Knowledge Center

Frequently Asked Questions

Honest answers for Chicago drivers, homeowners, and business owners from your local independent insurance experts.

20+
Insurance Carriers
8+
Years in Chicago
1day
COI Turnaround

Auto Insurance & SR-22

Coverage for Chicago's unique driving challenges

Chicago rates are higher than the Illinois average due to several factors:

  • Population density leads to higher accident frequency
  • Vehicle theft and vandalism rates are significantly elevated
  • Uninsured drivers (approximately 15%) drive up Uninsured Motorist coverage costs for everyone

Tip: As an independent agency, we compare rates across 20+ carriers to find you the best price for your specific situation.

Generally, no. Most personal policies exclude coverage while logged into a rideshare app.

This creates a dangerous coverage gap: if you have the app on but haven't accepted a ride yet, Uber/Lyft provides very limited liability and zero coverage for your car.

Solution: We can add a Rideshare Endorsement to your policy to close this gap for just pennies a day.

Only if you have Comprehensive Coverage. If you carry "Liability Only," theft is not covered.

Replacing a catalytic converter in Chicago typically costs $1,000–$2,500

We often recommend adding Comprehensive coverage even on older vehicles specifically to protect against this theft risk, which is particularly prevalent in Chicago.

Moving does not automatically cancel your Illinois SR-22 requirement.

If you move to another state, you must typically file an Affidavit of Out-of-State Resident (Form DSD FR 9) with the Illinois Secretary of State to waive the requirement.

Warning: If you do not file this waiver, Illinois may suspend your license.

Yes! A Non-Owner SR-22 Policy is the standard solution.

  • Provides liability coverage when you drive a borrowed vehicle
  • Satisfies the state's requirement for license reinstatement
  • Significantly cheaper than a standard car insurance policy

Call us at (224) 616-9430 for a quick Non-Owner SR-22 quote.

Home & Property Insurance

Protection tailored for Chicago homes

We highly recommend it for Chicago homeowners.

Many Chicago homes are connected to the city water main by old lead or clay pipes. If this pipe breaks or collapses on your property, the city is not responsible—you are.

$10,000+
Typical Repair Cost
~$50/yr
Coverage Cost

Service Line Coverage is an inexpensive endorsement that covers this repair—a smart investment for any Chicago property owner.

It depends on the source of the water. Standard home policies have important exclusions:

Water Backup Coverage

Pays if sewers back up into your drains (common in Chicago). Must be added as an endorsement.

Flood Insurance

Separate policy required for water entering from outside (rivers, streets). Not included in standard policies.

We can review your policy and recommend the right water damage protections for your property.

It can be challenging with standard carriers. Many are hesitant to insure flat roofs (common on Chicago bungalows and two-flats) due to:

  • Risk of water pooling
  • Snow weight concerns during Chicago winters
MC Chicago Advantage: We work with carriers who specifically understand Chicago architecture and write policies for older flat-roof buildings without requiring a full roof replacement first.

Only the "bare walls."

Most HOA policies cover the building structure but stop at the drywall. You are responsible for everything inside the paint:

Kitchen Cabinets Flooring Appliances Bathroom Fixtures Personal Belongings

Solution: An HO-6 Condo Unit Owner policy covers these expensive items and your personal liability.

Business Insurance & General

Essential coverage for Illinois businesses

Yes. Illinois is strict about this.

If you have even one employee (even part-time or a family member), you must carry Workers Compensation insurance. Only sole proprietors with no employees are exempt.

$10,000+
Minimum Fine for Non-Compliance

Don't risk it—let us help you find affordable Workers Comp coverage for your business.

We know contractors and businesses need COIs to get paid or start jobs—delays cost you money.

Within 1 Hour
Typical COI Turnaround During Business Hours

Once you are an MC Chicago client, we prioritize getting your certificates issued quickly so you can get back to work.

No broker fees.

As an independent agency, we are paid by the insurance carriers. You pay the same premium whether you buy directly from the carrier or through us.

What You Get at No Extra Cost:
  • A dedicated local agent who knows your policies
  • Claims assistance and advocacy
  • Annual policy reviews to ensure proper coverage
  • Fast document delivery when you need it

Still Have Questions?

Our Chicago-based team is ready to help you find the right coverage at the right price.

3945 W Devon Ave, Chicago, IL 60659