How Efficiently (or Inefficiently) Do You Use Your Heat?

Many homeowners in Livermore see their energy bills each winter and think, “How can I be spending this much when the house isn’t even that warm?” To get an answer to that question, you should start with some other questions that will help determine just how efficiently you’re heating your home. Where is the warm…

The Light Side of Home Security

Leaving your lights on — is it really a good way to keep burglars away from your Pleasanton home, or can it actually attract them? Or, is it just a “good” way to increase your electricity bill? As with so many questions in life, there isn’t one “right” answer. Using lights to enhance your home security…

So You Need (or Want) to Take a Defensive Driving Course

Whether you were caught speeding (or worse), you’re looking for a discount on your car insurance, or you simply want to be a better driver, there are a wide range of defensive driving and driver improvement courses available in the East Bay Area these days. But, which is right for you? Here are five tips…

Expect higher-than-normal home and auto premium increases in 2022

We have conversations daily with our clients about the extreme rise in insurance premiums lately. We are also here to tell you give you even more bad news: This is absolutely not expected to end any time soon. Why? Historic inflation and other contributing trends have been driving up costs related to the repair and…

How to Check Your Property for Damage After a Storm

How to Check Your Property for Damage After a Storm When a big storm hits the Tri-Valley, you hunker down inside, relying on your home to protect you and your family. Once that storm passes, though, it’s time to repay the favor — identifying damage and protecting your home from further issues. The National Storm…

Play it Safe this Halloween

Unlike Halloween 2020, we hope kids are able to get out of the house and safely trick-or-treat this year! Whether your kids are dressed as a hot dog or another delicious treat, smart parents can ensure a safe Halloween by accompanying small children around their neighborhood. If children are old enough to explore the neighborhood…

Winter Proof Your Home Before Storms Begin

Although it may be hard to imagine preparing for winter storms today since it is still sunny and warm outside, now is the perfect time to “winter-proof” your home. Many winter-related disasters in your home can be prevented if you take simple precautions now in preparing your home for winter weather. An important part of…

Boating Season is Here – Are You Up to Speed on Safety?

With spring in full bloom and summer just on the horizon, prime boating season is upon us here in California! And you might notice more people on the water than ever, because sales of recreational boats have been growing at a steady clip for seven consecutive years now, according to the National Marine Manufacturers Association….

What Car Drivers Need to Know About Motorcycles

Spring is here, which means you’ll likely see more motorcycles on the road. And the key word here is “see.” People driving cars and trucks often fail to notice the motorcyclists around them, partly because they’re not accustomed to looking for them. It’s obvious yet bears repeating: Motorcyclists are much more vulnerable than car and…

4 Things to Know About Taxes and Identity Theft

Join us for our free paper shredding event – May 22nd 2021 9 am – 1 pm During tax season, your personal information is particularly vulnerable. After all, your Social Security number (SSN) is on W-2 forms, your tax return and other financial documents being sent through the mail, transported to accountants and otherwise used…