American Advantage Insurance - MKE Insurance

09/24/2026

How long can a property sit vacant before insurance coverage changes?

It's an important question for landlords, investors, house flippers and property owners.

Many insurance policies contain vacancy provisions that can limit coverage after a property has been vacant for an extended period. Theft, vandalism, water damage and other losses may be treated differently once a vacancy provision applies.

This can happen when:

🏠 A rental is between tenants
🔨 A flip house is being renovated
🏷️ A property is sitting vacant while for sale
🏢 A commercial building loses its tenant
🔑 An inherited property isn't currently occupied

The good news? Vacant properties can be insured.

MKE Insurance has access to multiple vacant-property markets, including options through Berkshire Hathaway, Vacant Express and other specialty carriers.

Before leaving a property vacant for an extended period, make sure you understand how your current policy will respond.

Read our latest article: Vacant Property Insurance in Wisconsin: What Owners Need to Know

https://mkeinsurance.com/blog-%26-learning-center/f/vacant-property-insurance-what-property-owners-need-to-know

09/16/2026

We’re grateful to be part of the South Suburban Chamber and the community it brings together. We’ve enjoyed getting to know many of the people and local businesses involved, and we appreciate the relationships we’ve started cultivating as a member of this organization.

09/10/2026

Your siding gets damaged by hail—but only on ONE side of your house. What happens next?

Here's something many Wisconsin homeowners don't realize:

Your insurance company may pay to replace the damaged siding without paying to replace all of the undamaged siding just because the new material doesn't match.

Imagine having beautiful siding around your entire home, a hailstorm damages one side, and your original siding has been discontinued.

The replacement siding is close…but clearly not the same. 😬

This is why we talk to our clients about Matching Roofing & Siding Coverage.

Depending on the insurance company and endorsement, matching coverage can provide additional protection when the materials needed to repair covered damage don't reasonably match the undamaged portions of your roof or siding.

And remember: Replacement Cost Coverage doesn't necessarily mean Matching Coverage.

It's a small detail on a homeowners policy that could make a BIG difference after a claim.

If you don't know whether your homeowners policy includes matching coverage, reach out to MKE Insurance. We'll help you take a look before the next Wisconsin storm does it for you.



https://mkeinsurance.com/personal-insurance

08/28/2026

Did your insurance premium increase significantly—or did your company change your coverage, deductible, or eligibility?

Your agent may be doing a great job, but the options they can offer depend on the type of agency they represent.

A captive agent generally represents one insurance company. If that company changes its pricing or underwriting requirements, the agent may have limited alternatives.

As an independent insurance agency, MKE Insurance can explore options from multiple carriers and help you compare pricing, coverage, deductibles, and eligibility.

That does not guarantee another company will be less expensive, and the lowest price is not always the best choice. But an independent review can help you understand your options and make an informed decision.

If your insurance is changing unfavorably, it may be time for a second opinion.

Learn more: https://mkeinsurance.com/insurance-learning-center/f/captive-vs-independent-insurance-agents-why-your-options-matter

MKE Insurance LLC
mkeinsurance.com

When your insurance premium increases substantially—or your coverage, deductible, or eligibility changes—you may wonder whether better options are available.

08/19/2026

⛈️ Stay safe, Wisconsin! Strong storms, heavy rain, and high winds are causing downed trees and property damage throughout our area.

If today’s weather has you wondering whether your home or auto insurance provides the protection you need, MKE Insurance is here to help. We can review your current coverage or help you explore options for the future.

📞 MKE Insurance: 414-541-6020
🌐 mkeinsurance.com

Stay safe and remember—we’re just a call away. 💙

08/13/2026

🚧Hiring subcontractors? A Certificate of Insurance may not be enough.

Many contractors collect a COI, put it in a folder and assume they're protected.

But a certificate is generally just evidence of insurance at a particular point in time.

It doesn't necessarily mean:

✅ You're an Additional Insured
✅ The subcontractor will maintain coverage
✅ You'll receive notice of cancellation or changes
✅ The subcontractor's work is actually covered
✅ You won't get hit with additional premium at your insurance audit

A strong subcontractor risk-management program should include:

• A written subcontractor agreement
• Clearly defined insurance requirements
• Proper Additional Insured endorsements when required
• Workers' compensation verification
• Tracking policy expiration dates
• Maintaining certificates and endorsements
• Appropriate indemnification/hold-harmless language reviewed by legal counsel

One of the worst times to discover a subcontractor wasn't properly insured is after an injury, property damage claim or insurance audit.

At MKE Insurance, we help Wisconsin businesses make sure their insurance program matches the way they actually operate — including how they use subcontractors.

📞 Have subcontractors? Let's review your current process.

08/04/2026

🏡🚗 Is it time to review your insurance?

Whether you’re buying a home, renewing your policy, or just wondering if you’re paying too much, we’re here to help. At MKE Insurance, we shop multiple insurance companies to find the coverage that fits your needs and your budget.

Give us a call today for a FREE, no-obligation quote!

📞 414-541-6020
🌐 mkeinsurance.com

07/24/2026

🚗 That Tiny Rock Chip Could Cost You Hundreds...

It happens every day.

You're driving down the highway...

A truck kicks up a rock...

POP!

At first it's just a tiny chip.

A few days later, after Wisconsin heat, rain, or a cold morning...

It's a crack stretching halfway across your windshield.

Here's something many drivers don't realize:

✅ Many insurance companies will repair small windshield chips without requiring you to pay your comprehensive deductible.*

✅ Some policies even offer a $0 Glass Deductible, meaning windshield replacement may not cost you anything out of pocket.

The important part?

Don't wait.

A repair today can prevent a replacement tomorrow.

If you're not sure what your auto policy covers, we'd be happy to review it with you.

That's what independent insurance agents are here for.

📞 MKE Insurance LLC

Serving Wisconsin families and businesses.

*Coverage varies by insurance company and policy.

07/02/2026

Fireworks are exciting... until they aren't.

Every Independence Day, homes, garages, vehicles, and even neighboring properties are damaged by fireworks. What many people don't realize is that if a firework launched from your property causes damage or injures someone, you could potentially be held financially responsible.

A few reminders before celebrating:

• Keep a safe distance from spectators.
• Have a hose or bucket of water nearby.
• Never relight a firework that doesn't ignite.
• Follow all local and state fireworks laws.
• Be respectful of your neighbors, pets, and dry conditions.

Many homeowners insurance policies include personal liability coverage, but every claim is unique and coverage depends on the specific circumstances and your policy.

The goal isn't to scare anyone—it's simply to help everyone enjoy a fun, memorable, and safe holiday.

From all of us at MKE Insurance, have a safe and happy Fourth of July! 🇺🇸🎆

06/23/2026

Most Wisconsin drivers make at least one of these mistakes after an accident.

In a stressful situation, it's easy to forget important steps that can help protect you and make the claims process smoother.

In this short video, I cover:

✔ Taking the right photos

✔ Avoiding statements that can create problems later

✔ Why contacting your insurance agent can help

Hopefully you'll never need these tips, but if you do, you'll be glad you saved them.

Have questions? Feel free to reach out.

Aaron Weidenbaum
MKE Insurance
414-541-6020
mkeinsurance.com