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TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025

Firework Safety Tips for July 4th

fireworks in the skyFirework 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

Roof Insurance Explained: Coverages, Claims & Loss Settlements

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:

  1. Limit additional damage: Take temporary steps like tarping exposed areas to prevent further issues.
  2. Document everything: Photograph the damage to help support your claim and give your insurance provider a clear picture of the loss.
  3. Contact your insurance company:  Call the company claims hotline or contact your insurance agent.
  4. 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


THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2025

Maintenance Tips for the Homeowner

HVAC TechHome Maintenance Tips

To prevent damage to your home and to save yourself money, time and frustration, follow these tips to protect vital systems.

 

HVAC Systems

Inspect, clean or replace your system’s filter each month.

Check heating and cooling registers to make sure they are not blocked.

Hire a professional to inspect your heating and cooling system at the beginning of each season.

Buy a maintenance contract to cover regular service of major heating and cooling systems.

Hire a professional to inspect and clean the chimney and flue.

Call a professional if you see rust, hear odd sounds or detect odd smells from the system.

Electrical Systems

Don’t overload outlets, circuits or extension cords. If in doubt, have a professional check the current consumption of your plugged-in items, the capacity of the circuit, and the capacity of the cords.

Hire a professional to install ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlets wherever they are required by the electrical code and particularly near water and outdoor locations.

Check electrical cords for fraying and cracking, and replace them if necessary.

Never run cords under rugs or furniture.

Consider hiring a professional to upgrade your electrical service from a fuse system to a circuit-breaker system.

Install a surge protector in your electrical service entrance panel (usually your main circuit breaker panel, where the power enters the house) and install individual surge protectors at all major appliance connections.

Plumbing Systems

Drain pipes and washing machine hoses if you will be away from your property for an extended period.

Hire a professional to install shut-offs in convenient locations, particularly before bathroom and kitchen fixtures.

Inspect the hot water heater for rust stains or water on or around the base. This can indicate a leaking valve or cracked tank.

Inspect and repair caulk around tub and toilet fixtures.

Turn off faucets leading to washing machine hoses when not using the washer.

 

 

Used with permission from Penn National Insurance. Please visit their website for more helpful information:  Penn National Insurance

 

Posted 1:37 PM


TUESDAY, APRIL 1, 2025

What is an Umbrella Liability Policy

Personal Umbrella CoverageWHAT IS AN UMBRELLA POLICY?

Your home, auto, farm or business policies cover you for certain risks and specific limits. But sometimes you might need more coverage than these policies can provide. An Umbrella policy is designed to protect you against a catastrophic lawsuit or judgment. It provides an additional layer of coverage over and above the liability coverage found in your home, auto, farm, or business liability policies.

WHY DO I NEED AN UMBRELLA POLICY?

An Umbrella policy can help to protect you from a potential financial catastrophe. In today’s litigious society, it’s not uncommon to hear about very large jury awards. An Umbrella policy can help to protect the assets that you’ve worked hard for and accumulated over the years. Review the liability limits listed in your home, auto, farm, or business policies – if a large judgment was awarded against you, how would you pay it?

WHAT DOES AN UMBRELLA LIABILITY POLICY COVER?

An Umbrella liability policy covers you and your family or your business for most bodily injury, property damage and personal injury losses. Defense coverage is available for defending claims and suits if coverage applies. Defense costs are paid in addition to the policy limit. Limits of $1 million, or more, are available if you qualify. No matter where you travel, your Umbrella liability policy is with you. It covers you anywhere in the world. We offer Personal, Farm, and Commercial Umbrella Liability policies. Talk with your agent to learn more about Goodville Mutual’s Umbrella liability policy options. We developed these questions and answers to help you think about how an Umbrella policy might be valuable to you. We recommend that you seek professional advice from your attorney or accountant as it applies to your specific legal and financial needs.

Posted 2:50 PM


SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2025

What will cause my insurance premium to increase?

a close up of a carWhat will cause my insurance premium to increase?

A number of factors and characteristics come into play when Penn National Insurance calculates your auto insurance premium. Many of the factors are changes you may make:

  • Increasing coverages such as Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability, Medical Payment and Personal Injury Protection options
  • Lowering your deductibles for Collision and Other-Than-Collision coverages
  • Changing the use of your vehicle, including the number of miles driven annually or to work
  • Adding a new driver, particularly one who is young or a driver with limited driving experience
  • Moving to an area where insurance rates are higher
  • Purchasing a new vehicle and adding it to the policy
  • Accidents or moving violations

Additionally, insurance companies may increase rates due to the rising costs of claims (medical bills, vehicle repairs, lawsuits, etc.). A company’s rate change can only be applied at the policy’s next renewal date (not mid-term), and the rate change requires approval from the state insurance department.

 

Used with permission from Penn National Insurance

Posted 1:12 PM


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