by John Page | Feb 10, 2022 | Insurance Tips & Tricks
So, you’ve been binge-watching every episode of Joanna Gaines’s home makeover show, and now you’re thinking, “Hey, I could do that!” Who wouldn’t want to transform their home into a magazine-worthy oasis? Well, hold onto your sledgehammer for a moment because, before you go all DIY superstar, there’s one crucial thing to consider: insurance. But don’t worry; we’re here to guide you through the ins and outs of insurance concerns related to remodeling. After all, we want your home improvement journey to be as smooth and stress-free as possible!
Understanding Your Homeowners
Insurance Coverage Your standard homeowner’s insurance policy may provide some coverage during a remodel, but it could be limited. Discuss your plans with your insurance agent to ensure you have adequate coverage for your specific project. They can help determine if additional coverage, such as a builders’ risk policy, is necessary.
Common Insurance Mistakes to Avoid
When remodeling your home, avoiding common insurance mistakes can save you time and money. Some pitfalls include:
- Not updating your insurance policy to reflect your home’s increased value after the remodel
- Failing to verify your contractor’s insurance coverage
- Forgetting to obtain the necessary permits for your project
Hiring a Contractor vs. DIY Remodel
Deciding whether to hire a contractor or tackle the remodel yourself? Both options have their pros and cons. Hiring a contractor can save you time and stress, but it’s crucial to ensure they have proper insurance coverage, including:
- Workers Compensation: Covers workers injured on the job
- General Liability: Covers injury or property damage the contractor may cause
- Builders Risk: Covers damage to your home and materials, including those not yet installed
On the other hand, DIY remodeling can be a fun and rewarding experience but comes with risks and insurance implications. We’ll dive into these considerations in this section.
Verifying Contractor Credentials and Insurance
If you hire a contractor, verify their credentials and insurance coverage. Ask for proof, called a certificate of insurance, and request that it be sent directly from their agent. This way, you can be confident that it’s legitimate. A trustworthy contractor will be more than happy to provide this information.
DIY Remodel: Ensuring Proper Permits and Coverage Going the DIY route?
Before starting:
- Check with your city or county to ensure you have the proper permits.
- Consult your insurance agent to determine the right coverage for your project.
- Remember, a DIY remodel means you’re solely responsible for the work, so it’s essential to be adequately protected.
Updating Your Homeowners Policy After the Remodel
Once your remodel is complete, it’s time to revisit your homeowner’s insurance policy. You may need to adjust your coverage limits based on the new materials, furniture, and valuables added to your home during the project. Make sure to inform your insurance agent about the completed updates, so they can help you adjust your policy accordingly.
Remodels That Could Save You Money on Insurance
Did you know that specific updates might save money on your homeowner’s insurance? Upgrades like new plumbing, heating, electrical systems, a new roof, security systems, or other safety features could lead to discounts on your policy. It’s worth discussing these potential savings with your insurance agent!
Real-Life Stories:
The Importance of Proper Insurance During a Remodel These stories illustrate the importance of having the right insurance coverage during your home remodel, whether hiring a contractor or going the DIY route:
Sarah’s Story: Sarah hired a contractor to renovate her kitchen, but the contractor accidentally damaged a water pipe, causing extensive water damage to her home. Luckily, Sarah had verified that her contractor had General Liability insurance, which covered the cost of the repairs.
- John’s Story: John decided to tackle a bathroom remodel himself. While working on the project, he discovered hidden water damage and mold. Because he had discussed his DIY project with his insurance agent beforehand, John was prepared with the proper coverage to handle the unexpected issue.
- Lisa’s Story: Lisa and her husband remodeled their beautiful backyard, including a new deck and landscaping. After the project, they remembered to update their homeowner’s insurance policy, ensuring their increased property value was adequately covered.
These stories emphasize the value of proper insurance during a remodel and the importance of working with your trusted insurance experts at Page Insurance.
Well, We wish you all the best in your remodel! Joanna and Chip make it look easy… Whatever the case, following this guide and consulting with your trusted insurance experts at Page Insurance, you can focus on creating your dream home while being confident that you’re adequately protected. Remember, the team at Page Insurance is always here to help you navigate the complexities of insurance coverage during a remodel. So, reach out to us with any questions or concerns. Happy remodeling!
Ready to see what Page can do for you? Click here.
John Page, President of Page Insurance, has been a driving force in the insurance industry since 1998. As a licensed agent in Property & Casualty, Life, and Health insurance, John has won numerous awards for agency management and works tirelessly to improve agency operations with the client in mind. He is passionate about building and investing in the Page team of experts, ensuring they deliver top-notch service to clients. In his free time, John enjoys snowmobiling, gaming, reading, traveling with his wife and three kids, and cheering on the local Idaho Falls hockey team.
by John Page | Feb 10, 2022 | Insurance Tips & Tricks
Congratulations on expecting a new baby! This is an exciting and joyful time for your family. As you prepare for your little one’s arrival, planning for their future, including considering your insurance needs, is essential. This blog post will guide you through crucial insurance tips to protect and secure your growing family.
Life Insurance
Life insurance is crucial for new parents. It provides financial security for your family in the unfortunate event of your passing. There are two main types of life insurance: term and whole life. Term life insurance covers a specific period, while whole life insurance offers lifetime coverage with additional investment options.
To determine the right amount of coverage, consider factors such as income replacement, outstanding debts, and future expenses like college tuition. When choosing a life insurance policy, consider the premiums, coverage amount, and the insurer’s financial strength.
Statistics show that 1 in 3 families would face financial hardship within a month of a primary earner’s death. This highlights the importance of having life insurance to protect your family’s financial well-being.
Disability Insurance
Disability insurance is another essential consideration for new parents. It provides income protection in case you become disabled and unable to work. There are short-term and long-term disability insurance options, which cover disabilities lasting a few months to several years or more.
Factors affecting the cost of disability insurance include your age, health, occupation, and the length of the coverage period. For working parents, disability insurance is vital, as it ensures financial stability during challenging times.
According to the Social Security Administration, more than 25% of 20-year-olds will experience a disability before retirement. This statistic underscores the importance of having disability insurance in place.
Health Insurance
Adding your baby to your health insurance plan is a crucial step. Be sure to understand your policy’s maternity and newborn coverage, as well as any necessary changes that need to be made. Review your current health insurance plan and evaluate if any adjustments are required to accommodate your growing family.
Homeowners’ or Renter’s Insurance
As you set up your baby’s nursery and purchase essential items, assess your homeowners or renters insurance policy to ensure adequate coverage for your baby’s belongings. Additionally, consider making safety improvements to your home, such as installing smoke detectors, securing furniture, and baby-proofing electrical outlets.
Auto Insurance
Update your auto insurance policy to reflect changes, such as purchasing a family-friendly vehicle. Familiarize yourself with car seat safety and installation to protect your baby during car rides.
We’re Here For You
Proactively planning insurance is essential for your growing family’s financial security. By following these tips, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are protected. At Page Insurance, we understand the importance of safeguarding your family’s future. Contact our team to help you navigate the insurance needs for your new baby and ensure that you’re prepared for this exciting new chapter in your life.
Insurance Checklist for Expecting Parents:
- Review and update your life insurance policy.
- Evaluate your disability insurance needs and options.
- Add your baby to your health insurance plan.
- Assess your homeowners or renters insurance policy for adequate coverage of your baby’s belongings.
- Make safety improvements to your home.
- Update your auto insurance policy and familiarize yourself with car seat safety.
This checklist can help you stay organized and ensure you have considered all essential aspects of insurance planning for your growing family.
John Page, President of Page Insurance, has been a driving force in the insurance industry since 1999. As a licensed agent in Property & Casualty, Life, and Health insurance, John has won numerous awards for agency management and works tirelessly to improve agency operations with the client in mind. He is passionate about building and investing in the Page team of experts, ensuring they deliver top-notch service to clients. In his free time, John enjoys snowmobiling, gaming, reading, traveling with his wife and three kids, and cheering on the local Idaho Falls hockey team.
by John Page | Feb 10, 2022 | Insurance Tips & Tricks
Divorce is a highly stressful and emotional event, and dealing with insurance during this time can be an added challenge. This blog post aims to provide essential tips and expert advice on handling insurance concerns during a divorce. We’ll cover the necessary steps to take and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs, ensuring a smoother transition to your new life.
Handling Insurance During Separation:
When you and your partner decide to separate but have not yet filed for divorce, it’s essential to understand that making changes to joint insurance policies can be limited. As long as both of you are listed as “named insureds” on a policy, we cannot delete one from the insurance plan or make changes without consent from your ex-partner. However, there are specific steps you can take during this phase of transition:
- Update your existing auto insurance policy to show the new garaging address of each vehicle and the further commuting distance for work.
- The spouse moving out should acquire renter’s or homeowner’s insurance for their new place, as the existing policy will only extend limited coverage.
Adjusting Auto Insurance:
Once your divorce is finalized, it’s essential to update your auto insurance:
- Obtain separate car insurance policies. Remember that while you may lose specific discounts, you can keep your credits and discounts for being a “Safe Driver” or a “Continuous Customer,” even if you apply for a new policy.
- Address insurance for young drivers in the family. Ensure that your children are covered on at least one if not both, parents’ auto policies, especially if they have access to both parents’ cars.
Homeowners or Renters Insurance:
As you adjust to your new living situation, it’s crucial to make the necessary changes to your homeowners or renters insurance policies:
- For the spouse staying in the home, adjust the policy to their name only and update it to fit their new needs.
- The spouse moving out should acquire new insurance coverage for their new place, whether renter’s or homeowner’s insurance.
Life Insurance Considerations:
Life insurance is a vital aspect to consider during a divorce:
- Weigh the pros and cons of keeping your ex-spouse as the beneficiary on your life insurance policy, especially if they rely on your financial support for living expenses and child support.
- Consider alternative options for naming beneficiaries, such as setting up a trust for your children.
- Be aware of legal clauses that can help protect your financial interests during a divorce, such as ensuring that the life insurance beneficiary cannot be changed or allowed to lapse without your consent.
Health Insurance Concerns:
Health insurance is another critical factor during a divorce:
- You may need to find a new plan if you’ve been covered under your spouse’s group health insurance policy. Check to see whether you qualify for COBRA, which allows divorcing spouses to continue their current health insurance plan for up to 36 months following the divorce at their own expense.
- If you have children, compare your and your spouse’s plans, and enroll your children in the most suitable option. Remember that coverage may change or even be reduced to emergency care if the policyholder and children live in different states due to rules about preferred provider networks.
Navigating insurance during a divorce can be a complex process, but with the proper guidance and support, you can ensure that your protection plan is updated to fit your new circumstances. Review your auto, homeowners or renters, life, and health insurance policies to make the best decisions for you and your family. Reach out to Page Insurance for personalized assistance in restructuring your insurance plans during this challenging time.
Click here to get a quote.
John Page, President of Page Insurance, has been a driving force in the insurance industry since 1999. As a licensed agent in Property & Casualty, Life, and Health insurance, John has won numerous awards for agency management and works tirelessly to improve agency operations with the client in mind. He is passionate about building and investing in the Page team of experts, ensuring they deliver top-notch service to clients. In his free time, John enjoys snowmobiling, gaming, reading, traveling with his wife and three kids, and cheering on the local Idaho Falls hockey team.
by John Page | Feb 10, 2022 | Insurance Tips & Tricks
Congratulations on your engagement! This exciting time in your life brings many joys, and while insurance may not be the most thrilling aspect, it’s essential to ensure you and your future spouse are adequately covered. By understanding the various types of insurance and how they affect married couples, you’ll be well-prepared to protect yourselves and enjoy a more worry-free life together.
Insurance for Wedding Events:
As you plan your wedding and any related events, inquire about the insurance coverage at each venue. Ensure they carry liability insurance to protect against injuries or accidents involving your guests.
Auto Insurance:
Couples tend to be less risky to insure, leading to a married discount on your auto insurance policies. You’ll also benefit from a multi-car discount if you have multiple vehicles. Combining policies can lead to further savings and ensure adequate coverage.
Renters’ or Homeowners’ Insurance:
Although being married might not provide a direct discount on renters’ or homeowners’ insurance, bundling policies can offer additional savings. Adequate coverage for your belongings is essential, especially regarding valuable items like jewelry, art, or electronics. Personal liability coverage can also protect you against lawsuits related to injuries sustained on your property or accidents you cause while traveling.
Health & Disability Insurance:
If you’re under 26, you can remain on your parent’s health insurance plan even if you’re married. For those over 26 or without parental coverage, securing your own health insurance is crucial. Disability insurance can provide financial support if an injury or illness prevents you from working.
Life Insurance:
Regardless of whether you have children, life insurance is a valuable asset for married couples. Term life insurance is an affordable and straightforward option, paying out a predetermined amount to your beneficiaries if you pass away during the policy term. While whole life insurance offers an investment component, keeping your insurance and investments separate is generally more advisable.
Other Types of Insurance:
Consider additional insurance policies depending on your needs, such as business insurance for side hustles or pet insurance for your furry family members.
Tips to Keep Insurance Affordable: To manage your insurance needs affordably, consider the following tips:
- Use an independent agency, like Page, to help you shop, buy, and manage your policies.
- Bundle policies for additional discounts.
- Prioritize coverage for significant events or losses first, and smaller items as your budget allows.
- Review your insurance policies at least once a year.
- Take the time to understand your options and ensure you’re working with a reputable agency that offers unbiased advice.
Protecting yourselves and your future with the right insurance policies is essential as you embark on your journey together. By understanding the various types of coverage available and how they can benefit you as a married couple, you’ll be well-prepared to make informed decisions. Remember to partner with a trustworthy agency like Page to help you navigate your insurance options and find the best solutions for your unique needs.
Click here to discover the best deal on any type of insurance you’re interested in exploring.
John Page, President of Page Insurance, has been a driving force in the insurance industry since 1999. As a licensed agent in Property & Casualty, Life, and Health insurance, John has won numerous awards for agency management and works tirelessly to improve agency operations with the client in mind. He is passionate about building and investing in the Page team of experts, ensuring they deliver top-notch service to clients. In his free time, John enjoys snowmobiling, gaming, reading, traveling with his wife and three kids, and cheering on the local Idaho Falls hockey team.
by John Page | Feb 10, 2022 | Insurance Tips & Tricks
Ah, summer! The season of sunshine, barbecues, and outdoor fun. They are especially welcome after a long winter (typical in the states we serve, including Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming). But as enjoyable as this time of year can be, it’s essential to be aware of some common summer accidents that can put a damper on your good times. Don’t worry! With some knowledge and some simple precautions, you can avoid these mishaps and fully enjoy everything that summer offers.
Grill-Related Injuries
There’s nothing quite like a backyard barbecue, but grills can be more dangerous than you think. To prevent burns and fire hazards, follow these safety tips:
- Always grill in an open area, away from buildings and overhangs.
- For charcoal grills, never add lighter fluid after the fire has been lit.
- Keep the grease pan clean to avoid flare-ups.
Insect Bites and Stings
Insects like mosquitoes and ticks are part and parcel of summertime, but their bites can cause allergic reactions and transmit diseases. To keep those pesky critters at bay, try these tips:
- Use insect repellent, either chemical or natural alternatives like EcoSmart.
- Create a tick barrier with a three-foot layer of wood chips between your yard and the woods.
- Eliminate standing water in your yard and gutters to prevent mosquito breeding.
Firework Accidents
Fireworks are a summer staple, but they can be incredibly dangerous. To enjoy a safe and dazzling display, keep these guidelines in mind:
- Monitor children closely when using sparklers, which can cause more injuries than rockets.
- Never relight a dud firework. Please wait 20 minutes, then soak it in a bucket of water.
- Always have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water nearby in emergencies.
Sunburn and Heatstroke
The sun’s rays are at their strongest during summer, making sunburn and heatstroke real concerns. Protect yourself with these tips:
- Wear sunscreen with a high SPF and reapply frequently.
- Stay in the shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).
- Wear light, breathable clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
Drowning and Water-Related Accidents
Water safety is paramount whether you’re at the pool, lake, or beach. Follow these precautions to avoid accidents:
- Never swim alone and always have a designated watcher for children.
- Wear life jackets when boating or engaging in water sports.
- Learn basic water rescue skills and CPR.
Bicycle and Skateboard Accidents
Biking and skateboarding are popular summer activities, but they come with risks. To prevent injuries, consider these safety measures:
- Always wear a helmet and appropriate protective gear.
- Ride and skate in designated areas, obeying traffic rules.
- Keep your equipment in good condition.
Dehydration and Food Poisoning
Staying hydrated and avoiding food poisoning is crucial during the hot summer months. Keep yourself healthy by:
- Drinking plenty of water, especially when engaging in physical activities.
- Handling food safely by washing hands, avoiding cross-contamination, and cooking to proper temperatures.
- Storing perishable food items in coolers or refrigerators.
Falls and Outdoor Injuries
Outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and yard work can lead to falls and injuries. Stay safe with these tips:
- Wear appropriate footwear for the terrain.
- Use caution when working with tools and equipment.
- Stay on marked trails and avoid unfamiliar areas.
Car Accidents
Summer often means road trips and increased traffic, so keep these safe driving tips in mind:
- Regularly maintain your vehicle,
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- Regularly maintain your vehicle, including checking tire pressure, oil levels, and brakes.
- Avoid distractions while driving, such as texting or using your phone.
- Stay alert and be prepared for unexpected road conditions or weather changes.
Let’s Keep Safe
Taking a few simple precautions can prevent these common summer accidents and fully enjoy everything the season offers. Page Insurance is committed to keeping our clients safe and informed so you can make the most of your summer fun. Here’s to a safe, healthy, and unforgettable summer!
Summer is a great time to switch to Page. Click here to get us shopping for you.
John Page, President of Page Insurance, has been a driving force in the insurance industry since 1999. As a licensed agent in Property & Casualty, Life, and Health insurance, John has won numerous awards for agency management and works tirelessly to improve agency operations with the client in mind. He is passionate about building and investing in the Page team of experts, ensuring they deliver top-notch service to clients. In his free time, John enjoys snowmobiling, gaming, reading, traveling with his wife and three kids, and cheering on the local Idaho Falls hockey team.
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