Insurance Gaps That Could Cost You Thousands — and How to Avoid Them

 

Common Insurance Gaps. Most people assume their insurance will have them covered when something unexpected happens. But unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

Here in Olathe, Overland Park, and Lenexa, I’ve seen it too many times — families thinking they’re protected, only to find out too late that their policy didn’t cover the full situation. It’s not about overspending — it’s about right-sizing your protection for the real-world risks you face.

Below are some of the most common insurance gaps Kansans often overlook — and what you can do to avoid them.

 

1. Only Having Liability Auto Insurance

 

Kansas requires basic liability, but that doesn’t cover your car if it’s damaged in a storm, theft, or fire. Without comprehensive coverage, you’re stuck paying out of pocket — and with hailstorms in Johnson County, that can be an expensive gamble and is one of the common insurance gaps you can easily solve.

Fix it: Ask about full coverage options that still fit your budget.

 

 

2. Underestimating Replacement Costs for Your Home

 

Home values in Overland Park and Olathe have climbed — but if your policy hasn’t been updated, your coverage may not match current rebuild costs. Materials, labor, and building codes change fast, especially after a major storm.

  • The average dollar amount spent on construction costs jumped by 44% over the last five years, with framing costs, including roofs, trusses, and sheathing, rising from $51,589 in 2019 to $70,982 in 2024. 

  • Only 9% of Homeowners adjusted limits for inflation and supply costs

Fix it: Request a replacement cost estimate. Make sure your policy is set to rebuild your home as it stands today — not what it cost 5 years ago.

 

 

3. No Equipment Breakdown Coverage

 

Did you know your standard homeowners policy likely doesn’t cover things like HVAC, appliances, or power surge damage?

Fix it: Add equipment breakdown or service line coverage to protect high-cost home systems, especially in older Lenexa neighborhoods.

 

4. Using Your Vehicle for Side Work — Without Telling Your Insurer

 

Driving for Uber, delivering groceries, or using your car for real estate? This is a relatively new common insurance gap, most personal auto policies won’t cover accidents during business use.

Fix it: Ask about rideshare or business-use endorsements.

 

5. No Backup for Temporary Living Expenses

 

If your house becomes unlivable after a fire or storm, will your insurance pay for a hotel, meals, or short-term rental? It’s called “Loss of Use” or “ALE,” and not every policy includes enough coverage.

Fix it: Make sure your Additional Living Expenses limits are realistic for your family’s needs in Johnson County.

 

6. Relying on Work-Only Life Insurance

 

Employer life insurance is a great perk — until you change jobs, retire, or your employer reduces benefits. That policy doesn’t go with you.

Fix it: Get a portable term or whole life policy you control, regardless of your employment status. Need a quote? Use my link: https://agents.ethoslife.com/invite/08f8

 

‍‍‍ The Bottom Line: Don’t Assume. Verify.

 

These common insurance gaps aren’t rare. They’re common. And they’re often discovered too late — after a loss, a storm, or a claim denial. That’s why an annual review isn’t just a “nice to have”… it’s protection for your future.

✅ Schedule a Free Policy Review with Paul at TCG Insurance Solutions

 

I’m local to Olathe and work with families throughout Overland Park and Lenexa. I’ll review your coverage, spot the common insurance gaps, and help you compare smart, affordable solutions from multiple carriers — no pressure, just good advice.

Common Insurance Gaps

Call (913) 390-3220 or Schedule Online Here
Let’s make sure your insurance is working as hard as you are.

Paul Carrigan
Author: Paul Carrigan

Licensed agent in Kansas, Missouri and Ohio.

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