INSURANCE BLOG

One winter headache a homeowner doesn’t need – and can take steps to avoid – is an ice dam on the roof. Ice dams can damage walls and ceilings and possibly trap moisture, which could lead to mold, mildew and respiratory problems. — An ice dam is created when heat rises from a home, melting snow on…

Even before winter officially arrived, it probably took only a few chilly nights to get you to reach for your thermostat. — No matter when you decide to put your home heating system back in action, be mindful that heating equipment ranks second only to cooking among the leading causes of house…

You’ve grown tired of your current ride and you’re ready to get something else. You shop around and find a car you like, but you’re not happy with what you’re being offered for trade. You think, “I can get more money by selling this outright.” Happens every day, right? Be careful. — — If you elect…

The annual holiday search is on for the perfect gift for your children or grandchildren. You can spend a lot of time and effort buying gifts … it can be overwhelming. You recognize that as children grow, their interests change. Last year’s trending gifts become this year’s trash. — What if I told…

You can take steps to ensure your home is well prepared for winter weather – and that your family doesn’t get any colder than they want to be. Consider these suggestions for your comfort and safety. — — INSPECT THE HEATING SYSTEM — Save time, money and frustration by avoiding the late night or…

Claims experience shows that theft losses can be prevented when a central station burglar alarm is installed and activated in your home. Improve your family’s security and reduce the potential of home intrusion by knowing the basics for safety and alarm component options: — — ALWAYS: — Activate…

It takes only minutes for a fire to escalate. Even with the responding fire department’s prompt arrival, a home could be destroyed. To help avoid this, have your home fitted with a residential sprinkler system. — A licensed sprinkler installer can install a system that meets NFPA 13-D residential…

Many people struggle to understand annuities and wonder if they really need one or not. To help shed light on this situation, let’s look at one example. — “Tom,” a 60-year-old widower, purchased an annuity 20 years ago. Should he repurpose or replace the annuity with a more tax-efficient asset such…