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What Is Insurance And Why Is It Important – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

What is Insurance and Why is it Important?

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Have you ever had a moment — while looking at your insurance policy or shopping for insurance — when you’ve thought, “What is insurance? And do I really need it?”

You’re not alone.

Insurance can be a mysterious and puzzling thing. How does insurance work? What are the benefits of insurance? And how do you find the best insurance for you? These are common questions, and fortunately, there are some easy-to-understand answers for them.

To help, here are a few simple insurance explanations:

What is insurance?

Insurance is a financial safety net, helping you and your loved ones recover after something bad happens — such as a fire, theft, lawsuit or car accident. When you purchase insurance, you’ll receive an insurance policy, which is a legal contract between you and your insurance provider. And when you suffer a loss that’s covered by your policy and file a claim, insurance pays you or a designated recipient, called a beneficiary, based on the terms of your policy.

The most difficult thing about insurance is that you’re paying for something you hope you never have to use. Nobody wants something bad to happen to them. But suffering a loss without insurance can put you in a difficult financial situation.

What are the benefits of insurance?

Insurance is an important financial tool. It can help you live life with fewer worries knowing you’ll receive financial assistance after a disaster or accident, helping you recover faster. When it comes to life insurance, this could mean your family doesn’t have to move out of the house or that your kids can afford to go to college. For auto insurance, it could mean you have extra cash in hand to help pay for repairs or a replacement vehicle after an accident. Insurance can help keep your life on track, as much as possible, after something bad derails it.

Your independent agent is a great resource to learn more about the benefits of insurance, as well as the benefits in your specific insurance policy. For example, you may have access to perks such as free roadside assistance, risk control consulting for businesses, or cash value in a life insurance policy, in addition to your insurance coverage.

And in some cases, like auto insurance and workers’ compensation, you may be required by law to have insurance in order to protect others.

How does insurance work?

Insurance is essentially a gigantic rainy day fund shared by many people (called policyholders) and managed by an insurance carrier. The insurance company uses money collected (called a premium) from its policyholders and other investments to pay for its operations and to fulfill its promise to policyholders when they file a claim.

Because of the unpredictable nature of natural disasters — like tornadoes, hail, wildfires and hurricanes, and everyday disasters such as fender benders and kitchen fires — an insurance company’s main goal is to remain financially strong enough to handle anything that comes its policyholders’ way.

How do I choose an insurance provider?

Here are a few things to consider when choosing an insurance company to work with:

  • Insurance coverage. What types of insurance does the company offer? Can you buy all of your insurance through the company and receive a discount?
  • Financial strength. Would the company be able to pay your claim? Look to U.S. credit rating agency AM Best to determine the company’s financial strength.
  • Agency model. Would you prefer the help of a local agent? Or would you prefer to manage your insurance on your own?
  • Customer service. Do others recommend this company? What are people saying about it in online customer reviews?

When in doubt, contact Shield Agency and ask them any questions you have about insurance. Shield agents are insurance experts with the knowledge to guide you through the process and help you find the best protection for you and the people and things you care about most.

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Package Theft And How To Avoid It – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Package Theft and How to Avoid it

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Not on my porch: How to avoid package theft

Package Theft: For all the convenience that ordering online gives us, there is an unfortunate downside – our delivery may be taken by someone else before we’re able to get our hands on it.

Package theft, especially around the holidays, is a growing inconvenience for many consumers. Approximately 26 million Americans say they’ve experienced package theft, with the number increasing every year as “porch pirates” get bolder and ordering online grows in popularity.1

No one wants to fall victim to the antics of a porch pirate – including you. Consider implementing these low-cost solutions so your package makes it off the porch and into your home.

  1. Ship it to work.
    Keep your package off the porch in the first place. If your company allows, consider shipping your packages to your workplace instead of your home.
  2. Enlist a neighbor’s help.
    Do you have a neighbor or a friend that’s usually home? If so, see if they can wait for your package or keep an eye out for it.
  3. Require a signature.
    Consider requesting a signature for your package to be dropped off. That way, your package won’t be left on your porch exposed to potential thieves.
  4. Be proactive.
    If you’re sending a package, ask the recipient to share information on the safest way for them to receive deliveries.
  5. Take advantage of alternative delivery options and alerts.
    FedEx, the U.S. Postal Service and UPS all have alternative pickup and delivery options available. Visit their websites to explore your options and update your delivery preferences. You can also sign up for delivery alerts to track your package and stay up-to-date on delivery times.
  6. Get technical.
    Consider investing in low-cost technologies like automatic light timers and motion-censored lights.
  7. Keep your porch clear and visible.
    It may seem counter-intuitive, but if a thief has no place to hide, they’re less likely to take the risk of going up to your porch in the first place.
  8. Ask for your box to be nondescript.
    Ordering from a high-end store? Consider marking the “gift” checkbox when you purchase so the package comes in a plain box. You can also request this of friends and family so your box doesn’t grab attention.
  9. Find strength in numbers.
    Neighborhood groups on social media or community apps like Nextdoor can provide your neighborhood a system for reporting suspicious activity to each other.
  10. Visit the UPS article on How to keep packages safe from box bandits

It may not be a low-cost option, but our list wouldn’t be complete without the recommendation of a home security device. Signs announcing the presence of a home security system can go a long way in your efforts to scare off a thief. In fact, homes without security systems are 300% more likely to be broken into or vandalized.2 Bonus: You may be able to receive a discount on your homeowners’ insurance. Contact one of our agents for details.

Strategically-placed security cameras, or devices like video doorbells and lock boxes, can also go a long way in mitigating package theft and have increased in popularity for their ability to catch thieves in the act.

As long as you’re shipping products to your door, there’s a chance your package will be a target. Use these strategies to deter package theft and finally get rid of porch pirates for good.

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Does A Homeowners Policy Cover Appliances – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Homeowners Insurance and Major Appliances

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Homeowners Insurance |

Is a home appliance covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy

We often overlook our home appliances until there’s an issue — the refrigerator quits, a tree crashes into our A/C unit or an oven is damaged beyond repair in a kitchen fire.

But maybe it’s time we start to take notice. After all, home appliances are some of the hardest working members of our homes, and the cost to replace a home appliance can be significant. An A/C unit, for example, can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 to replace.

Before an issue arises, take the time to speak with one of our insurance agents and find out when your home appliances are covered by the standard homeowner’s insurance policy. Prepare now so you can more quickly replace your home appliance when you need it most.

When are home appliances covered by a standard Homeowners Insurance policy?

When it applies to your Homeowners Insurance Policy.

All of the home appliances that help keep your home running are typically covered by a standard homeowners’ insurance policy when a peril covered by that policy is the culprit. So, if your oven is destroyed during a kitchen fire or if someone steals your toaster oven during a burglary, those losses would be covered by home insurance.

Appliances that are installed at your home, like your HVAC system, are also typically covered by a standard homeowners’ insurance policy.

Not covered when the issue is caused by age or normal wear and tear.

Similar to other types of insurance coverage, a home appliance would not be covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy if the issue is caused by age or normal wear and tear. Also remember that if you’re renting your home, your landlord is typically responsible for maintaining or replacing any home appliances that came with the property.

If you’re unsure if your home appliance would be covered by your home insurance policy, call or text our office at 616-896-4600 and one of our agents will help you review your home insurance policy and answer any questions you have.

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Ladder Safety Tips Everyone Should Know – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Ladder safety tips everyone should know

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Ladder Safety

Ladder Safety. Remember in old cartoons when the main character is caught wobbling at the top of an extension ladder? A funny skit ensues as the ladder inevitably begins to fall and a friend scurries around under an expanding shadow trying to catch them.

Scaling a ladder in real life, we know, is a lot more serious. According to OSHA, portable ladders (step, straight, combination, and extension ladders) are one of the leading causes of falls and injuries to workers on the job. Knowing how to use a ladder properly at home or at work decreases your chances of risk and injury.

From cleaning your gutters to fixing a roof, you’ll most likely need a ladder to get the job done. Keep these ladder safety tips in mind the next time you climb to ensure the job is completed in a safe and timely manner.

Before use

Preparation is key to ladder safety. Keep these tips in mind before you climb:

  • Inspect the ladder for cracked or broken parts such as rungs, steps, side rails and locking components.
  • Be sure all locks on an extension ladder are properly engaged.
  • Do not place ladders on boxes, barrels, tables or other unstable objects to gain additional height.
  • Make sure all tools and materials are securely fastened to the ladder to prevent falling.
  • Do not use a self-supporting ladder, like a step ladder, as a single ladder or in the partially open position.
  • An extension ladder should extend three feet above the point of support.
  • To set your ladder at the right angle, place its base a quarter of the working length of the ladder from the wall or other vertical surface.
  • If using a ladder outside, do not use in windy or inclement weather.
  • Check in with yourself: Avoid using a ladder if you feel dizzy, tired or are impaired.

During use

Ladder safety doesn’t stop on the ground. Keep these tips in mind while your ladder is in use:

  • Do not exceed the maximum load rating of the ladder. Read and follow manufacturer’s labels and warnings for use and weight rating.
  • When climbing, maintain three points of contact through a combination of hands and feet at all times.
  • Don’t stand on the top rung of the ladder unless it’s designed for such activity.
  • Never have someone climb up to bring you something. Only one person should be on a ladder at a time.
  • Don’t move the ladder while it’s in use.
  • Don’t lean or overreach. Reposition the ladder instead.
  • Face the ladder and always grip the rungs, not the side rails.

This article is for informational and suggestion purposes only. To learn more about your insurance needs, contact Shield Insurance Agency.

References:
– Grange Risk Management
– Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
– National Safety Council (NSC)

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Homeowners Discount For Insurance – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Homeowners Discount for Insurance

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Dependable homeowners insurance shouldn’t have to strain your family’s budget. Nationwide helps you get affordable insurance by offering a range of homeowners discounts. Find out which homeowners insurance discounts you qualify for and start your quote today.

Multi-policy for a Homeowners Discount

Combine and save. Get a discount on home and renters insurance when you bundle your property and auto insurance with Nationwide.

Protective device

Get a discount if your home has smoke detectors, fire alarms, burglar alarms, or other qualifying devices.

Claims-free

You may qualify for a lower premium on your home insurance when you stay claims-free.

Home renovation credit

Get a homeowners insurance discount for renovating your home’s plumbing, heating, cooling, or electrical systems.

Roof rating

Save money based on your roof’s age and surface type.

Home purchase

Receive a discount if you purchased a home within the last 12 months.

Prior insurance

This discount is available to new members and is based on the number of years you were continuously insured by your previous carrier.

Gated community

A discount is available when all vehicle entrances to your community are protected at all times by security guards, residence cards, or key-lock devices.

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8 Lesser Known Home Insurance Facts – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

8 Lesser-Known Home Insurance Facts

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

8 lesser known home insurance facts: what you should know

Having home insurance can help keep you financially sound when disaster strikes. It covers damages to your abode, protects your belongings, and safeguards your liability — but there are more obscure areas of coverage you may not be aware of. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 8 lesser-known (but nevertheless crucial) home insurance facts you should know about.

1. an insurer cannot cancel your home insurance policy without a good reason

If your policy has been active for more than 60 days, your insurer cannot legally cancel it, unless you fail to pay your premium, lie on your application, or commit fraud.

Your insurance company can, however, decide not to renew your policy — typically around the one-year anniversary of its start date. In most states, a homeowners insurance company has to give at least 30 days’ notice to the insured as well as an explanation for why the policy has been non-renewed.

If you receive a notice of non-renewal, don’t fret! It doesn’t necessarily mean you did anything wrong, nor does it mean you won’t be able to find insurance elsewhere. It could be that coverage is simply no longer available in your region, or your property no longer fits your insurer’s guidelines. In any case, there are options at your disposal and ways to bounce back if your home insurer decides not to renew your policy.

2. certain dog breeds can make it difficult to buy home insurance

No one knows how slobbery and cuddly your wolf-coyote hybrid is better than you. But you might run into complications when trying to find adequate homeowners coverage for your beloved pooch’s breed. The average homeowner’s insurance policy includes liability coverage for all household members, which is why insurance companies are on guard when it comes to particular dog breeds they’re willing to insure — especially when you consider the fact that dog bites account for a third of all liability claims, each averaging $30,000. For this reason, most home insurers won’t provide coverage if you have a pit bull or the aforesaid wolf hybrid. Other blacklisted breeds typically include:

  • Rottweilers
  • German Shepherds
  • Akitas
  • Staffordshire terriers
  • A cross-mix of any of the above breeds

Rules for how insurers can regard certain dog breeds vary by state. In Michigan, for instance, an insurance company cannot deny coverage based on your canine’s breed alone, but you may see a higher premium.

3. your credit may have an influence on your premium

As you may already know, your credit history wields influence in various venues of your financial life — from apartment rentals to the interest rate on your leased car. But did you know it could also affect your home insurance premium?

Roughly 85 percent of home insurers use certain attributes of your credit score to create what is called a “credit-based insurance score” (CBI). That’s because studies show a strong correlation between someone’s financial risk and the likelihood that he or she will file a claim.

This isn’t necessarily a bad thing though. According to the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America, studies have shown that most policyholders get a better deal when CBI scores are used to determine a premium since there’s greater accuracy.

However, there are a few states, including California, Massachusetts, and Maryland, that prohibit insurance companies from factoring in a credit history to set policy rates. If you live in a state where the practice is permitted, you have the right to obtain your score through LexisNexis, and learn how different factors were used to determine your policy rate.

4. your lender can restrict the size of your deductible

The deductible is the amount you agree to pay for a loss before your insurance coverage kicks in. Many homeowners try to earn savings on their premiums by raising their deductible. But mortgage lenders typically won’t allow you to set your deductible at more than $1,200. That’s because your lender has a stake in your property too, and should anything happen to it, they want to have the peace of mind (much like you do) that the necessary repairs will be covered.

Moreover, they will likely require that they be listed as the “loss payee” on your homeowner’s policy — which means that if disaster rears its ugly head, the reimbursement would go to them, where they’ll ensure it’s used to repair the damage or pay off the loan.

5. maintaining a home inventory is paramount

Taking stock of all your belongings (that’s right, all your belongings) is very important. Not only does a home inventory give you an idea of how valuable your belongings are, but it’s also a helpful way to determine a sufficient personal property coverage amount. Additionally, having a record of your stuff can be very useful during the claims process if you ever experience a loss.

Recording the details of your items — from brand and model, to purchase price and serial number — is no simple task. But following some useful home inventory guidelines could mean the difference between financial hardship and quickly getting back on your feet if you ever need to file a claim.

6. you can reopen a claim after you’ve received reimbursement

If your home is damaged by a windstorm or fire, your homeowner’s insurance company will assess the loss, and reimburse you to repair or replace the damaged portion. But sometimes you may discover additional damage that had gone previously unnoticed. Luckily, you may be able to reopen the claim so that any supplementary damage can be addressed.

Bear in mind that, depending on the state in which you live, claims for damage usually have to be filed within a year of the loss date. If you’re ever unsure, your best bet is to contact your insurer or your state’s department of insurance.

7. your home remodeling project isn’t automatically covered

Thinking of building a front porch or constructing an in-ground swimming pool? If so, it’s always wise to notify your homeowner’s insurance company before you begin your project.

That’s because you’ll likely need to update your home insurance policy to reflect the additions and determine whether you’ll need financial protection during the course of the project. If you fail to do so and the project is damaged in the process, your renovation may not be covered. Additionally, you run the risk of getting dropped by your home insurance company. For this reason, it’s best to be totally up front with your insurer.

And before you commence the remodel, make sure all contractors and subcontractors involved carry their own insurance and ask to see physical copies of it. That should include both worker’s compensation and general liability policies. If they don’t have sufficient coverage, a worker could sue you if he or she gets hurt on the job.

8. adding home safety features could lower your premium

Many home insurance companies (including Esurance) offer discounts if you outfit your pad with security features, such as burglar alarms, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and water safety systems. That’s because these safety devices help safeguard the home against common perils, thus reducing the likelihood that you’ll have to file a claim.

In addition, you could earn savings if no one on your policy smokes, if your roof has hail-resistant shingles, or if you install storm shutters on your windows’ exteriors. The fewer risks there are, the more affordable your insurance rate is likely to be.

And at Esurance, the perks don’t just end there. For starters, you could earn savings the moment you purchase a policy with us, and if you go just one year without filing a claim, you’ll see your premium continue to go down. Plus, if you do have to file a claim (hey, it happens), our claim forgiveness program will prevent your premium from hiking up.

Get a fast, free homeowners quote today and learn about our other myriad discounts as well as wide-ranging coverages customized to fit your lifestyle.

Have questions or concerns about homeowners insurance? Feel free to give us a ring at 616-896-4600, where our agents are here to help you along the way.

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Ice Dams Create Roof Danger – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Ice Dams Create Roof Danger

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

You may be feeling cozy and warm in your home as the snow serenely falls outside. But, up on your roof, a dangerous situation could be forming – one that can compromise your roof and lead to water damage inside your home. It’s all the result of an ice dam. If you live in a snowy area and you’re not familiar with what an ice dam is, it’s imperative that you read on.

What Is an Ice Dam?

An ice dam is a ridge of ice that forms along the edge of your roof and prevents snowmelt from running off. It often occurs because heat from the attic warms the middle of your roof, causing snow to melt. When that runoff reaches the eaves, or overhang, of your roof, the cooler surface temperature (there’s no heat rising from inside your home to this part of the roof) can cause the water to refreeze. As this happens over and over, an ice dam forms, preventing melted snow from running off your roof.

Do Ice Dams Cause Damage?

Yes, ice dams cause the water from melted snow to back up under the shingles of your roof and into your home – the water doesn’t have anywhere else to go. This can damage your roof, not to mention your interior. And, remember, water damage can lead to toxic mold inside your home.

How Can I Prevent Ice Dams?

An easy way to help prevent ice dams is to keep your eaves, gutters, downspouts, and drains clear. This way water can drain away from your home as the snow melts on your roof. It’s ideal to have your gutters cleaned out before the snow season even begins. While you’re at it, install gutter screens for added protection.

Here are some other ways to help prevent ice dams:

  • Keep your attic cool. Proper insulation between your living areas and attic will help keep warm air from escaping into your attic and warming your roof. Ideally, during a snow storm, your attic won’t be more than 10 degrees warmer than the temperature outside.
  • Remove snow with a roof rake. Only if you can safely do so, remove accumulated snow from your roof using a long-handled roof rake, a specialized tool for clearing roofs, that won’t damage your roofing material. Do this from the ground. Never climb on top of a snowy roof.
  • Update your roof with materials that help prevent ice dams. These include a rubberized, water-repellent membrane underneath the shingles and a heating cable along the eaves. For either installation, consult a professional.

Ice dams may not be the first thing you think about once the snow stops coming down. After all, there’s the sidewalk and driveway to clear. But, for the sake of your roof and the integrity of your overall home, it’s important to keep an eye out for this winter roof danger.

So, how can you spot ice dams? Icicles may be a sign of ice dams, a buildup of snow and ice along your eaves that blocks water runoff. Discolored ceilings or walls may indicate that your ice dam has turned into a leak.

Remember, in the midst of this harsh winter, it’s important to keep your gutters clear, your roof updated and an eye out for the signs of ice dams. If you suspect trouble, call a trusted roofing contractor at once.

Need Homeowners Insurance Coverage?

Talk to Shield Agency about homeowners insurance coverage that’s right for you.

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Insurance Terms Important to Know - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Common Insurance Terms Made Easy

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Insurance can be confusing…we get it! But we’re here to help provide you with a better insurance experience. Learn more about what these common insurance terms mean so you can be prepared when looking for a policy.

For customer information or to get a quote, please visit our website at www.ShieldAgency.com .

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5 Tips for Millennials Buying Insurance

5 Tips for Millennials Buying Insurance

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Millennials Buying Insurance |

Adulting (verb) – acting like an adult or engaging in activities usually associated with adulthood, often responsible or boring tasks.1

5 Tips for Millennials Buying Insurance

If you’re a millennial, you know this definition all too well. You’ve reached the age where you may be taking out student loans, buying or renting a place to live, having kids, and, ultimately, purchasing insurance. These major life events for millennials make it extremely important to have a financial security net. And that’s exactly what insurance is: a financial security net. So it’s troubling that a survey from Princeton Survey Research Associates International named millennials the most under-insured generation.

There are many reasons why people of all generations avoid purchasing insurance. It‘s often seen as a big investment, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s an expensive one. In fact, insurance probably costs less than you think. For instance, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), millennials overestimated the cost of renters insurance by more than five times its actual cost per year.

Also, the complicated terms can make finding a policy a puzzling experience and the subject matter can be tough to digest. No one wants to think about being in a car accident, experiencing a break-in, losing everything in an apartment fire, or any other sort of bad, unexpected event. But these things can happen, so you’ll want to be prepared.

And don’t let any initial confusion or preconceived notions drive you away. You’re a millennial, after all! Your generation is always tackling new challenges and expanding the way the world works, oftentimes in brilliant ways.

Insurance provides essential financial protection for your future, so now’s the time to start “adulting” and take that first step.

Here are five tips:

  1. Shop smart. When looking for insurance, your No. 1 priority should be to find adequate coverage. Price is important, but you’ll want to determine what coverage you need first. Then you can fit that coverage into your budget and determine which carrier can provide you with the most comprehensive policy. You may be tempted to choose insurance with the lowest price tag, but if you don’t have enough coverage (or the right kind of coverage), you will see less financial benefit when it comes time to file a claim.
  2. Look for discounts. Once you evaluate your coverage needs, factor in your budget and find ways to save. Ask your insurance agent if there are any discounts on your coverage. Often, carriers offer discounts for things like paying your policy in full, staying auto accident-free or, if you’re in school, getting good grades. You also can save money by “bundling” multiple policies, such as purchasing a home and auto policy from the same carrier.
  3. Fill in the gaps. An average policy will cover the basics, but you may need to add extra coverage to meet your unique needs. For instance, you may have items like electronics or a nice piece of jewelry that would be financially difficult to replace, even with the assistance of your average renters or homeowners policy. You may want to add additional coverage for these items.
  4. Purchase life insurance—you aren’t too young. Life insurance is essential, no matter how young or old you are. And for millennials, buying now may be a smart move because it’s cheaper to buy a life insurance policy when you’re young and healthy. This kind of insurance can help your family cover unexpected costs in your absence, including student loan debt or a mortgage, in addition to end-of-life costs. And if you have kids, a life insurance policy can also support their education or childcare expenses. Additionally, every millennial should consider long-term disability coverage, which helps you stay afloat financially if an accident happens and you become disabled and unable to work.
  5. Talk to an independent agent. An independent insurance agent is an essential resource when purchasing insurance—especially if this is your first time. An independent agent works with multiple carriers, different from captive agents who can only sell insurance from the carrier they work for. Working with an independent agent can help make sure that you are getting the best coverage, for the best price. You’ll also benefit from independent agents’ insurance knowledge; they know how to talk you through your options and actually explain what each policy includes. An independent agent will make sure all of your assets are covered, help you find discounts or other ways to save, and be a valuable resource as your life changes and your insurance needs change, too.

Find a local independent agent and start protecting your finances today.

1 – Grammar Girl

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New Year Foresight In 2020 – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

New Year: Foresight in 2020

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

They say, “Hindsight is 20/20.” 

As we approach the new year, the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) is encouraging you to exercise “Foresight in 2020.”   

While it’s easy to look back on where and how we failed to protect our assets, it is exponentially more beneficial to look forward and try to predict where we can best insulate ourselves from insurance crime and theft. By studying where we are vulnerable, we can identify weaknesses and adapt improvements that protect us, our families, and our property. From small precautions, like making sure we don’t leave valuables in our vehicles, to more extensive protections, like installing home security systems, we can exercise foresight in 2020 and stop crime before it happens. Law enforcement agencies across the country now engage in the practice of intelligence-based policing.

This methodology uses past data to identify and predict the patterns and behavior of criminals. NICB and our members follow suit, by identifying known threats and patterns in order to properly educate our consumers. You too can be an advocate in this preemptive strike against crime. Educate yourself, take precautions, and be vigilant. By using foresight in 2020, we can win the battle against crime.  

The best deterrent continues to be vigilance.

If there is a vacant home or business in your area, and you see suspicious or unusual activity around the property, call your local law enforcement. If any vehicles are involved, jot down their descriptions and license plates. Also, note the clothing and physical appearance of any person(s). All of this is very helpful to investigators. 

NICB reminds consumers to make sure your vehicle is locked when unattended. Don’t leave spare keys or fobs inside. Take a moment and be sure to hide your valuables from view. Even an empty bag or extra change in view looks appealing to a thief from the outside. 

Do things to protect your home, by locking your doors and investing in a home security system.  

Anyone with information concerning insurance fraud or vehicle theft can report it anonymously by calling toll-free 800.TEL.NICB (800.835.6422) or submitting a form on our website.

About the National Insurance Crime Bureau:

Headquartered in Des Plaines, Ill., the NICB is the nation’s leading not-for-profit organization exclusively dedicated to preventing, detecting, and defeating insurance fraud and vehicle theft through data analytics, investigations, learning and development, government affairs, and public affairs. The NICB is supported by more than 1,300 property and casualty insurance companies and self-insured organizations. NICB member companies wrote over $496 billion in insurance premiums in 2018 or more than 81% of the nation’s property-casualty insurance. That includes more than 92% ($254 billion) of the nation’s personal auto insurance. To learn more visit www.nicb.org.

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