Question 1

What is an independent insurance agency?

Accepted Answer

An independent agency like Total Quality Insurance works with multiple insurance carriers instead of just one. This means we can compare rates and coverage from 30+ top-rated companies to find you the best deal. Unlike captive agents who only sell one brand, we shop the market for you.

Question 2

How much does it cost to get a quote?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely nothing! Getting a quote from Total Quality Insurance is always free and comes with no obligation. We compare rates from multiple carriers at no cost to you.

Question 3

How long does it take to get a quote?

Accepted Answer

Most quotes can be prepared within 24 hours. For simple policies like auto insurance, we can often provide a quote the same day. More complex commercial policies may take 2-3 business days.

Question 4

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve the entire CSRA region including Augusta GA, North Augusta SC, Aiken SC, Evans GA, Martinez GA, Grovetown GA, Columbia SC, Greenville SC, Charleston SC, and Atlanta GA. We are licensed in both Georgia and South Carolina.

Question 5

Can I switch insurance companies at any time?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You can switch insurance companies at any time. There are no penalties for switching. If you switch mid-policy, your old carrier will refund the unused portion of your premium. We handle all the paperwork for a seamless transition.

Question 6

What does "bundling" insurance mean?

Accepted Answer

Bundling means combining multiple insurance policies (like home and auto) with the same carrier. This typically saves 15-25% on your premiums. We specialize in finding the best bundle discounts across our 30+ carrier partners.

Question 7

What does homeowners insurance cover?

Accepted Answer

Standard homeowners insurance covers your dwelling (structure), personal property, liability, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable. It typically protects against fire, theft, windstorm, hail, and other named perils. Flood and earthquake coverage require separate policies.

Question 8

How much homeowners insurance do I need?

Accepted Answer

You need enough to rebuild your home from the ground up (replacement cost), not just the market value. We calculate this based on your home's square footage, construction type, and local building costs. Most lenders require at minimum enough to cover the loan amount.

Question 9

Does homeowners insurance cover flooding?

Accepted Answer

No, standard homeowners policies do NOT cover flood damage. You need a separate flood insurance policy, which we can help you obtain through the NFIP or private flood carriers like Neptune. If you're in a flood zone, your lender will require it.

Question 10

What is an insurance binder and when do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A binder is proof of insurance coverage, typically needed before closing on a home purchase. It confirms your policy is in place before the official policy documents are issued. We can usually provide a binder within 24 hours of binding your policy.

Question 11

How can I lower my home insurance premium?

Accepted Answer

Common ways to lower your premium include: increasing your deductible, bundling with auto insurance, installing security systems, updating your roof, maintaining good credit, and asking about available discounts. As independent agents, we can also shop your policy across multiple carriers to find a better rate.

Question 12

What auto insurance coverage do I legally need?

Accepted Answer

Georgia requires minimum liability of 25/50/25 ($25K per person, $50K per accident for bodily injury, $25K for property damage). South Carolina requires 25/50/25 as well. However, these minimums are often inadequate — we typically recommend higher limits for better protection.

Question 13

What is the difference between liability and full coverage?

Accepted Answer

Liability insurance only covers damage you cause to others. "Full coverage" adds comprehensive (theft, weather, animals) and collision (accidents) coverage for your own vehicle. If you have a car loan or lease, your lender will require full coverage.

Question 14

Will my rate go up after an accident?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the circumstances. At-fault accidents typically cause rate increases. However, some carriers offer accident forgiveness programs, and minor fender benders may not affect your rate. We can shop your policy to find the most competitive rate even with an accident on your record.

Question 15

How can I save money on auto insurance?

Accepted Answer

Top savings strategies include: bundling with home insurance (15-25% savings), maintaining a clean driving record, taking a defensive driving course, raising your deductible, asking about low mileage discounts, and letting us compare rates across our 30+ carrier partners.

Question 16

Do I need uninsured motorist coverage?

Accepted Answer

We strongly recommend it. About 12% of drivers nationwide are uninsured. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage protects you if you're hit by someone with no insurance or insufficient coverage. In Georgia and South Carolina, it's required unless you specifically reject it in writing.

Question 17

What insurance does my small business need?

Accepted Answer

At minimum, most businesses need General Liability insurance. Depending on your business type, you may also need: Workers' Compensation (required if you have employees), Commercial Property, Commercial Auto, Professional Liability (E&O), and a Business Owner's Policy (BOP) which bundles several coverages at a discount.

Question 18

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

Accepted Answer

A BOP bundles General Liability and Commercial Property insurance into one policy at a discounted rate. It's designed for small to mid-sized businesses and typically costs less than buying each coverage separately. Most BOPs can also include business income coverage and equipment breakdown.

Question 19

Is workers' compensation required?

Accepted Answer

In Georgia, workers' comp is required for businesses with 3 or more employees. In South Carolina, it's required for businesses with 4 or more employees. Even if not legally required, we often recommend it to protect both you and your workers from workplace injury costs.

Question 20

How much does general liability insurance cost?

Accepted Answer

General liability insurance for small businesses typically costs $400-$1,500 per year depending on your industry, revenue, and coverage limits. High-risk industries like construction pay more, while office-based businesses pay less. We compare quotes from multiple carriers to find the best rate.

Question 21

What should I do immediately after an accident or damage?

Accepted Answer

First, ensure everyone is safe. Then: 1) Document everything with photos and videos, 2) File a police report if applicable, 3) Exchange information with other parties involved, 4) Contact us immediately so we can guide you through the claims process. Do NOT admit fault at the scene.

Question 22

How long does the claims process take?

Accepted Answer

Simple claims (like a windshield replacement) can be resolved in days. More complex claims (major property damage, injuries) may take weeks to months. Your carrier will assign an adjuster who will assess the damage and work toward resolution. We advocate on your behalf throughout the process.

Question 23

Will filing a claim raise my rates?

Accepted Answer

Not always. It depends on the type and frequency of claims. Weather-related claims (hail, wind) typically don't increase your rate. At-fault auto accidents usually do. Filing multiple small claims in a short period may flag your account. We can advise you on whether filing a specific claim is in your best interest.

Question 24

What payment options are available?

Accepted Answer

Most carriers offer monthly, quarterly, semi-annual, or annual payment plans. Paying annually often earns a discount. Payment methods include checking account (EFT), credit/debit card, and online bill pay. Each carrier has their own payment portal which we help you set up.

Question 25

What happens if I miss a payment?

Accepted Answer

If you miss a payment, most carriers provide a grace period (typically 10-30 days) before canceling your policy. You'll receive a cancellation notice with a reinstatement deadline. Contact us immediately if you're having trouble making a payment — we may be able to help restructure your payment plan.

Question 26

Can I pay my premium in installments?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most carriers offer monthly installment plans. While paying in full annually saves the most, monthly payments make insurance more manageable for your budget. Some carriers charge a small installment fee ($3-$10/month).

Frequently Asked Questions

General Insurance

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Business Insurance

Claims & Filing

Billing & Payments

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Affordable Home, Auto & Business Insurance in Augusta GA & North Augusta SC.

Insurance Services in Augusta GA & North Augusta SC

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