Nikki Kaur: Allstate Insurance

Today, let us be reminded of the brilliance of our country's founding fathers.

Having the right insurance policies in place can make all the difference. Let's talk!

While floods are best-known for causing extensive water damage to homes and businesses, sewage from sanitary sewer lines can back up water through drain pipes. So what are the most common causes of water backup? It's the blockages that can occur when tree roots seek moisture. ... Or when a city sanitary main gets clogged. Property insurance policies do not generally cover water backup unless additional water backup coverage is added to your property policy before the incident. While this isn't the most exciting thing to think about, we want to make sure you have the coverage you'll want in the event of a claim. Let's talk about it.

Minimum state required liability limits are the lowest limits you can carry. Let's face it. They may not necessarily be enough.... If you are found responsible for damages that exceed the liability limits on your auto policy, you'll have to pay the difference out of pocket. Increasing your liability coverage doesn't cost that much, and if you need it, you'll be glad you have it.

A few years ago, Sheila launched a small side hustle dog-sitting for neighbors. It was a profitable side gig that allowed her to earn extra cash in her spare time. But one of the things she hadn't prepared for when budgeting her startup costs was insurance for her business. She quickly found out it was necessary. ... When she was pet-sitting a dog for a client, Sheila must not have closed the dog's crate all the way, and he escaped one night and destroyed the owner's expensive silk Oriental rug. The owners took her to court, and she ended up owing them over $30,000. Because she didn't have insurance, she was on the hook for the replacement cost herself. Unfortunately, Sheila's story isn't that uncommon. Many side hustlers run businesses without insurance, leaving them at risk if there's ever an accident or error. Whether you're a freelance graphic designer, dog-sitter, baker, ride-share driver, or housekeeper, insurance can be an essential safeguard for your business. You might think insurance is unnecessary because your gig is too small, or perhaps you work solely from home. However, mistakes and accidents happen all the time in all industries.