Nearly 60% of Americans are underinsured or don’t understand what is covered by their policies.
Make sure you are properly covered going into the new year with these 6 New Year’s insurance resolutions
1. Make sure you have the correct amount of auto coverage
Have your driving habits changed in the past year? Maybe you accepted a new job and your commute is longer or smaller, or you added a new driver to your policy. These life changes will all affect your insurance coverage and premium costs.
Making sure you have the right amount of auto coverage is crucial in case of an accident, so you don’t have to end up paying the majority of your costs out of pocket. For example, make sure you have enough liability coverage on your current policy. If you cause an accident, you are responsible for damages (and if it is a serious accident loss of wages of the victim/their family). Liability coverage is used to pay for those damages that you caused.
Your insurance will only pay for the amount that you’ve designated for liability. The rest comes from your pocket, so don’t skimp on this important coverage.
2. See if you qualify for any additional discounts
Did you know that if you have a teen driver they can take a driver’s safety or education course to qualify for discounts on your auto insurance? You can also turn in their report card for a ‘good student discount’.
You may qualify for insurance discounts for being part of a professional association, such as groups for teachers, nurses, or first responders. There are also discounts for being retired, for drivers turning 25, for paying via automatic bank payments, and for paying in full upfront. You may qualify for a new home discount, or a discount if you have updated your utilities (electrical, plumbing, heating, cooling) in an older home, or added a security system. There are also discounts for a new roof and an automatic sprinkler system. You can even be rewarded for being a loyal customer!
3. Create a home inventory checklist
A home inventory is a list of all of your possessions and their values. While creating one may sound like a waste of time, it’s important to have an updated list of all of your possessions so that you can get fully compensated if there was a disaster like a fire or a tornado, or a burglary. Without a home inventory, you may have difficulty pinpointing all of your belongings and lose out on their value and it can even delay the claims process. Start fresh with all of your new belongings after the holidays and put the checklist in a safe space, in the event of an unexpected loss, you’ll be glad you did.
4. Do you need additional coverage?
Did you know your home and/or renter’s insurance doesn’t include flood coverage? If you live in a flood-prone area you need to have Flood Insurance. The same goes for Earthquakes and Earthquake Insurance.
Do you have a pet that you love like a child of your own? While they will be covered if you are both in an accident in a covered vehicle thanks to Pet Injury Protection from California Casualty, make sure you will get reimbursed for any emergency surgeries, x-rays, labs, prescriptions, and more by adding Pet Insurance.
Umbrella Insurance is an extra layer of coverage that protects you and your family by covering additional damage costs that extend beyond the limits of your homeowner’s, auto, or watercraft policies. This additional coverage ensures your personal assets are safe. The primary purpose of this coverage is to protect you if you’re found liable for causing bodily injury to others or damage to their property. It also protects against incidents involving slander, libel, false arrest, and invasion of privacy, as well as any legal defense costs – even if you’re not found liable.
Personal Property Coverage, also referred to as “contents coverage,” is the term insurance companies use to collectively define the things you own inside your home. Scheduled Personal Property Coverage, or rider, is additional coverage for more special and/or expensive items such as jewelry, watches, heirlooms, furs, collectibles, etc. that have values above your personal property coverage limits. Both coverages are invaluable to make sure your personal belongings are covered in the event of a disaster or burglary.
5. Know what benefits are available to you
At California Casualty we offer our insured exclusive benefits like:
Affiliate Group Rates & Generous Discounts
FREE ID Defense Resolution
Summer or Holiday Skip Payment Options
Waived / Reduced Deductible for Collision or Vandalism While Parked on School Property – for Educators
Personal Firearm Coverage & Fallen Hero Benefits – for First Responders
No Charge Personal Property Coverage Up to $500
24 x 7 Towing & Roadside Assistance
$1,000 Free Pet Injury Protection Coverage
And more! Speak to your insurance agent and ask which benefits are available immediately to you.
6. Schedule your annual free policy review
When’s the last time you took a look at your Insurance policy? Chances are if you haven’t had an accident or a loss, it’s probably been a while. And knowing more about your insurance could even save you money on your premiums. That’s why it is recommended to speak to your insurance agent at least once a year for your annual policy review. They will answer all of your questions and make sure you have the correct amount of coverage.
We know understanding your insurance coverage can be confusing, but we’ve got you covered! There is no better time to start getting the most out of your insurance protection than the new year. Call your California Casualty agent today to make sure you are taking advantage of your coverage and benefits all year long.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
When the temperature drops, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, cozy home. But cranking the thermostat comes with big bills. Try these winter window hacks – and some more traditional solutions — to save on your energy bills while keeping your house warm and toasty this season.
1. Insulate your windows with plastic wrap or bubble wrap.
Did you know that you can create a barrier around drafty windows using bubble wrap? Choose medium to large size bubbles and cut the wrap to fit to the outer edges of your window. Fill a spray bottle with water. Spray the window with a thin film and immediately place the wrap bubble side down and press it against the windowpane. The water will make it stick. You also can use clear plastic cling wrap instead of the bubble wrap with a similar effect. Keep the wrap there all winter and remove it in the spring. You can even reuse it; just label it for the window that it fits.
Store-bought version: If you prefer, you can buy an inexpensive window insulation kit at hardware or retail stores, or online. They come with a clear shrink wrap film that you cut to size. Then, you apply adhesive around the window frame and use a hairdryer to seal it to the tape. While it holds well during the winter, the plastic peels off easily at the end of the season.
2. Replace caulk and weatherstripping.
Caulk and weatherstripping can wear out over time. Sealing air ducts with caulk and weatherstripping is an easy DIY project that can save you 10-20% of your energy costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. The acrylic latex caulks are the easiest to apply and often the least expensive. Choose the type of weatherstripping based on your windows. Lowes offers guidelines that range from vinyl, aluminum, and stainless steel to felt and foam.
3. Choose insulating window shades and curtains.
What you put on your windows does make a difference. Choose insulated window shades such as cellular shades, which have a honeycombed design to trap air. This can save you 10% in heating costs. If you prefer curtains, choose thick medium-colored drapes. You can find blackout or ones with white plastic backings, which can act as insulation. Flannel and fleece curtains also add a layer of insulation. You can check energy ratings for various types of window coverings with the AERC, an independent public-interest nonprofit organization.
Tip: Open curtains on a sunny day during the winter months, and let the sun heat your home. Don’t forget to close the curtains at night or the opposite effect will occur.
4. Install storm windows.
You may not be ready for the expense of replacing your windows, and storm windows may be the next best thing. These windows are mounted inside or outside of an existing window pane. This extra layer helps provide additional insulation (and as a bonus helps to reduce noise). Not all windows will be able to fit storm windows, so check first before you make the investment. When you’re ready, choose low-emissivity (Low-E) storm windows, which have a microscopically thin coating that reflects heat back into the house. These windows can save 12% to 33% of heating costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
5. Other Expert Tips to Try This Winter:
Get a programmable thermostat. Set it lower at night and when you’re away from the house at work.
Keep your heating vents open. It’s a myth that closing vents will save you money. Your heating system generates the same amount of heat whether they are open or closed.
Make sure your vents are not obstructed. Move curtains, rugs, furniture that are blocking airflow.
Consider a duct booster fan to increase the flow of warm air.
Keep interior doors open so airflow can circulate.
If you have a radiator, use some aluminum foil behind it to reflect the heat into the room rather than into the wall.
If you can see light under the bottom of your front door, cold air is coming through. You can often raise the height of your threshold by turning screws—or you can buy a new one.
Run your ceiling fan in reverse so it is moving clockwise to pull warm air down.
Some simple winter home maintenance can help you save on your energy bill and prevent winter home hazards. Remember to schedule a furnace checkup with a professional HVAC company, change your air filters, and check your insulation. Your home is your greatest investment; take care of it and you will enjoy it for years to come.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
It’s cold out there—a good time to crank up the heat or put a few logs on the fire. While you might enjoy the warmth and ambiance, winter is actually one of the worst seasons for indoor air quality. That’s because we’re nestled inside our comfortable homes along with all of the pollutants and moisture. Fun, right?
Our chances of catching a cold are greater during the winter, especially if our home’s air quality is poor. In addition, trapped pollutants increase our risk of asthma and other respiratory problems. The good news is that we can do something about it! According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are 3 basic strategies for better indoor air quality: (1) controlling sources of pollutants (2) improving ventilation, and (3) cleaning the air. Here’s what you need to know to improve your indoor air quality this winter.
Source Control
There are many sources of indoor pollution, ranging from fuel-burning appliances to building materials and furnishings, and even household cleaning products. Take a look around your house to identify the sources of poor indoor air quality, so that you can take steps to reduce their impact.
Airborne chemicals
Also known as VOCS – volatile organic compounds – these “hang” in the air for us to breathe. Scented air fresheners, cleaning products, paint, and even carpets and furniture release chemicals in the air. VOCs can cause health problems from respiratory illnesses to headaches, dizziness, irritation in the eyes, ears, nose, and throat, and more. You can choose low VOC paint, or repurposed/upcycled furniture to reduce some chemicals, and use natural cleaning products.
Tip: A bowl of vinegar with lemon juice will draw out bad smells. Baking soda and lemon juice also absorb odors.
Carbon dioxide
During the winter months, we’re gathered together indoors, which means we’re breathing in close proximity to each other. As carbon dioxide levels rise, that can cause headaches, drowsiness, and other problems. If the levels get high enough, it can even impact decision-making. Limit candle lighting and fireplace use which can contribute to carbon dioxide levels. Open a window for a few minutes, even if it’s cold, to let the fresh air in.
Tip: Add plants like red-edged dracaena, weeping figs or bamboo palm to help convert CO2 to oxygen.
Radon gas
When our doors and windows are shut, it’s easy for radon gas to build up. Radon gas comes from the natural decay of soil. It moves into your home through cracks or even through your water supply. While it may be natural, radon is radioactive and dangerous. It’s the number one cause of lung cancer among nonsmokers. A radon test kit can measure your home’s levels. The EPA offers guidance on radon reduction systems.
Air that is too dry – or too moist – can cause problems. The dry air in winter causes dry skin, chapped lips, dry nose, dry throat, and cracked fingertips. High humidity causes mold and condensation which also can affect our health. The ideal level for household humidity should be between 30% and 59%. You can buy an inexpensive monitor to track your household humidity. To help reduce it, use your exhaust and ventilation fans, take cooler showers, or consider a dehumidifier. UV lamps professionally installed in your HVAC system can help kill harmful bacteria and mold before they enter the air supply.
Tip: Run your air conditioner. It may be winter, but your air conditioner can help clear humidity from your home.
The seasonal scent of wood-burning fireplaces may be wonderful, but that smoke is adding fine particles of dust, dirt, and liquids to the air. Choose clean-burning logs to reduce the effects, and never use wood that is wet, painted, or treated. Gas fireplaces that are vented to the outdoors are better for air quality.
Tip: Warm your chimney flue before starting the fire to help it draw smoke upwards and out of your home.
Dust and dirt
Dust and dirt are respiratory irritants and frequent cleaning can help. Dust and clean your home regularly. Take cushions and rugs outside and beat them to loosen and get rid of dirt. Then wipe them clean with a damp rag to pick up any additional particles and mites. Vacuum rugs and carpets using a vacuum cleaner with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.
Tip: A bristle top doormat helps to trap dirt before it comes into your home. Wash or vacuum your mats regularly to prevent buildup.
Pets
We love our pets but pet hair and dander can affect indoor air quality, especially for those of us who are sensitive or allergic. Air filters and ventilation can help. (See next sections.) Brush your pet regularly to reduce the amount of shedding. Keep a towel by the door and wipe their feet to prevent them from bringing additional dirt into the house.
Tip: Use a window squeegee on your carpet to pick up pet hair. The rubber will loosen the hair and gather it into clumps.
Improved Ventilation
Your HVAC system is your home’s first line of defense against airborne particles. Make sure your system is well maintained and your ducts are cleaned. You also can upgrade the air filters in your HVAC system to a higher MERV rating, if your system allows it. This will increase their ability to remove particles, germs, viruses, and chemical gases. Check with an HVAC professional.
Ventilation devices help air circulation that keeps indoor air clean. They typically are installed in a home’s attic or roof and bring in fresh air on a regular basis while expelling stale air.
Air Cleaners
There are many types of air cleaners for home use, ranging from table-top models to expensive systems for the whole house. An air purifier with a HEPA filter can remove anywhere between 70-95% of airborne particles. Consider buying an air cleaner for each room. Choose one with smart sensors that can detect pollutants in real-time and adjust their fans accordingly.
In addition, you may consider an indoor air quality monitor. These devices can monitor levels of moisture and pollutants, and share information on which part of the house is contributing to poor air quality.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
It’s the holidays and if you’re like most Americans, you’re pulling out the extension cords. Whether you’re planning a fantastic holiday light display or you simply need to power an extra item or two, remember that safety is key.
Extension cords are responsible for about 3,300 home fires annually, including holiday fires, killing 50 and injuring 270 people each year, according to the Electrical Safety Foundation International. That’s why it’s important to know how to choose and use these cords safely.
Follow these tips for extension cord safety this holiday season.
When buying extension cords, consider these important factors.
Select a cord that is approved by an independent testing lab such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Intertek (ETL), or CSA-International (CSA).
Choose a cord with a 3-prong plug and if possible, a polarized one. Polarized plugs can only be inserted into an outlet one direction, because the blade on one side is wider than the other.
If you’ll be using the cord outside, choose one marked for outdoor use. Outdoor extension cords have more insulation, which protects them from varying temperatures, sunlight, and unintentional scrapes.
Select a cord that is long enough for your needs. Never plug an extension cord into another extension cord to extend it. That’s not safe.
Know what you are powering and choose a cord that can provide the right load amount. If you buy one with insufficient power for your needs, you could overheat it and cause an electrical short or a fire.
The thickness of the cord will be a clue to its power. Small appliances and electronics can use thin or flat cords. Larger ones need thick, round, low-gauge cords able to handle a higher amperage/watt flow. The amperage is the measure of electrical current flow. The wattage is the amount of electrical power of an appliance or lamp.
Look at the label on the cord and match it to your electrical needs. If you’re unsure, ask for help from the retailer.
Length makes a difference. The longer the cord, the more chance for voltage to drop. If you’re running a 50-foot cord, select a higher rating to account for that loss.
When using extension cords, remember these do’s and don’ts.
Don’t…
… power multiple appliances with one cord.
… remove the third prong from your plug to fit in a 2-prong outlet. That could open the way for a nasty electrical shock.
… run cords under rugs or furniture. If the heat has nowhere to escape, it could cause a fire
… tape cords to floors or attach them with staples or nails, which could compromise the wiring.
… bend or coil extension cords that are in use.
… put cords across highly trafficked areas. They can be a tripping hazard.
… plug extension cords into power strips that are then plugged into outlets. This presents a similar danger to plugging extension cords into other extension cords—and heightens the risk of a fire.
… don’t use extension cords with heaters or fans. The risk of overheating is too great.
… don’t use extension cords that feel hot to the touch.
Do…
… check for frays, loose wires, and other damage. If you see any, throw out the cord and use another.
… insert prongs fully so no part of the metal is exposed while the extension cord is in use.
… cover unused cord receptacles with childproof covers.
… keep pets away from extension cords. Spray the cord with Bitter Apple to discourage chewing.
… pull the plug – and not the cord — when disconnecting from the socket. Pulling the cord could damage the wire and also present a shock hazard.
… store cords indoors and throw away damaged cords.
Remember that extension cords are designed to be temporary. If you’re using them on a permanent basis, it may be time to update your home’s electrical system.
Finally…a word about power strips
Power strips add extra outlets when you need them. That doesn’t mean you should use every outlet in the strip. Just like extension cords, power strips have electrical load limits. Check the rating, and make sure your power strip includes a built-in surge protector. These protect from a spike in electric current that can damage your electronics or appliances.
The personal property coverage in your homeowner’s insurance may cover damages from a power surge or electrical fire. Check with your insurer.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
You came home to a rug that’s been chewed to shreds and a mess on the carpet—again. Now your house is smelling (and looking) a bit like a kennel… You love your dog, so you’re thinking it may be time to scrap the carpet altogether.
But think twice before you make any rash decisions. Carpets have so many advantages for your home! They muffle noise. Dogs won’t slip and slide on them like they can on hard surfaces. You also don’t have to worry about their claws scratching your hardwood floor. Plus, carpets are a soft place for your feet and for their paws.
The good news is that dogs and carpets can actually coexist nicely. Here’s what you need to know.
Choose the right carpet.
Not all carpets are the same when it comes to protecting against pet stains and messes. Look for carpets made of nylon, wool, or a material known as olefin. The most popular option, nylon is durable and easy to clean. It also has built-in stain resistance. Wool, the more expensive option, has some natural stain resistance but cannot be treated with a stain-resistant coating. Olefin was originally used in outdoor carpets but has been engineered to have more of the feel of wool. It’s made from plastic fibers, is easy to clean, and repels moisture.
Take care of new messes right away.
Cleaning up after your pet is part of being a responsible pet owner. The best way to keep your carpet from staining is to address your pet’s accidents right away. If you use a store-bought cleaner, choose one with a neutral pH to help remove the acidity of your pet’s urine. You can also make your own cleaning solution from vinegar, baking soda, and water. Here are two natural methods for cleaning up pet urine on carpet.
Method #1
Place a thick layer of paper towels over the wet spot.
Cover the towels with layers of newspaper.
Stand on the newspaper for a few minutes for it to absorb the urine.
Remove the paper and paper towels and dispose of them.
Rinse the area with cool water.
Blot up the water with towels. If you have a wet vac, you can use that instead.
Once most of the liquid is blotted, spread baking soda over it. Use ¼ cup or less. (Note that large amounts of baking soda are toxic to dogs so keep your fur baby away.)
Let the mixture sit overnight and then vacuum the spot thoroughly the next morning. The area should feel clean to the touch.
Method #2
In a clear spray bottle, mix one cup of distilled white vinegar with one cup of water and 2 teaspoons of baking soda. Shake it up.
Spray the mixture on the stain.
Let it sit for a few minutes and then blot it with a towel until clean.
You can use these methods for other pet messes such as vomit or poop. Remove the vomit or feces before treating the carpet, being careful not to embed it in the carpet fibers. Act quickly; the acid in vomit can quickly discolor your carpet.
Take care of old stains, too.
Old urine stains can cause a lingering odor in your home. You can take care of these stains in several ways. One way is to use an enzymatic cleanser that breaks down the stain at the molecular level. You can find these cleansers at pet stores. Another way is to rinse the area thoroughly with water, then use a wet-dry vacuum to clean it up. Importantly, do not use a steam cleaner. The heat can set the odor and stain permanently.
Not sure where the stains are? A blacklight can help you find them. The wavelengths of blacklight cause the proteins in urine to glow.
Add a carpet runner to high-traffic areas.
Consider a carpet runner or area rug over your wall-to-wall carpeting for an extra barrier. Place it in high-traffic areas or where your dog commonly goes. Carpet runners and area rugs may be picked up and cleaned, and more easily replaced, if needed.
Clean their paws and clean your carpet.
There’s a lot of preventive care that you can take to keep your carpets clean. Start by wiping and drying your dog’s paws when your fur baby comes in from outside—especially on rainy, snowy, or muddy days. Then, take care of your carpet by vacuuming regularly and shampooing your carpet every 12 months to remove dirt, grime, and allergens. You can schedule a professional carpet cleaning or do it yourself.
Train your pet.
When you adopted your pet, you made the commitment to stick with them through the good and the bad. Oftentimes bad behavior like going to the bathroom on the carpet can be un-trained. You can do this by kennel training when you are gone or using a reward method when they go outside. If you need help, talk to your pet’s veterinarian for ways you can teach your pet to unlearn these behaviors or find a local trainer! You may think you are doing them a favor by not disciplining them when they make a mess or start chewing on furniture, but really you are getting in the way of the great pet they have the potential of becoming- by not letting them learn that these behaviors are ‘bad’.
Keep in mind the age of your pet plays a factor. A puppy or an older dog may need extra attention and may have more accidents than a dog in its prime.
Does homeowner’s insurance cover damage from your pets?
Unfortunately, homeowner’s and renter’s insurance both do not cover the damage your pet does to your carpet—or to any of your personal property. Take note that even your carpet warranty probably does not cover pet damage. If your pet, however, gets loose and damages property at your neighbor’s, the liability coverage in your homeowner’s policy may kick in and cover some of the costs.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
It’s almost time to find room for all of the new gifts that you received over the holidays. The easiest way to keep track of all of your possessions is by creating- and continually updating- a Home Inventory.
A Home Inventory is a list of the valuable objects that you have inside of your home.
It may sound like a waste of time, but this list will be your saving grace if there is a fire, destructive storm, or if someone breaks in and steals your belongings. Without one, many people have a difficult time pinpointing or recalling everything that might have been destroyed or taken, and unfortunately, that can delay homeowner claims or keep you from getting your full compensation.
So, when the New Year rolls around make the time to take inventory of your home and all of your new treasures. It’s easy! Just go room by room and document:
Electronics
Personal Care Items
Jewelry
Art
Kitchen items and appliances
Furniture
Carpeting
Beds and linens
Clothing
Sports equipment
Tools
Don’t forget to take pictures of the exterior of your home as well -photos are best from all angles- including the landscaping and any decks or porches- and also take note of everything in the garage, attic, or basement, like holiday ornaments, lawn and yard equipment, tools, etc.
You can choose to write everything down, but we suggest to use photo/video documentation of your belongings. To make the whole process easier on you we’ve created a Household Inventory Checklist that walks you through each possession you may have, so you don’t forget anything- you can even document the value. Just attach your photos to the document or put them in a folder on your phone and you are good to go! Click here for the checklist.
Trying to tally up what needs to be replaced is not something you want to do in the event of a claim, so taking the time to complete an inventory will be more than worth it. You can even use the time to get rid of the old and make room for all of the new!
