1. What's the official company name and physical address? If they have a post office box as a physical address may be a red flag as it may indicate a fly-by-night operation.
2. Do you have liability insurance and workmen's compensation and? The first one protects you if the contractor's work is injured while on the job; the second one provides coverage should damage happen to your roof or property while work is being done. Ask for a copy of the policy documents as proof of the insurance coverage.
3. Will you do the work, or will you outsource it? Using a subcontractor is not unusual; however, if one is used, ask for a charge waiver; this protects you if the subcontractor is not paid.
4. Do you have a current permit in my state, and are there any outstanding violations? Be sure to cross-check the information if you are not comfortable with the answers. Do ask for a copy of the permit.
5. Do you have recommendations to share?
6. How extended is your warranty? The bare minimum for a roof is typically a year. 
7. Who will observe the job on-site?
8. Does the material selection need any particular work, such as framing, ducting, etc.?
9. Does the roof material meet the required local codes, including fire laws?

After you've picked a contractor, you should get a written roof repairment agreement. It should contain these eight things:

• A brief, written assessment that states the number of supplies needed and labor charges. This should cover the description of the job to be done and the quotation.
• Removal of the previous roof. This is the only way to check that the existing structure doesn't have any problems.
• Plywood sheeting. This goes under the shingles.
• Edging. Where a roof reaches the edge of a home, say against a chimney, is a possible source of leakage. Metal or drip edging used in these critical spots directs moisture toward gutters.
• Gutter protection. This should show that any damage done to the current gutters will be replaced or repaired. 
• Wastage collection and removal.
• Home protection during construction in case of rain and wind.
• Work blueprint including approximate start and completion dates and payment procedures.

Your roof is often your first line of defense against severe weather. By strengthening or fortifying your roof, your home's structure is less likely to sustain heavy damage from wind, hail, and water compromising your roof covering. I hope these tips help! 

Many of us who own a boat probably lack familiarity or experience when it comes to fishing, swimming, or just cruising, as we are not regulars. We all do love the summer afternoon on the water, but while having this great time with family and friends, boating safety sometimes takes a back seat.

Hundreds of Americans are killed each year, thousands injured, and millions of dollars worth of property damage due to boating accidents. Many of these accidents are preventable with just a few simple safety know-hows.   

Get your boat checked.

You should check if your boat is seaworthy by scheduling a U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Safety Check. This evaluation is free and brings in the peace of mind that your boat meets federal safety standards, and in an emergency, you will have the necessary equipment to save lives and reach out for help. 

Boating safety courses and tips

In a boat safety course, you will learn about basic marine operation, navigation, and safety, as well as federal and state boating regulations. Check out this website for online boat safety courses https://www.boatus.org/free/.

Thirty-six states now require operators to take boating safety courses as part of their boat licensing or certification process.

Other life-saving tips

• Know the rules. Whenever you meet another boat, it's like approaching an unmarked intersection in your car. You can avoid a collision if both of you know the simple right of way. The good news is there are a standard set of rules to govern the action of each boat. The bad news is that many boat operators do not know the rules! You must learn the nautical "rules of the road" by taking a boater safety class. 
• Protect against propeller strikes. Before starting the boat engine, make sure all passengers are accounted for and wear your emergency cut-off switch at all times. It is always good to have one person as a backup propellor watcher 
• Dress for the water temperature.  Remember, cold water can kill, account for the water temperature, not the air temperature when you dress for the boating trip. Always wear life jackets while boating.
• You should know at least basic swimming. Even a few basic swimming lessons could someday mean the difference between living and drowning.
• If your boat capsizes, stay with it. If your vessel does capsize, don't panic and try to swim for shore, it doesn't work most of the time. A capsized boat may recover, and most vessels will remain afloat, even when flooded or over-turned. This will also help rescuers to spot you easily. 
• Wear a right-sized life jacket. Did you know in 2018, 77% of boating accident deaths were due to drowning. 84% of those victims were not wearing a life jacket. Wear the jacket, don't stow it. Tucked-away life jackets are mostly useless in an accident. Ensure you have a U.S. coast guard approved life jacket.
• Don't boat under the influence (BUI). 19% of all recreational boating fatalities involved us of alcohol. 
• Leave a boat plan. Ensure someone on land knows you have taken the boat out and inform them when you plan to return. If things go wrong, they can be on the lookout. 
• Appoint an assistant skipper. Have a backup on your boat who knows to operate the vessel and inform him/her where the safety and first aid equipment
• Check the weather. This is a must-do; check out the local forecasts before heading out
• Have communication options. Have a backup mobile phone in a water-resistant bag
• Use a kill switch lanyard. On powerboats and personal watercraft, there is a simple rope between you and the ignition key, which shuts the engine off if you fall off the boat or lose balance while driving, reducing the potential for harm to you or others in the water.

Gear you must carry 

Things can go wrong while you are on the water, but you can ensure you are equipped to deal with them effectively. It is suggested you have the following items on your boat:

• A Compass and Charts of the local area,
• Radio equipment,
• Tool kit for repairs,
• Anchor and extra line,
• Paddles,
• Bailer or bilge pump,
• Fire extinguishers,
• First-aid kit,
• Food and water,
• Additional clothing, such as warm clothes and foul weather gear, and
• Personal items (Medicines, sunscreen, sunglasses)

Purchase boat insurance

You buy insurance to protect your investments, and boat insurance is high up in priority after home, auto. Talk to us and know the boat insurance options you have before you get in the water. We can help review the kinds of coverage you may already have helped identify some potential discounts for safe boaters.

As of 2018, 30.2 million small businesses were operating in the United States, and 50% were home-based businesses. A home-based business offers many benefits, including low costs, tax benefits, flexibility, and freedom from commuting. Like any business, a home-based operation requires insurance. Various insurance options are available, so home business owners can choose what best meets their needs.

Why You Need Home-Based Business Insurance? 

While home-based businesses may run on a small scale, they face many of the same contingencies as their larger equivalents. These include auto accidents, third-party claims, and damage to business-owned property. To guard themselves against losses, business owners must have adequate insurance.

Some home-based business owners believe their homeowner's insurance will cover claims resulting from their commercial activities. This is a wrong assumption because most homeowners' policies include business-related exclusions and restrictions. For example, many policies do not include structures not attached to the dwelling (like a detached garage or shop building) if used for business purposes.

Types of Coverage

Home business owners have three primary options for insuring home-based business operations. They can include business exposures via endorsements to a homeowners policy, buy an in-home business policy, or buy a business owner's package policy. Which choice is best depends on the size and nature of the business operations and insurance cost.

Homeowners Policy Endorsement

Many home-based businesses need equipments like printers and computers. Unfortunately, most homeowner's policies provide a shallow limit (typically $2,500) for devices on the property premises used for business purposes. Business owners may increase that limit by buying an endorsement for a reasonable additional premium.

Business owners may also have the choice to add a homeowner's liability endorsement to their policy. The policy covers third-party claims by customers or delivery people for damages sustained on their premises. 

In-Home Business Policy

An in-home home business policy provides more comprehensive coverage than a homeowner's endorsement and may cost less than $300 per year. It's a middle ground between commercial insurance and homeowner's policy. The process typically includes business personal property and general liability coverages. Optional coverages like business income, essential documents, and accounts receivable may also be available.

Business Owners Policy

The home business that needs more coverage than an in-home policy can choose a business owners policy (BOP). A business owner's policy is a commercial package policy devised for small businesses. It includes business income, commercial property, and general liability coverages.

The general liability section includes claims for property damage or bodily injury, including claims against the business that arise from its products. It also includes Personal and Advertising Injury Liability and claims based on danger to rented premises. A wide variety of endorsements are available for broadening or restricting coverage. Small businesses pay an average annual premium of $1,191 for a BOP.

Other Coverages To Consider

Homeowners' policies, in-home business policies, and BOPs offer general liability and property coverages only. Home-based businesses should also consider the following coverages.

• Commercial Auto Insurance
• Errors and Omissions (Professional) Liability
• Workers' Compensation Insurance

Like all other businesses, home-based businesses must comply with state workers' compensation laws. The duty to buy workers' compensation insurance typically depends on the number of employees a business employs. Many states require businesses to obtain coverage if they have one or more workers.

Most states don't need business owners to purchase workers' compensation insurance if they don't employ them. Many states allow business owners to buy coverage for themselves.

To know more about the different types of insurances you should consider, do contact me.

Home maintenance is something we often neglect, but when your home is your biggest asset, looking after it is essential for most of us. Between our daily responsibilities of cooking, cleaning, laundry, home maintenance is something that we often neglect. Like your vehicle, your home and property benefit from regular tune-ups.

Here are 7 Home maintenance hacks that you should follow:

1. Quick homeownership cost calculation:

The 1% rule is suggested for maintenance for your home every year. For a home that costs $300,000/- budget 1% or $3,000/- as maintenance of the house for one year. This can even go up to 4% of the property’s value, according to research done by US News and Freddie Mac. For instance, 4% of a $300,000/- home comes to $12,000/- a year as annual maintenance cost. 

2. Keep an eye on plumbing and drains.

One effortless maintenance item you should keep on top of is the plumbing and drains in their homes. Roots, deposit build-up, etc., can create problems at the most inconvenient times. Search for a maintenance plan with well-established plumbing and drain company. You will thank yourself for being a regular when it comes to plumbing, as plumbing defects can lead to expensive damages.

3. Schedule a cleaning routine.

Dust emission is widespread in urban areas that arise due to gardening to large-scale industrial operations. Dust particles small enough may lead to irritation of the eyes, coughing, sneezing, and asthma attacks. Regular cleaning would help prevent dust accumulation at your home. Use a wet cloth for dusting while rugs should be washed regularly.

4. Check your home detectors. 

Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors have to be examined seasonally to be sure that you and your family member are warned in case of an accident. Examine your sensors at the beginning of each season and change the batteries when needed.

5. Maintain heating and cooling systems:

Almost every home has climate control systems like heating and air-conditioning, which regulate the air in the house. Due to this, vents and filters in these systems get clogged - polluting the air inside. Thus, you must thoroughly clean ducts and filters to maintain a healthy home. Regular maintenance of climate control systems improves their performance for long life.

6. Inspect fire extinguishers 

Make sure your fire extinguisher is in a visible location, and everyone can have easy access. Check the locking pin is intact, the pressure gauge is operable, the directions are legible. Inspect the extinguisher to make sure there is no damage, leakage, or rusting. Lastly, please pick up the fire extinguisher to make sure it is still full.

7. Replenish your medical kits 

Remember to check your first aid kits at the beginning of every month and restock what you used! It’s also necessary to assess your emergency supplies and replace any old or expired items.

Managing a home is a tedious task. Figuring out all the things you need to do to keep your home healthy and happy may seem never-ending. Maintain log or spreadsheet of all your tasks and improvements — big and small, long term and short term. Break them down according to seasonal needs to help prioritize. With appropriate organization and planning, you’ll’ be able to handle all your new home’s needs like a pro.

These are some essential summer tips that go a long way in saving you significant expenses that can come up in the future. These tips will help you catch the wear and tear and problems before they become hazards.

Keeping cool inside

With the summer electricity bills climbing higher, energy efficiency should be one of your top priorities. It would be best if you got your Air condition system checked in the spring as the repairmen are often challenging to get in the busy summer season. You can also try out and get the energy-efficient way of circulating cool air 'ceiling fans' in place dusted and working. 

Check the doors and windows for air leaks and seal them wherever needed; you don't want the cool air you are paying for leaking out.

Home exterior care 

Warm weather provides the right reasons to spend some more time outside your house. Use this season to wash the outside of our windows and clean out the siding. If needed, apply a coat of fresh paint, and repair any damaged aluminum siding or vinyl.

While you're outside inspecting your home, do check for any minor termite damages. They can cause significant damage and can go undetected for a long time. Signs like flaking wood or mud buildup in your home's exterior wood are a sure sign of termite buildup. Take Professional pest control help if you have any suspicions of termite presence.

Trees should be well tended to avoid any damage to your home. Prune the branches and ensure they are at a safe distance from your home to prevent any storm-related damage. Check the trees for signs of decay, such as hollowed or dry limbs, and keep branches clear of your home and power lines. 

If you plan to plant additional trees in your yard, ensure that you consider the mature plant's size and whether or not the roots may damage underground pipes, sidewalks, or driveway.

Garage upkeep

Ensure you keep your garage clean and dispose of any hazardous materials like paint or solvents. Avoid storing heat-sensitive or combustible materials and if you do, check if they are correctly stored. 

You should be extra careful if you have children around. Instruct them not to go into the garage without you. Also, keep any chemicals or fertilizers, or pesticides in a locked cabinet or stored out of a child's reach. 

Driveways and walkways

Inspect the driveways for any cracks or minor damages and fix them as soon as possible; this helps prevent accidental slips and falls. Also, you avoid large bills in repairs in the future. 

So, there you have it – our summer home maintenance tips. The above tips will help you clean up and take care of your home this summer. If you’ve got some time over the summer, tend to your home. Preventive home maintenance can even help you save money on home insurance. Connect with me to know more about it.

Sitting behind the wheel of your new RV comes with a lot of elation and anticipation. The open road is in front of you, and with all of the national parks and wild spaces available to explore in the U.S., there is nearly endless adventure ahead.

But of course, you’ll have to make sure you are prepared before any big trip. Having the right gear ensures safety, and will save you money and time in the long run. You don’t want to have to go out on a trip and be worried about the RV and small issues that can come up.

Here are a list of maintenance checklist for your RV to ensure it is always ready for your trips

1. Examine the roof, seals, and seams of your RV

Check your RV’s roof every three months to ensure that there are no water leakages. This, in turn, helps to prevent extensive damage to the ceiling. Leakages occur through the RV’s roof edges, vents, skylights, or air conditioning unit. Water soakage on the roof’s outer wood framework can get into the inner sealing panels causing severe water damage. Use an effective sealant compatible with the material used for the RV roof to patch up the leak.

2. Check your RV’s batteries

Make sure your RV’s battery is always fully charged. The Battery life of your RV depends on the type of battery use. A deep cycle battery loses capacity after three years, while a Start-type battery loses power after five years.

3. Maintenance of RV’s brakes

The safety of you and others while being on the road should be on the top of your checklist. Brake maintenance depends on wheel bearings, and so it has to be lubricated throughout the summer. Also, make sure that the brakes have enough material left on them to work correctly. Otherwise, replace it. This costs about $300 to $500 and includes repacking of wheel bearings and replacing the seals. 

4. Change RV’s oil

As an RV is stationary at most times, you have to change the oil on a seasonal basis. This enhances lubrication and running capacity. Make sure you change the RV’s oil after it has run about 3000-4000 miles every year. This prevents excessive wear and tear on its engine, which helps to avoid expensive service or replacement. You also have to change the air, fuel, coolant, and hydraulic filters on your RV on a seasonal basis. This has to inspected while changing the oil. The engine and drive train are taken care of because of this.

5. Advice to young couples

For young couples buying their first RV depends upon their lifestyle and the time spend on it. It a learning experience on what to do and what not to do on their RV. They can opt for a lesser-priced RV initially, and later after gaining experience, they can go for a more costly one with enhancements.

6. Cover your RV while it in storage

Your rig’s exterior is prone to naturally caused damages such as dust, debris, rain, and ultraviolet radiation. Ensure that you keep your RV in an indoor, temperature-controlled facility and invest in a high-quality water-proof RV cover if your RV is sitting on a tarmac.

Owning an RV is a matter of joy and adventure but caring for it also equally important. So, plan your repairs and maintenance accordingly.

Boating is undoubtedly one of the best ways for you to release stress. You are excited to hit the water on your boat; worrying about the finances in case of an unfortunate event would be the last thing you would want. So, make sure your boat is well insured. 

We have collated seven significant points you should be aware of while purchasing a Boat Insurance policy:

1. Understanding the different Boat insurance coverage

It's crucial to know how much it would cost to rebuild your boat if necessary and keep your insurance agent informed on any upgrades you have made to your boat. The buyer of boat insurance must be aware of these concepts to avail the best policy suited for their vessel.

Replacement cost policy means the buyer's compensation with a likeness to the original one in all aspects. 

Market cash value means repaying the insurer with the actual cost of repairs for the boat, where the compensation claimed is the replacement cost of the boat less depreciation. 

Agreed value is the best type of boat insurance policy to ensure if a loss happens, you are eligible for the value of your boat agreed by you. 

You may have to update your policy to keep up with your needs.

2. Discounts for being a Safer boater 

A boater who has completed an approved course on boating safety can avail discount on the boat insurance. It is one of the best ways to reduce boat insurance premiums. The safer boater is also entitled to a lay-up discount if the boat is used only certain times during the year in freshwater conditions.

3. Navigational Limits of your Boat insurance

The navigational limit in the policy determines the coverage. You can determine the claim on the boat insurance policy by certain factors like distance covered by the boat from the boat's dock or moor, launch site, or the water's shoreline. 

For instance, if your boat is not within the navigational limits as mentioned in the policy, you would not be eligible for a claim in case of any damage caused.

4. The various factors that determine your Insurance premium

The cost of the boat insurance also depends upon the size and the speed limits of the boat. Bigger size and higher speed cost more. Other factors for the insurance policy are age, value, condition of the ship like how and where the boat is used, type of motors like inboard or outboard, and whether the insurer lives on the boat.

You are eligible for discounts on factors like the years of boating experience, where your boat is parked, and your boat's examination by Coast Guard Auxiliary. 

5. Canceling the policy during Off-Seasons could be a costly affair 

Many boat owners will intentionally cancel their coverage during the off-season. This puts them under many risks that could damage the boat when it's not in the water. Dropping coverage may result in the boat owner being exposed to pay for the damage. For instance, if the boat is harmed in the driveway due to unfavorable weather conditions, you will have to bear the entire cost. 

6. Did you know that the place where your boat is damaged can affect your claim?

Many varying circumstances determine the claim's nature, and you must be aware of what their policy covers. If the boat is damaged while parked at home and if Homeowner's insurance policy covers it, you can claim from Homeowner's insurance policy. Likewise, if it is damaged while towed by your vehicle, you can claim from your auto insurance company, and Boat insurance covers the damages if the boat is harmed while parked at the dock. (Check with us to be 100% sure if your boat is covered by home or auto insurance as mentioned above)

7. Choosing the right Insurance Agent

It is crucial to select a good insurance agent who knows your boating requirements.

Selecting the right agent is very important. Only select agents who know about boats and boating can give correct advice according to your boating needs to avoid future problems that may arise.

Every boat owner needs a policy that fits them – contact us today to get the best boat insurance coverage that suits you and your boat.

Americans are carrying more debt now before, and signs of that burden are showing up in the form of debt fatigue. If your debt payments are burdening you, the only solution is to change the way you handle your debt and start climbing your way out, one step at a time. 

You'll be able to come out of most financial debts by following the steps mentioned below: 

1. Follow the Debt Snowball or Debt Avalanche method to repay debt:

The debt snowball method can help in paying off your credit card and other debts. Make a list of your debts, beginning from smallest to largest. This method starts paying off the smallest balance and moving to the next smallest balance until the least debts are paid off. This helps in concentrating on the larger deficits later with more dollars in to do so. 

The debt avalanche method states that the debt with the highest interest rate is entirely paid off, and then the extra repayment funds go toward the next-highest interest-bearing loan. The convenience of this method is that it minimizes the amount of interest you pay and reduces the duration it takes to get out of debt.

For instance, imagine that you have the following debts:

• $9,000 debt at 15%

• $7,000 debt at 6%

• $7,500 debt at 12%

In this example, suppose your minimum monthly repayment is $600 then

If you pay back using the Snowball method, you will pay back $30,167 and will be out of debt in 51 months.

If you pay back using the Avalanche method, you will pay back $28,916 and will be out of debt in 49 months.

2. Pick up a side hustle:

Since everyone has a talent, one can utilize their talents or skill to earn extra income that can further be utilized in reducing their debts. A skill that can earn you extra dollars can vary from working as a freelancer at Upwork, Guru or Fiverr or starting a Youtube channel.

3. Avoid credit card overspending:

A credit card is best to be left at home as it accumulates more debt while shopping. Finances can go out of control when we use credit cards as they are very tempting. Credit cards encourage extra spending because of the rewards they offer or cashback with every purchase. 

4. Sell everything you don't need:

Yet another source of income would be to sell all the things that you have gathered over time and don't have a use for it anymore. The extra money earned can be used to pay off your debts. One of the conventional ways to sell your unwanted belongings can be through a garage sale in your neighbourhood. Other ways of selling your items could be through a confinement shop or Facebook Yard Sale.

5. Stop investing:

Your top priority should be paying off debts, and once it is taken care of, then you may consider investing. A bad investment would only lead you more into debt.

6. Reward yourself when you reach a milestone:

Appreciate your efforts; otherwise, you will view it as a punishment making it difficult to stay motivated. A reward with a reasonable budget will help you to stay motivated. For instance, if you plan on halving your debt within the end of the month, reward yourself for your success.

No matter how much debt you're in, whether it's credit card debt, student loan debt, car loans, or something else — it's vital to know there is always a way out. Your debt may not go away instantly, but a debt-free future could be yours if you plan — and stick with it long enough. The earlier you start handling your debt, the sooner you'll have it paid off.