Category: Insurance

A Checklist: Being Prepared for Home Emergencies

Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and earthquakes strike indiscriminately, which means every homeowner should be prepared for life-threatening emergencies. Here are ten essential items to have on hand. A source of power. A generator will keep your refrigerator working to preserve food, and provide lighting at night. Gas generators provide more versatile

You Have a Warranty, But Are You Covered?

As a new homeowner, you may have received a home warranty from the builder or previous owners. It’s a nice perk, yes. But don’t get the false impression your warranty will cover everything that goes wrong in your new home. You might be surprised at what is covered — and

Neighborhood Security: What You Should Know

Security is a concern in every neighborhood — regardless of status or ZIP Code. Here are six things you can do to make your neighborhood a safer place. Know your neighbors Don’t let your busy schedule keep you from getting to know your neighbors. It’s one of the best crime-fighting

Navigating Homeowner’s Insurance and FEMA Claims

In the aftermath of a storm, it’s important for homeowners to have a game plan. Here’s a step-by-step guide to insurance and FEMA claims that will save you time, money and aggravation. Before the storm The first step to handling weather damage should occur long before the first wind blows.

When a Storm Damages Your Home

If your home is significantly damaged by a storm, you will likely feel overwhelmed and confused just when you are faced with making several major repair decisions. Take a deep breath and let us walk you through the mess. Judge your home’s livability. Can you live in the home while

When Disaster Strikes: Handling Flood and Fire Damage

Few things can be more wrenching and make you feel more vulnerable than when your home suffers major damage from a flood or a fire. You realize how suddenly life can take a shocking turn. You also want to get your life back to normal quickly. How do you find

It Pays Off to Study Up on Homeowners Insurance

Homeowners insurance policies can be difficult to read, but the information is crucial to your financial well-being, especially when tragedy strikes and you’re forced to make a claim. Note: The coverages described here will vary from state to state and company to company, so be sure to research your policy

Check Your Homeowners Insurance for Gaps in Coverage

Don’t wait until you need to file a claim to educate yourself on the ins and outs of homeowners insurance. By then, you could be in for an unpleasant surprise. While homeowners insurance covers many of the major risks, such as damage from fire, it doesn’t cover everything. There are

Fire Safety: Your Family is Counting on You

Although no one wants to contemplate a cherished home being destroyed by fire, it’s an important topic to address — with emphasis on prevention and preparation. A home free from fire hazards. Fire prevention is the first priority. Never allow flammable materials to be stored near heat sources such as

Pools and Trampolines are Serious Business

Family time in a backyard pool or on a trampoline can provide hours of entertainment and many years worth of memories. But, as a homeowner, pools and trampolines also mean extra insurance costs and a heavy weight of responsibility to keep family members, friends and neighbors safe. The responsibility bar

Pools and Trampolines: Beware of the Risks

Sure, pools and trampolines are fun. But homeowners who choose to put them in their backyards also face greater responsibility and a much larger homeowners insurance bill. It’s best to weigh the pros and cons before making such a purchase. Swimming pools. The insurance covering damage to an in-ground pool

Homeowners Insurance: Risks Versus Costs

You never want to skimp on homeowners insurance, but there are ways to save money on those premiums without putting you or your home at risk. Here’s a handy guide to getting excellent coverage at a reasonable price. Your credit score. In most states insurance companies use customer credit scores

Always Read the Fine Print When Buying a Home Warranty

Home warranties often provide peace of mind to wary home buyers, but are they worth the cost? Let’s look at how home warranties work and weigh the pros and cons. Home warranty basics. Home warranties provide for the repair of certain systems in a house in exchange for an annual

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