Thomas-Howard Insurance Services

Thomas-Howard Insurance Services T.H.I.S is how insurance should be
Serving Virginia and North Carolina

Liability: When Negligence is Just a Step Away. 🛡️🐾To conclude our "Demystifying the Dec Page" series, the Thomas & Howa...
04/01/2026

Liability: When Negligence is Just a Step Away. 🛡️🐾

To conclude our "Demystifying the Dec Page" series, the Thomas & Howard Agency is tackling the single most crucial line item for protecting your net worth in 2026: Coverage E: Personal Liability.

While other parts of your policy protect your home and belongings, Coverage E protects you.

This is your global financial shield against "negligence" that leads to another person’s injury or property damage. We specialize in identifying the unique threats facing homeowners in Hampton Roads and coastal NC:

Trip and Fall Hazards: A delivery driver or guest trips on a garden hose, a loose step, or even a dog leash (like in today’s photo).

Dog Liability: As your local consultants, we help you navigate tricky breed restrictions and ensure your policy fully protects you in the event of a bite, whether it happens on your property, on the VB boardwalk, or at a park.

Pool and Trampoline Accidents: We ensure these "attractive nuisances" are properly secured and fully insured.

Check your limit today. Most standard policies default to only $100,000. For modern lifestyles, we only recommend a $300,000 or $500,000 minimum. For high-net-worth clients, we specialize in adding a coordinated Umbrella Policy, which sits above Coverage E and provides an extra $1MM or more of global liability defense.

Is your current liability limit a risk? Text "LIABILITY" to 757-852-0761. Let’s run an expert audit on your protection today.

Coverage D: Temporary Displacement, No Loss of Comfort.For the third installment of our "Demystifying the Dec Page" seri...
03/25/2026

Coverage D: Temporary Displacement, No Loss of Comfort.

For the third installment of our "Demystifying the Dec Page" series, the Thomas & Howard Agency is tackling Coverage D: Loss of Use.

When your home is damaged by a major claim, the stress is overwhelming. While your policy pays to fix the physical structure, Coverage D is the specialized, expert protection that ensures your life continues as normally as possible during reconstruction.

Hampton Roads homeowners need to know that Coverage D doesn’t just pay for a basic hotel room. As your local consultants, we build your policy to cover your specialized Additional Living Expenses (ALE):

Alternative Housing: Securing a luxury apartment in Town Center or a comparable single-family home in your school district, rather than a cramped hotel room.

Dining Out: Covering your extra food and restaurant bills because you no longer have access to your own kitchen.

Commuting: Reimbursing your additional gas and transportation costs if your temporary home is further from work or school.

Check your limit today. Standard policies often limit Coverage D to 20% of your dwelling coverage, but for high-value homes in HRVA, we recommend choosing "Actual Loss Sustained" coverage, which provides unlimited protection for ALE for up to 12 months.

Don’t settle for less comfort after a crisis. Text "COMFORT" to 757-852-0761. Let’s run a quick audit to ensure your Loss of Use coverage matches your standard of living.

Coverage C: If You Turned Your House Upside Down... 🛋️🛍️This week, the Thomas & Howard Agency is breaking down one of th...
03/18/2026

Coverage C: If You Turned Your House Upside Down... 🛋️🛍️

This week, the Thomas & Howard Agency is breaking down one of the most crucial, yet often overlooked, parts of your homeowners policy: Coverage C: Personal Property.

Think of your home. If you turned it upside down and shook it, everything that falls out is Coverage C. It’s the "Stuff" that makes it your home—your wardrobe, electronics, furniture, even your kitchen mixer.

But here is the "Expert Insight" most homeowners in Hampton Roads miss: Your personal property coverage actually follows you anywhere in the world.

Stolen from your car in a Norfolk Parking Garage? Covered.

A fire in your local storage unit in Deep Creek? Covered.

Suitcase disappears at ORF? Covered.

Check your declarations page today to see if your policy pays Actual Cash Value (what your 5-year-old TV is worth now) or Replacement Cost Value (what it costs to buy a brand-new one today). For true peace of mind, we only recommend Replacement Cost Value.

Do you have enough "Stuff Insurance"? Text "STUFF" to 757-852-0761. The Thomas & Howard Agency will help you calculate your needs and shop 50+ carriers for the best protection.

Is Your "Other Structure" Underinsured? 🏡When you look at your homeowners insurance policy, you’ll see a line item calle...
03/11/2026

Is Your "Other Structure" Underinsured? 🏡

When you look at your homeowners insurance policy, you’ll see a line item called Coverage B: Other Structures. But what exactly does that cover here in Hampton Roads?

Essentially, if it’s on your property but not attached to your house, it falls under Coverage B. This includes your:

Detached Garages & Workshops

Privacy Fencing

Sheds

In-ground Pools & Gazebos

Most standard policies automatically set this at 10% of your main dwelling limit. If your home is insured for $500k, you have $50k for all other structures combined.

If you’ve recently added a high-end detached suite in Great Bridge or a custom workshop in VB, that 10% might not be enough to rebuild it at today’s 2026 material costs. As your local experts, we can help you "schedule" these structures to ensure they are protected for their actual value, not just a percentage.

Not sure if your fence or garage is fully covered? Text "BACKYARD" to 757-852-0761. Let’s double-check your limits today.

The Best ROI on Your Weekend 🛠️This project doesn't require a trip to the hardware store.We know the Hampton Roads "To-D...
03/06/2026

The Best ROI on Your Weekend 🛠️
This project doesn't require a trip to the hardware store.

We know the Hampton Roads "To-Do" list is growing now that the weather is turning. Before you head out to grab mulch in Chesapeake or start the spring cleanup in Virginia Beach, take 5 minutes to tackle the one project that actually puts money back in your pocket.

Reviewing your insurance with the Thomas & Howard Agency is the ultimate weekend win. While you're enjoying the sun, we'll be shopping 50+ carriers to make sure your home and auto rates are as competitive as possible for 2026.

The Result: Better protection, lower premiums, and more money for the projects you actually enjoy.

Text "UPGRADE" to 757-852-0761 before you start your Saturday. We’ll handle the heavy lifting.

The Drainage Danger 🚽Think all water damage is "Flood"? Think again.In Hampton Roads and the Outer Banks, we talk about ...
03/05/2026

The Drainage Danger 🚽
Think all water damage is "Flood"? Think again.

In Hampton Roads and the Outer Banks, we talk about flood insurance constantly. But as your local experts, there is another "water" coverage we see missing all too often: Water Backup.

If a sewer line clogs or your guest bathroom shower overflows due to a drain backup, a standard homeowners policy usually provides zero coverage unless you have a specific endorsement. This isn't "rising water" from a storm—it’s a localized disaster that can cost thousands in remediation and flooring.

At the Thomas & Howard Agency, we don't just shop for the lowest price; we shop to ensure your "standard" policy actually handles a standard mess.

Does your policy have at least $10,000–$25,000 in Water Backup & Sump Overflow? If not, you’re self-insuring a very common risk.

Not sure if you're protected? Text 757-852-0761 for a quick coverage audit.

Headline: Partner Spotlight: Meet Austin Ross ⚓️We are thrilled to highlight Austin Ross with Coast 2 Coast Mortgage! Au...
03/02/2026

Headline: Partner Spotlight: Meet Austin Ross ⚓️

We are thrilled to highlight Austin Ross with Coast 2 Coast Mortgage! Austin isn’t your traditional lender; he’s a dedicated advocate for homeowners who brings a "mission-first" mindset to every closing table.

Why Austin Stands Out:

Veteran Expertise: As a Navy veteran, Austin has a deep-rooted passion for helping fellow service members navigate the complexities of VA loans to achieve their homeownership goals.

Creative Problem Solver: From unique loan challenges to creative financing, Austin thrives where traditional lenders might hesitate. If there’s a way to make it work, he’ll find it.

Nationwide Reach: While he assists clients across the country, he is specifically licensed in Virginia, Mississippi, and Montana.

Honest Guidance: Austin is known for his approachable, transparent style—whether you are buying your very first home or adding a complex investment property to your portfolio.

"With Austin, there’s very little he can’t tackle. His dedication to his clients and his country shines through in every transaction."

Looking for a lender who speaks your language and gets the job done? Connect with Austin Ross at Coast 2 Coast Mortgage today!

A Blast from the Past ☎️Missing those "old school" insurance rates?Happy ! While we’d all love to go back to the days o...
02/27/2026

A Blast from the Past ☎️
Missing those "old school" insurance rates?

Happy ! While we’d all love to go back to the days of 90-cent gas and rotary phones, most of us are just looking for the insurance premiums we had a few years ago.

The truth? Rates have changed, but your options haven't. If your current carrier "threw back" a massive rate increase at you this year, it’s time to shop around.

At the Thomas & Howard Agency, we shop 50+ A-rated carriers to find the best possible rate available in today's market—helping you get as close to those "throwback" savings as possible.

How to celebrate Retro Day with us:

Grab your (smartphone) "rotary phone".

Text 757-852-0761.

Let us find your perfect match.

Ready to see what you can save?

Is your "30-year roof" actually protected?Most homeowners are told their roof will last 30 years, but insurance companie...
02/25/2026

Is your "30-year roof" actually protected?

Most homeowners are told their roof will last 30 years, but insurance companies often see things differently.

Once your roof hits the 15 year mark, many carriers begin to limit your coverage. They may switch your policy to "Actual Cash Value," meaning if a storm hits, they’ll only pay for what your old roof was worth—not what a new one costs to install.

Three things to check today:

The Age: Is it over 15 years old?

The Material: Architectural shingles often get better rates than 3-tab.

The Policy: Are you covered for "Replacement Cost" or "Actual Cash Value"?

Not sure where you stand? Send us a text or give us a call at 757-852-0761. We can review your current policy and make sure you aren’t facing a "Roof Age" surprise.

Partner Spotlight: Meet Madison Sherwood 🏠When it comes to navigating the real estate market, having a partner with a sh...
02/24/2026

Partner Spotlight: Meet Madison Sherwood 🏠

When it comes to navigating the real estate market, having a partner with a sharp eye for numbers is everything. Meet Madison Sherwood, the Managing Broker at Swell Realty Co.

Her Superpower: With a background in Finance and Economics from Old Dominion University, Madison doesn't just "find houses"—she provides exceptional financial insight and negotiation skills that give her clients a distinct advantage.

What she brings to the table: From VA loans and new construction to luxury real estate, Madison is a Top Producing Agent who knows how to navigate complex transactions with ease.

We love working with professionals who bring this level of expertise to our community. If you’re looking for a resource in the Greenbrier/Chesapeake area, reach out to Madison!

📞 406-529-3288

The Easy Button 💡Insurance shouldn’t be a headache.Shopping for the right coverage usually means endless forms and confu...
02/20/2026

The Easy Button 💡

Insurance shouldn’t be a headache.

Shopping for the right coverage usually means endless forms and confusing fine print. At the Thomas & Howard Agency, we do the heavy lifting for you. We shop 40+ top-rated carriers in VA and NC to find your perfect fit in minutes.

Simple. Fast. Properly covered.

Ready to simplify your insurance? Call or Text 757-852-0761 for a quick policy review! 📲

Address

400 N Center Drive Ste 211
Norfolk, VA
23502

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4pm
Tuesday 9am - 4pm
Wednesday 9am - 4pm
Thursday 9am - 4pm
Friday 9am - 4pm

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