Winter brings cozy evenings by the fire, hot cocoa, and holiday cheer — but it may also bring harsh weather that can cause some serious damage to your home’s roof. Snow, ice, and constant temperature changes challenge even the sturdiest roofing systems, and without the right care, these seasonal stressors can turn small issues into big, pricey problems.
Read MoreWhen it comes to auto insurance, the price you pay isn’t just a random number. Insurance companies use various factors to determine your premiums. While some of these factors are personal to you — e.g., driving record and where you live — others are directly related to the car you drive.
Read MoreThe ideal time to get ready for a snowstorm is long before one is in the forecast. Winter storms can bring cold temperatures, icy roads, power failures and a loss of communication services. Such conditions bring safety challenges, so you’ll want to plan ahead.
Read MoreIf you’re like most people, you’re probably asking yourself: Why are car insurance rates going up and is there anything I can do to lower my auto insurance rate? In this article, we’ll discuss factors affecting the market and ways to help lower your auto insurance rate. We’ll also explain how optional coverage packages could help reduce out-of-pocket claim expenses.
Read MoreIf you are a homeowner, or perhaps rent a home in which you are responsible for a certain level of maintenance, it is critical to winterize your home’s water system before the temperature drops to help ensure a winter season free from frozen pipes and potential water damage.
Read MoreIf you have an accident because of snowy conditions, collision coverage may cover the resulting damage to your car. However, comprehensive and collision are optional coverages, so be sure to add them if you want coverage for snow-related damage.
Read MoreIn the world of insurance, a “peril” is an event or circumstance that could result in property damage. The term “hazard insurance” has been made popular by mortgage lenders when referring to dwelling coverage because they typically require the coverage, at a minimum, to protect their interest in the home’s structure.
Read MoreFrom candles to candy and trees to toys, nearly every joyful holiday tradition also carries the potential for accidents and injuries. Even just the cold winter weather can be dangerous for the pipes in your home.
Read MoreThroughout your life, you have most likely heard many things about how insurance works. For example, did you grow up thinking that car insurance costs more if you drive a red car? Let’s bust these common insurance myths and uncover the truth!
Read MoreHome inspections play an important role in the real estate process, especially for home buyers. It's the homeowner’s opportunity to uncover any hidden issues lurking beneath the surface of their dream home. A thorough home inspection can save homeowners from a financial nightmare down the road, and ensure a safe and sound property.
Read MoreWaking up to a flood in your basement due to a faulty water heater is anything but pleasant – especially after you realize your floor is damaged. One of the first questions you’ll likely ask yourself is, does my homeowners insurance cover water damage?
Read MoreWhether your car insurance will cover electrical issues depends on the cause of the issue and the type of car insurance coverage you have. If the electrical issues were caused by a covered accident, the repairs may be covered by the at-fault driver. If the electrical issues were the result of normal wear and tear or age, they likely won't be covered.
Read MoreWhat is the updated smoke alarm Law? The Illinois Smoke Detector Act, 425 ILCS 60, covers the requirements for smoke alarms in Illinois, including: Number of Alarms, location, types, installation responsibility, penalties, exclusions, and more.
Read MoreA speeding ticket may raise your insurance rate, as can other moving violations like running a red light. If it's your first speeding ticket or violation, however, it may not affect your insurance at all. It depends on how your state and insurer treat the violation.
Read MoreHomeowners may often be confused by how escrow accounts interact with their real estate taxes and homeowners insurance. An escrow account helps make sure your insurance premiums and real estate taxes are paid on time; typically, your insurance company will do most of the heavy lifting.
Read MoreData breaches are becoming increasingly common. But just because you received this letter does not mean that you’re the victim of identity theft, it just means that your data was exposed. However, there are five main steps you can take to better ensure that you come out of the situation with your identity and finances intact.
Read MoreOn homeowners, renters, or condo policies, your property and belongings may be insured for either your property's actual cash value (ACV) or replacement cost value (RCV). You may also have the option to be insured for replacement cost value on automobile, motorcycle, and boat policies. But what do they actually mean?
Read MoreAn insurance adjuster, also known as a claims adjuster, is a person who investigates an insurance claim to determine if the insurer should pay for damage or injuries, and if so, how much they should pay. Adjusters may also work with you to get your vehicle inspected or set up repairs on your behalf.
Read MoreBefore closing on a new home, your lender will require you to purchase a home insurance policy. While many lenders provide insurance referrals, choosing a home insurance company is your decision. You're responsible for making sure the coverages on your policy adequately protect your residence, detached structures, and personal belongings.
Read MoreElectric vehicle (EV) production is on a rapid uptick as manufacturers race to compete with Tesla. These new vehicles offer numerous advantages over their gas-powered counterparts. Here’s what you need to know about insuring an electric vehicle if you plan to purchase one in the future.
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