Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Welcome to the Shield Insurance Agency Blog. 

Here you will find a ton of articles on each of these topics: Auto Insurance, Boat/Watercraft Insurance, Business Insurance, Flood Insurance, Health Insurance, Home Insurance, Insurance, Life Insurance, Michigan Auto Insurance Reform, Recreational Insurance, Renters Insurance, RV Insurance, Things To Do At Home, Umbrella Insurance, and even a list of the Shield Agency Weekly Gift Card Winners,

If you have any suggestions for content, please drop us an email.

In case of emergency: How to prepare your phone

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | prepare your phone | Start a Quote Today!

Today, our phones are rarely outside of our reach. This makes them one of the best tools we have for quickly responding to an emergency situation and increasing the chances of a more positive outcome.

How prepared is your phone to handle an emergency?

In most emergency situations, you would be the one to contact someone for help. So, it’s important to take a few minutes to research and save important emergency contact numbers on your phone so you can make the call immediately and get help faster.

Here are the main emergency phone numbers to save on your phone:

  • Your emergency contact, such as a parent, spouse or close friend
  • Police, 911 in the United States for emergencies
  • Poison Control Center
  • State Highway Patrol
  • Your nearest police and fire department (for non-emergencies)

You should also consider saving these important numbers in your phone to help you in an emergency:

  • Your doctor, pediatrician and/or veterinarian
  • Your pharmacy
  • Home health aides
  • Your insurance company
  • Your roadside assistance provider
  • Your employer
  • Your child’s school or caregiver
  • A nearby relative or friend
  • An out-of-town relative or friend

There are also some emergency situations, like a bad fall or car accident, where you might not be able to communicate with first responders. For this reason, it’s important to take these two steps:

  1. Add an emergency contact in your phone, such as a parent, spouse or close friend who can come to your aid.
  2. If your phone locks, set up a lock screen message to communicate helpful information to first responders, like your emergency contact, blood type, allergies and medications.

Depending on the type of phone you’re using, there are different ways to add a lock screen message.

iPhone users can use the Health app on their phones to add their basic personal information, important medical details, and emergency contact numbers within the Medical ID tab and make them accessible from their lock screen. Just make sure you select “Show When Locked” and test it out after you’ve finished setting it up.

Android users can set up their lock screen message by going into their Settings, Users & Accounts, and then Emergency Information. Enter your medical information and emergency contact. Then test it out by locking your phone, swiping up, and tapping “Emergency” to find the information you entered.

Additionally, Android lets you put any message you want on your locked screen. To do this, open your Settings, go to Security & Location, and next to the Screen Lock tab hit Settings. Then, tap Lock Screen Message. Here, you can enter your primary emergency contact or important medication information so that it always displays on your locked phone screen.

Because it’s difficult to predict when or where an emergency will happen, it is a smart idea to update your phone now so that you’re prepared to handle any situation that comes your way in the future. Be safe out there!

Read More
5 Common (and Potentially Costly) Homeowners Mistakes - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

5 Common (and Potentially Costly) Homeowners Mistakes

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

5 Common (and Potentially Costly) Homeowners Mistakes

Owning a home is usually a great experience. But it can also be a hassle, especially when unexpected issues pop up—whether you have a minor breakdown or a major catastrophe, it’s almost certainly going to require time and money to fix.

In many instances, however, those “unexpected” issues shouldn’t really be a surprise at all, because they’re often caused by a lack of maintenance or other oversights by homeowners. And not just new homeowners, either: It’s common for people who have been in a home for years to neglect even some of the most basic tasks that can prevent problems down the road.

Here are five mistakes we often see homeowners make—and tips from experts to help you avoid them.

Forgetting about (or ignoring) the small stuff. 

The toilet that runs constantly? That faucet with a slow drip? The little crack in that one board on the deck? They might not seem like big problems, but they can turn into bigger issues over time. For example, a leaky faucet or running toilet might mean your water bill is higher than it should be. And that small crack can lead to rot, which could lead to having to replace the board—or the entire deck. When you see “small” things around the house, take steps to address them as soon as you can, because it likely will be a lot easier (and cheaper) today or tomorrow than a year from now.

Not doing regular checks around the house. 

Speaking of seeing things around the house, how often do you look around the house? You’d be surprised how many homeowners haven’t been in their attic or crawlspace for years. It’s a good idea to do a walk-through periodically to look for issues such as leaks, areas of wear, or other problems. And don’t forget to go outside! How is your roof looking? Do you see any cracks in your siding? Are the seals around your doors and windows solid? It’s important to catch those things before the rainy season begins in fall and winter.

Skipping maintenance on your appliances. 

Not only will keeping your appliances in good shape ensure they work effectively and prolong their lifespan, maintenance also can prevent serious risks. For example, when was the last time you cleaned out your dryer exhaust vent? No, not the screen you pull out when you’re doing laundry, but the one on the back or side. Too much lint buildup there can cause a fire—so clean it out at least once a year. You also should check the hoses connected to your washing machine and dishwasher. Are they worn? Do they need to be replaced? Do it now, before one fails when you’re not at home and causes significant water damage.

Other tips:

  • Clean your refrigerator coils at least once a year.
  • Clear out your dishwasher’s food filter regularly.
  • Vacuum up dust and other debris in window air conditioners before you start using them each year.
  • Remember to test your smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors twice a year, installing fresh batteries each time.

Neglecting other systems. 

Your HVAC system needs attention so it won’t fail when you need it most. Having your furnace, heat pump and/or central AC unit serviced each year before you start using them heavily will alert you to any potential problems. You don’t want to find out that your furnace is out of whack when it’s 30 degrees outside, or that your AC is on the fritz when it’s 95. Change filters at the appropriate intervals, and if it’s been a while since you’ve had your ducts cleaned, consider that as well.

Not having a home warranty. 

Despite your best maintenance efforts, that air conditioner might break down, leaving you sweltering in the summer. The water heater could stop working, meaning cold showers every morning. Or the refrigerator suddenly won’t get very cold anymore. These things sometimes just happen, and if your appliance is out of warranty, you’re on the hook. Consider discussing coverages available under the American Home Shield® Home Warranty product, available through Safeco. This product covers breakdowns of appliances and systems, potentially saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars on repairs or replacements. Learn more here.

Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so it pays to be diligent about caring for it. Keep your eyes open around the house. Don’t hesitate to get out the tools, or call a professional if needed. Remember, prevention is the best medicine—and that old saying holds true just as much for your home’s health as it does for yours.

Read More
Home Security Technology Keeping You Ahead Of The Burglars – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Home Security Technology: Keeping You Ahead of the Burglars

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Back in the early days of home security “systems,” around the end of World War I, it was common for homeowners to hire “door shakers”—night watchmen who would literally walk around and check doors to make sure they were locked. The most advanced product at the time, according to the Electronic Security Association, was an alarm system that used electromagnetic contacts on doors and windows and rang a bell if disturbed.

Things are just a little bit different now, thanks to expanding technology and decreasing costs. Regular homeowners now have access to the types of tools and systems that were previously attainable only by celebrities and the wealthy.

It’s especially important to be thinking about security with the increase of online shopping. More packages are being delivered on a regular basis and porch pirates can easily swoop in and snatch your new items.

If you’re into tech, you might even find that getting set up is fun. And if you’re into saving money, many companies offer insurance discounts for having specific home-monitoring systems, so check your policy or ask an agent for details.

Here’s a rundown of some of the options you have to protect your home, from all-in-one systems to separate components for do-it-yourselfers.

Full-service systems

There are a number of companies that offer full-service security systems with central monitoring—and the list is growing, with cable and wireless companies (Xfinity, AT&T, etc.) getting into the mix more prominently along with familiar names such as ADT and Brinks. These systems can feature video surveillance, remote access, smoke and carbon monoxide detection, even medical alerts in case you have an emergency. Many now offer home-automation tools so you can control lighting, heating, cooling, and other appliances when you’re away from home.

Most systems also can be configured to send you alerts via text message—so you know when the kids have gotten home from school safely, for example.

Full security systems such as these often have installation costs, along with equipment fees and monthly bills, of course. But if you don’t feel tech-savvy enough to install your own system, you don’t want to deal with the hassle, or you want something with central monitoring, a full system might be right for you.

Do-it-yourself options

If you’d rather set up your own system, many companies offer starter packs with a few components to get you going, allowing you to add what you need and exclude what you don’t. Some provide security features without much in the way of home automation, while others can serve as the hub for a connected home—it’s up to you.

You can create your own custom security system through the use of individual products, too, although you’ll want to ensure everything works together. Here are some of the options on that front:

Smart cameras and sensors

Installing cameras used to mean dealing with bulky equipment and yards of wiring. Today, cameras are unobtrusive, wireless, and capable of much more than previous models. Many are combined with floodlights or doorbells and use motion activation, saving data-storage space and battery power by recording only when there’s a reason to record. Some can send live feeds to you remotely when motion is detected, too. One startup even has motion sensors that don’t use infrared light—instead, they look for disturbances in the wireless signals that bounce around throughout your home.

Keyless entry systems

Even items as basic as the locks on your doors have undergone revolutionary changes. You might not think you need an entry system that relies on a code or a smartphone, but they can come in very handy at times. Say, for example, you need to let a trusted repairman into your home while you’re away, but you don’t want to risk hiding a key outside. With a keyless system (or a hybrid version that uses both keys and codes), you simply provide a temporary code for the repairman to use.

Home automation

Have you ever forgotten to leave a light on while you’re away? Burglars thrive in the dark, and lights both inside and outside your home, along with noise from TVs, radios, etc., can be powerful deterrents. Thankfully, you can have more control than ever—from anywhere in the world. And just like some professionally installed systems or do-it-yourself starter packages, many individual components tie in home-automation features as well.

Of course, there are still some classic tools and techniques you can use to deter crime, no matter how tech-savvy you are: Don’t broadcast on social media when you’re going to be on vacation or away for the night. Keep valuables out of plain sight. Make sure your windows and doors are locked. And don’t forget the security system that will love you back—a watchdog!

Read More
Umbrella Insurance Policies – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Umbrella Insurance Policies

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | Umbrella Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

Hello everyone, this is Tj Simmons from Shield Insurance, and today I wanted to write a blog about an Umbrella Policy, and what it actually means, and how to actually use it, and then I am going to show some examples of Claim situations that the Umbrella Policy actually came into play. 

The first thing that I would like to mention when explaining an umbrella policy to someone – especially if they own a business, is there are two different types of Umbrella policy, Personal, and Commercial, Personal umbrella is for PERSONAL use (go Figure) and Commercial is for Commercial. 

The purpose of an Umbrella policy in Insurance is to cover the unforeseen tragic accidents that could leave you responsible for paying out of pocket if an umbrella policy was not in force. A lot of times when we ask people what an umbrella policy is for – they tell us “it is to cover the things that my regular policy does not cover” that is false. Your Umbrella policy is there for when your regular policy limits are exhausted, and there is more money to be paid out, that your regular policy has already maxed out its coverage. That is where an umbrella comes in (You can think of it like an umbrella opens up HIGHER than you, and WIDER than you, to protect you from rain.)

Umbrella Insurance

So the Umbrella is for a payout that is higher than what your current policy is written for. The Umbrella policy covers each policy that you have, as long as the carrier that is writing all of the policies, has the right guidelines. What that means is whether it’s a Liability Claim, an Auto Claim, a Workers Comp Claim, a Home Claim, RV Claim, no matter the policy, your Umbrella policy is ready to cover any payout that has exceeded the written policy limits. The easiest example that Tammy my business partner likes to use when we are discussing with people, is a car accident.

Let us say that you ran a red light and you T-Boned a car that had a high-paying Surgeon Driving. You just broke both of his hands! (yikes) this Surgeon makes $1000/Hr, and now he cannot work because his hands are shaky from getting T-Boned by you. This surgeon’s entire life now is changed because of you. After the claim situation is handled, it is stated that you must pay the Surgeon $2 Million Dollars, for hurting his hands and preventing him from working.

Your Auto Liability limit is only $1 Million per Claim, so now without an umbrella policy in force, you as the insured are on the hook to pay $1 Million dollars out of your pocket…Get ready to go Bankrupt! So – that is why you have an Umbrella policy in play. In this scenario, your umbrella policy would cover the last $1 Million, and you would just pay your deductible out of pocket. This is what the Umbrella policy is for. Here are a few more Examples – 

  • A Baby Sitter left a 5 month old infant unattended in a walker. The Infant toppled the walker, struck her head on the floor, and suffered Brain Damage. The parents of the Infant sued the teenage babysitter and her parents. The court awarded the infant’s parents $11,000,000.
  • The Insured’s Tenant Claims she became ill from Carbon Monoxide Poisoning resulting from a Faulty furnace. the Tenant Claimed Permanent brain Damage and Demanded $750,000.
  • A Teenager, who was destined for greatness as a softball player, Filed a $700,000. lawsuit against her Former Coach, Alleging his “incorrect” teaching style ruined her chances for an Athletic Scholarship. 

All of these claims were paid out, and if there was an Umbrella Policy in place, they came into play in these scenarios. Now – think about the $11 Million – do you think their Umbrella policy covered all of that? Or do you think that Babysitter is still paying for her mistake to this day? 

Thanks for reading everyone! Have a wonderful day, please feel free to reach out to me at Tjsimmons@Shieldagency.com or 616-377-4398 to Chat. Or connect on LinkedIn.

Read More
Pet Safety Tips For The Holiday Season – Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Pet Safety Tips for the Holiday Season

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Pet Safety Tips

The holidays are an exciting time of year for all members of the household, but especially for your four-footed pet. It can be a challenge to keep the enthusiasm to a minimum with an energized pup or stubborn kitten, and once those decorations go up and the food comes out, there’s really no telling what they’ll get their little pet paws into.

I grew up with a little Cockapoo dog named Jake and he LOVED to eat. Anything we dropped on the ground during dinner (ahem, broccoli, beans, peas…) was quickly vacuumed up by him. In hindsight, leaving our homemade fudge under the Christmas tree was definitely a mistake. Who knew a canine could sniff that out through the wrapping paper?! With an entire batch of chocolate fudge gone and a mess on the sidewalk from the poor pooch, we learned our lesson, pet safety comes first.

While this season can bring their joy, if you’re not careful about pet-proofing your home, poor Fido (or in my case, Jake) could be set up for despair. Check out how these six unassuming seasonal items could put your pet in danger.

Christmas Tree

Christmas trees are a holiday staple, and while they certainly add to the festivities, they can be pretty distracting for your pets. Keeping pet safety in mind, the following items should be kept out of reach from your curious friends.

  • If you own a cat, forget about the tinsel. This shiny decoration can cause severe damage to their intestinal tract and can prove deadly if ingested.
  • Ornaments can be both a choking hazard and, if broken, the sharp pieces can cut your pet’s paws or mouth. Place fragile ornaments out of reach and let the softer ornaments made out of plastic or fabric rule the bottom branches.
  • The tree itself can be a safety hazard for your pets if they climb up on the branches. Additionally, live pine needles can puncture your pet’s intestines if ingested. Place your tree in a corner and firmly anchor it to the wall or ceiling to prevent it from toppling over.
  • Any ribbons or strings on wrapped presents can lead to choking or strangulation for a curious pet. While the additional decorations are attractive, we suggest nixing them to avoid the risk.

Food

One of the best parts about the holidays is the food! All those tasty desserts and platters can make anyone’s mouth water. But remember pet safety and my story before? Mr. Fluffy might love that rich chocolate for the first few minutes, but consuming even a little bit can turn that festive evening into a nightmare.

  • Chocolate is essential during the holidays but is toxic to cats and dogs. All chocolate, fudge, and candy contain dangerous components called xanthines, which cause nervous system damage and heart muscle stimulation. Pay extra attention when these treats are out during a get-together, and consider storing them in a drawer or cupboard when you’re not enjoying them.
  • Turkey and turkey skin, even in small amounts, can cause a life-threatening condition in pets known as pancreatitis which, in the long run, can cause severe organ and brain damage.
  • Bones from any fish, meat, or poultry, big or small, can cause problems if splintered during consumption. Keep to the regular rawhides and hardened, sterilized bones for those yummy treats. For more information, check out what Healthy Pets has to say.

Plants

You’ve probably heard by now that poinsettias are hazardous for your pets, but did you know that holly, mistletoe, hibiscus, and potpourri are even more dangerous? Holly can cause an upset stomach and be potentially fatal. Mistletoe also upsets the stomachs of both cats and dogs and can cause heart collapse. Hibiscus can cause diarrhea, and who needs more cleanup during the holidays?! Dry potpourri (while not technically a plant) can cause vomiting while liquid potpourri can cause thermal or chemical burns, oral and stomach ulcers, drooling, and vomiting.

When decorating for the holidays this year, be sure to place these plants out of your pet’s reach or settle for a realistic imitation.

Scented Candles

Candles are particularly attractive to pets because of their smell, taste, and texture. However, as you can imagine, a lit candle can quickly become a major fire hazard if tipped over or scooted against a flammable object. For pet safety, make sure all candles, both wicked and wickless (candle warmer), are placed above the reach of your four-footed family members and are always supervised by a responsible adult.

Snow Globes

According to The Catnip Times, many snowglobes have been found to contain ethylene glycol, also known as antifreeze, which is highly toxic to all pets. If a snowglobe breaks or has a leak, even one teaspoon of this concoction (two teaspoons for dogs) when ingested can be fatal.

If you believe your pet has ingested any of this substance, immediately seek help and call your family veterinarian.

Electrical Cords

For pet safety or child safety, make sure all electrical cords are carefully hidden so your dog doesn’t make a chew toy out of them! Any kind of penetration past the protective coating of the cord can cause electrical shock to your unsuspecting pooch. Pro Tip: run the cords through PVC pipe or an extra cardboard roll of wrapping paper to avoid accidental traumas! Pet safety is paramount.

Keeping these tips in mind can help you make sure the holiday season is safe and festive for you and your pets!

Read More
Who Can I Add to My Auto Insurance Policy - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Who Can I Add to My Auto Insurance Policy?

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Can I add my parents to my auto insurance policy even if they are aged?

Can I keep the kids on my auto insurance even tho they have moved out?

The short answer is NO. 

Who pays the MEDICAL BILLS? Covered by PIP BeforeCovered by PIP Now
Named InsuredYESYES
Spouse of named insuredYESYES
Household relatives of named insuredYESYES
Household drivers who are not related to Named InsuredYESNO
Non-Household relatives of named insured listed as driversYESNO
Other passengers or pedestriansNONO

Recent Blogs

Read More

Is Your Motorcycle Coverage a Perfect Fit?

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Shield Insurance Blog | Motorcycle Coverage | Contact Shield

Not all bikes are the same. Motorcycle Coverage isn’t all the same, either.

Picking good motorcycle insurance is more than just choosing between comp and collision or liability-only. Here are four questions to ask yourself about coverages and options before you switch to a new policy or renew your current one.

1) What is your health insurance Motorcycle Coverage like?

An odd question? Not really, given the big changes we’ve all experienced in the last few years with health care. If you have a high-deductible policy, and need an x-ray or go to urgent care, you’ll likely pay out-of-pocket.

Medical payments coverage (often called “Med Pay”) might be worth considering. The typical $500 limit should be enough to cover smaller medical bills and it does not cost much to bump up to a higher limit.

While you’re at it, you might want to consider uninsured and under-insured motorist (UM/UIM) protection, too. That covers larger medical costs as well as repairs or bike replacement — if you’re left with the bill from an at-fault driver without sufficient insurance.

2) Are you into long road trips?

Whether it’s that bucket-list ride to Sturgis, or just a long-weekend cruise, you’ll want to consider:

  • Rental coverage – If you can’t ride your bike due to physical damage, your trip isn’t over. This endorsement covers the cost of a rental to finish the trip or get you home.
  • Travel loss reimbursement – This could coverour room, dinner, and a ride-share after an accident.
  • Towing and emergency assistance – Coverage for the reimbursement of some of these costs, too.
  • Trailer coverage – Separate coverage can be added for damage to your bike trailer.

3) Does your wingman have a fuzzy face?

No, we don’t mean your uncle Earl. Coverage for injury to your dog or cat is a newer option you can add.

4) Do you ride year-round?

In much of the country, riding is a seasonal sport. It’s tempting to save a few bucks by canceling your policy when you put your bike under wraps for the winter. But it can still be stolen, vandalized, or damaged. Consider year-round coverage for your bike.

Recent Blogs

Read More
Top Eight Towing Mistakes People Make - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Top Eight Towing Mistakes People Make

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Top Eight Towing Mistakes People Make

The idea of hauling something huge behind your truck or SUV may sound like a fun adventure, but for those who aren’t familiar with the complexities of towing, it can actually be pretty intimidating! According to Complete Trailers LLC, there are eight common mistakes people make while towing. To avoid costly damages, read this list before you hitch and go:

  1. Overworking Your Engine
    The number one mistake people make is overworking their tow vehicle. Overextending your vehicle can start a landslide of engine problems. This mistake could lead to a meltdown on the side of the road and potentially require a brand new transmission.To avoid this, keep an eye on your pressure, temperature gauges, and exhaust gas temperature gauges.
  2. Wrong Weight Distribution Bars
    If you don’t have your weight distribution bars set up right, you’re bound to have your vehicle and trailer bouncing from each other. Your ride will be bumpier than usual and the hitch and frame can be damaged from this too.And when it comes to weight distribution bars, bigger is not better. The bars with chains are tunable and come in various strengths and weights. If you properly load the correct bar size, they’ll be parallel to the trailer’s frame.
  3. Not Checking or Maintaining Brakes
    Brakes are the most essential and most overlooked safety system.Trailer brakes don’t self-adjust like the brakes on your tow vehicle. In fact, they must be manually adjusted by you. Additionally, trailer brakes wear out just like any other brake does, so be sure to check for wear and tear regularly.
  4. Poorly Loaded Vehicles
    It’s crucial for safety and damage prevention to always put a balanced load on your trailer. Read up on weight restrictions and follow them closely because if you don’t, your tow vehicle won’t last very long.
  5. Wrong Ball/Ball Mount
    Make sure that you have the right ball and mount for your trailer. There are three different sizes of balls: 1 7/8 inches, 2 inches, and 2 5/16 inches — each with a different weight rating. Using the wrong mount or ball will pitch your trailer up or down on your axles and it also puts extra stress on your brakes and tires, which eventually reduces your breaking ability. If you use multiple trailers, carry multiple mounts.
  6. “Racing” While Towing
    We know how exciting it is to get to a destination, but remember, slow and steady wins the race! Speeding up or down a grade is the last thing you want to do because it’ll ruin the longevity of your tow vehicle.
  7. Low-Pressure Tires
    If you maintain the right tire pressure on both your tow vehicle and trailer, you’ll have even tire wear, which means you’re less likely to have blow-outs from overheating. This scenario is especially dangerous when it happens on your rear trailer tires, so make sure to pay special attention to them. Tires degrade more quickly when not in use. Before you hitch and go, remember to always inspect your tires and pressure.
  8. Not Lubing Your Components
    Like any well-oiled machine, taking preventative measures with your trailer and tow vehicle goes a long way. Axles and all pivot points where steel meets steel (or rubber bushings meet steel) should be greased.

Shield Insurance Agency wants you to travel and tow safely.

Recent Posts

Read More
Vacant Home Insurance What to Ask About - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Vacant Home Insurance: What to Ask About

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Homes become vacant for many reasons. Maybe your home is for sale but you haven’t found a buyer yet. Or you’ve purchased a new home but won’t move in for a while. It could be a rental property that’s between tenants. Whatever the cause, there are some insurance risks that you should keep in mind.

You may be thinking, why get vacant home insurance when you already have regular homeowners insurance? Well, most homeowner’s policies exclude or limit coverage if the home is vacant, so you’ll need more specific coverage.

Insurance coverage is extremely important for a vacant home because there are lots of dangers that threaten vacant homes in particular. If you’re debating whether or not you need a vacant policy, talk to your insurance agent! Here are some things to ask about:

Cost

Vacant home insurance typically costs more than regular homeowners insurance due to potential risks like weather threats, fires, and vandalism. However, you may be able to get a discount by installing security systems around the house. Even if your insurance company doesn’t provide a discount for extra security, it’s a good idea that will make your home safer!

Coverage

Each vacant home insurance policy is different. Many cover damage caused by fires, lightning, wind storms, hail, vandalism, and theft. Check with your insurance company to see what options you have. (Remember to ask if flood damage coverage is an option!) There are also different time lengths for policies. Many are 12 months long, but they could go up to four years, so find out what will work best for you. You’ll also want to consider Liability coverage, which applies if anyone is hurt on your property and you’re found legally responsible.

Restrictions

Many insurance companies have different definitions of what is vacant and what is unoccupied. Additionally, there may be a specific time length distinction for the type of coverage. Restrictions can also be based on the age or value of the home. Discuss these variables with your insurance agent to find the coverage that works best for you!

Still not sure if vacant home insurance is for you? Contact your local agent to learn more and get a quote! Overall, don’t be afraid to ask questions about insurance. Let us know if you have any questions in the comments.

Latest Posts

Read More
What to Know About Buying a Vacant Home - Shield Insurance Agency Blog

What to Know About Buying a Vacant Home

Posted on by Shield Insurance Agency

Why buy a vacant home? One of the biggest perks is being able to make the home whatever you want it to be. You can make it your new home, create a vacation home, rent it out, or fix it up and sell it to someone else. In some cases, the seller may be willing to sell a vacant home cheaper than an occupied home. This is good news for you because you can save some money, but it could also mean something might be wrong with the house. It may need a little love, attention, and renovation. Before you purchase a vacant home, here are a few things to do and watch out for:

Professional Inspection

Ask for an inspection from a professional and take notes on what they discover. You’ll want to know what’s broken, what needs to be fixed, and what could possibly go wrong. (Note: Be prepared to pay for the home’s electricity to be on for the duration of the inspection).

Critters

Since vacant homes can sit for quite some time, critters may come in and make themselves at home. Although they are usually small animals such as mice or bats, they can cause damage to a vacant house. Those unwanted critters can eat at the floors, carpets, walls, and wiring. Be aware that you may need to hire a pest control service, and this could be costly based on the number of animals and the amount of damage.

Plumbing

There may be plumbing issues that have caused dried and cracked seals, slow faucets, leaks, and other issues. If the heat hasn’t been on and the temperatures dropped, the pipes could be at risk to freeze or burst (if they haven’t already).

Appliances

The previous owner may not have unplugged their indoor appliances, such as refrigerators and freezers, or let them dry out. There may be mold inside from the moisture being trapped. Having appliances plugged in with no one there could result in a fire (if the electricity was on). Appliances in the house may become unusable due to long periods of sitting with no use, which means you will need new ones.

Molds

Remember, molds can grow on more than just appliances! Check for mold in the walls, floors, pipes…everywhere! Some molds may cause health issues, so if mold is found during your inspection, you may want to rethink purchasing the home. Talk with your inspector about the extremity and presence of mold, and evaluate the safety risks.

Unanticipated Repairs

There are other potential sources of damage. For example, break-ins are more likely when a home appears empty, and windows, doors, and other items could be damaged by the intruder. Storms are another danger. Debris could hit the home and cause damage that may have gone undetected. Always thoroughly inspect the home before buying!

There are a lot of things to do and watch out for before purchasing a vacant home, but the possibilities of what the home could be are endless. If you are looking to buy a vacant home but haven’t found one yet, there are a few ways to move forward. Look online, talk to neighbors, get a realtor or simply drive around. There are more vacant homes than you think…happy hunting!

Read More