FAQs

Auto

Frequently asked questions about auto insurance

Q1.      Do I really need auto insurance?

A1.       Yes, all drivers need auto insurance coverage. In fact, it’s the law in most states. You’re required to carry a minimum amount of auto insurance. Often, you can’t even get an auto loan or lease unless you first show proof of insurance. Although many of the different coverage types are optional, liability coverage is mandatory in most states. Liability coverage may help you meet state driving requirements, however, you should consider buying higher levels of coverage to provide greater protection for you and others.

Q2.      Is the state minimum requirement enough?

A2.       In some instances, it may not be. While you must meet your state’s minimum coverage requirement, there are no specific rules regarding the amount of additional coverage you can buy.

Q3.      How much auto insurance coverage do I need?

A3.       It is impossible to know the cost of damage you might incur in an accident. However, you should base your coverage amounts on your vehicle, your personal assets and other factors. It is important to review these criteria carefully so you can align your auto policy with your lifestyle.

Q4.      What do I need to consider when choosing auto insurance coverage?

A4.       You should consider the following:

  • Choose your coverage limits carefully. You might be personally responsible for damages that exceed the limits you select. Consider whether you can afford this possibility.
  • Choose your deductible carefully. Choose one that you can afford to pay if an accident occurs.
  • Check with your lending source or leasing company before choosing a policy. If you make payments on your car, you may be required to have comprehensive and collision in addition to liability coverage.
  • Make sure the coverage is comparable to the vehicle you drive. It's wise to have higher limits for vehicles that can cause more damage, like large SUVs.

Q5.      How high should I set my auto liability coverage limits?

A5.       No one can predict exactly how much you would have to pay if you were to cause an accident. Ask yourself how you would pay for any damages exceeding your coverage limits. The higher your liability coverage limits are, the more expenses your auto policy may cover.

Q6.      Should my auto insurance include collision and comprehensive coverage?

A6.       Everyone’s insurance needs are different. Some prefer to carry as much coverage as possible; others prefer minimum coverage. You should base how much insurance coverage to get on your individual needs, your car and your lifestyle. Keep in mind, you may be required to carry collision or comprehensive coverage if your vehicle is leased or financed.

Q7.      How high should I set my deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage?

A7.       Higher deductibles lower your premium but increase the amount you must pay out of your own pocket if an accident occurs. Ask yourself how much you would be willing and able to pay on short notice.

Q8.      Do I qualify for a discount on my auto insurance?

A8.       Discounts are determined by a variety of factors. Generally, your premium may decrease the longer you drive without having an accident or getting a ticket. Students with good grades may also qualify for savings. We also offer discounts for:

  • Airbags
  • Anti-lock brakes
  • Anti-theft devices
  • Automatic safety belts
  • Driver training
  • College kids away at school
  • Multiple cars

Talk to your Independent Agent or a Kemper representative regarding the discounts available to you.

Q9.      How are auto insurance premiums determined?

A9.       Insurance companies base premiums on a variety of criteria. Insurers generally consider the following factors, among others:

  • Driver age
  • Vehicle type
  • Coverage limits
  • Driver residence
  • Insurance score
  • Personal driving record
  • State laws

 

Home

Frequently asked questions about homeowners insurance

Q1.      Am I required to have home insurance?

A1.       Most states do not require homeowners to carry insurance. However, if your home is financed, the mortgage company will typically require you to purchase home insurance.

Q2.      Why do I need a home insurance policy?

A2.       Home insurance helps you pay to repair damage to your home and replace personal belongings damaged in a fire, theft and other covered circumstances. It also provides liability coverage if for instance, a neighbor is injured on your property as a result of your negligence.   

Q3.      What does a standard home insurance policy include?

A3.       For covered losses, a standard home policy usually includes the following:

  • Damage to dwelling
  • Damage to your personal property (contents of your home)
  • Personal liability in case of injury to others or damages to someone else’s property
  • Living expenses when your home is damaged
  • Medical payments for others injured on your property

Q4.      What factors can affect my home insurance premium?

A4.       Some factors that may affect your home insurance premium:

  • Characteristics of your home–age, material, wiring, structure, roof, garage, etc.
  • Location–proximity to a fire station, in a hurricane zone, etc.
  • Protection–installation of burglar alarms, sprinkler systems, deadbolt locks, etc.
  • You–your insurance score, whether you smoke, etc.
  • Prior claims–history of multiple claims on a home insurance policy, etc.

Q5.      Do I qualify for any discounts?

A5.       You may qualify for discounts on your home policy for installing safety devices, including:

  • Home sprinkler systems
  • Fire and burglar alarms
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Smoke detectors
  • Deadbolt locks

Q6.      What events are covered by a home insurance policy?

A6.       Typically, a standard home policy protects a home and property from covered damage caused by:

  • Fires
  • Lightning
  • Wind
  • Hail
  • Weight of ice and snow
  • Falling objects
  • Vehicles
  • Smoke
  • Household systems freezing (plumbing, heating, air conditioning, etc)
  • Explosions
  • Riots
  • Aircrafts
  • Theft
  • Vandalism

May vary by state. Limitations, deductibles and exclusions also apply.

Q7.      What may not be covered by a standard home insurance policy?

A7.       Typically a standard home policy does not protect your home and property from damage caused by floods or earthquakes. Other exclusions include, but are not limited to:

  • Earth movement (earthquakes, landslides)
  • Water damage, floods
  • Power failure
  • Nuclear hazard
  • Government action
  • War
  • Neglect
  • Birds, vermin, rodents or insects

Q8.      What is a Home Inventory Checklist?

A8.       A Home Inventory Checklist is a list of all your personal property, including a description, make and model, price and date of purchase. It also may include the serial number of items. If you can’t remember all of the exact information, just estimate it. The inventory should also include photos or videotape of each room, items within each room and the exterior of your home.

Q9.      Why should I complete a Home Inventory?

A9.       If you create a Home Inventory and keep it up to date, it will help to expedite a claim if you ever need to make one.

Q10.    How do I start to make a complete Home Inventory?

A10.     The best way to start your Home Inventory is to make a list of all your possessions, then expand that list to include models, serial numbers, and place and date of purchase. You will want to collect receipts to keep with your inventory. Creating a video or a still-picture walk-through of each room, including your possessions, will add substance to the inventory of your property.

 

Personal Valuables

Frequently asked questions about insurance for personal valuables

Q1.      How can I protect my more valuable items not covered under my standard home policy?

A1.       A variety of personal property insurance is available to protect your most valuable possessions (like antiques, china and jewelry) against loss, theft and disasters. Your Kemper Preferred agent or Kemper Direct representative would be happy to assist you with determining what fits best for your needs.

Q2.      How can I be sure my high-value electronics are covered?

A2.       If you love your personal electronics, you probably want more coverage beyond a standard home policy. Personal electronic equipment insurance includes coverage for accidental damage or loss, such as problems that might occur during installation. It also covers repair and replacement of items such as:

  • Stereo equipment
  • Video cameras
  • Computer equipment Big screen TVs

Q3.      What sort of protection is available for a one-of-a-kind treasure?

A3.       Scheduled personal property insurance. This additional coverage is perfect for high-value items such as fine artwork. It lists all covered items with a stated amount, meaning each item is scheduled with individual limits.

 

Renters

Frequently asked questions about renters insurance

Q1.      What if I rent?  Am I covered under the landlord’s policy?

A1.       No. Most landlords cover the structure of the property, not the contents of it and are not responsible for damage or loss to your possessions, or for your personal liability. A renters insurance policy can fill that gap.

Q2.      Why do I need renters insurance?

A2.       As the renter of an apartment or other type of dwelling, you are probably not covered by your landlord for damage or loss to your possessions or personal liability. A Renters insurance policy with Kemper is surprisingly affordable and may give you the coverage you need to protect the things you have worked hard to acquire over time.

Q3.      What does a renters insurance policy include?

A3.       A typical renters policy includes insurance for covered:

  • Damage to personal property
  • Personal liability in case of injury to others or damage to someone else's property
  • Additional living expenses when your apartment or rented home is damaged
  • Medical expenses paid to others who are injured in your apartment or rented home

Q4.      How can I get an even better price on my renters insurance policy?

A4.       You may qualify for discounts if the following are installed:

  • Home sprinkler systems
  • Fire and burglar alarms
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Smoke detectors
  • Deadbolt locks

 

Condo

Frequently asked questions about condo insurance

Q1.      Do I need condominium insurance? Don’t the condo association and the fees I pay cover my condo with insurance?

A1.       Your condominium association most likely has insurance covering common areas and grounds of the condominium complex. However, what happens inside your unit is usually your responsibility. They cover the outside but you still have to protect what’s inside your unit with a condominium insurance policy.

Q2.      What does a condo policy cover?

A2.       A typical condominium policy provides insurance for covered:

  • Damage to personal property
  • Personal liability in case of injury to others or damage to someone else's property
  • Additional living expenses when your condo is damaged
  • Medical expenses paid to others who are injured in your condo

 

Q3.      What additional condominium insurance coverage is available to protect my valuables and property?

A3.       We offer policies to protect your valuables and you:

  • Replacement Cost Contents

It would cost a lot of money to replace everything inside your condo. This option provides coverage for your condo’s contents at their replacement value.

  • Scheduled Personal Property and coverage for collectibles
    Scheduled and Blanket coverage options are available for your valuable possessions such as jewelry, furs, china, art  and collectibles.
  • Identity Fraud Expense coverage
    Protect yourself for costs incurred as a result of identity fraud with this coverage.

Q4.      How do I get a discount on my condominium policy?

A4.       If you’re safety minded, you can enjoy savings for installing:

  • Home sprinkler systems
  • Fire and burglar alarms
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Smoke detectors
  • Deadbolt locks

Claims

Frequently asked questions about claims

Q1.      What should I do if I am in an accident?

A1.       If you are in an accident, you should:

  • Stop your vehicle. If you’re blocking traffic, or the location isn’t safe, move your vehicle to a safe place nearby. The law requires you to stop; failure to do so could result in a ticket or a warrant for your arrest.
  • Make sure everyone is safe. If necessary, call 911 for medical assistance.
  • Never admit fault. The fault of an accident is not always clear and admitting fault when questionable or incorrect may have negative consequences.
  • Exchange contact information. Exchange names, addresses and phone numbers with all parties involved in the accident and with any witnesses present.
  • Get additional information.  Get the license plate numbers, insurance company names and policy numbers for all vehicles involved in the accident.
  • Call the police and let them decide if they should come to the scene. It’s especially important to contact the police if the accident involves injuries, a hit-and-run or a dispute about liability.
  • Cooperate with the police by giving them accident details and answering their questions. Be sure to get the names and phone numbers of any officers on the scene, as well as the number of the police report.
  • Take pictures. If you have a camera with you or on your cell phone, take pictures of the accident location, damage to all the vehicles or property involved and other relevant details of the accident scene.
  • Call a tow company if your vehicle isn’t fit to drive. Get the name, address and phone number of the company. You are responsible for your vehicle and where it’s repaired. You can decline service from unsolicited tow operators who arrive at the scene, and you can choose where your vehicle is towed.
  • Report the incident to Kemper as soon as possible.

Q2.      How do I report an accident to Kemper?

A2.       There are two ways:

  • Online: You can report an accident online on our website, 24 hours a day. 
  • Phone: You can call a Kemper Claims Representative who will help you through the process and answer your questions. 

Q3.      What if I don’t have all the information?

A3.       Don’t worry if you don’t have all the information when you report the accident. You can fill in details later. The important thing is to report the incident as soon as possible.

Q4.      Where can I check on my claim?

A4.       You can track the status of a filed claim online by logging in to the Manage My Policy section of kemper.com or call your Kemper Claims Representative. 

Q5.      What information is provided on the ”Claim Details”page?

A5.       The Claim Details page in the Manage My Policy area of kemper.com displays your claim status, details on the vehicles involved in the accident, claim payment information, contact information for your Kemper Claims Representative and other information regarding your claim. 

Q6.      How soon will my claim information appear online?

A6.       After we’ve received information on your accident, your claim information will appear online the next business day.

Q7.      How often will my claim status be updated?

A7.       Claim statuses are updated each weekday evening.

Q8.      Am I responsible for a deductible or a portion of the claim?

A8.       Your Kemper Claims Representative will research your policy to determine whether you are required to pay a deductible, and if so, how much.

Q9.      When will someone inspect my damaged vehicle?

A9.       A Kemper Claims Representative will inspect your vehicle as quickly as possible after you report your claim.

Q10.    How long will my claim information stay online?

A10.     After a claim is closed, information regarding that claim will remain online for three years.

Q11.    What happens if my vehicle is a total loss and I do not have comprehensive or collision coverage?

A11.     If you do not have comprehensive or collision coverage, commonly referred to as physical damage coverage, damage to your vehicle is not covered by your policy.

Q12.    After an accident, where should I take my car for repair?

A12.     You can take your car to any repair shop. If you don’t have a repair shop, consider using one of our preferred facilities. These repair shops will provide quick, quality work at a fair price.

Q13.    What do I do if my car is vandalized and something is stolen from my car?

A13.     You should:

  • Call the police as soon as you see your car has been vandalized and/or items have been stolen, and make a report. 
  • Report the incident to Kemper as soon as you can. Most likely you'll find damage to either a window or a lock if the vandals broke into your car, and your Auto policy should cover the damage. 
  • Be prepared to describe the details of the items you lost when filing your claim. Items stolen from your car are usually covered under your Kemper Home or Renters insurance.

Q14.    What happens if my windshield needs to be repaired?

A14.     Damaged windshields create unsafe driving conditions. Fortunately, windshield repairs and replacement are covered when you choose our Comprehensive coverage.

Q15.    What should I do immediately after a catastrophe?

A15.     Most importantly, protect yourself and your family. When possible, protect your property from further damage. Then, report the damage as soon as possible.

Q16.    How long will it take to complete my claim after a covered catastrophe?

A16.     The length of the claims process depends on many factors, but our goal is to settle your claim as quickly as possible.

 

All statements are subject to the terms, exclusions and conditions of the applicable policy. In all instances current policy contract language prevails. Products, services and discounts referenced herein are not available in all states or in all underwriting companies. Furthermore, the products and prices of our various Kemper business segments differ. Coverage is subject to individual policyholders meeting the applicable underwriting qualifications and state availability. Other terms, conditions and exclusions may apply.