Frequently Asked Questions — Personal Lines Insurance

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What is the benefit of using an independent agency for personal insurance?

An independent agency like Great Southern represents multiple insurance carriers, which means we shop your coverage across several companies to find the best combination of price and protection. A captive agent can only offer you one company's products. If that company's rates increase or their coverage doesn't fit your situation, you have no options. With us, you do.

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How often should I review my homeowners or auto insurance?

At minimum, annually — ideally before each renewal. Life changes like home renovations, a new vehicle, a teenage driver, a new business, or a change in your net worth can all affect what coverage you need. We proactively review your policies at renewal so you're never paying for the wrong coverage or left exposed by a gap.

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What does homeowners insurance actually cover?

A standard homeowners policy covers your dwelling, personal property, liability, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable after a covered loss. It does not cover flood or earthquake damage — those require separate policies. Coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions vary significantly between carriers and policy forms.

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Do I need umbrella insurance?

If you own a home, have savings or investments, or have any meaningful assets to protect, an umbrella policy is one of the most cost-effective coverages you can buy. It provides liability protection above your homeowners and auto limits — typically starting at $1 million in additional coverage for a few hundred dollars per year. One serious auto accident or injury on your property can easily exceed standard policy limits.

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Does my auto policy cover a rental car?

In most cases, your personal auto policy extends to rental vehicles for the same coverages you carry on your own vehicle. However, rental car damage waivers (CDW/LDW) cover things your auto policy may not — loss of use charges, administrative fees, and diminished value claims by the rental company. It depends on your specific policy and carrier.

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Can Great Southern Agency insure hard-to-place personal risks?

Yes. Vacant homes, high-value properties, older homes with outdated systems, coastal properties, and specialty vehicles are all examples of risks that standard carriers decline or price poorly. Our access to specialty and non-standard markets means we can find coverage where others can't.

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his page is for individuals and families in Georgia and the Southeast seeking homeowners, auto, umbrella, renters, watercraft, RV, and personal insurance coverage.