MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2025
 Protect your home - and hard-earned money - with service line coverage
Few people give much thought to the wires and pipes that deliver power and water to their homes.
Until, that is, it's too late.
Many homeowners don't know that they're on the hook financially to repair or replace damaged or destroyed exterior, underground service lines to their home. It can prove a costly surprise -- upwards of $7,000 or more depending on what's involved.
View an interactive demonstration of how situations like these can affect a home.
Repairing service lines isn't a simple fix, often requiring significant digging that can wreak havoc on landscaping, driveways or walkways. In addition, families sometimes must relocate while repairs are being done, adding to the cost.
The answer: Service line coverage
Service line coverage offers the protection homeowners need, filling a gap in standard homeowners' insurance policies that don't typically cover service lines. Some utilities offer service contracts, but they are typically expensive, offer limited coverage, and often only cover one type of service line.
The risk of a problem is real. Homeowners today rely on more service lines than ever before, including water, waste, drainage, irrigation, heating (gas, propane, steam and geothermal), compressed air, and communications lines, including cable, data transmission, internet access and telecommunications.
Preparation pays off
Service line damage happens more often than you think. And when it does, the costs add up quickly. Fortunately for these customers, they had the coverage they needed when trouble struck.
Highlights of Service Line Coverage
- Costs to reach damaged underground piping and wiring
- Repair or replacement of damaged exterior underground piping and wiring
- Coverage for outdoor property such as landscaping, driveways and walkways
- Additional costs to expedite materials and services for repairs
- Living expenses if your clients need to temporarily relocate, including hotels, meals and other expenses
- Environmental safety and efficiency condition allowing for 150% upgrade when replacement is required
- Damaged outdoor property including shrubs, trees, lawn and landscaping such as driveways and walkways
- Cost of generators and other temporary equipment that allows you to remain at home during repairs
Used with permission from Westfield Insurance
Posted 6:51 PM
FRIDAY, AUGUST 22, 2025
 Goodville Mutual offered our agency a choice to pick a non profit who could benefit from a donation.
On August 22, 2025 Jamie and Damian Rutt met with Todd Heisey from Goodville Mutual to present a check for $1000 to the Mount Joy Food Bank. The helpers there serve the most needy in our community with fruits, vegetables and meats along with other needed supplies. Please join me in thanking Goodville Mutual for this most generous offer.
-- Jamie Rutt, President, Rutt Insurance
Posted 7:16 PM
FRIDAY, AUGUST 1, 2025
Summer Homeowner Tips
 For many, there is no better time of year than summertime to be outside in the yard enjoying the weather and sunshine. Warm temperatures and longer days make the perfect backdrop for picnicking and barbecuing. A bit of time spent on seasonal maintenance can help keep your home in shape for the warmest season.
Start of the Season
- Preparing your home for the warmer months should produce a sense of satisfaction, not dread at what might be damaged, broken or need replacing.
- Be sure to check both inside and outside the home for damage or wear and tear, as well as evidence of any unwanted guests, such as wildlife or rodents. Also, walk the property to make sure nothing looks out of place, and do a full-view check as well as a close visual inspection of the house.
Inside the House
- Check electrical outlets and cords for potential fire hazards, such as frayed wires or loose-fitting plugs. Extension cords and power strips are not designed to be permanent fixtures and should only be used on an interim basis.
- Clean or replace your furnace filter to help reduce any fire hazard. Likewise, clean your dryer vent and lint trap, as well as the space under your dryer.
Outside the House
- Check the windows and doors, as well as their frames for any evidence of damage, and walk the perimeter of the house for any obvious changes or damage. Also, have your roof regularly inspected by a professional to identify areas of potential leakage.
THINK LITITZ: Originally Published by Lititz Mutual Insurance Company
Posted 12:17 PM
TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2025
 Firework Safety Tips for July 4th
4th of July is a day where we celebrate the thirteen colonies claiming their independence from England and more commonly a day where friends and family gather for food, music and beautiful firework displays across the country. Many of us will also purchase consumer based fireworks to celebrate on our own, however these certainly come with risks.
Did you know that according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s 2014 Fireworks Annual Report by Yongling Tu and Demar Granados, fireworks cause a yearly average of 18,500 reported fires and resulted in over $21 million dollars in direct property damage in 2013.
Fireworks are also a leading source of emergency room visits each and every year on the 4th of July. Check out some injuries by the numbers below.
Firework Injuries:
- Sparklers accounted for roughly 28% of all emergency room firework injuries.
- More than 33% of firework injuries are to the hands or fingers.
- Children 5-9 years of age were 2.4 times as likely as the general public to be injured by fireworks.
- Males account for 74% of firework injuries
- Only 6% of firework injuries are caused by public displays
Fireworks cause an average of 18,500 fires per year.
4th of July Safety Tips
Firework Safety:
- Sparklers burn at 1200°F – Don’t point them at yourself or others.
- Never light fireworks in hand; only light fireworks while they are placed on the ground.
- Never attempt to light multiple fireworks at once.
- Never allow young children to handle sparklers.
- Never light any fireworks that appear damaged or torn.
- Don’t take apart fireworks or attempt to make your own.
- Always keep a fire extinguisher and water source nearby in case of emergency.
- Never dispose of used fireworks in trash cans until completely cool.
Grill Safety Tips:
The 4th of July just isn’t the same without sharing some amazing BBQ with your friends and family. Be sure to check for the following before throwing those steaks, burgers and dogs on the grill.
- Always check your grill’s hoses for cracks and leaks.
- Never grill indoors or near surfaces that can catch fire.
- Keep the grill at least two feet away from decks, siding and other surfaces.
We wish everyone a very happy and safe 4th of July celebration.
originally published by Mammoth Restoration http://mammothrestoration.com/
Posted 9:08 PM
MONDAY, JUNE 2, 2025
 Many homeowners insurance policies help cover the cost of replacing or repairing your roof when it’s damaged by wind, hail, fire or other covered perils. The extent of coverage and the amount paid out ultimately depends on the specific language in your policy and the cause of the damage.
Roof insurance isn’t a standalone policy like identity theft coverage or inland flood insurance. Instead, it’s part of your homeowners insurance or business insurance that applies when your roof is damaged as a result of a covered event.
In this article, we’ll answer common questions about roof coverage and explain key terms, including roof loss settlement and actual cash value, so you can better understand how your policy works — and what to expect if you ever need to file a claim.
Does Insurance Cover Roof Replacement?
Roof replacements and repairs are typically included in the dwelling coverage — also known as Coverage A — portion of your homeowners policy, as long as the damage is caused by a covered event, such as wind and hail damage.
While homeowners insurance provides valuable protection, roof coverage can vary. Insurance providers consider factors, such as your roof’s age, condition, materials, and shape, when determining eligibility and how much they’ll cover toward a repair or replacement.
Most policies also include a standard deductible and certain exclusions. For example, cosmetic damage or damage caused by wear and tear, poor maintenance, or improper installation is generally not covered. If you live in a storm-prone area, you may also have a separate wind and hail deductible. Reviewing your policy details in advance can help you avoid surprises if your roof ever sustains damage.
What Is Roof Loss Settlement?
When a roof claim is approved, the amount your provider pays depends on the type of roof loss settlement outlined in your policy. This clause determines how much of your roof replacement cost is covered and whether you’ll need to pay anything out-of-pocket.
Most homeowners insurance policies use one of three settlement types: replacement cost value (RCV), actual cash value (ACV), or roof payment schedule.
What Is Replacement Cost Value (RCV)?
This is the most comprehensive option. It covers the full cost to replace your roof with a brand-new version at today’s prices. It does not cover any upgrades you choose to make during the replacement process.
What Is Actual Cash Value (ACV)?
An ACV policy pays out based on the depreciated value of your roof at the time of the loss. This type of settlement often comes with lower premiums and can be a practical option for older roofs. Since depreciation is factored in, the payout may not cover the full cost of a new roof, meaning you’ll be responsible for covering the difference.
What Is Limited Loss Settlement?
Also called a roof payment schedule, this increasingly common settlement type bases your payout on a fixed percentage of the roof’s replacement cost, typically determined by factors like the roof’s age. For example, a roof over 20 years old may only qualify for a payment equal to 25-40% of the total cost to replace it.
Does Insurance Cover Roof Leaks?
In general, homeowners insurance helps cover roof leaks when they’re caused by a covered event, such as a storm or falling tree. If the leak is the result of normal wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or an aging roof, it likely will not be covered.
While insurance can help repair roof damage, prevention is your best defense. To help maintain eligibility for roof coverage and avoid future leaks, trim overhanging trees, keep gutters clear, and schedule professional roof inspections to catch potential issues early.
How to Navigate Roof Insurance Claims
If your roof is damaged, knowing when to file a claim can make all the difference. You should file a claim only when the damage is caused by a covered event and when the cost of repairs exceeds your deductible. Here’s what to do if you suspect roof damage:
- Limit additional damage: Take temporary steps like tarping exposed areas to prevent further issues.
- Document everything: Photograph the damage to help support your claim and give your insurance provider a clear picture of the loss.
- Contact your insurance company: Call the company claims hotline or contact your insurance agent.
- Choose a reputable roofing contractor: If your claim is approved, work only with experienced, insured professionals.
Protect Your Home and Roof With Insurance
Understanding your roof coverage is one of the best ways to prepare for the unexpected. Knowing what’s covered, how roof loss settlement works, and when to file a claim helps you navigate your insurance with confidence. If you’re unsure about what your policy includes or whether your roof is adequately protected, take time to review your policy documents and talk to your insurance agent.
Originally posted by Westfield Insurance: https://www.westfieldinsurance.com/about-us/articles/r/roof-insurance-explained
Posted 11:54 AM
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