1. Know the difference between independent agents and other insurance agents or carriers. An independent agent represents a number of different insurance companies. In contrast, agents who represent large national companies only sell products from that carrier. A direct insurance company sells to you directly without an agent, typically online. An independent agent has the…
Take action to reduce damage. To reduce damage inside, look at your ceiling and walls to see what might fall. 1. Anchor bookcases and filing cabinets to walls 2. Secure ceiling lights, suspended ceilings and other hanging items to the home structure 3. Anchor water heaters and large appliances to walls using safety cables…
Every fall, college students head back to campus and the things that travel with them get more sophisticated. It’s important to understand the limits of your property coverage that will follow your student to college, whether its across the state of across the country. Personal Property Students find very creative ways to fill their living…
Even a small leak can become a major problem, so knowing what you’re covered for and how to prevent water damage are equally important. The below tips should help uncover any potential water problems down the road and keep your property dry. Check appliance hoses. Standard hoses are not as durable as they used to…
Whether you’re headed out on the road for a weekend drive or a longer vacation, there are some car trips we simply wouldn’t think of making without including the four-legged member of the family. Just as you make plans for a safe and comfortable trip for your family and friends, it’s a good idea to…
As we get closer to summer, boat owners should all be assessing their insurance needs if they do not carry boat insurance already. If you have a boat, you need boat insurance. Some people assume their homeowners’ policy is all they need to protect their boat. Not true. Typically, homeowners policies limited coverage for boats…
Imagine how devastating it would be to lose your home in a fire. Now imagine not being able to rebuild it completely because you didn’t have the correct amount of insurance. Selecting the proper amount of coverage is the single most important decision you can make with your Homeowners policy. Without it, you may not…
In California we have been experiencing heavy rain over the past week or so. We thought now would be a great time to remind people what to do in the event of an emergency water leak or flood. Follow these steps in the event of an emergency: 1. Stop the Water If water is coming…
If you are ever sued, your standard homeowners or auto policy will provide you with some liability coverage, paying for judgments against you and your attorney’s fees, up to a limit set in the policy. However, in our litigious society, you may want to have an extra layer of liability protection. That’s what a personal…
Of all the appliances found in the home, the water heater and washing machine are the most likely to cause serious damage, and cost home owners a bundle. According to a nationwide analysis by Safeco Insurance, one out of every 10 water-damage claims can be traced back to a malfunctioning hot water tank or washing…
