Equipment (Appliance) Breakdown Coverage

| November 30, 2021

Many people have experienced the frustrating realization that their appliance suddenly broke right after the manufacturer’s warranty ended. If you have experienced this, you probably wished that you had some insurance coverage to pay for the repair or replacement of the appliance. Most standard homeowner’s policies won’t cover you in this situation, but you can usually add equipment breakdown coverage to your current policy.

 

What is Equipment Breakdown Coverage?

Equipment Breakdown coverage provides an extra layer of protection for your home appliances if a mechanical or electrical failure occurs. It’s a perfect way to get reimbursed if something unexpected happens after the warranty expires. However, it is worth noting that it will not cover natural wear and tear.

What are some things that this policy would cover?

This policy may seem a little tricky to understand. Here’s an example of why you would need equipment breakdown coverage. Let’s say you had your refrigerator for two years, and a part suddenly breaks that shouldn’t have at this point of the fridge’s lifespan. Then, you check your warranty and find out that it was only for one year. In this case, your equipment breakdown coverage will most likely cover the costs to either fix or replace the refrigerator.

What does this kind of coverage include?

When you purchase equipment breakdown coverage, you’ll have protection for:

  • Costs associated with identifying the issue
  • Repair or replacement costs for damaged appliances
  • Costs to make temporary repairs
  • Any additional installation or shipping costs

 

Ask your insurance agent for more details regarding your policy and coverage.

 

Is equipment breakdown coverage something you would like to add to your homeowner’s insurance policy? Or maybe you’re not sure if it’s necessary? We can help you figure it out! Give us a call, and we’ll make sure you have all the coverage you need.

Safety Tips for Backyard Fire Pits

| November 20, 2021

A fire pit is a great addition to any backyard. It adds a focal point and a functional area for friends and family to gather and enjoy the outdoors. But it’s important to keep safety in mind while having any sort of fire on your property. Here are some safety tips for backyard fire pits.

 

Don’t Use Your Fire Pit on Windy Days

If you’re planning on having a bonfire, be sure to check the weather reports. Excessive wind could be dangerous while using backyard fire pits. Wind could sweep up embers and set fences, trees, or dried leaves piles on fire. Also, be sure to check the direction of the wind anytime you use your fire pit so that you can set up your seating accordingly.

Build Your Fire Pit in the Open

Never create a fire pit close to trees, hanging branches, fences, furniture, or other flammable items. Your fire pit should never be placed under a gazebo or an overhang, either. Sparks will blow around, whether it’s windy or not, so a nice wide-open space is the safest setup.

Never Burn Lumber

When it comes to backyard fires – branches, firewood, and logs are all good choices for kindling. However, you should NEVER burn construction lumber. Wood used for building like plywood and pressure-treated boards are chemically treated. Burning this kind of wood would create dangerous fumes that are unsafe to sit around – or roast marshmallows on!

Have Safety Materials Ready

Even if you take the best precautions with your fire pit, it’s still a good idea to be prepared. Have a bucket of sand and a shovel handy, as well as a fire blanket and extinguisher. You don’t have to have these items nearby every time you have a fire. Just make sure you do have them, and you know where they are.

Have fun but be safe!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fall Home Maintenance

| November 10, 2021

With the changing seasons comes different home maintenance chores to keep up with. While it’s customary to do lots of yard work and outdoor maintenance in the spring and summer, don’t forget about the fall. There is still plenty of home maintenance to do when the cooler weather sets in and the leaves begin to change.

 

Cleaning Your Gutters

Keeping your gutters clear of debris is important so that when the rainy and snowy seasons set in, they can do what they’re supposed to do. Neglected, clogged gutters can lead to roof and foundation damage because they won’t allow for proper drainage. If you plan to clean your gutters yourself, it’s crucial to put safety first. Use a steady ladder and proper equipment. However, the safest and easiest way to maintain your gutters is to have a professional maintenance or landscaping company do it for you. Be sure to do your research and hire a reputable, experienced, and insured company.

Weeding and Trimming

Once the growing season is over, it’s essential to rid your landscaping of weeds and trim any bushes or shrubbery. Once the colder weather sets in, any existing weeds or plants will dry up and look unsightly and can be a breeding ground for unwanted insects and pests. Spend an afternoon while the weather is still nice to get all your weeding and trimming done in one day. You’ll be happy you did.

Check and Replace Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

The fall is a perfect time to check the batteries in your fire and carbon monoxide detectors. It is recommended that you have a smoke detector in every bedroom and hallway in your home. There should be at least one carbon monoxide detector on every floor of your home, including the basement.

 

Happy Fall!

Foliage Road Trips

| October 25, 2021

One of the best things about living in the Eastern United States is that we get to experience each of the four seasons in all their splendor. When it comes to the beauty of the seasons, it’s hard to beat the colors of fall. Although autumn has plenty to offer right here in New Jersey, it’s worth exploring a bit further to take in those gorgeous shades of changing leaves. Here are some foliage road trip ideas to really get the best out of everything nature has to offer this fall.

 

The Pocono Mountains

At just about a 2.5-hour drive from the Jersey Shore, you really can’t beat the fall scenery of the Pocono Mountains.  This beautiful area spans across four counties in Pennsylvania and has plenty to offer. Whether you decide to rent a quiet cottage to yourself or visit one of the resorts on the mountains, you’re bound to catch every shade possible of the fall foliage.

Upstate New York

If you want to view the changing autumn leaves while experiencing small-town charm, visiting one of the many quaint areas in upstate New York is always a good choice.  This area is home to both the Adirondacks and Catskill mountains, which are both lined with thousands of bountiful leaved trees. Even just a long drive through the winding mountain roads is breathtaking.

Connecticut Foliage

The state of Connecticut is so well known for its autumn colors that it even has a Fall Foliage Report – where you can scope out the best driving, walking, or hiking routes to take it all in. The leaves start changing in early September and peak in early November. So, you have plenty of time to plan either a day drive or even a long weekend surrounded by all this season has to offer.

Fall Activities

| October 21, 2021

As the leaves begin to change and the cooler weather sets in, there are many great fall activities to take advantage of in the area. Whether you want to plan a romantic day trip with your partner or an outside activity with the entire family, you’re sure to find the perfect autumn outing. Read on for our recommendations for the best fall activities.

 

Apple Picking

When it comes to apple picking in Monmouth County, there are bushels of options! For example, Eastman Orchards in Colts Neck has lots of fun options for all ages. Apple picking is available from mid-August to early November; however, apple varieties will vary depending on the time of year you go. Most orchards charge by the pound, so keep that in mind while you’re picking!

Autumn Nature Walks

Here in Monmouth County, we sure aren’t lacking in scenic areas to walk and hike. Whether you need a solo afternoon in nature to refresh or want to include the whole family, walking in the woods during the fall is always a great time. Check out all the trails this area has to offer and make a day of it. You could even pack a fall picnic in the woods and take in all the beautiful changing leaves. Be sure to dress in layers since the fall weather temperatures can be unpredictable.

Tour a Winery

If you’re looking for a fall activity just for the grown-ups, the beautiful wineries in Monmouth County are a perfect choice. The Cream Ridge Winery has been an area favorite since 1988 and produces some of the most delicious, handcrafted wines in the state. They offer tours of their 14 acres of vineyards, and with the changing colors of fall, it’s quite breathtaking.

 

The autumn season is a perfect time to get out and enjoy all this area has to offer.

Driving Tips Now That School is Open

| October 21, 2021

Now that school is back in session, it’s time to be extra careful driving, especially in school zones. We’ve gotten used to quiet streets and sidewalks this last year or so, but it’s time to wake up our senses and get back into alert mode. Kids will be out and about walking to and from school and getting on and off buses. Here are some driving tips now that school is open.

 

Know the Bus Rules

Every time someone speeds past a stopped school bus, they risk causing a serious accident. There are certain rules in place when dealing with school buses on the road. They’re all designed to ensure kids can make it to their destination safely. Here are the main bus rules to remember:

  • Stop your car no less than 25 feet from a stopped school bus with its red lights flashing
  • When traveling on a divided highway, you may pass a stopped bus in the opposite direction, but only while going 10 mph
  • Disobeying school bus traffic laws can result in a fine of up to $250 and/or up to 15 days in jail

Watch Your Speed

It’s important to drive the speed limit, but not just to avoid speeding tickets. When school is back in session, more kids will be out walking to and from bus stops and schools. Some of the students may be new to the school, as well as the local traffic patterns. So that’s why it is important that you, as the driver, should be extra cautious. When approaching an intersection, residential area, or school zone – always reduce your speed. Even if you don’t see any kids around, it’s common for kids to run out suddenly.

Let’s all do our part to keep children safe as they travel to and from school!

Service Line Breakdown Coverage

| October 10, 2021

Service line failure can lead to unexpected losses that you may not be prepared for. These losses are not typically covered under a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. Homeowners insurance can help cover some of the costs, but the coverage does not include service lines in most cases. So, what’s the best option? Consider adding Service Line Breakdown coverage to your homeowner’s policy.

 

What is Service Line Breakdown Coverage?

Service Line coverage provides the policyholder protection for damage to underground piping, wiring, valves, or attached devices that connect a home to a public utility service provider or a private system.

What are some things that this policy would cover?

This policy may seem a little tricky to understand. Here’s an example of why you would need a service line breakdown policy. Say there’s a particularly cold winter night, and the pipe connecting the public water pipe from the street to your home bursts. Depending on your service line breakdown policy, you could be covered for the cost of replacing the pipe plus the damage you incurred because of it. This scenario is just one example but imagine all the unforeseeable possibilities where this coverage would be a lifesaver.

What does this kind of coverage include?

When you purchase service line breakdown coverage, you’ll have protection for:

  • Damage to your service line because of a service failure
  • Costs to make temporary repairs
  • Outdoor property damage from the result of a service line failure
  • Additional living expenses and fair rental value if necessary

Ask your insurance agent for more details regarding your policy and coverage.

Is service line breakdown coverage something you need to add to your homeowner’s insurance policy? Or maybe you’re not sure if it’s necessary? We can help you figure it out! Give us a call and we’ll make sure you have all the coverage you need.

Why You Should Consider Umbrella Insurance

| September 30, 2021

No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen. If an accident occurs and you were the cause, your hard-earned assets could be at risk. The cost of the property damage or injuries you may have caused to other parties could exceed the limits of your insurance policies. In fact, this is not uncommon at all. However, an umbrella policy would protect you over and above the limits of your auto policy. This kind of coverage could make the difference between security and financial hardship. Read on for more reasons why you should consider umbrella insurance.

 

Protection from Unexpected Lawsuits

Lawsuits are probably not on the list of things you have to worry about. Who’s going to sue you anyway? Nevertheless, the truth is that costly lawsuits are relatively common. For example, someone could slip on your driveway and break their ankle. Even if you think it’s not possible, you could definitely be sued. An Umbrella Policy protects you from financial ruin in the case of an unexpected lawsuit.

What an Umbrella Policy Covers

Umbrella insurance protects you over and above your car and homeowner’s insurance policies. It provides added protection on top of what you already have. Your umbrella insurance would kick in once your other policies were used to their limits. A simple method to determine how big of an umbrella policy you need is to add up your assets’ total worth and compare them to the total liability coverage you already have. If your total assets’ value is greater than your liability limits, an umbrella policy will help to cover that gap. On average, umbrella policies start at $1 Million and can go as high as $10 million if you qualify. Rates also aren’t as high as you may think. Ask your insurance agent about umbrella insurance and if it’s right for you.

 

Ready to purchase umbrella insurance? We can help get you the perfect policy. Give us a call today!

Understanding the Homeowner’s Insurance Claim Process

| September 20, 2021

In the best-case scenario, you would never need your homeowner’s insurance. But unfortunately, things happen, which is the entire purpose of purchasing a homeowner’s policy. So once something does happen, what do you do? You file a claim, of course. Read on to learn more about the homeowner’s insurance claim process.

 

Safety First

First things first, make sure everyone in your household is safe. If the claim involves a crime like a break-in or theft, call the police first. Once you’ve been provided with the “all-clear” to re-enter your property, then you can contact your insurance company.

Time to File a Claim

You can usually file a claim by phone or online. The first step is to contact your insurance agency and get the claim process started. Your agent will ask you relevant questions to get all the information they need for the claim. Once your claim is filed, it will be assigned to a claims adjuster who will give you a claim number and explain the next steps.

Document the Damage

If possible, it’s important to take detailed pictures and videos of all the damage related to your claim. Don’t throw away any damaged items unless you’ve gotten the go-ahead from your insurance company. If any emergency repairs are needed to make your property safe, make sure you check with your claims adjuster. There may be a protocol in place for emergency repairs.

Keep Records

Be sure to keep copies of all estimates, receipts, or any documents related to your insurance claim. It’s essential to keep your own records separate from what your insurance company is keeping.

Wait for Your Reimbursement

Before any money changes hands, you may need to have your insurance adjuster visit your home to assess the damage and necessary repairs. Once all is approved, your insurance company will let you know how much will be covered and if the repair companies will be paid directly or if you’ll be reimbursed.

 

Have questions about the homeowner’s insurance claim process? That’s what we’re here for! Give us a call today!

Does Car Insurance Cover Repairs

| September 10, 2021

Owning a car is a big responsibility. You have the cost of the vehicle, maintenance, and insurance – which can all add up. But if your car breaks down and needs a repair, is that covered in your insurance policy? Read on to find out.

 

When Your Car Insurance Covers Repairs

If you’re involved in a car accident or your car is damaged due to fire or theft, your insurance policy may cover it. You first need to file a claim and talk to your insurance company, but your insurance will cover those repairs in most cases. That, after all, is the whole purpose of car insurance – to cover repairs and damage caused by an accident. However, repairs needed because of normal wear and tear are not covered in your policy.

Breakdowns and Routine Maintenance

Regular car maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations are not covered under your car insurance policy, so you’ll have to pay out of pocket for those. If your car breaks down due to engine failure, that will more than likely not be covered. However, lots of car insurance policies include roadside assistance. This coverage means your costs for tows, and sometimes even rental cars, may be covered. To be clear on what is and is not covered by your car insurance, be sure to read through your policy and ask your agent any questions you may have.

What Comprehensive Coverage Covers

Besides collision insurance, you may carry something called comprehensive coverage. This type of coverage can include damage to your car from things like fire, theft, natural disasters like earthquakes or storms, and even animal damage. If a squirrel builds a nest in your engine, you may be covered through your comprehensive coverage!

 

Not sure what your car insurance policy covers? Give us a call and we can help make sure you have the coverage you need.