Question 1

Why should I use an independent insurance agent?

Accepted Answer

An independent agent works for you — not for any single insurance company. We can shop your coverage across multiple top-rated carriers to find the best combination of price, protection, and service for your specific situation. A captive agent (one who works exclusively for one company) can only offer you that company's products. With Turner Insurance, you get options, unbiased advice, and an advocate who stays in your corner at renewal and when you need to file a claim.

Question 2

What does it mean that you are an independent agency?

Accepted Answer

As an independent agency, we are not tied to any single insurance company. We represent multiple top-rated carriers — including Travelers, Progressive, Nationwide, Liberty Mutual, and GEICO — and shop your coverage across all of them to find the best combination of price, protection, and service for your situation.

Question 3

Can Turner Insurance compare multiple insurance carriers for me?

Accepted Answer

Yes — that is exactly what we do. Rather than going to each insurance company individually, you work with one agent and we do the comparison shopping for you. We gather your information once, then request quotes from multiple carriers, review the options, and present you with the best choices. This saves you time and often results in better coverage at a more competitive price.

Question 4

Does Turner Insurance serve customers in both North Carolina and South Carolina?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Turner Insurance is licensed in both North Carolina and South Carolina. We serve families and businesses throughout Western NC — including Asheville, Hendersonville, Brevard, Waynesville, and surrounding communities — as well as Upstate SC, including Greenville, Spartanburg, Greer, Simpsonville, and Travelers Rest. If you are in our service area and need coverage, we would be glad to help.

Question 5

How long does it take to get a quote?

Accepted Answer

Most quotes can be turned around within one business day. For straightforward personal policies like auto or renters insurance, we can often provide options the same day. More complex business policies may take a bit longer depending on the information needed.

Question 6

Can I switch insurance companies mid-policy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can switch carriers at any time. If you cancel your current policy before it expires, you are typically entitled to a prorated refund of any unused premium. We will walk you through the process and make sure there is no gap in your coverage during the transition.

Question 7

What is the difference between liability and full coverage?

Accepted Answer

Liability coverage pays for damage and injuries you cause to others. Full coverage adds comprehensive (theft, weather, animal strikes) and collision (damage to your own vehicle in an accident) on top of liability. If your vehicle is financed or leased, your lender will typically require full coverage.

Question 8

How can I lower my auto insurance premium?

Accepted Answer

Common ways to reduce your rate include bundling auto with home or renters insurance, raising your deductible, maintaining a clean driving record, asking about available discounts (good driver, good student, low mileage), and shopping your coverage at renewal. As your independent agent, we do that comparison shopping for you.

Question 9

Does homeowners insurance cover flooding?

Accepted Answer

No. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage from rising water — this is one of the most common and costly misunderstandings in insurance. Flooding requires a separate flood insurance policy, available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private carriers. This is especially important in Western NC, where heavy rainfall and mountain runoff can cause significant flooding even in areas not traditionally considered flood zones. If you own a home in our area, we strongly recommend discussing flood coverage with us. Learn more on our flood insurance page.

Question 10

What is umbrella insurance and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

An umbrella policy provides an extra layer of liability protection above and beyond the limits of your home and auto policies. For example, if you are found liable for an accident that exceeds your auto policy's liability limit, your umbrella policy may cover the difference — up to its own limit. It can also cover certain situations that your underlying policies may not. Umbrella coverage is typically very affordable relative to the protection it provides. It is worth considering if you own a home, have significant assets, or simply want broader peace of mind.

Question 11

How much homeowners insurance do I need?

Accepted Answer

Your dwelling coverage should reflect the replacement cost of your home — what it would cost to rebuild it from scratch at today's construction prices — not its market value or purchase price. We help you calculate an accurate replacement cost estimate so you are not underinsured when you need to file a claim.

Question 12

What does the liability portion of my homeowners policy cover?

Accepted Answer

Liability coverage protects you if someone is injured on your property or if you accidentally damage someone else's property. It covers legal defense costs and any judgments against you, up to your policy limit. Most standard policies include $100,000 in liability — we often recommend $300,000 or adding an umbrella policy for broader protection.

Question 13

What does commercial auto insurance cover?

Accepted Answer

Commercial auto insurance is designed for vehicles used for business purposes — work trucks, vans, delivery vehicles, company cars, and fleets. It typically provides liability coverage if your vehicle causes injury or property damage, as well as collision and comprehensive coverage for damage to your own vehicle. Personal auto policies generally exclude business use, so if you or your employees drive vehicles for work, a commercial auto policy may be necessary to ensure you are properly covered.

Question 14

What types of insurance should a business consider?

Accepted Answer

Business insurance needs vary based on the type of business, number of employees, vehicles, property, and the risks involved. Common coverage options include general liability, commercial property, commercial auto, workers' compensation, professional liability, and business owner's policies (BOPs). The right combination depends on your specific operation — Turner Insurance can review your business and compare coverage options from multiple carriers to help you find the right fit.

Question 15

What is a Business Owner's Policy (BOP)?

Accepted Answer

A Business Owner's Policy bundles general liability and commercial property coverage into a single, cost-effective policy. BOPs are designed for small to mid-sized businesses and are typically less expensive than purchasing the coverages separately. Not every business qualifies — we can help you determine if a BOP is the right fit.

Question 16

Does my homeowners insurance cover my home-based business?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. Standard homeowners policies have very limited coverage for business equipment and no coverage for business liability. If you run a business from home — even part-time — you likely need a separate business policy or endorsement to be properly protected.

Question 17

How do I file a claim?

Accepted Answer

You can file a claim directly with your insurance carrier by calling their claims line or using their online portal — both are available 24/7 for most carriers. You can also call our office and we will help guide you through the process, make sure the claim is filed correctly, and advocate on your behalf if any issues arise.

Question 18

Will my rates go up if I file a claim?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the type of claim, your claims history, and your carrier. At-fault auto accidents and certain home claims can affect your premium at renewal. We are happy to talk through your specific situation before you file so you can make an informed decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Working With Turner Insurance

Auto Insurance

Home Insurance

Business Insurance

Filing a Claim

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