GENERAL INSURANCE BLOG

Unfortunate events are a constant risk that one must always be prepared for. While you may have an optimistic view of the future, the financial implications of a mishap are always too heavy to burden. Online general insurance is a financial product that comes in the clutch in such uncertainties to protect policyholders after paying a comparatively meagre premium. With the demand for insurance growing daily, the insurance sector constantly evolves to provide better services, more values, stringent regulations, and preventive mechanisms to tackle fraud.

Initially sold as a safety mechanism, online general insurance policies are now seen as more than they offer at face value. They are seen as investments, tax-saving opportunities, and more. However, some policyholders try to take advantage of loopholes in the policy wording to derive the most significant benefit by defrauding insurance companies by resorting to means like improper disclosure of facts, misrepresentation, etc.

With the recent wave of digitisation, the insurance regulatory authorities are setting their foot down and laying the framework for a transparent and non-conducive ecosystem for insurance fraud.

The issue.
Over the years, the insurance sector has seen an extreme change, from witnessing the risk-averse masses to offering facilitative services like online general insurance that are convenient for consumers with the benefits of additional features.

However, over time, the scope of the policies is being misinterpreted, leading policyholders to purchase multiple covers to increase their net insured sum payout. This has been noticed especially in the case of online general insurance, where various policies from multiple insurers are purchased to enhance the total payout.

The primary concern in such a situation is that each asset has a fixed value determined by careful expert assessment and evaluation. After risk evaluation, the premium, coverage extent, etc., are decided. Policyholders purchase multiple policies to override this constraint on the payout and often do not disclose the same to the existing insurer.

Another reason that caused the lack of complete data availability with insurers is the intense and duplicate paperwork. Customers used to skip several essential fields due to redundant questions and excessive effort.

The solution.
During times of heavy dependency on paperwork, it was difficult for insurers to identify such cases until the point of raising a claim. However, with technological advancements and the onset of the digital era, the insurance sector is not left behind in upgrading its ecosystem to tackle such concerns.

The account aggregator system, which is now applicable for all non-banking financial companies, data sharing concerning customers' investments and savings is set to transform the information availability for insurance providers.

The account aggregator system will make all relevant data available to authorised bodies electronically. The use of e-insurance accounts (e-IA) will only facilitate the process. While the e-IA, a digital portfolio of insurance policies held by an individual, is for the policyholder's benefit, the aggregator system makes all the necessary data accessible in a few simple clicks to prevent over-insurance, fact-check disclosures, and reduce paperwork.

The concerns.
Anywhere that data sharing takes place is seen as a significant concern due to the constant risk of data leaks, especially when dealing with such confidential information. However, the RBI has already announced and laid the foundation for an institution to take care of data collection and protection to assure policyholders and protect their interests.

As we progress technologically, we will be in a better position to respond to the dynamic demand across various sectors, of which insurance is one. Policyholders must take extra caution while evaluating and purchasing online general insurance policies to ensure their safety and comply with the relevant regulations.

Click HERE to buy online general insurance.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Renting a house is a time taking process. If not handled correctly, it can become a significant headache. Tenant misuse of the property or refusal to leave, late rent and maintenance fee payments, and hunting for new tenants are some issues you may encounter when renting out your home. As a precaution, homeowners may get landlord insurance, specialised home insurance to protect themselves against potential financial losses that may arise from tenancy contracts.

You can safeguard yourself, your rental business, and property as a landlord by being aware of your rights and responsibilities under the law.

1. Written agreement:
For the law to protect the interests of both tenants and owners, a written agreement is crucial to facilitate a smooth transaction. The agreement must be written up in legalese and signed by both parties. The copies are given to the tenant, and the owner retains the original. Tenants shall be compelled to pay rent once the owner delivers a copy of this agreement to tenants.

2. No discrimination:
Ensure you adhere to the Rent Control Act while marketing your property, selecting new tenants, or setting apartment rules. Any acts or policies must be fair to everyone and cannot be perceived as marginalising certain people but not others.

3. A tenant's eviction:
A landlord can only evict a tenant by providing advance notice and a clear explanation. Typically, the notice period lasts between 15 days and two months. The landlord is entitled to receive equal to twice the monthly rent if the tenants do not leave the property within the allotted time.

4. Access to landlord:
Once the lease is signed, the apartment becomes the tenant's property, and the landowner is prohibited from entering without their consent. The tenant may file a lawsuit against the landlord if he does this. He must give advance notice regarding apartment inspections, repairs, or improvements.

5. Property's maintenance:
Apart from normal wear and tear, unless the agreement states otherwise, the upkeep of the property is the joint responsibility of both parties. If the owner refuses to pay for the repairs, the amount can be withdrawn from the periodic rent. If the tenants refuse to pay for the repairs, the amount can be subtracted from their security deposit.

6. Restriction on rent increases:
In violation of the contract's provisions, the landlord cannot raise the rent. If it is specified in the agreement, there is a cap on how much he can raise the rent.

7. Necessary supplies:
Tenants have a fundamental right to amenities such as water, power, parking, communication links, sanitary services, etc. Even in the event of non-payment of fees, neither the renters nor the owners may stop providing these services. The local rent authority may step in, launch an investigation, impose penalties on the parties involved, and compensate others.

8. Security deposit:
Tenants are entitled to their security deposit reimbursement within one month of vacating the property. Before reimbursing the money, owners can subtract the responsible amount. A security deposit exceeding three times the rent cost is illegal to demand.

9. Payable rent:
The landowner and the tenant must agree on the amount of rent due as specified in the written lease agreement in the case of a new tenancy. The landlord must provide the tenants with three months' notice if the rent is about to change. The overall worth of the building, which includes the market value of some of the land, the cost of construction, and the importance of amenities, is typically used to calculate the chargeable rent.

Sometimes, the landlord and tenant have a verbal understanding, but it's preferable to document everything. A formal agreement must contain all the specifics so that both parties know their legal obligations. If the tenant under your lease agreement fails, your home insurance for landlords will cover the loss of rent. Always review the prevailing regulations and consult a lawyer knowledgeable in landlord-tenant legislation.

Click HERE to buy the best home insurance in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Your car's aesthetics are important to public perception of its value. The first thing that everyone notices about a vehicle is its glossy, shining exterior. For an asset that doubles as a symbol of wealth, it is essential to check car insurance price in India to protect your vehicle against accidents and ensure the upkeep of its exterior appeal.

We all wish to protect our car's fresh paint job at any cost. Most of us believe that dents are the primary cause that ruins them. However, it is not so. Let us look at the factors other than dents that can ruin your car's fresh paint job.

1. Dust:
Dust is a major enemy of your car's fresh paint job. It may contain high iron that causes rusty discolouration and corrosion to the car's paint. Do not rub the dust settled on your car body with your hands or a dry cloth. It may damage the paint and cause scratches. Always wash off the dust with water and soap, and get your car paint waxed to protect it from external damage.

2. Fuel spills:
Often, fuel spills on the car paint while refuelling the car at a petrol pump. This causes permanent damage to its paint. The damage is usually more when the painted panel is not from the factory and has been repainted. Avoid filling your car tank to the brim, so fuel does not drip out. Even if it does, immediately clean it with a soft cloth, so it does not form a permanent stain around your fuel inlet and damage your car paint.

3. Stickers:
Big attractive stickers are available in the market to make your car look fancy and trendy from the sides, front bonnet, or rear. But have you wondered how they will impact your car paint when you remove them? Do not put stickers on your car's exterior, especially if it has returned from a fresh paint job. They have strong adhesives on them and will ruin your car's paint when taken off forcefully. Worse, they may start peeling off by themselves in bits and parts and make your car exterior look ugly.

4. Car covers:
Car covers are made to protect your car's exterior and paint, right? Surprisingly, even they can damage your car's fresh paint job. Car covers made of thick fabric or non-breathable material trap moisture inside them. They can cause rust formation from oxidation in the long run and damage your car's body and paint. Also, a car cover made of thick fabric can cause scratches and ruin your car's new paint job after coming in contact with the dust on your car's exterior.

5. Excessive sun:
Exposure to too much sun also ruins your car's fresh paint job. Excess sun exposure deteriorates the paint quality and starts fading and cracking after a while.

6. Tree branches and road debris:
If you park your car under a tree regularly, broken twigs and branches might damage your paint job. They can cause unwanted scratches and cause the paint to crack too. Road debris can have a similar effect on your car's paint. If you regularly drive through broken roads full of rubble and potholes, there is a high chance that they will clash against the sides of your car and ruin the paint.

Besides protecting your car's paint from external damages, buy car insurance that will provide financial assistance in case of accidents, damages, malfunctioning, or theft. Evaluate car insurance price in India from various companies, and choose the policy that provides you with the best protection at the most reasonable prices.

Click HERE to check car insurance price in India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.

Pedestrians have the right to cross the street without being restricted. Unfortunately, the road can throw various challenges knowing the road conditions and the reckless habits of drivers. It is imperative to prevent pedestrian accidents because they can cause serious injuries or even death. We'll review some essential advice in this blog to keep you safe on the road and prevent pedestrian accidents.

So, pedestrians, these tips can prevent you from getting into accidents. Let's get started.

1. Should use pedestrian crossings strictly:
There are places on the road called pedestrian crossings where people can safely cross. Using these crossings is crucial since they are frequently marked with zebra stripes, which make it obvious to drivers that pedestrians have the right of way. Before going into the crosswalk and crossing the road, look on both sides. Even though you have the privilege, it's best to be cautious and hold back until approaching cars have stopped before crossing the street.

2. You must be visible from a distance:
When it comes to the safety of pedestrians, visibility is crucial. When it's dark or there is little light, wearing bright or reflective clothing can assist vehicles in seeing you from a distance. Carry a flashlight or use the flashlight function on your smartphone to boost your visibility while strolling in an area without streetlights. You can lessen the likelihood that a car won't see you and could cause an accident by being visible.

3. Eliminate every distraction:
It's crucial to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings when walking. Steer clear of walking while texting, listening to music, or using your phone. These pursuits may divert your focus, making it difficult to see possible dangers like approaching traffic, potholes, or uneven surfaces. Step to the side of the road if you need to make a call or send a text to avoid obstructing other pedestrians or creating a safety concern.

4. Keep track of turning vehicles:
Pedestrians can be seriously endangered by turning vehicles, particularly if the driver doesn't see them. Always watch for cars pulling into driveways or crossroads, and make eye contact with the driver before crossing in front of them. Also, it's a good idea to listen for any engine noises or vehicle signs, such as horns or reverse alarms.

5. Be watchful about the traffic:
Always stroll traffic-facing if you're on the road without a sidewalk. This allows you to see approaching cars and, if necessary, move out of the way. When you walk with your back to the road, it can be more difficult for vehicles to notice you, which raises the possibility of an accident.

6. Observe traffic signs and abide by the rules:
The purpose of traffic signals is to control the movement of automobiles and pedestrians on the road. When crossing the street, always heed the traffic signals, especially pedestrian signals. Even if there are no oncoming vehicles, avoid attempting to cross the road when the pedestrian light is red. You risk putting yourself in danger by disobeying the signal since other drivers may be turning or speeding.

7. While around large vehicles, exercise caution:
Oversized vehicles with poor visibility, such as trucks, buses, and trailers, make it more difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. Always use caution when navigating these vehicles and avoid wandering in or near their blind areas. Make eye contact with a bus or truck driver before crossing in front of them if you're walking close to one.

8. Keep an eye on the weather:
Rain, snow, or fog can impair visibility and make it riskier for pedestrians to cross the street. It's crucial to take extra precautions during bad weather, such as wearing reflective clothes or an umbrella to improve visibility.

In conclusion, the safety of pedestrians should never be taken for granted. Pedestrians can significantly lower their risk of getting injured in an accident by heeding the straightforward advice provided in this blog. And for unprecedented circumstances, you must purchase the best personal accident insurance India to safeguard yourself and your family against any life-threatening mishaps.

Click HERE to learn the benefits of purchasing personal accident insurance India.

Disclaimer: The information provided above is for illustrative purposes only. To get more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before purchasing a policy.