Category: Personal

Avoid the Damage of Winter

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Many disasters caused by winter weather conditions can be prevented by taking a few simple steps. Although it’s hard to think about such things during warmer months, it’s important to be prepared when the colder weather arrives. It’s hard to predict the weather in the future. However, long periods of low temperatures frequently experienced throughout history have proven that it’s important to be prepared.

Regular homeowners policies provide coverage for ice dams, burst pipes, loss from fires and wind damage from snow or ice. When snow melts, it can cause serious damage to a home. One of the most common causes of catastrophic loss is winter storms. Although wind and hail are the most common causes of insurance claims, freezing and water damage follow close behind. It’s important for homeowners to carefully review their insurance policies before winter arrives to understand what is covered. It’s crucial to have ample coverage for rebuilding a home and replacing all the belongings in it. It’s also helpful to consider purchasing sewer backup insurance.

There are several ways to prepare a home for winter and the damage it usually brings. Consider the following tips:

1. Clean out all gutters – It’s important to remove all sticks, leaves and debris. This helps the melting ice and snow flow smoothly. It also prevents ice collecting and forming a dam, which can result in water seeping into the house’s ceilings and walls.

2. Keep trees and branches trimmed – When branches hang over houses during the winter, they’re likely to accumulate snow and ice, which may make them break. Branches falling on homes can cause significant amounts of damage. They may also hurt people who enter the property.

3. Use gutter guards – These guards are useful for preventing interference of water flow from debris.

4. Seal cracks and holes – Caulk all holes and cracks to ensure that melted snow and wind can’t enter the home.

5. Keep steps and handrails safe – It’s important to ensure that steps and banisters are sturdy. If they accumulate snow or ice, they can contribute to serious injuries.

6. Use insulation liberally – Homeowners should add extra insulation to basements, attics and crawl spaces. When heat escapes through the roof, it contributes to ice and snow melting faster. As the moisture melts, re-freezes and accumulates, it can cause a roof to collapse.

7. Maintain a warm temperature – It’s best to keep the thermostat at 65 degrees to prevent pipes from freezing. The temperature in the walls is always colder than the temperature in the house.

8. Call the professionals – The heating system should be checked and serviced every year to prevent fires. It’s also important to ensure that smoke alarms are working. Carbon monoxide detectors are another valuable safety feature that should be placed in every home. In addition to this, homeowners should have a contractor evaluate the home for structural damage. It’s best to identify and repair minor problems before they become a disaster.

9. Be familiar with shutting off the water – Homeowners should know how to do this, and they should know where their pipes are located. When pipes freeze, it’s imperative to act quickly. When going away for an extended time, it’s best to have someone look after the home or have a service professional drain the system.

10. Add an emergency pressure release valve – By adding this to a current system, homeowners will have a system that is protected against increasing pressure from frozen pipes.

Deciding on Separate Rental Car Coverage

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Insuring a rental car is a process that confuses nearly everyone. Most people don’t consider this type of insurance until the issue is brought up by a sales representative at the checkout counter. While rental insurance may sound like a good idea, it’s important to know what is covered and what kind of coverage may already exist before purchasing it. It’s best to call an agent and a credit card company before purchasing rental car coverage.

When calling the insurance company, ask how much coverage exists for a current vehicle. If the rental car is used for recreation, the same deductibles and coverage held on a personal vehicle usually apply to a rental car. If the car is used for business purposes, the same coverage doesn’t exist. Vehicle owners who drop their collision or comprehensive coverage to save money are not covered if the rental vehicle is damaged in an accident or stolen. It’s important to ask if an insurance company covers administrative fees, towing charges and loss of use for a vehicle. There are several insurance companies that offer riders for such coverage, which makes it less expensive to purchase coverage from the rental car company. However, it’s important to remember that diminished value isn’t covered by insurers in many states.

Credit card companies and the banks they use differ in the terms of coverage they offer for rental cars. For example, a gold card may offer less coverage than a platinum card would. Usually loss and damage are the only coverage provisions offered by credit card companies for rental cars. Damages to other vehicles, property of others and personal belongings are usually not covered. Although some companies provide coverage for towing, they usually don’t provide coverage for administrative fees or diminished values. It’s also important to keep in mind that many credit card companies have changed their policies in recent years, so cardholders may not have the amount of coverage they originally had. To learn about the type of coverage available from a credit card company, call the toll-free number on the back of the card. Be sure to ask for written information to be sent by mail or email. As a general rule, credit card company coverage should be used as secondary coverage to temporary insurance from the rental company or from personal auto insurance. If there are multiple credit cards available, call each company to find out which one offers the best provisions.

There are usually several different types of coverage offered at the rental car counter. Loss damage waivers, which are commonly called LDWs, are not technically insurance products. However, they do clear renters of the financial responsibility of theft or damage to the rental car. LDWs may also provide coverage for loss of use, administrative fees and towing. There are several incidents that may void LDWs. It’s important to understand the contract terms thoroughly before purchasing this coverage. Be sure to check with an agent before buying this type of insurance in order to avoid duplicate provisions. Liability coverage offered by rental companies must be in accordance with individual laws for the state in which the company is located. As a general rule, these amounts are minimal and provide limited coverage. Umbrella policies are much smarter investments. Speak with an agent to learn more about umbrella policies. Personal accident and personal effects coverage options also exist. They provide limited coverage for auto accidents and loss or damage of personal belongings.

Insurance Checklist for Home Buyers

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There are many different issues to consider when looking for the perfect home to purchase. One of the most overlooked issues is insurance coverage. However, it is one of the most important aspects about home ownership. It’s essential for those who are shopping for a home to factor in the cost of insurance. Before going out to look for a home, consider all of the expenses the purchase will incur. There are several other things to do before preparing to sign the final documents.

Get A Credit Report

Everyone is entitled to one free annual credit report. It’s important to review the report for inaccuracies and derogatory information. Dispute any inaccuracies immediately. If a creditor can’t verify a debt, it will be erased from the report. Having good credit makes it much easier to obtain a good interest rate. Good credit also helps individuals qualify for an insurance discount. If a credit report isn’t good, it’s important to take the necessary steps to improve scores and eliminate derogatory information.

Get Renters Insurance

Anyone who is shopping for a home but is currently renting should get renters insurance. It’s important to keep this coverage until a home is purchased. Renters insurance provides protection for renters from the liability of injuries sustained by others while they’re on the property. It also awards compensation if personal belongings are stolen or destroyed.

Research The Nearby Fire Department

One factor affecting insurance that most people don’t think of is the nearby fire department. If the location has permanent staff and has high ratings, the home will cost less to insure. Homes that have nearby fire hydrants also cost less to insure. Adequate water supply, trained firefighters and ample equipment are all important aspects of determining home insurance rates.

Consider Natural Disasters & Bad Weather

Although homes along the coastlines are more desirable, they’re more expensive to insure than inland homes. It’s important to plan on a windstorm or hurricane deductible for a home on a coastline. This amount is not a flat cost. It is a percentage of the estimated cost to rebuild the structure if it is destroyed. These percentage variables usually differ from one state to another. Even if the home is located in a state that doesn’t have a coastal border, it’s important to consider other natural disasters. Flooding and earthquakes are important issues to consider. Be sure to investigate the area’s history of flooding and earthquakes. Keep in mind that these coverage options must be purchased separately.

Know The Home’s Age

While older homes have their own unique beauty, they’re more expensive to insure than newer homes. Since some of the ornate features of older homes are more difficult to replace, the insurance premiums are higher. In addition to this, their plumbing, electrical or gas systems may be old enough that they’re considered risky. If this is the case, they result in a higher insurance premium.

Consider Swimming Pools & Other Features

Homes with swimming pools usually cost more to insure. Since a swimming pool is expensive to replace and poses a safety risk, it is considerably more expensive to insure a home that has one. Hot tubs, saunas and any other features that may pose a liability issue require careful planning for insurance. It may be best to purchase an umbrella policy to ensure liability protection.

There are several other things to consider when looking for a new home. For example, a roof that is new can positively affect insurance rates. However, an older roof that needs repair will cost more to insure. Homes that aren’t up to code also cost more to insure. It’s important to speak with an agent before agreeing to purchase a home. Agents are happy to look over the property’s details to determine how much of a risk the home is. When the time comes to purchase the perfect home, an agent can help arrange ample insurance coverage for the future. 

Why Earthquake Insurance is Important Everywhere

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When most people think about earthquakes in the United States, California and Alaska are the two states that come to mind. However, earthquakes can happen in any part of the country. Many people move out of areas that are prone to earthquakes after experiencing one to escape the possibility of a repeat experience. The truth is that there is no place that is completely safe from earthquakes. They are a very real threat that everyone must consider and plan for. One of the most vital aspects of proper preparedness is having ample insurance coverage.

Earthquake damage isn’t covered in the majority of homeowners policies. This is also true for business policies. Both types of policies specify that damage from earth movement is not covered. While actual damage from a quake may not be covered, property insurance may provide coverage for fires and other incidents that occur as a result of it. Policyholders should scour their policies to understand the specific exclusions. If the policy seems difficult to read, it’s important to contact an agent with any questions.

Many people think they won’t experience a major earthquake during their lifetime. This is especially true for those who live in areas where earthquakes happen every 100 years or less. Although many people may not experience a strong earthquake like the recent Virginia incident, there are over 5,000 incidents recorded each year by the USGS. Damage from earthquakes has been recorded in all 50 states in history. There have been reports of damage in 39 states alone since 1900. This proves that while some people may not live in areas that commonly experience earthquakes, they’re still not immune to the threat.

Earthquake insurance is available as a rider, which is added to a business or personal property policy. People who have one of these types of coverage should contact their insurer to find out what coverage options are available. Since they’re unpredictable and happen suddenly, it’s best to be prepared for all types of disasters. Earthquake insurance is so important that it can’t be stressed enough. While the majority of people assume all California homeowners have this type of coverage, research indicates that about 12% actually have this type of insurance. The nation’s average is less than 12%.

Earthquake insurance costs vary by location, building type and the age of the building. It’s much more expensive to insure older buildings. In addition to this, brick structures are more expensive to insure. Buildings with wood frames withstand the force of earthquakes better, so it’s cheaper to insure them.

To offer an example, a home with a wood frame in Washington may cost between $1 and $3 per $1,000 of coverage. The same home may be less than $.50 per $1,000 insured on the East Coast. However, a brick home may cost between $3 and $15 per $1,000 in the Pacific Northwest. In most East Coast locations, the same home may only be between $.60 and $.90 per $1,000.

Every earthquake policy also has a deductible. This means that homeowners must pay upfront for a portion of the damages before the insurer pays the remaining amount. The deductible may be up to 20% of the structure’s replacement value. The percentage depends on the insurer and the location of the structure.

There are also options for renters. There are coverage policies that protect personal property. In addition to this, they usually cover living expenses if the building becomes uninhabitable after an earthquake. It’s important for renters to keep a list of belongings and their values. Major appliances, furniture, electronics and other expensive items must all be documented properly. A new way of creating a record of belongings is making a narrated video tour of the home and focusing on belongings.  It is best to contact your insurance agent to secure the earthquake coverage that is right for your individual needs.

Filing a Homeowners Claim

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It’s necessary to file a claim with the insurance company if a home is destroyed by a storm or a visitor is injured. It’s important to keep in mind that a homeowners policy is a contract held between an insurer and an individual. This means that there are specific procedures and rules to follow. It’s important to thoroughly read an insurance policy to completely understand individual responsibilities. There are a few pointers that every homeowner should remember.

Immediately report all crimes to the police.

It’s important to notify the police of any vandalism, burglary or other crime. Homeowners should also obtain the names of any police officers involved in the report or investigation. It’s also important to write down the names of all law enforcement officers after speaking with them on the phone.

Make all necessary temporary repairs.

Don’t shell out thousands of dollars for full repairs to a damaged property. It’s best to pay only for supplies to temporarily repair or sustain something. For example, if a window is broken, it’s best to pay for boards and nails or tape and cardboard to temporarily repair it. It would be pointless to pay for an entirely new window until after the claim is honored. Homeowners should save all receipts of items purchased for making temporary repairs.

Call an agent immediately.

After calling the police for any crime-related issues, it’s important to call an insurance agent. If the nature of the claim doesn’t involve a crime, phone an agent immediately after discovering the issue that will become a claim. Since there are time limits for some claims, it’s important to follow this advice. Ask the agent what steps must be taken. Agents are also able to provide advice regarding how long the claims process will take.

List all damaged items.

Don’t discard any items that are damaged before the insurance adjuster is able to survey them. Photographs and videotapes are also acceptable forms of proof in most cases. After making an inventory, make a copy for the insurance adjuster.

Obtain the necessary claim forms.

After receiving notification of a claim, an insurance company must send the proper forms to an individual within a specific time period. The best way to avoid delays is to ensure that the paperwork is filled out correctly.

Keep all receipts after relocating. 

Not everyone has to relocate after filing a claim. However, if the dwelling is uninhabitable, it’s important to remember that homeowners insurance has provisions for living expenses to some extent. It’s best to keep receipts in order to show written proof of expenditures.

Homeowners should carefully follow each of these steps. After filing a claim, it’s best to have an insurance adjuster come out as quickly as possible to survey the damage. Most insurance companies arrange for adjusters to visit a residence. To learn more about this process or to obtain answers to other questions, contact an agent.

Protecting a Home from Mold

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It’s important to have a plan and routine in order to protect a home from mold. This involves constantly looking for watermarks on ceilings or walls, signs of mold growth and musty smells. If mold is caught early enough, it can be removed with a simple cleaning solution of bleach and water. However, preventing mold from growing again requires that the source of moisture be eliminated. The area where the mold started growing must also be dried properly. In some cases, the surface or area may simply need to be replaced. After cleaning the mold and attacking the source, be sure to place all rags, clothing, materials, paper and other debris affected in a plastic bag to be thrown in the garbage.

Mold is similar to insect infestations and rot in the respect that it is usually not covered under a homeowners insurance policy. Standard policies afford coverage for sudden or accidental disasters. However, they don’t offer coverage for cleaning or maintaining a home. If the mold is a direct result of a burst pipe or other covered peril, the insurance company may cover the cost to eliminate the mold.

Since mold is also dangerous, it’s important to tackle the problem immediately if it arises. Mold can cause family members in the home to become sick. Symptoms are usually similar to allergic reactions or hay fever. The best way to avoid all of these problems is to take steps to prevent mold. The following steps can be taken to prevent mold from growing.

Reduce Humidity Level
It’s best to keep the humidity level between 30 percent and 60 percent by utilizing dehumidifiers and air conditioners. Be sure to place exhaust fans in all bathrooms and kitchens. If carpet is desired, avoid installing it in bathrooms or kitchens. It’s best to have carpet only in rooms that aren’t exposed to moisture on a regular basis. Another important thing to remember is to avoid letting water pool and collect under house plants.

Check & Replace Hoses
Be sure to regularly inspect pipes, fittings and hoses. It’s best to replace hoses to appliances that use water every five years. At about $5 or $10 per piece, the cost of replacing hoses is much less expensive than dealing with a major mold problem.

Use Mold-Reducing Products
Clean all bathrooms in the home with bleach and water regularly. There are also several other cleaning products available that are designed to kill mold. It’s a good idea to add mold inhibitors to paint before applying it to the walls or doors.

Exercise Caution After Water Damage
If at any time a large amount of water comes into contact with the home’s interior, it’s important to ensure that carpets, upholstery and any other surfaces that hold water are dried thoroughly and promptly. Everything should completely dry within 24 to 48 hours following the initial water contact. Items that can’t be dried should be discarded. If there is standing water, remove it promptly. In addition to promoting mold growth, standing water is a prime breeding ground for microorganisms. After all areas have been dried, wash and disinfect them well. This includes the surfaces of appliances, closets, walls, shelves, floors, heating systems and cooling systems.

Check The Roof & Gutters
Another way to prevent mold is to check the roof and gutters frequently. Clear the gutters of any debris. If there are any leaks in the roof, have them repaired immediately to avoid water seeping into the home.

While mold is problematic, it can be prevented with proper care. For any questions about mold and the specific terms of an individual homeowners insurance policy, contact an agent.

How to Avoid Post-Disaster Scams

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Homeowners must exercise caution after their homes are destroyed by fires, tornadoes or other disasters. There are many dishonest scam artists and service providers who are ready to take advantage of distressed homeowners. They know that individuals who have just experienced such a great loss due to disaster are in a panicked state of mind. Since homeowners in such situations aren’t thinking clearly, scam artists are able to get the money they want. In order to avoid such a fiasco, simply avoid making rash decisions by talking to an agent immediately following a disaster to get a list of reliable service providers. When disaster strikes, this will make it easier to know who to turn to. In addition to obtaining a list from an agent, consider the following tips for hiring service providers.

Builders & Roofers
Avoid rushing when hiring a builder or roofer. It’s better to obtain business cards and written estimates from several service providers before making a decision. Make sure to ask for references and check them. Research the track records of the companies or individuals being considered for the job. It’s best to use professionals who have good reputations. One way to find a list of such individuals is to contact the Better Business Bureau. Individuals earn a place on this list by being honest and providing quality work. One scam that is common in building and roofing involves a service worker asking for an extremely large deposit to begin working. After starting the job, the individual or company will disappear. Never do business with anyone who asks for a large sum of money upfront.

It’s also important to beware of contractors who are pushy about spending a lot of money for temporary repairs. The purpose of temporary repairs is to provide a cheap and temporary fix. Payments for temporary repairs are covered in the total settlement from the insurance company. Homeowners who pay service providers large amounts of money for temporary repairs usually find that they don’t have enough to cover the cost of permanent repairs. A good service provider will offer reasonable rates for temporary and permanent repairs. Whether obtaining temporary or permanent work, be sure to keep receipts for services received in a safe place. Always ask an agent when in doubt about repair quotes.

Attorneys & Public Adjusters
Never make hasty decisions about hiring someone to handle an insurance claim. It’s especially important to be careful about individuals who offer their services by door-to-door soliciting following a catastrophe. Never let any company or individual use scare tactics to encourage a quick signature for immediate services. If such people surface in the aftermath of a disaster, they will likely victimize anyone who is willing to agree to their terms. These individuals usually offer quick or immediate service, which homeowners feel desperate for after a disaster. However, their efforts to make quick money usually leave victimized homeowners without enough money to pay for permanent repairs. Keep in mind that quality repairs take time to obtain after a major disaster.

Another thing to remember is that it’s best to settle a claim directly with the insurance company before considering using the services of a public adjuster or attorney. Insurance companies provide their adjuster’s services to policyholders for free. Be sure to ask an agent to help with filing a claim, and never hesitate to ask questions. Individuals who agree to work directly with the insurance company still retain the right to hire a third-party professional for help, so there is nothing to lose by working directly with the insurance company. If the claim is complicated and the services of an attorney are desired, make sure the individual selected is qualified. Ask around the community for advice about which attorneys are best. Another place to check for reliable advice about which attorneys are reliable is the county’s Bar Association. Keep in mind that attorneys ask for about 30 percent of the settlement, and public adjusters usually require 15 percent. The key idea to remember after any disaster is to contact an agent before making any decisions.

Understanding the Payment Process

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An insurance adjuster is responsible for inspecting damage to a home following a claim. These individuals are also responsible for offering a specific sum of money that is to be used by the policyholder for necessary repairs. As a general rule, the first check received from the insurance company is meant as an advance toward the total amount of the settlement. It’s important to remember that it’s not the final payment. Separate checks are issued for each category of damage. Checks to cover living expenses are usually also sent separately. Individuals who are offered a settlement amount on the spot may choose to accept the money. If further damage is identified later, it’s possible to reopen the claim to request more money. Keep in mind that most policies require all claims to be filed within one year of the disaster’s occurrence. It’s best to check with an agent to learn about rules pertaining to individual state insurance departments.

People who have mortgages on their homes will receive a check for repairs that is payable to them and their lenders. This is because lenders usually require that their names be placed on the homeowners policy, which means they’ll also be named on any checks for claims. Since the lender has a vested interest in the property for as long as it’s under a mortgage, they have equal rights to the checks issued by homeowners insurance companies. When a lender’s name is on the check, the document must be endorsed by the lender before it can be cashed. As a general rule, lenders place the funds in an escrow account. They use the money to pay for the repairs until the work is completed. Borrowers must communicate with their lenders to ensure the repairs are done quickly and efficiently. After receiving a bid from a contractor, show it to the lender. Let them know how much money the contractor requires up front to start working. Keep in mind that a lender may want to have the work inspected before releasing enough funds to pay the rest of the bill.

There are some construction companies that require customers sign a form that permits their homeowners insurance company to pay the company directly. If this is the case, it’s important to be sure the final work product is acceptable before telling the insurance company to complete the final payment. There are specific guidelines that lenders must follow after a disaster occurs. To learn about these rules, contact an agent.

The first step to take after a disaster occurs is to total up the cost of all personal belongings. Use photos, videos and any other means necessary to prove ownership or show the condition of items that were destroyed. If there are receipts or sales records of any items, be sure to save them. Homeowners who have a replacement cost policy will receive reimbursement for the purchase of new items. Cash value policies provide reimbursement minus the cost of depreciation. Most companies require policyholders to purchase new items before they offer reimbursement for the destroyed items. To learn how reimbursement works and what type of compensation an individual policy offers, contact an agent today.

Checks for additional living expenses are made payable to the policyholder. Since the lender has nothing to do with these expenses, they don’t receive any of the money. If the check contains the lender’s name, contact an individual agent. Those whose homes have been destroyed have several options. They may rebuild on the same site. If this option is chosen, the amount of money awarded to rebuild will depend on the type of policy purchased and the amount specified under the declarations section. Some homeowners may decide to rebuild elsewhere. If this option is chosen, the amount awarded will be determined by state law, policy provisions and court rulings. Homeowners considering either option should contact an agent before making a decision. 

Choosing the Right Roofing Material

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Every homeowner wishes for a roof that is cheap, never requires repair and will last forever. However, the average roof must be replaced or repaired about every 10 years. It is important to choose roofing materials carefully to get the most life out of a roof, lessen the amount of waste in landfills and use fewer natural resources. For example, the color of a roof impacts how hot or cold the attic and the rest of the home will be, which affects cooling and heating bills. Choosing the right material may yield a result that lasts for more than 30 years. There are many roofing materials available. Cost does not always determine the level of quality for many of the popular materials. The following paragraphs outline the positive and negative features of the most popular types of roofing.

Composition Shingles
These are a good selection for buyers who want an affordable roof that looks clean. There are also high-quality versions available that are constructed from fiberglass or asphalt, which are more durable. Composition shingles come in many brands, colors and types. The major advantages they hold include the following:

•Adjust well to different applications
•Can be nailed over an existing roof
•Easy to install
•Low maintenance
•Some brands may feature Class A fire protection.

However, there are a few disadvantages to consider:

•May blow off in strong winds
•Material is prone to scarring while hot
•Does not have the same aesthetic dimensional appeal as tile or shakes

Clay Tile
This tile is a good choice for Spanish, Southwestern or Italian styles of homes. Some of the biggest advantages they offer include the following:

•Durable
•Long lifespan
•Will not burn or rot
•Resistant to insect damage
•Low maintenance

There are several disadvantages of clay tile. One of the biggest is its weight. This means that additional roof support is often required to hold the tile. The following are also disadvantages:

•Color fades over time
•Difficult to perform roof maintenance that requires walking on fragile tiles
•Difficult to install
•Expensive

Wood Shakes
This natural look is unique because shakes can be different widths, colors, thicknesses or cuts. The main advantages include the following:

•Helps insulate an attic
•Allows home to breath

Since they are wood, there are also several risks and disadvantages to consider. The following are the most important considerations:

•Many are unrated by fire safety codes
•Many manufacturers use spray or wipe fire retardants
•Difficult to install
•Lifespan maintenance cost may be high
•Old shakes cannot be recycled
•Prone to insect infestations

Concrete Tile
Some of these tiles are coated with other materials. Plastics, thin metals, enamels and various recycled materials are some examples. The following are advantages of concrete tiles:

•Long lifespan
•Low maintenance
•Good fire resistance
•Resistant to insects and rot
•Durable

The following are disadvantages of concrete tiles:

•More expensive than similar materials
•May be prone to breaking, curling or changing color

Slate
This material is often seen on upscale homes. While it may be expensive, it offers a natural look. The following are some advantages of slate:

•Long lifespan
•Good fire protection
•Resistant to insects and rot
•Low maintenance
•Wide selection of sizes and natural colors

The following are disadvantages of slate:

•Can be heavy enough to require extra support
•Breakable enough to making walking on it not recommended

Metal Roofs
These roofs were popular in the 1700s, and they are making a comeback today. One advantage people like about them is that they can be designed to look like other types of roofing. The following are the main advantages:

•Durable
•Energy efficient
•Fire resistant
•Very low maintenance
•Made from up to 65 percent recycled material
•Some types can be installed over an existing roof

The following are disadvantages:

•Difficult to install
•Expensive
•May not be as efficient as other roofing materials

Hot Mop
This is installed on flat roofs. It is not very attractive, so most people cover it with decorative stones. It can only be installed on roofs with proper drainage devices intact. While it is inexpensive, it poses several health risks because of dangerous substances in its material composition. 

Are You Prepared for a Sewer Backup?

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While many homeowners assume otherwise, their insurance policies do not cover a sewer backup. However, there is separate coverage available. In comparison with the cost of dealing with the aftermath of a sewer backup, coverage is a true bargain. Homeowners are responsible for repairing and maintaining the portion of pipeline that connects their home with their city’s sanitary sewer main. Since this pipeline is actually owned by the homeowner, any parts of it that extend into the public right of way or street are also included. Working on these pipes is a costly chore, so it is important for all homeowners to know how sewer backups are caused. The following three types of blockages are the most common causes of backups.

Tree Roots Blocking Pipelines
Trees thrive on water, so their roots often gravitate toward cracks in sewer lines. While the growth starts with a few tiny roots penetrating the pipe, they eventually get thicker and expand. They often enter pipelines near the joints, which results in major blockages. Unfortunately, tree roots can eventually span the entire length of the pipe and cause a complete clog. If trees owned by the city are suspected of causing problems, contact their cleanup department immediately. They will often sample the roots to determine who is responsible for cleanup. In some situations, a combination of city trees and privately owned trees are to blame. When this happens, the city and the property owner must split the cost of cleanup and repairs.

Heavy Rains Clogging Storm Sewers
If a sanitary sewer or storm sewer is unable to contain the amount of rain falling, a backup may occur. Water typically enters the home through washtubs, toilets or sump wells in the basement. While damage is most common in the basement, it may occur anywhere in the home. To help avoid this problem, make sure there is a sump pump to drain the water and a generator that will run the pump if the power goes out.

Sanitary Main Blockages
Several types of blockages are possible in the sanitary main. Blockages result in sewage backing up into the home itself. Fortunately, this occurrence is gradual, so there is time to call a plumber before the house is overtaken with sewage. In some cases, there may be a rapid flow of water coming in through the basement. When this happens, it is important to call the city’s public works office immediately.

Each of these events can be very costly. Sewage and standing water can also be hazardous to human health. In addition to this, they destroy nearly every tangible object they meet in a home. A simple calculation of the cost of replacing damaged items and comparing it to the cost of insurance is enough to clarify the importance of adequate coverage. To learn how to obtain protection from sewer backups, discuss available options with an agent today.