Recognizing the Red Flags of Classic Car Insurance Scams

Posted on October 31, 2025October 23, 2025 by admin

Scams have quickly gone from obvious to sophisticated. Scammers are using authentic photos and videos to trick you into buying a coveted vehicle. They may email you or contact you through social media. They lure you to a phishing website or payment page. When you fulfill your end, you never hear from them again. Tracking the scammer down is a dead end. Meanwhile, your funds end up in an offshore account. The team at Bartal Insurance, serving Scranton, PA, wants to help keep you safe from scams like this.

What Are Some Classic Car Insurance Scams?

Falsifying auto theft is spreading across classic car insurance agencies now. Those scams hurt legitimate policyholder claims and affect premiums. Exaggerated damage, auto repair, and ghost broker scams are also prevalent. Additionally, email and social media scams are preying on fear, sadness, anger, or other emotions to convince Scranton, PA residents to take action without thinking things through.

Other classic car scams involve buying a car sight unseen and purchasing vehicles through phishing websites. Those sites mimic trusted websites, but they have fishy information or noticeable grammatical errors. Unintentional insurance fraud occurs when your insurance agent tells you to ignore a discrepancy in your application or policy. Always review your policy for errors and correct them. Staged car accidents involve drivers causing accidents on purpose for insurance money, and roping in innocent drivers.

Scammers never take a break from defrauding everyday people, but Bartal Insurance won’t rest, either. We constantly monitor your insurance and block scammers from using your information for profit. We encourage you to be aware and stay safe online to keep these criminals from accessing your information. Contact us for more information about classic car insurance scams and fraud. We’re currently serving Scranton, PA.

Does Renters Insurance Protect Me or My Landlord?

Posted on September 30, 2025September 23, 2025 by admin

It’s becoming increasingly common for landlords to require tenants to carry renters insurance. While it’s a valuable policy, it’s often misunderstood. A frequent question from tenants in Pennsylvania is whether renters insurance, provided through Bartal Insurance serving Scranton, PA, benefits them or their landlord. The truth is that renters insurance is primarily designed for the tenant’s protection. While a landlord’s policy focuses on the building itself, renters insurance covers your personal belongings and liability.

What Renters Insurance Covers

Renters insurance is designed to protect the items you bring into your rental space. Furniture, electronics, clothing, and household items are covered against risks such as fire, theft, or certain types of water damage. Another critical component is liability coverage, which provides protection if a visitor is injured in your apartment and you are held responsible for their medical expenses. These protections are tailored to your needs, not the landlord’s investment.

How the Landlord’s Coverage Works

Landlords typically carry their own insurance policies, which only cover the structure of the building. For example, if a storm damages the roof or a pipe bursts inside a wall, the landlord’s insurance will handle those repairs. However, it won’t cover your personal belongings, such as your laptop, television, or other items inside your unit. This is where your renters insurance comes into play.

Why This Difference Matters

Consider a scenario where a fire breaks out in the kitchen. The landlord’s insurance will cover repairs to the walls, ceilings, and floors, but any smoke-damaged furniture or clothing will be your responsibility. Without renters insurance, replacing these items could be financially overwhelming. Renters insurance ensures you’re not left to bear the cost of such losses alone.

Renters insurance doesn’t protect your landlord; it protects you. By carrying a policy, you safeguard your belongings and protect yourself from liability. When the unexpected happens, renters insurance ensures you won’t face the financial burden alone. Speak with your insurance representative at Bartal Insurance serving Scranton, PA, to learn more about this essential coverage.

How Do Your RV Insurance Needs Change if You RV Full Time

Posted on August 29, 2025August 26, 2025 by admin

Living life on the open road in your RV full-time is a dream for many, but it also comes with unique responsibilities, particularly regarding insurance. At Bartal Insurance, serving Scranton, PA, we’ve helped countless RVers transition from weekend warriors to full-time adventurers. And trust us, there’s more to consider than just a bigger gas budget.

Your RV Becomes Your Home

When your RV becomes your primary residence, your insurance needs change. A standard recreational RV policy is designed for occasional use, not full-time living. Once you’re living in your rig year-round, you need a policy that treats it more like a home and less like a vacation vehicle. This includes coverage for personal belongings, liability in case someone gets injured at your campsite, and loss of use if your RV becomes uninhabitable.

You May Need Extra Liability Protection

Full-time RVing means you’re more likely to interact with people at campgrounds, RV parks, and on the road. This increased exposure brings more risk, which may require additional liability coverage. A comprehensive full-timer policy can protect you in situations that a part-time policy wouldn’t cover.

Coverage That Moves With You

When you’re constantly on the go, your insurance needs to travel with you. Make sure your policy isn’t limited by state lines or mileage. The right full-time RV insurance will provide consistent protection no matter where you park.

Talk to the Experts

If you’re ready to embrace full-time RV life, don’t take chances with your coverage. Bartal Insurance, serving Scranton, PA, is here to help you find a policy that keeps you protected every mile of the way. Contact us today and travel with confidence.

Why Should Companies Get Bonds Insurance?

Posted on July 31, 2025July 23, 2025 by admin

Bond insurance in Scranton, PA isn’t legally required for all businesses. However, certain industries, such as notaries and service-based companies, may be mandated to obtain bonds. Even if it’s not needed, bond insurance is a thoughtful consideration for any business.

Protecting Against Employee Dishonesty

There are various types of bond insurance, including fidelity bonds, which are specifically designed to protect businesses from employee dishonesty. These bonds can protect your company against theft, embezzlement, and other types of fraudulent activities. Fidelity bonds are particularly prevalent in the financial sector, where trust and security are of paramount importance.

Building Consumer Trust

Bonds are widely used in service industries such as plumbing and construction. These bonds ensure that projects are completed as promised, providing customers with an added layer of protection. They also cover issues like contractual failures or damages caused by negligence while the company is on the job. By having bond insurance, businesses can build trust and credibility with their clients.

Meeting Local Regulations

Many local governments require contractors to meet specific regulations, including having bond insurance, to bid on projects. Securing bond insurance before seeking new jobs ensures you comply with local requirements and are ready to take on new opportunities. Contact Bartal Insurance to determine which bonds are necessary based on local regulations.

Encouraging Business Growth

Bond insurance can open doors to exciting growth opportunities, such as establishing connections with local government entities. It also fosters business expansion by increasing consumer trust. Simply informing customers that your business is bonded can give you a competitive edge and help your company thrive.

At Bartal Insurance, we help businesses obtain the bond insurance they need for their specific industry. Our knowledgeable customer service representatives are available to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to discover your options. We proudly serve the Scranton, PA area.

Is Flood Insurance Required for My Non-Profit in Scranton PA?

Posted on May 30, 2025May 28, 2025 by admin

Operating a non-profit organization allows you to host fundraisers and contribute to individuals, groups, and communities that are important to you. While flood insurance isn’t legally required for non-profits in Scranton, PA, it’s often recommended if you’re located in a flood-prone area. At Bartal Insurance, we’ll collaborate with you to find a flood insurance policy that matches your specific location, industry, and coverage needs.

When is Flood Insurance Required?

Although flood insurance isn’t mandatory for most non-profits in Pennsylvania, it is required if:

You have a loan or mortgage from a federally regulated or insured lender.
Your non-profit organization owns or finances property in a location that’s designated as a Special Flood Hazard Area, or SFHA.

Why Non-Profits in Scranton Should Consider Flood Insurance

Even if you don’t believe you’re in a high-risk location, here’s why it’s advisable to consider flood insurance for your non-profit:

If you’re located in one of the many locations throughout Scranton that are prone to flood risks, such as the Lackawanna River.
If your non-profit has aging infrastructure or outdated storm drains, even if you’re in a non-coastal zone.

High-risk industries include food pantries, shelters, faith-based centers, health clinics, educational non-profits, and even historic preservation groups. Protecting your investments and time is crucial anytime you’re managing a non-profit, which is why flood insurance is often necessary for total security and tranquility.

Even if you’re not legally required or obliged to obtain flood insurance for your non-profit in Scranton, PA, it’s still advisable to consider a policy. From protecting your location in high-risk flood zones to maintaining tranquility during natural disasters or unexpected water intrusions, a flood insurance policy can help. To discover if a flood insurance policy is right for your non-profit organization, contact Bartal Insurance for your consultation today.

Which businesses or professions need bond insurance?

Posted on April 30, 2025April 27, 2025 by admin

Insurance and bonds both provide financial compensation for claims, but they serve different purposes. Insurance safeguards businesses or professionals against damages, while bonds safeguard clients against potential harm. Businesses often obtain various types of bonds or bond insurance as a licensing requirement, a contractual obligation, or to build trust with prospective clients. If you need information about or are interested in acquiring bond insurance, consult with the Bartal Insurance team, serving the Scranton, PA, area.

Understanding Bond Insurance

A bond is a financial tool that compensates clients if a business fails to meet its contractual obligations due to non-performance, employee theft or dishonesty, or other situations resulting in loss. The business pays a third party, known as the surety, to guarantee the bond. If necessary, the surety pays the client and then seeks reimbursement from the business. Ultimately, bonds provide clients with assurance of compensation if the business fails to fulfill a contract.

Who Requires Bond Insurance?

Many businesses and professions, particularly those in construction and skilled trades, require bonds. These are often necessary for licensing, and there are various types of construction bonds related to bids, performance, and supplier payment.

Businesses that deploy employees to customer sites, such as janitorial firms, house cleaning services, and real estate agencies, need bonds to protect clients from potential employee theft. Similarly, information technology firms may need bonds to financially protect clients against potential theft or misuse of their data by the IT firm’s employees.

Most firms seeking contracts with government agencies also require bonds.

Collaborating with Bartal Insurance

The Bartal Insurance team caters to the insurance needs of individuals and businesses in the Scranton, PA, market. Call (570) 344-0211 to schedule an appointment or visit us to discuss your insurance needs.

Specialized Coverage Offered by Classic Car Insurance

Posted on March 28, 2025March 26, 2025 by admin

If you’re a proud owner of a restored vehicle in Scranton, PA, and occasionally showcase it at exhibitions, standard auto insurance may not offer adequate protection for your prized possession. Classic car insurance provides several benefits that offer more extensive protection for your collectible vehicle. It’s typically less expensive than standard auto insurance. Bartal Insurance is here to help you understand why this policy is essential for your unique vehicle.

Who Requires Classic Car Insurance?

Classic car insurance policies are suitable for individuals who restore vehicles, own a hot rod, or possess a highly customized, luxury, or exotic vehicle. Classic cars are sometimes referred to as vintage or antique vehicles. While there’s no strict definition of a classic car, many insurance companies consider vehicles aged 25 to 30 years old as classics. However, if you own a special vehicle that you use primarily for exhibitions and believe it has features worth preserving, you could qualify for one of these policies.

How Classic Car Insurance Stands Out

The most significant difference with this policy type is that you can agree on a value for the vehicle if it sustains substantial damage or is totaled. This is because many cars of this type increase in value through restoration or additional special features added after the initial purchase. The agreed-upon value takes into account the current market value, vehicle condition, improvements, and the cost of special-order and replacement parts.

Other benefits include:

Reduced premiums in exchange for low-mileage use
Protection when stored
Special endorsement when restoring an undrivable car
Coverage for damage at car shows

You can still drive your classic car on the road if you don’t use it as your everyday vehicle.

Contact Bartal Insurance today to learn more about securing a classic car insurance policy in Scranton, PA. We’ll be happy to schedule an appointment.

Can you afford not to have renters insurance?

Posted on February 28, 2025February 25, 2025 by admin

Living in Scranton, PA, comes with its share of concerns. With nearly 8,900 rentals in the city, you have a variety of living options. While having a reliable landlord is crucial, expecting them to have insurance that protects your personal property is a misconception. Bartal Insurance can provide the rental policy you need and answer your questions about its importance.

Can You Afford to Replace Your Possessions?

As a renter, your rental likely houses most of your possessions. Can you imagine having to replace everything you own all at once? Consider your clothes, kitchen equipment, electronics, and more. It’s likely you own more than you realize, and unless you’re wealthy or have substantial savings, replacing everything could be a significant challenge.

Can You Afford Legal Action Against You?

No one wants to face a lawsuit, but it does happen. The cost of legal representation and paying a judgment against you could deplete your resources. Rental insurance provides liability coverage and this protection for you.

Where Would You Stay if Your Rental Is Damaged?

Where would you go if your rental is so severely damaged that it’s uninhabitable? With the loss of use coverage provided by your rental insurance, you’d be able to stay in temporary lodging and have some meals provided.

In Scranton, PA, Bartal Insurance is an independent insurance agency that provides our customers with the rental insurance and other types of insurance they need. Contact us today.

RV Insurance for A Preowned Recreational Vehicle

Posted on January 31, 2025January 28, 2025 by admin

Before purchasing a preowned recreational vehicle (RV), it’s crucial to conduct a thorough inspection. Once you’re satisfied with the condition of the RV, consider obtaining an insurance policy. Insurance will protect your RV both when you drive it and when you park it.

Preexisting Issues

An inspection can help identify any preexisting issues that need to be addressed. While a mechanical issue or cosmetic flaw won’t affect your RV insurance policy, it could influence your decision to purchase a particular RV model.

The Layout

Assess the layout of the RV you’re interested in purchasing. The layout will determine the available space within the RV and may also affect its overall safety. When assessing the layout, consider the type of insurance coverage you’ll need to protect the space. If you plan on moving your own furnishings into the RV, you might decide to insure each of your personal possessions.

Driving Capabilities and Proposed Travel Plans

Evaluate the preowned RV’s driving capabilities. An RV with a motor in pristine condition will be safer to drive than one with preexisting mechanical issues. Also, assess your proposed travel plans. Use this information to help you choose the level of insurance protection that suits your needs.

Comparison of Insurance Products

Compare insurance products that will adequately protect the RV from theft, vandalism, and natural weather events. This step will help you choose the proper coverage.

Contact an Insurance Agent in Scranton, PA

Contact one of our agents at Bartal Insurance. They will schedule an appointment to discuss your insurance coverage needs and prepare your insurance documents.

Buy Bond Insurance Before Your Startup Launches

Posted on December 24, 2024December 23, 2024 by admin

Pennsylvania startups may be aware that their new business requires insurance, but if they plan to go public, they’ll need bond insurance before offering investments. Bond insurance protects investors in a corporation or government entity that issues bonds, a common fundraising mechanism. At Bartal Insurance, we offer bond insurance to business owners in Scranton, PA, and can help incorporate it into your commercial insurance package.

Understanding the Need for Bond Insurance

Traditionally, corporations and governments have issued bonds to raise funds for projects. Governments often resort to bonds when they need to finance a war effort or major capital improvement project, especially when raising taxes is not viable. Corporations use bonds to fund business expansion or research and development projects.

Recently, startups have turned to crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe for quick capital. While these methods can fund small projects, a startup looking to expand might incorporate and offer a bond to avoid going public. However, offering bonds requires as much paperwork and compliance as an initial public offering (IPO), including the need for bond insurance, which Bartal Insurance can help you secure.

Issuing a Bond in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania legal code outlines the requirements for any business or government agency wishing to offer a bond. Title 67, Section 449.3., covers the state’s advertising, bidding, and bond requirements rules. It also explains the three main types of bond insurance: