[TowerTalk] Insurance

[John Langdon]

Thanks to all to responded to my post about insurance on towers.  Nickel 
summary:

(1) Texas is different from most other states, but all states are 
different.  You play the game by 50 sets of rules.  Some states require 
riders for antennas, some do not
(2) Get it in writing.  If you accept what they say over the phone, all 
ambiguity is resolved in favor of the insurance company.
(3) Read your policy.
(4) When you go to NYC and see all those giant insurance company buildings, 
remember there is some policy holder's lost blood between every brick. 
 They will take care of themselves, not you, unless you give them no 
wriggle room.
(5) Rates for coverage very widely, and are not necessarily logical given 
the risk associated with your tower, but may depend on a particular 
company's situation in your area.
(6) Talk to the named agent, not to the office staff.
(7) There are often exclusions for rental property, temporary antennas, and 
anything used for commercial purposes.
(8) Some people have had good luck with State Farm, some have had terrible 
problems
(9) Allstate seems to be rated the most "ham friendly" of the big national 
guys.  Also kudos for Nationwide, Farmers, Erie, Farm Bureau and Safeco.

I think I have enough info to at least tackle the situation properly.  I'll 
do a follow up message when the coverage is squared away.  Thanks again and 
73,

John N5CQ



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