29406
Telephone: 833-359-0725

Stay Road-Ready: 6 Weather Protection Tips for Your Car

Posted on September 2, 2025September 2, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

Our vehicles play a vital role in our daily lives – from commuting to work to transporting loved ones. They’re not just a convenience, they’re a key investment we depend on and take pride in maintaining.

At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we understand that protecting your vehicle is essential, especially when severe weather strikes.

Each insurance claim you file can potentially impact your premium. That’s why it’s important to take proactive steps to protect your vehicle and avoid unnecessary claims caused by weather-related damage.

Whether it’s pouring rain or gusty winds, driving in bad weather can be dangerous. Here are some ways to stay safe and reduce the risk of damage:

Regularly check your tire pressure to help maintain strong traction in rain, ice, snow, and wind.
Ensure your windshield wipers and headlights are in good condition and working properly for clear visibility during storms or low-light conditions.
Avoid driving through deep puddles of water on the road wherever possible. If unavoidable, maintain a steady speed – not too fast where you could create a wave and lose control of your vehicle, but not too slow to stall your vehicle in the water.
Limit nighttime driving during and after winter weather to avoid black ice.
Don’t park under trees if a hurricane is approaching or during windstorms or ice storms, as falling branches can cause significant damage.
Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid running out during emergencies or having to drive in poor conditions to refuel.

Have questions about protecting your car in inclement weather or need to make sure your current policy has you covered regardless of the forecast? Call one of our experienced insurance advisors today at (833) 359-0725.

At Insurance Solutions, we’re here to help – in every season of life.

How Telematics Programs Could Lower Your Car Insurance Premiums

Posted on September 2, 2025September 2, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

If you’re a safe driver or someone who doesn’t drive often, you could save on your car insurance with a telematics program through your insurance carrier.

Telematics car insurance programs use technology to monitor your driving habits and calculate your individual risk level. These programs typically operate through a mobile app or small device that plugs into your vehicle. By collecting real-time data, insurers can offer personalized rates based on how you drive. The safer and more consistent your habits, the more you could save – with some drivers even earning discounts of up to 20%.

Insurance carriers can track a variety of factors through telematics programs, including:

How you drive (i.e., speed, braking, acceleration)
When you drive (time of day)
Where you drive (road types and areas)
How much you drive (annual mileage)

If you’re cautious behind the wheel or are a low-mileage driver, a telematics program could help lower your insurance costs. Instead of relying solely on traditional rating factors, which is how traditional car insurance policies are priced, your carrier can use telematics data to tailor your premium to reflect your actual day-to-day driving behavior.

However, it’s important to note that some carriers may remove the initial discount – or even add a surcharge – based on your driving performance. Telematics programs provide daily feedback and an updated “grade,” meaning your rate could change as your driving habits are continually monitored.

At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we understand how important it is to get the best value from your auto insurance, and we’re here to help you select the best option for your current needs. Telematics programs can be a great way to reward safe habits with real savings.

Our experienced advisors are here to help you compare quotes from multiple top-rated insurance carriers that offer telematics programs. We’ll guide you through your options and find a plan that fits your lifestyle and budget.

Click here to contact an Insurance Solutions advisor to learn how you could save money on your car insurance with a telematics program.

How Proposed Tariffs Could Impact Your Auto Insurance

Posted on September 2, 2025September 2, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

After officials implemented a 25% tariff on auto parts, there is growing concern in the auto industry that it could have a serious impact for car owners across the country.

According to MarketWatch, auto insurance premiums could increase by up to 8% by the end of 2025. Why? Because when the cost of auto parts goes up, so does the cost of vehicle repairs. As repair costs climb, insurers are likely to raise premiums across the board to help offset those expenses.

In fact, industry analysts estimate the added expense could total between $7 billion and $24 billion in additional claim costs per year. That means insurance companies may start adjusting rates within 12 to 18 months of the tariffs taking effect.

At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we’re committed to helping you find auto coverage that fits your budget without compromising the protection you need. Our advisors can compare quotes from multiple top-rated carriers and help you select the best option for your current needs.

Click here to get personalized guidance on your auto insurance options today.

Preparing for Hurricane Season

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

Hurricanes and tropical storms are difficult to predict, which can make preparing for inclement weather especially challenging. However, taking the right steps now can help protect your property and provide you and your family peace of mind long before a storm hits the radar.

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is expected to have a higher-than-average threat to U.S. landfalls, with forecasters predicting 17 named storms. To help you stay prepared, here are some important steps to take before hurricane season begins.

Review your policy and identify any gaps in coverage now

As your life changes, so do your insurance needs. By reviewing your policies on an annual basis, you can identify any areas where you may need to add or adjust coverage. For example, you may have insured your home for $200,000 when you first bought it. Due to recent inflation and supply chain issues, your home may cost $300,000 to rebuild in today’s market. That is a $100,000 gap in coverage, which could leave you without the proper resources to rebuild in the event of a loss.

Additionally, an insurance review can help you understand what type of damage may not be covered under your existing policies. For instance, most standard home insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Regardless of whether you live in a flood zone, flood insurance can help you protect your home and its furnishings against these damages, potentially saving you thousands in out-of-pocket expenses.

South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions is able to provide standard flood insurance issued by the National Flood Insurance Program and Neptune Flood Insurance, a customizable private flood insurance option. Review our Flood Insurance page or talk with your insurance advisor for more information.

Be prepared to pay your deductible

Many consumers are experiencing increased deductibles on their insurance policies as insurers pass along rising claims costs. Tariffs are also expected to drive up these costs even higher. It is important to understand how an increased deductible will impact your budget if you file a claim.

A typical hurricane deductible can range from 1% to 5% of a home’s insured value. If your home is insured for $500,000 and your hurricane deductible is 3%, in the event of a total loss, you would be responsible for paying $15,000 toward damages before your policy kicks in. Also, it is not uncommon to have damages caused by a hurricane and a flood from the same event. A flood policy has two separate deductibles, one for the building and one for personal property contents. If each of those deductibles are $2,500, you would pay an additional $5,000 for flood damage caused by a hurricane. In this scenario, you would pay a total of $20,000 before your insurance starts covering the remaining costs.

If you are not sure how you would pay a large deductible, you are not alone. Many adults do not have enough emergency savings to cover unexpected repairs in today’s market. Whether you are just getting started or want to ramp up your savings, South Carolina Federal Credit Union offers a complimentary financial wellness platform, which has tools to help you build your emergency fund. Click here to get started.

Create a home inventory

A home inventory is a detailed log of all of your possessions. Many insurance carriers recommend keeping an up-to-date home inventory, as it can help ensure you have enough coverage and save time and stress when filing a claim.

Your home inventory should account for nearly every item in your household. From appliances to furniture, and any miscellaneous items in storage, your list should be comprehensive and include the following:

Item description including the serial or model number. If possible, use photos or videos to record everything inside and outside of the home and other structures on the property.
Cost and date of large purchases with sales receipts or appraisals.
Estimated replacement cost of each item.

Assembling a household inventory may feel like an overwhelming project. However, completing it in advance of a severe weather event can save you valuable time once a storm is projected for your area. Once you have completed your home inventory, store it in a safe deposit box or another location where it can be accessed easily in an emergency. Hurricane season starts June 1, which means homeowners should plan ahead to ensure coverage is in place before a storm hits the forecast. From the date of purchase, there is a 30-day waiting period for a standard flood policy to take effect. Private flood insurance waiting periods can vary. To help you prepare for hurricane season, contact us to schedule a complimentary review of your coverage.

Make Plans to Protect You and Your Property

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

The Atlantic hurricane season can bring dangerous storms with little warning. The National Weather Service will issue a hurricane warning when sustained winds of 74 mph or higher are expected in a specific area, typically within 24 hours or less. A hurricane watch is issued when there’s a potential for hurricane conditions, usually within 36 hours. During a hurricane watch, it’s important to act quickly to protect your family and property. At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we understand how vital preparation is and we’re committed to helping you safeguard what matters most. To help you stay prepared in the event of an evacuation, we’ve gathered a few key tips to get you started.

Prepare a Family Disaster Plan

Don’t wait for an evacuation order – plan ahead and arrange to stay with friends or relatives who live inland or on higher ground.
Visit Know Your Zone to learn about your area’s evacuation zones. Map out multiple evacuation routes from your home and share these plans with your family.
Save important contacts into everyone’s phones.
If you have pets, create a list of pet-friendly hotels or shelters along your evacuation routes.

Build an Emergency Kit

Prepare a kit with essentials that can support your family for at least three days that includes:

Water (1 gallon per person, per day)
Nonperishable food items
First-aid kit
Flashlight with extra batteries
Battery-powered radio
Phone chargers and backup power sources
Personal hygiene and care items
Basic tools and supplies
Important documents (home inventory, list of medications, insurance policies, passports, extra cash, etc.)
Medications and special items for infants or seniors

Be sure to include essential supplies for your pets, too! Visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division website for tips and a helpful checklist. Also, consider packing a small bag with personal keepsakes or comfort items that each person would want to bring if case of evacuation.

Prepare Your Home

If you live in a low-lying, flood-prone area or in a mobile home, assess your risk and begin preparation early.
Make any necessary repairs to strengthen your home against high winds and heavy rain.
Install storm shutters or securely fasten plywood over all windows, skylights, and doors.
Clear your yard of loose objects, trim trees and shrubs, and clean out gutters and drains to prevent blockages and water buildup.
Take photos of your home – both interior and exterior – in case you need to file an insurance claim.

Prepare Your Vehicle

Make sure the gas tank is filled and your battery is fully charged.
Inspect oil levels, windshield wipers, headlights, and tire condition to ensure your vehicle is road-ready.
Store car chargers for essential electronic devices.
Take interior and exterior photos of your vehicle in case you need to file an insurance claim.
If you aren’t evacuating, park your vehicle in a garage or on high ground away from trees and power lines, and use a protective cover.

Prepare Your Boat

Decide in advance where you’ll store your boat during a storm – preferably out of the water and in a secure location.
If you plan to evacuate with your boat, securely cover it and remove any loose items that could be damaged or become hazardous in high winds.
Inspect the trailer and tires to ensure they’re in good condition.
Take photos of your boat and trailer for insurance documentation.

Remember, possessions can be replaced but you and your family cannot. Coastal storms and hurricanes can bring devastating financial and emotional impacts. The insurance professionals at Insurance Solutions are here to help you prepare and minimize the financial aftermath. Contact us for more information.

Flood Insurance FAQs

Posted on May 22, 2025May 22, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. However, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, only about 15% of homeowners have policies in place to cover their home and belongings for flood-related damage.^* At South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions, we are committed to helping you understand available coverage options and select a policy that fits your unique situation. We have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of flood insurance.

Does my homeowners insurance policy cover flood damage?

Many homeowners believe that they are covered for flood damage by their homeowners insurance policy. However, flood coverage is excluded by most homeowners policies.

How can I distinguish flood damage from other water damage that is covered under my homeowners insurance policy?

Under most homeowners insurance policies, if water damage occurs suddenly or accidentally from a source inside your home, such as a busted pipe, it will likely be covered. The primary difference is that with a flood, the water comes from a natural source, such as storm surges, inland flooding caused by bodies of water overflowing, or flash floods.

How much damage can flood water cause?

According to FEMA, just one inch of water can cause $25,000 of damage to your home. Floods can cause power, water, and gas outages; pollute drinking water systems; damage homes and buildings; and cause severe environmental problems. Also, flooding can cause fatalities and serious injuries when people do not heed evacuation orders.

I do not live in a flood zone. Do I still need flood insurance?

Many homeowners believe that they only need flood insurance if their mortgage lender requires it. However, you do not need to live in a high-risk flood zone or near the coast to be at risk. Wherever it rains, it can flood, regardless of your proximity to a body of water. A report by the Insurance Information Institute states that 98% of counties in the United States have been impacted by flooding.*

How can I obtain flood insurance?

Insurance Solutions is proud to offer standard flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program, along with private flood insurance options from Neptune Flood Insurance. To learn more, visit our Flood Insurance page for additional details and self-quoting links. You can also contact one of our knowledgeable, friendly advisors to schedule a comprehensive review of your policies.

^*https://content.naic.org/sites/default/files/cipr-jir-2023-1.pdf

Understanding a Hard Insurance Market

Posted on February 28, 2025February 28, 2025 by Robin Easterlin

We are currently in what is known as a hard market, which impacts both insurance companies and consumers in a variety of ways. As insurers work to offset growing costs, policyholders across the country are experiencing higher insurance premiums and deductibles, more stringent underwriting criteria, and are even receiving nonrenewal notices due to factors beyond their control. While a hard insurance market presents a unique set of challenges, it is important to remember that you do not have to face them alone.

Why are we in a hard market?

Supply chain issues are a leading cause as it takes longer to repair or replace damaged property, and the costs for materials continue to increase, driving the pricing even higher. Plus, larger and more frequent catastrophic weather events put additional pressure on insurers, as we see an increase in both the quantity and cost of claims. Social inflation, the willingness of jurors to award largely unexpected sums of money at trial, is forcing insurers to settle claims they may have traditionally taken to trial. All of these factors have caused insurance rates to increase.

I have not filed any claims through my insurance. Why are my premiums increasing?

Premium increases are not only tied to a specific customer’s coverage, but to the overall insurance market. As a result of rapidly increasing catastrophic losses and larger jury awards, the cost of claims for insurers has risen. Also, there is less competition as several insurance companies have withdrawn from the market, limiting consumers’ ability to shop around. These factors contribute to rising insurance premiums.

How long will this hard market last?

Hard markets are cyclical and we are unsure how long this one will last. They vary in length and severity based on prevailing economic challenges, inflation rates, and the types of insurance affected. A hard market will begin to “soften” as premiums rise and bring more capital back to the insurance market. While it’s difficult to predict exactly when this shift will occur, staying informed and working with your South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions advisor can help you navigate these fluctuations.

How can my insurance advisor help me in a hard market?

Insurance Solutions advisors have the knowledge, experience, and resources to help you navigate the current market conditions. As an independent insurance agency, we work with multiple insurance companies and can provide information on all available coverage options for your unique situation.

How can I get a better rate on my policy?

It is always a good idea to review your policy with your advisor to better understand your coverage limits and deductible amounts. Sometimes, another insurance company may offer a cheaper rate. Before switching, let us review the quote to ensure that you aren’t losing coverage that you may need in the event of a large claim. Since your life changes over time, our advisors recommend an annual review of your insurance policies.

Investing in risk management strategies can reduce your exposure and make you more attractive to insurers. There are a variety of protection devices you could put into place to help mitigate claim exposures, such as a central fire and home security system, a permanently installed backup generator, a temperature monitoring system, or a water leak detection system. Installing these systems could garner additional discounts to your policy.

Our experienced insurance advisors can help you understand the current market and review your current policies. Give us a call at 833-359-0725 or email us for information.

Source: Trusted Choice Agent Toolkit: Navigating Client Communications in a Hard Market

Reviewing Your Home and Auto Insurance Around the New Year

Posted on November 20, 2024November 20, 2024 by Robin Easterlin

As the year comes to a close, you may be spending time reflecting on the last year and celebrating all that you have accomplished. Or perhaps you are busy setting resolutions and looking forward to new beginnings. Either way, the end of the year is an ideal time to reassess your insurance needs. Any financial changes made this year or anticipated for the next year could impact your coverage. Your South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions advisor is here help you:

Understand policy changes

Reviewing your coverage allows you to stay up-to-date with any adjustments that might affect your coverage, deductibles, or premiums.

Account for life events

Did you experience any major life events, such as getting married or having children? Did you complete a big home renovation or purchase a new car for yourself or someone in your household? If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, you may need to adjust your home or auto insurance policies.

Identify coverage gaps

Over time, your insurance needs will likely change. By reviewing your policies on a regular basis, you can identify any areas where you may need to add or adjust coverage. For example, you may have insured your home for $200,000 when you first bought it. Due to recent inflation and supply chain issues, your home may cost $300,000 to rebuild. That is a $100,000 gap in coverage, which could leave you without the proper resources to rebuild in the event of a loss.

Experience peace of mind

Enter the new year with confidence, knowing that you have reviewed and updated your insurance coverage to financially protect your changing circumstances. Our team of experienced advisors at Insurance Solutions is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary insurance review.

Insurance for Businesses: The Basics

Posted on November 20, 2024November 22, 2024 by Robin Easterlin

Business insurance, also known as commercial insurance, can protect your company from financial losses caused by unexpected events such as property damage, worker injury, data breaches, and more. Commercial insurance policies are different from personal insurance policies because they protect a business, not an individual. Whether you are just starting out or have been in operation for some time, having the right insurance coverage can help you sustain your business for years to come.

Does my business need insurance?

Commercial insurance is not legally required for all businesses. However, certain types of coverage may be mandatory depending on specific industry and state regulations. In South Carolina, businesses with four or more employees are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance to cover medical bills for work-related injuries. In addition, all business-owned vehicles in South Carolina must be covered by commercial auto insurance. Regardless of legal requirements, business owners should strongly consider investing in commercial insurance to minimize personal liability in the event of a loss.

For example, if you run a home-based business, your homeowners insurance policy alone may not offer adequate protection. Business assets such as equipment or product inventory may not be covered in an unexpected loss, and if someone injures themselves during a business-related visit to your home, you could be liable for their medical bills. Without the right coverage in place, you may have to pay out of pocket for these types of claims, which is not sustainable for many business owners.

What are my coverage options?

Every business has different needs and faces unique risks, which is why there are several types of commercial insurance policies to consider.

Commercial general liability insurance can help cover the cost of any accidental damages as a result of the business’ operations. If a visitor is injured at your business or one of your employees damages someone else’s property, general liability coverage may help pay for the injured party’s medical expenses or property repairs. It may also help pay for legal costs if you are taken to court over an accident that occurred at your business.

Commercial property insurance protects your business’ physical location and other business property like tools, equipment, inventory, and furniture. In general, commercial property insurance does not protect against damage from floods and earthquakes. If your area is at risk for these events, you may want to consider adding on a separate policy.

Commercial auto insurance protects you and your employees on the road while using company-owned vehicles. It can help cover the cost of property damage and medical expenses following an accident.

Cyber liability insurance can protect your business from risks associated with a data breach if confidential information gets lost or stolen. Cyber insurance can help cover costs to notify impacted individuals and even offer credit monitoring services.

How do I know what type of coverage I need?

The type of commercial insurance you need can depend on several factors including your business’s size, location, and industry. Working with an insurance advisor can help you determine your exposure to risk and identify policies that meet the unique needs of your business. Whether you are starting a new venture or simply want to reevaluate your options, rely on South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions for customized commercial insurance coverage.

Avoiding Common Winter Insurance Claims

Posted on November 20, 2024November 22, 2024 by Robin Easterlin

When it comes to protecting your property against the elements, preparation is key. As temperatures drop, it is important to take precautions against seasonal risks. Even with broad coverage, damage to your home or vehicle can lead to costly insurance claims that raise your overall premiums. The most cost-effective way to combat cold weather damage is to reduce your exposure to risk. Learn how proper maintenance can help you avoid the most common winter insurance claims.

Frozen pipes

As temperatures drop, water may freeze inside the pipes within your home. Not only can frozen pipes prevent water from flowing properly, but they can burst and cause significant damage. When the forecast predicts freezing temperatures, make sure your home is heated to at least 65 degrees and let water drip from your faucets to prevent a potential plumbing disaster. If you plan on being away from your home for an extended period during the winter months, remember to shut off your water and drain your pipes.

Falling trees

The trees on and around your property can become a hazard to you, your home, your car, and others with the onset of winter weather. Snow, wind, or ice can cause a tree that is structurally weak to fall and damage the surrounding area. Falling trees may also come into contact with power lines, which can result in entire neighborhoods losing electricity during the coldest time of the year. Keeping trees trimmed and removing dead branches from your yard can reduce the risk of damage.

House fires

According to the National Fire Protection Association, house fires become more common in the winter months. This is because as temperatures drop and we experience fewer hours of sunlight, more people spend time indoors and increase their use of heat and electricity. At the start of the season, make sure all heating equipment is in working order and have your chimney cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional. Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from all sources of heat including holiday lights and turn off electronics when not in use.

Auto repairs

Winter conditions can take a toll on your vehicle, so it is important to keep up with seasonal car maintenance and stay vigilant while driving. Cold weather impacts your car’s ability to start the engine, so make sure your battery is healthy and not cracked or corroded. It is also important to check that your tires are inflated properly, as low temperatures can cause air pressure in your tires to drop and reduce the traction of your vehicle on icy roads. Additionally, the heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort, driver visibility, and pedestrian safety.

Even when you exercise caution and take steps to prepare your property for winter weather, accidents can still happen. An annual review with your South Carolina Federal Insurance Solutions advisor can help you determine if you have enough coverage to protect your home and vehicle in the event of an emergency. Contact us today to review your coverage so you can enjoy the holiday season with peace of mind.