Author: tcg_admin

This year marks an incredible milestone of 60 years in the insurance industry for Mr. Raymond Nelson. What began as a young man’s first job has grown into a lifelong career built on hard work, honesty, and an unwavering commitment to helping others. Raymond’s journey is not just the story of a business, it’s the story of a man who turned determination into a legacy.

---

Raymond Nelson’s Story

Raymond Nelson is known throughout our community as a hardworking, determined man. At the age of 36, he took a leap of faith and began the journey that would define his career. He built the business that still bears his name today.

After graduating from Muhlenberg Central High School in 1962, Raymond left his hometown for the first time to attend Western Kentucky University. College, however, wasn’t where his path was meant to be. He completed just one class, Chapel, before deciding to return home.

Once back, his father insisted he find a job, so Raymond began working in construction before eventually discovering his calling in the insurance industry. On October 11, 1965, he joined Life and Casualty Insurance Company of Tennessee, earning just $75 a week. For ten years, he knocked on doors, selling insurance across the region from Monday through Friday. This experience that would build both his resilience and his reputation.

In August of 1975, he entered a partnership and co-founded Nelson-Hale Insurance Agency. When his partner later bought out his share in December 1980, Raymond struck out on his own. Just two months later, in February 1981, he opened Raymond Nelson Insurance on Country Club Lane. On that very first day, he had no customers, but with determination and a phone book in hand, he started calling everyone he knew. Slowly but surely, his business began to grow.

By 1984, he found his niche in trucking insurance, serving as the agency’s only salesperson for nine years. At that time, his small but mighty team included a receptionist, a bookkeeper, and one customer service representative. Growth continued steadily, and in 1993, he welcomed another producer to the team.

In April 2011, Raymond expanded again by acquiring J.G. Keown Insurance Agency, merging it with his own and returning to a full-line agency.

Today, Raymond Nelson Insurance proudly serves clients across 23 states with a team of 20 dedicated employees. Just ten years ago, those numbers were 14 states and 10 employees — a testament to his ongoing vision and hard work.

Who would have imagined that a small-town boy from Muhlenberg County, Kentucky — who once dropped out of college — would go on to build one of the region’s most successful insurance agencies? His story is proof that when you find what you love to do, success will follow.

---

A Legacy Still Growing

As Raymond celebrates six decades in the insurance industry, his story continues to inspire those around him. What started with one man has become a thriving agency built on integrity, service, and heart.

Here’s to 60 years of dedication and a legacy that will continue to grow for generations to come.

When strong winds roll through, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your homeowners’ insurance will cover the damage. If you’re dealing with missing shingles, dented siding, or worse after a storm, it’s important to understand what your policy actually protects.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we’re here to help you feel confident in your coverage. Let’s break down what homeowners’ insurance typically covers when it comes to wind damage, especially for your roof and siding.

 

Wind Damage Is Usually Covered

Most standard homeowners’ insurance policies do cover wind damage. Wind is considered a “named peril,” which means it’s one of the specific risks typically listed in your policy.

 

If a storm causes:

• Shingles to blow off your roof
• Pieces of your siding to detach or crack
• Debris to damage your home’s exterior

…you’re likely covered—as long as the damage was sudden and accidental.

 

Roof Damage: What’s Covered?

Insurance will typically help pay to repair or replace your roof if:

• Wind tears off shingles or parts of the roof
• A fallen tree (caused by wind) damages the roof
• Wind-driven rain enters your home because the wind compromised the roof

However, there are limits:

• If your roof is older or already in poor condition, your claim may be reduced or denied
• Coverage may be based on actual cash value rather than full replacement, depending on your policy and roof age

Pro Tip: Keep your roof well-maintained and document its condition with photos—this helps if you ever need to file a claim.

 

What About Siding?

Siding damage from wind—such as cracks, holes, or pieces blown off—is also typically covered. But there’s a common issue: matching siding.

Insurance will cover the damaged portion, but it may not cover:

• Replacing all the siding if the original material is no longer available
• Full siding replacement just to maintain a uniform look

Some policies offer matching siding coverage—be sure to ask us if yours includes this.

 

How to Make Sure You’re Covered

1. Review your policy—especially the sections about wind and roof coverage
2. Ask about exclusions or limitations related to roof age or siding replacement
3. Consider endorsements or optional add-ons, such as:
   • Roof replacement cost coverage
   • Matching siding endorsement
   • Wind/hail deductible options

 

Storm Season Is Here—Be Prepared

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we don’t just sell policies—we make sure you understand them. If you’ve recently experienced wind damage or just want peace of mind about your current coverage, we’re here to help.

Let’s review your policy together so you can face the next storm with confidence.

 

---

 

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most: the business you’ve built and the people you love. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800, or contact us online for more information.