How to Prepare for Severe Weather

June 30, 2021 Amanda Henderson

You know the feeling. Severe weather is forecast for the night, and you’re constantly refreshing the weather app on your phone and checking the radar to see if the storm is going to hit, if it’s going to turn into a tornado, and if you need to take cover in the basement. Here are a few ideas from Alliance Insurance Services on how to be prepared so you feel ready when those nights roll around.

Be Ready

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) says about 100,000 thunderstorms form every year in the United States, about 10 percent of which reach severe levels. About 1,200 tornadoes occur in the U.S. each year. While severe weather is more common in the afternoon and evenings of spring and summer, it can happen anytime, anyplace, so always keep an eye out.

Watches and Warnings

Watches and warnings are the best way to know severe weather is coming. A severe weather or tornado watch means conditions in the atmosphere are highly favorable for severe weather to occur. They are usually issued for a particular time period and a specific area of the country, usually defined by counties or cities. Severe weather and tornado warnings mean the severe weather is imminent; it is either occurring or about to occur very soon. These usually last a shorter period of time than a watch and are also for a specific area. When watches and warnings are issued, think about where you will be and what activities you have planned during the alerts. Be prepared to take shelter at any time.

Any of several weather apps can send you notifications on your phone when severe weather watches and warnings are issued. You can also download the mobile app from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which gives you alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations. It also gives you safety and survival tips, lets you build an emergency checklist, and helps you locate emergency FEMA shelters when necessary.

Family Emergency Plan

Being able to receive severe weather alerts is just the first part of a good family emergency plan for severe weather. Ready.gov, a government website that provides recommendations and information to help you prepare for severe weather, says your plan should also include:

A plan for shelter. For severe weather, this needs to be inside a solid structure, away from windows. An inside basement room is ideal. If you have kids, prepare ahead of time to distract them during a long wait for severe weather to clear. Fun activities can help the time pass more quickly. Bring some snacks and drinks as well.
An evacuation route. If weather causes you to have to leave your home, make sure all family members are clear on the best entrances and exits. You should also designate areas outside your home (e.g., a neighbor’s house, a hotel in a nearby town) where you can meet, depending on the situation.
A family communications plan. This includes everyone’s phone numbers as well as phone numbers of a designated contact outside your family. This contact can be useful if phone lines are down because if you are separated, everyone will know to reach this person, even if they have to travel to them.

Less than 40 percent of Americans have a family emergency plan. Don’t wait to put together your plan. Severe weather has a tendency to strike when you don’t expect it.

Clean Up the Damage

Once the storm passes, take action to fix any damage that occurred as quickly as possible. This ensures your family will remain safe inside the home and that small issues don’t turn into big ones. If any of your windows broke, for example, clean up the glass right away and search online for “window repair near me” to find a local contractor. Be sure to check out customer reviews of any pros you’re interested in hiring and inquire about their rate; Angi.com notes that it costs most people about $290 to repair windows, but you may pay more or less than that figure depending on the type of windows you have.

While there are a myriad ways that severe weather can impact you and your family, this information gives you a basic working knowledge of how to be prepared. For more, visit the websites of the government agencies mentioned above. You will find a wealth of resources there. Remember not to take unnecessary risks during severe weather, and stay safe!

Picture from Pixabay

How High Building Costs Affect Your Insurance

June 11, 2021 John Purroy Jackson

Building Costs are Through the Roof

If you own a house, townhouse, condo or rental property, you have heard the news: building costs are at an all time high.

The housing market is red hot, with low inventory of available homes pushing many to buy whatever is available rather than wait. Home builders are ramping up production try try and fill the gap, but there just isn’t enough building material to go around.

All that of that may be well and good (or well and awful, depending on if you are buying or selling!), but what does it mean for you homeowners out there?

And how does the price of lumber affect your insurance policy?

Market Value is not Replacement Cost Value

If you’ve read our blogs before, you may have seen our article about how market value (how much someone would pay for your home) is not the same as replacement cost value (how much it would cost to rebuild your home).

The quick version is that the price someone would pay to buy your home isn’t based on the same factors as how much it would cost to rebuild.

If you’re in a desirable location, for example, that could be a huge bonus to your market value. But it wouldn’t impact your replacement cost value at all.

And a super competitive housing market, like we have now, can drive home prices up – but that doesn’t mean they will be more expensive to rebuild.

Insurance deals with accidents and helping to replace or repair the damage, getting you back to where you were before something bad happened. That’s why it makes sense that insurance deals with REPLACMENT COST, not market value.

So if the cost of building materials go up, it will cost MORE to rebuild your house if you have a total loss. A house that had a replacement cost value of $300,000 might be $350,000 or even $400,000 now!

Cost of Rebuilding Affects Insurance

As we have said, insurance deals with repairs and replacement. We value your home based on how much it would be to repair or rebuild.

That means if costs are going up for repairing and rebuilding, your coverage needs to increase to match.

THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART!

Coverage does not automatically increase. One of the reasons reviews are so important is that an expert can look at the coverage on your policies to make sure that you are adequately protected.

Let’s do another example. Sally hasn’t had a review in a few years, and has the same homeowners coverage that she had when she first got the policy. She doesn’t want to change it because her premium will go up.

Then Sally has a massive fire. The only option is to rebuild the home, which the builder tells her will cost $300,000. But her homeowners policy only covers her for $225,000!

That means she would have to pay the difference, a whopping $75,000 out of pocket.

The price of building materials directly affects building costs, which affects your policy and its ability to protect you from a loss. But what can you do?

How to Take Action

The number one thing you can do is to schedule a review with your agent.

Going over your policy with your insurance team is vital. They will look at your home, see if there are any updates or changes that you may have made, and run the numbers to get the most accurate coverage possible.

Then if something terrible does happen, you will be covered the way you deserve to be.

Good insurance makes sure you aren’t exposed to risk. When the coverage is right, you shouldn’t have to pay out of pocket. That’s the goal of every agent when they write you a policy in the first place.

Building Costs: Next Steps

When is the last time you had a review? If you don’t know the answer to that question, contact your agent now and set up a time to have a conversation. It could save you thousands.

And if you want a different perspective, contact us at Alliance. We love helping people just like you stay ahead of bad events. And we love educating people on how all of this crazy insurance stuff works.

Want some cheat sheets? Check out our free Personal Insurance Checklist to see what you should look for in an insurance review. Or use it to review yourself and have a better idea of where you stand.

The housing market has already changed. Act now to make sure you aren’t left behind.

6 Insurance Questions Young Adults Need to Ask Themselves ASAP

June 3, 2021 Amanda Henderson

When you’re just getting your start in life, it can be hard to think about the future. If you are concerned about financial stability, whether for yourself or a family, then thinking about the future is a must.

Because there’s no way of telling what the future holds and what costs could come up, having the right insurance policies is always a safe bet. It’s like having an umbrella for a rainy day, and these questions can help you decide which umbrellas to buy.

Could You Cover Auto Repairs After an Accident?

If you drive a car in America, auto insurance is generally a must. Most states legally require at least some minimal level of auto insurance, so this is one policy you can’t skip out on. You also should think twice about skimping on coverage, especially if you don’t have enough savings to cover repair or medical costs associated with a car accident.

Are You a Budding Small Business Owner?

Lots of young people are becoming entrepreneurs these days, and if you’re one of them, you need to consider how you are going to protect your small business. Business insurance is loaded with benefits, like protecting your business in the event of a lawsuit and covering costs if you need to close temporarily. Alliance Insurance Services can design a specialized package that looks at what makes your business special and how best to protect it.

Business insurance is just one way to protect your venture. Some other things to consider are enacting sound data protection practices, properly securing your devices and equipment, and being proactive with how you handle your financial affairs. Simple actions like hiring an outside service provider for tasks like filing your annual report can help you to avoid costly mistakes. Make sure you take steps to protect your business from getting into trouble by starting with sound practices.

Do You Have Enough Saved in Your Emergency Fund?

No matter your age or stage of life, financial experts always recommend having anywhere from three to six months worth of expenses saved in an emergency fund. Saving even more than three to six months can make it less overwhelming to cover things like unexpected home repairs, surprise auto expenses, sudden medical bills or even job loss.

Yet an emergency fund may not be enough to provide financial stability if you are injured and out of work for an extended period of time. This is why so many people choose to invest in short-term disability insurance for added support.

Could Loved Ones Cover Your Funeral Costs?

If you aren’t sure whether your family members could cover your funeral and burial costs, investing in funeral insurance is a worthwhile expense. Also known as burial insurance, Nationwide notes these sorts of life insurance policies are designed to cover expenses related to funerals and burial. If there are funds leftover, surviving family members can put them toward leftover debts and unpaid medical expenses.

Do Others Depend on You for Care or Income?

Having a basic burial insurance policy can be perfect if you are only concerned about funeral costs. If, however, you have family members who rely on you for income or care, you should really consider more comprehensive life insurance. This generally means purchasing either a term or permanent life insurance plan, both of which can have different benefits depending on your current stage in life.

If you are more concerned about keeping premiums low, then a term life insurance policy could be your best bet, but if you can swing higher payments, permanent life insurance can provide additional financial benefits.

Could You Pay for an Unexpected Emergency Room Visit?

If you’re young and healthy, you may think you don’t need health insurance. In our current healthcare system, however, the need for health insurance extends beyond any age or health considerations. Because even though you may be healthy now, you never know when an unexpected injury or illness could land you in the hospital or emergency room, and that visit could land you with massive medical bills that can be impossible to pay on your own.

Health insurance for younger adults can come from a few different sources, including employer-sponsored plans and marketplace options, or CNBC suggests you may be able to remain on your parents’ health insurance plan, providing that you meet specific eligibility requirements.

Keep track of what you spend on medical concerns, as it can be handy at tax time if you itemize deductions. Redfin notes you can pair medical expenses with your mortgage interest, which will reduce your tax burden if the total is above the standard deduction.

Knowing which insurance policies will provide the most financial peace of mind can be crucial. Go through the questions above and let your answers guide you through the process of finding the right insurance to provide financial stability and protection for you, as well as any loved ones who may depend on you.

Photo Credit: Unsplash

Finances 101: A Guide for Newly Independent Young People

April 22, 2021 Amanda Henderson

Starting your adult life as an independent individual free from parental oversight is an exciting rite of passage. Entering the grownup world isn’t always easy, however. You should take steps to protect yourself and plan for your future — responsibilities that once fell to mom and dad. This is especially true when it comes to finances. As you start earning your own money, it can be tempting to simply spend it. The choices about what you do with your income and worst yet, future income, will impact your security and comfort down the line.

Whatever type of insurance you need, make sure to work with Alliance Insurance Services. Call (336) 377-9003 for a detailed quote!

Create a Budget

Learn how to track your money to ensure you can cover your basic needs and won’t be left scrambling to make rent. Start by calculating your net income — what you get to keep after subtractions like Social Security, taxes, and 401(k) contributions. Next, make a list of your recurring expenses including rent, utilities, phone bill, and similar costs. Create a list of your financial goals, both short- and long-term. These could include eliminating debt and understanding the balance of how to use it to your advantage and avoid the debt trap many young people fall into.

Track Your Spending

Once you have a budget set and have figured out where to divert your funds every month, it’s important not to get sidetracked. If you allotted a food budget of $250, exceeding it will throw off your entire balance sheet — and you will have to take funds from another area, like savings, to make up for it. This isn’t ideal. Keep track of where your money goes by downloading a budgeting tracking app. CNET provides a roundup of the best ones suited to a variety of needs.

Set Up Automated Savings

Every budget should include a savings plan. Even if you aren’t earning a lot, simply setting aside $50 per month can make a difference. Within just one year, this can add up to $600. Such an emergency fund is critical, as it can cover surprise costs like car repairs or a new phone if yours breaks. When these unexpected hassles arise, you can dip into savings instead of credit cards. It’s been shown that people are most successful at setting aside money if the process is automated: A set amount is taken from your account and deposited into savings before you can touch it.

Consider Life Insurance

When you’re young, the idea of getting life insurance might seem a little ridiculous. However, there are many reasons you shouldn’t rule it out. For instance, if you don’t have any emergency savings set up, a life insurance policy can help cover the cost of funeral and burial expenses so the burden doesn’t fall to your family. Also, if you plan on getting married, having kids, or buying a house in the near future, getting a life insurance policy early means you’ll have a little peace of mind when that time arrives.

Start Building Credit

A good credit score allows you to secure future loans for everything from cars to houses. If you’ve never had a credit card, and you understand not to spend more than budgeted, you may want to get one. They are safer from theft than debit cards and can assist in building your credit score. Read the fine print on any paperwork to figure out details like interest rates; some companies offer low rates to start but hike them up later. You don’t want to get stuck in this trap. Use your card and pay it off regularly. Don’t miss payments, which will negatively impact your score. You can find more ideas to boost your credit online, such as paying off any outstanding student loans and making phone payments (on time, of course).

Set Aside Money for Your Future Home

Owning a home is still a dream for many: According to a Pew Research Center survey, some 43 percent of Americans view this as part of the American Dream. If you want to buy a house one day, you need to save up for a down payment. The more you put down on a home, the less you’ll have to borrow for your first mortgage. If you put down 20% and have a good credit score you could be eligible for the lowest interest rates on the market. Waiting until you start house hunting is a bad idea, since it does take time to set aside enough money for the down payment and closing costs. Some of the best ways to finance the down payment include opening a savings account just for the home purchase, improving your credit score, and finding additional work to earn more income.

Starting off on the path to financial independence can be intimidating. However, by using these tips, you will get off on the right foot and will help create a more secure financial future.

Photo Credit: Pexels.com

3 Crucial Financial Steps for Young Vets Separating From Military Service

January 28, 2021 Amanda Henderson

Making a commitment to serve in the military takes a lot of courage and discipline. When that commitment is up, however, you need to apply the same level of discipline to your finances in order to continue supporting your family and to maintain your quality of life.

Alliance Insurance Services knows what a challenge this transition can be. So, if you are planning on separating from the military or have already made this major career move, here are some important steps you need to take to secure your finances.

Look Into Essential Life Insurance Options

If you want to ensure that your spouse and loved ones are prepared for the unexpected, including your death and funeral expenses, you should consider buying burial insurance. Burial insurance is a smart choice for young vets looking to provide financial resources to their families, without having to pay for expensive premiums.

Since the VA will only pay $300 to $780 for veteran burials, having an insurance policy that will help with the average cost of a funeral, which is over $7,000, will keep your surviving dependents from scrambling to cover any remaining costs.

For young veterans who have more room in their budgets, or more family members that depend on them for income or care, it may also be a good idea to shop for life insurance. The type of policy you purchase can depend on several factors, including your current lifestyle and family commitments, so make sure you fully research your choices. If you are separating from the military with a service-related disability, Military.com notes you may also qualify a VA-sponsored life insurance policy.

Research Veteran Education and Job Resources

If you would like to start working after your separation from the military, you should begin researching veteran career resources ASAP. From VA career and financial services to non-profit programs, there are many ways for veterans to connect with professionals who can help them make the most of this next chapter in their life. Many of these career resources are also available at colleges and universities, where, as The Military Wallet explains, you can use veteran benefits and scholarships to help pay for services and complete a degree program.

Do some soul searching and think about what you might enjoy doing long-term. If you love computers, for instance, a job in IT might be the perfect fit. You can enroll in classes online, take them at your own pace, and reap the rewards for the rest of your life.

Bulk Up Emergency Savings and Pay Down Debts

Have you been saving for emergencies during your active duty military career? If not, you should start as soon as possible, so that unexpected expenses will not jeopardize your family’s financial stability. If you can fit it into your budget, you should try to save enough money to cover three months of expenses, although saving enough for six months worth of costs is best for keeping your family prepared for surprises.

You can achieve this goal by setting aside small amounts from your paycheck and investing any large windfalls into your emergency savings account. This can include the separation pay mentioned above or any tax-free money you earn while deployed in a combat zone. If you need help budgeting for an emergency fund or with any other financial concerns, you can also look into financial literacy programs for veterans. These programs include required TAPS courses but also include resources from private organizations.

As an active duty member of the military, you’ve dedicated the last few years of your life to serving your country. Make sure you tap into the financial tools and resources you need to thrive during your transition out of that service. Because after all of your sacrifices and hard work, you deserve to stay happy and healthy during this next phase of your career and life.

Look to Alliance Insurance Services for solutions that work as hard as you do!

Photo Credit: Pexels

Resources for Securing Your Home on a Budget

September 13, 2020 Amanda Henderson

When you have children, you might find yourself worrying about home security fairly often. As a parent, it’s only natural that you want to keep your whole family safe. Thankfully, you can secure your home even on a tight budget. These resources will help you make smart financial decisions as you make your home a safer place.

Home Security Basics

From smoke alarms to video doorbells, here’s how to save on home security essentials.

Obtain the insurance coverage you need with a budget-friendly plan from Alliance Insurance Services.
Get the most bang for your buck by purchasing a few of these key home security tools.
Compare prices for different video doorbells to find the best deal.

Addressing Other Hazards

When you have children, you need to be aware of these common health and safety risks.

If you have babies or toddlers, spend a few dollars to cover all electrical outlets.
Taking steps to educate your family on digital security is practically free!
Prevent kids from taking medicine unsupervised with affordable locking pill bottles.
Owning a fire extinguisher, safely storing matches, and practicing fire drills are cost-effective ways to prevent house fires.

Outdoor Security

Your home may be secure, but is your backyard? Read up on these safety tips!

Fencing for your yard can be expensive, so save big by making it a DIY project!
Check your local home improvement store for sales on pool covers so that your kids don’t fall in accidentally.
Keep an eye on your kids while they play by investing in a backyard security camera.

If you’re frugal, home security is not out of your reach. It’s totally possible to stick to a strict budget while taking steps to make your home safer for yourself, your spouse, and most importantly, your children. With these resources on hand as references, you won’t catch yourself overspending on home security!

Photo via Pexels

Like this blog? Check out more great tips from Amanda Henderson at her site safechildren.info.

What To Do in an Earthquake

August 18, 2020 John Purroy Jackson

What Should You Do if an Earthquake Hits?

No one wants to experience an earthquake. But these ground-shaking disasters can happen at any time, and in places where you never thought possible.

But what if, like most of our clients, you live on the East Coast? What if you’re a proud Midwesterner? Why should you worry about earthquakes?

The simple fact of the matter is that earthquakes happen in all states, and have since this country was founded. The USGS notes briefly that the East Coast has a long history of earthquakes, and though they aren’t as common, they can affect wider areas than their West Coast cousins.

Now that we have established that this can happen to anyone, let’s go over the steps you need to take to be as safe as possible.

And after that, how to deal with the claim.

How to Get Through an Earthquake

When the ground starts shaking, it can be hard to know if you’re experiencing an earthquake or something else. But if the ground is shaking for more than a second or two, and especially if it is an intense shake, assume it is an earthquake.

But what do you do? Whom do you protect first? And what about your stuff?

As most of our Safety Blogs, our advice is this: Protect yourself first, protect others second, protect property third.

First, DROP, COVER, and HOLD ON.
Get low to the ground to minimize the risk of falling over as the ground moves. Then, cover your head!
One of the most common injuries during an earthquake is something falling on you after shaking loose from a wall or ceiling, so find cover under a desk, table or some other structure.
Then, hold on. Put your arms over your head and hold on tight until the earthquake is over.
Keeping yourself safe is the number one goal. Once you are safe from harm, make sure anyone else you’re with is safe and secure.

Dealing with the Damage

Danger doesn’t stop when the tremors go silent. Earthquakes often create as many hazards after the fact as they do during the shaking.

Look around and see if anything has fallen over, broken, or caused some sort of obstacle that might cause problems for you or anyone else nearby.
If you can immediately pick something up or make the area safer, go ahead and do so. But if you can’t, focus only on getting out of the house and surveying for damage.
Once outside, look for signs of structural damage: cracks in walls, slanted windows, tilted roofs, or anything else that doesn’t look quite right.
If you see serious structural problems, get out of the house and wait for help. The last thing you want is to be inside if something collapses.

Other Issues from Earthquakes

All that moving and shaking can lead to more than just fallen objects and broken walls. It can also result in secondary damage that might mean trouble, even if you don’t see it at first.

Earthquakes can cause landslides, power outages, power spikes, floods, tidal waves, land subsidence and other after-the-fact problems.

So keep this in mind when you start looking around for damage after the quake.

Not only can it cause other types of risks, but it can cause damage that you may not see in your house.

Pipes can be knocked loose or broken, causing water damage in areas where you may not notice until it’s too late. Look for signs of water in the kitchen and bathrooms, and also check ceilings and floors for damp spots, dark circles, drips or anything else that could mean water is leaking.

Another thing to look out for is electrical damage. Wiring can become torn, frayed, or overloaded, leading to shorts, surges or worse yet, fire.

Check for signs of electrical issues like lights that are out, sparks, dark areas around outlets and even downed power lines outside.

Claims After an Earthquake

If you have had earthquake damage, you probably want to use your homeowners policy to have repairs done. After all, isn’t that what insurance is for?

And yes, it is. But there is something crucial to know.

Homeowners Insurance does not cover Earthquakes.

I know, it’s surprising. But earthquakes are not a regularly covered item on your homeowners policy. Instead, they are an optional add-on.

If you have added the Earthquake Endorsement to your policy, then you ARE covered from earthquake damage. So let’s see how you would handle the claim.

First, make sure you take pictures. Document all damage that you see, even going so far as to take a picture of the outside of your house even if you don’t see any apparent issues.
Then, report the claim. Call or use the website of your insurance company, not the agency. If you’re using a company website or app, make sure you upload as many pictures as you can and give lists of any damaged items.
Then, wait to hear from your adjuster. If you don’t hear from an adjuster within 48 hours, let your agent know. Work with the adjuster and give them all of the information you can to help them get your claim resolved quickly and accurately.

Once you’ve reported the claim to your company, feel free to talk to your agent. They can help guide you through the claims process and be your advocate if anything doesn’t go smoothly.

Get the Help you Need

Having the right coverage is crucial if you want to make sure you can survive something happening, no matter how bad it shakes you.

The good news is that you don’t have to do this alone. We have created a FREE INSURANCE CHECKLIST that guides you through the questions you need to ask to make sure you’re covered, step by step. If you aren’t getting a regular review, this checklist is a must. And even if you are getting a review, this can help you know what to look for so you’re informed, confident, and ready to rock your insurance like a boss.

Sound good? Click on the link below and get your FREE INSURANCE CHECKLIST today.

5 Practical Tips for Soon-to-Be Parents with Disabilities

May 27, 2020 Amanda Henderson

5 Practical Tips for Soon-to-Be Parents with Disabilities

All expecting parents are regularly filled with a confusing mix of excitement and fear, both looking forward to their new arrival and dreading the moment they have to start parenting. For those parents living with disabilities, these anxieties are compounded by the fact that it is not always obvious how parenting will be affected by the disability.

One of the best ways to deal with this stress is to start taking practical steps to prepare for the baby. You will never be 100 percent ready for what being a parent feels like, but you can make sure your life is as prepared as it can be for when the time comes.

List Your Challenges

Make a list of the challenges you face in everyday life due to your disability. Which ones are likely to be affected by a child? Facing your problems directly makes it easier for you to address them and find possible solutions. For example, do you struggle with cooking healthy meals due to problems with your grip? If so, a food delivery service could be the solution once the child arrives. Are you worried that a hearing impairment will keep you from hearing its cries? As a workaround, you will need a baby monitor with a visual alarm.

Prepare the House

All parents have to baby-proof the house to a certain extent, but parents with disabilities have even more to do. You should try to make your home as accessible as possible — life with a baby is chaotic, and you need a home you can move around in freely and safely.

Do Your Research

Your particular needs mean that not every baby product will be well-suited for you. Take your time when it comes to baby shopping, looking up online reviews and making sure you are only buying quality products that will work for you; for example, BabyGearLab has an extensive collection of guides and reviews available online. You have time before the baby arrives, so use it wisely to make sure you are fully prepared.

Plan for the Worst

No one wants to think about their own death, especially when there is a child on the way. However, making a plan to prepare for the worst is crucial if you want your child to be safe and secure in case anything happens to you. This includes having a will, determining guardianship of your child and life insurance. Each of these provides a layer of protection for your family and your child in the event of your death. It also doesn’t hurt to consider burial insurance, which can lighten the financial burden on your loved ones.

Look for Help

Many disabled parents are reluctant to get help. Instead, they are eager to prove that they are just as capable of handling a baby than any other parent. What this ignores is that most parents need some type of support, especially during the early days. This is often a family member or friend, but it can also be a professional, such as a postpartum doula or a night nanny.

If you want to rely on your loved ones, start thinking about who will be a useful source of support and talk about your needs with them. If you’d rather hire someone, start researching options and meeting people now so you know you have someone you trust when the time comes.

Whenever you feel yourself getting worried or anxious about your future as a disabled parent, start taking practical steps. Do research, make decisions, check things off your to-do list — these steps can help you feel in control. When your baby arrives, you will feel more prepared and secure because of the work you put in. That is not to say that parenting with a disability will be easy or predictable, but that it will be less scary and intimidating.

Photo via Pexels

Why We Wouldn’t Insure the Tiger King (and Other No-No’s)

April 24, 2020 John Purroy Jackson

Sorry, Future Tiger King… You’re On Your Own

Lions and tiger and bears… no thanks. There are some things an insurance agent will NOT be able to insure (like the Tiger King), and this light-hearted blog will cover a few of them.

So join me as I go over things you will laugh at, some you will scratch your head about, and others you will look guiltily out of your window and hope your agent never sees the thing in your yard.

(Also, Netflix, don’t sue us. This is for fun. All rights for Tiger King belong to you, almighty Netflix.)

No Zoo Animals

Let’s start with the elephant in the room: zoo animals.

Zoo animals, or exotic animals as insurance companies call them, belong in their natural habitat or a for-purpose park like the one in the show Tiger King (although whether it is ethical to cage animals is certainly open for debate).

Insurance companies will not cover a home that has an exotic animal. The risks are too great for them to consider taking on that responsibility.

Let’s say for example that a certain mullet-ed gentleman had a tiger at home. If a guest comes over, and the tiger, being a tiger, bites the guest, the hospital bills and possible lawsuit could cost a fortune.

Insurance companies think this is too risky for them, and will not cover it. In fact, if you have a homeowners policy, you’ve already agreed not to have an exotic pet.

Companies regularly put language in your insurance documents where you agree that you do not have an exotic pet. Once you sign that document, you’re holding yourself to that claim.

So if you had a tiger bite at your house, your homeowners insurance company would immediately deny the claim due to you breaching the contract.

But what else is considered an “exotic animal” for insurance purposes? What should inspired Tiger King fans avoid?

Alligators, boa constrictor, venomous snakes, lions, tigers, bears and wolves.

If you have one of these and you just freaked out a little, take a breath. There may be something that can help.

There is an endorsement called an Animal Liability Exclusion that companies may add to your policy depending on what kind of animal you have. So check with your agent about that.

But as a general rule? Exotic animals = no coverage.

No Odd Yard Art

If you’re thinking, “That can’t be real,” well, I have news for you. It is, and we see this kind of thing in real life when we get pictures of houses we are going to insure.

Insurance companies see things like toilets in the yard, broken appliances, and bathtubs or jacuzzis used as water fixtures as red flags.

If you have something like this discovered in your insurance inspection after your policy is written, you may find yourself with an uncomfortable phone call.

But it isn’t just a matter of taste. Insurance companies make every single decision due to statistics. And they have found that people with toilet planters and the like are generally too risky to insure.

Porcelain Tiger King statues are fine if that’s your taste.

Another reason is that some of these decorations can be dangerous. Using a bathtub or a hot tub as a pool or something similar isn’t what they were designed for, and can lead to accidents.

This may seem funny, but the reality is that certain yard art acts as a warning to an insurance company.

So put your refrigerator back inside your house, park the car you’re working on somewhere other than the front yard, and keep your bathroom fixtures where they belong.

Or you may find yourself struggling to get a decent policy.

No Roof Gardens

“Wait a minute,” I hear you say. “Roof gardens are hip nowadays and a great way for cities to grow produce and reduce their carbon footprint.”

Very true. But I’m not talking about urban, flat-roofed buildings that have cucumbers and lettuce growing on top.

I’m talking about regular, peaked roof houses that have moss, grass, or even trees growing on top.

This is a major sign of a damaged or weakened roof. And as we all know, a roof in bad shape is more likely to suffer damage.

Weakened or older roofs are more likely to buckle under the weight of snow or sleet, can cave in from torrential rain, can leak and are less likely to withstand trees or other objects falling on them.

To an insurance company, all of that means your home is more likely to have a claim. Even a Tiger King knows that.

If you have vegetation on your roof, it is probably time to replace it. That’s the bad news. The good news is that a new roof usually means paying less on your homeowners policy, so make sure to let your agent know if you do replace it.

And don’t forget about gutters! We have seen weeds, grass, and trees growing out of gutters, causing serious damage to the sides of homes as well as potential water damage.

Make sure you have clean gutters and a green-free roof before you get your next homeowners insurance policy. If not, you may find it canceled, or a claim denied when you need it most.

We Can’t Insure Every Home

But we sure will try.

Make sure you take care of your home the way it deserves. A little maintenance goes a long way towards preventing the kind of damage that gives insurance companies nightmares.

If you aren’t sure how to keep your home in shape, consider these tips:

Change your air filter – This simple tip can save you both money and headaches. It makes your HVAC system more efficient and helps to avoid overworking and therefore damaging the unit.
Check for leaks and fix them – Look for signs of water damage in your home and plug or seal any leaks. Water can destroy walls, electrical systems, pipes, and cause mold issues.
Lawn Care – Make sure to regularly trim your lawn, keeping it free of unwanted plants and trees, especially close to your home.
Take care of your roof and gutters – Replace missing shingles, keep your roof free of tree limbs and debris, and keep gutters clean to avoid build-up.
Monitor your pets – Don’t let pets chew, claw, or stain floors, walls and other surfaces.
Don’t get a Tiger – Sorry Tiger King wannabe. But it’s crazy to have a tiger.

Follow these tips, resist the urge to put “reclaimed” plumbing fixtures in your yard, and you could be on your way to a healthy, happy home.

And have your claims paid in full and on time.

Sound good? Click on the link below and get your FREE INSURANCE CHECKLIST today.

What To Do if Lightning Hits Your House

April 13, 2020 John Purroy Jackson

How To Be Prepared for Lightning

No one wants to deal with a lightning bolt slamming into their house. But being on this planet means that lightning will hit somewhere at any given time.

And sometimes that somewhere IS your house.

But what do you do? What should you expect? And how can you deal with the aftermath?

Lightning strikes DO happen. 2018 saw over 75,000 claims, and that was a three year low. There is an entire Lightning Safety Institute that deals with the damage this risk causes to both people and their property.

Let’s walk through exactly how you can handle a lightning strike hitting your home, and find out how you can stay safe.

And deal with the claim after.

GET YOUR FREE PERSONAL INSURANCE CHECKLIST!

What to Do in a Storm

If there is a serious lightning storm over your house, start by taking precautions.

A general rule is the 30-30. If you hear thunder 30 seconds after seeing lightning, go inside and know that lightning could strike your area.
Unplug electrical devices in case of a surge. Do not touch any electrical device that is still plugged in – even a landline phone.
Avoid any faucet or fixture that has running water. Electricity can travel through pipes.
Do not stand on concrete floors or touch concrete walls. Electricity can travel through metal wiring inside of them.

These simple steps can help keep you and your loved ones safe if you do encounter a lightning strike.

But what happens if lightning DOES hit? What do you do then?

What to Do if Lightning Strikes

If lightning does hit your house, chances are a few things may happen. Let’s look over what you need to look for in the aftermath.

Make sure no one is hurt! If someone has suffered any harm, seek medical assistance immediately. When in doubt dial 911.
Look for signs of a fire – Smoke, charred electrical outlets or heat from your attic, etc. If there is a fire follow our What To Do If You Have A Fire guide.
Make sure there isn’t damage that could create a dangerous situation. A whole in the roof, hanging beams, exposed wires, all of these can cause injury.
Check for other damage – Shorted appliances, fried wiring, blasted roof shingles, damaged trees, or downed powerlines.

The primary thing is to BE SAFE. You don’t want to survive the actual strike itself and then put yourself in a position of being hurt after.

Lightning can cause as many dangerous situations as it presents itself. Fire is the most common risk from a lightning hit, and it can start in hard to find places that hide detection.

Make sure you check attics, look at electrical outlets for burn marks, and (once it is safe and the storm has passed) look at your roof to make sure there isn’t smoke or other signs of a fire in your home.

Dealing With Damage

If you do have damage, you need to know how to deal with it while staying safe.

But you also need to know how to make sure the damage doesn’t spread, or lead to other issues that can harm your home even more.

Here are some examples of damage and how to reduce the chances of further problems.

Hole in the roof – The obvious potential issue with this is water damage. Rain can seep into the home and damage wood, drywall, electrical systems, and just about any other part it can find. If at all possible cover the hole with a tarp or other temporary solution unit repairs can be made.
Shorted electrical systems – If you find that appliances or even entire rooms are not working, it’s possible that lightning caused a short or another issue with the appliance. If it is an entire room, there could be a much more serious electrical problem. Make sure you cut the electricity to any areas that are having issues until a pro can look at it. But be careful when dealing with fuse boxes or anything else electrical after a lightning strike. When in doubt, let an electrician handle it.
Signs of fire – If you see char marks or burns on walls, near electrical outlets, or the aftermath of actual flames, make sure there isn’t any actual fire somewhere in the house. If you suspect anything or see smoke, call the fire department. Once you know there isn’t any fire, check for fire damage in walls, in attics, or wherever the marks may lead.

The main takeaway is to do what you can to prevent further damage and make the area safer.

BUT! Make sure you don’t put yourself in harm’s way while trying to do so! If something looks dangerous or even just out of your comfort zone, wait for a professional to help.

Surviving a lightning strike and getting electrocuted while trying to turn off your power is not worth whatever you were trying to prevent.

Last but not even close to being least: TAKE PICTURES. Document everything that may be important so you can show the right people in the next section what happened.

Filing A Claim

The sad truth of the matter is that if your home has been hit by lightning, you’ll need to file a claim.

The good news is that this is exactly the reason why you have insurance, and your agent, company and adjuster will work together to help get you back to where you were before this happened.

Filing a claim is easy, and you can do it as soon as you realize you are safe. Or you can wait until the next day when you’re in a better state of mind.

Report the claim to your insurance carrier. While your agent would like to know that you are safe, the first order of business is to let your insurance company know that there has been lightning damage. They are the ones with the claims department and will be in charge of getting you the funds you need to repair or rebuild.
Tell your agent. You can call, email, text, use the app – whatever method you prefer to let them know. Some agents even have an online form for reporting claims. This would be a good time to discuss the damage that you’ve had, any dangers that might still be present, and what advice they have for keeping you safe.
Communicate with your adjuster. Once your adjuster has called you back, make sure to get them the information that they need so you can get the claim handled correctly. Give them all of the pictures you took of the damage so they can see what happened and maybe note any items that were damaged that you forgot about.

Once you’ve taken these steps, you will be well on your way to getting your homemade whole again.

Make Sure You’re Protected

No one wants to have to go through lightning hitting their house. And if you do, you want to make sure you have the right insurance.

Sound good? Click on the link below and get your FREE INSURANCE CHECKLIST today.

How to Prepare for Severe Weather

How High Building Costs Affect Your Insurance

Building Costs are Through the Roof

Market Value is not Replacement Cost Value

Cost of Rebuilding Affects Insurance

How to Take Action

Building Costs: Next Steps

6 Insurance Questions Young Adults Need to Ask Themselves ASAP

Finances 101: A Guide for Newly Independent Young People

3 Crucial Financial Steps for Young Vets Separating From Military Service

Resources for Securing Your Home on a Budget

What To Do in an Earthquake

What Should You Do if an Earthquake Hits?

How to Get Through an Earthquake

Dealing with the Damage

Other Issues from Earthquakes

Claims After an Earthquake

Homeowners Insurance does not cover Earthquakes.

Get the Help you Need

5 Practical Tips for Soon-to-Be Parents with Disabilities

Why We Wouldn’t Insure the Tiger King (and Other No-No’s)