Things to Consider for Your Insurance Coverage in 2026
As we head into 2026, insurance continues to evolve alongside rising costs, new risks, and changing lifestyles. Whether you’re a homeowner, driver, or business owner in the Athens, Georgia area, now is a smart time to review your insurance coverage and make sure it’s keeping pace with the year ahead.
At Larry Baumwald Insurance, we help individuals and businesses stay protected—not just compliant—by planning ahead instead of reacting after a loss.
1. Rising Replacement Costs
One of the biggest insurance issues going into 2026 is inflation and replacement cost. Construction materials, labor, vehicles, and even household goods cost more than they did just a few years ago.
What to consider:
Is your home insured to full replacement value?
Have you updated personal property limits?
Do your business property limits reflect current rebuilding costs?
Underinsured property is one of the most common (and expensive) problems we see.
2. Auto Insurance Changes
Vehicle repair costs and accident claims continue to rise, and many carriers are tightening underwriting standards.
For 2026, it’s important to review:
Liability limits (state minimums are often not enough)
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
Usage changes (remote work, teen drivers, delivery or rideshare use)
A small adjustment today can prevent major financial stress later.
3. Increased Liability Exposure
Lawsuits are becoming more common and more expensive. This affects homeowners, drivers, landlords, and especially business owners.
Coverage to review:
Personal umbrella insurance
Business umbrella or excess liability
Professional or cyber liability for businesses
Umbrella coverage is often surprisingly affordable and provides critical protection as claim sizes grow.
4. Business Risks Are Changing
For business owners, 2026 brings continued concern around:
Cybersecurity and data breaches
Employee injuries and workers’ comp audits
Commercial auto exposures
Business interruption coverage
Many businesses outgrow their original policies without realizing it. Annual reviews help ensure coverage keeps up with growth.
5. The Value of a Local Independent Agent
Online quotes and national call centers don’t always understand local risks. As an independent agency based right here in the Athens area, Larry Baumwald Insurance works with multiple carriers to find coverage that fits your situation—not just a one-size-fits-all policy.
We take the time to:
Identify coverage gaps
Compare pricing across carriers
Adjust policies as your life or business changes
Start 2026 With Confidence
The best time to review your insurance is before you need it. A quick coverage check can often improve protection and uncover savings.
📞 Call Larry Baumwald Insurance at 706-353-8444
📧 Email: dustin@baumwald.com
🌐 Visit: www.baumwald.com
Let’s make sure your insurance is ready for 2026 and beyond.