by California Casualty | Finances, Helpful Tips |
Imagine finding a contractor to repair your roof after a damaging storm, only to discover that you’ve been duped by a scammer. It’s a situation no one wants to face, yet contractor scams are on the rise, leaving unsuspecting homeowners with unfinished projects and empty wallets. Before you embark on your next project, whether it’s a home renovation or repairs following a disaster, it’s important to know the warning signs so you don’t become the next victim.
What exactly is a contractor scam?
You expect a contractor to provide professional repairs or updates to your home. However, when they make promises but they don’t deliver on them, that’s a scam. They intentionally mislead you. They might do a job that is substandard, overly expensive or they may not do the job at all. If your area is hard hit by a wildfire, tornado, hurricane, extreme weather or other disaster, be aware. Scammers posing as contractors may try take advantage of the situation.
Types of Scams
Pushy, door-to-door contractors
Beware of contractors who show up at your door, unsolicited. That’s the first red flag. When they are high-pressure salesmen, you know something is wrong. They can be very convincing, but don’t fall for discounts that only apply if you hire them on the spot. If you didn’t ask for their quote, chances are they are not the right contractor for you.
Out-of-state contractors
Some contractors chase storms to look for easy money. Be suspicious of anyone out-of-state who is offering a quote on work. Be especially careful of contractors working out of their vehicle rather than an office. An out-of-state contractor can be hard to contact if you have issues or work isn’t completed. Choose a local contractor instead.
Unlicensed and uninsured
Scammers may tell you they don’t need to be licensed to do the work. That’s not the case. Your state likely has requirements a contractor must meet. They need to be licensed, and they should be able to show you a license from the state contractor’s board. Double check the number that they show you with the board; scammers can sometimes present inactive licenses. A contractor should also have proof of insurance. If they don’t, that means you could be paying for expensive mistakes that they make.
No references and/or bad reviews
Ask for photos of previous work and customers you can contact. If a contractor cannot provide that, then it’s likely they are not legitimate. Also do a search online for the contractor’s name along with the word “scam” or “complaint.” Read the reviews. Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are complaints filed. You might find reasons not to hire this contractor.
No written contract
You should know in writing what work will be done for what price. When contractors don’t provide a written contract before work starts, that’s not professional. You should always thoroughly read the contract, including the fine print. Don’t sign it if you have any concerns. Never sign a blank contract.
Payment requires in full at the start
Don’t deal with a contractor who asks for payment in full upfront. Sometimes contractors require a deposit, but full payment should never be provided before work is done. Know that you can negotiate a reasonable downpayment; some states even limit how much that can be. Contact your state consumer protection agency to find out more.
Unusual forms of payment
Beware of payment requests for wire transfers, gift cards, payment apps, insurance checks, cryptocurrency or cash. Don’t borrow money from a lender they know. Scammers love these types of payments because they are almost impossible to get back. Beware of scammers who offer to help you qualify for FEMA relief for a fee. FEMA doesn’t charge fees, and you are better off doing that on your own.
Cost quotes on places you cannot see
Don’t let an unknown contractor inspect your roof and then tell you what must be done. Ask for pictures of places you cannot easily access, such as crawl spaces, ducts, your roof, etc. Then verify that those images are of your home. If it is a cost quote on an area that you cannot see, get several quotes from those you trust.
Promise of immediate repairs
If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t believe a contractor who promises immediate repairs. There’s usually a timeline for quality work. Make sure the contractor you choose doesn’t cut corners by skipping steps to get repairs done right away.
Frequent unexpected expenses
Whenever there’s a construction repair job, there’s a chance of unexpected expenses. Your contractor may find mold, for example, when they work on your home. However, when there are frequent unexpected expenses or expensive ones, get a second opinion. You may find that these unexpected expenses aren’t real ones at all.
Low-grade materials
Make sure the material listed on the estimate is the material being used. Contractors can switch out low grade materials to save money and sacrifice quality.
No one on the job
If no one is on the job during working hours, that’s a big red flag. It could be that your contractor is using subcontractors that arrive after their day jobs. Or it could be that no one will show up to do your work at all.
Protect Yourself from Scams
You can take precautions to help prevent falling victim to a contractor scam. Here are some guidelines.
- Contact your home insurer. When your home is damaged from extreme weather or other disasters, your insurer will need to survey the damage before you get it repaired. They will help you prepare a claim and identify reputable contractors. Before you hire anyone, verify your insurance coverage. Don’t rely on a contractor to tell you what is covered.
- Get multiple quotes from local contractors. That way you’ll know if the price is in the ballpark. Remember that the lowest bid is not always the best. That contractor may be cutting corners. Also make sure you are comparing apples to apples. Pro Tip: use the BBB Get a Quote tool at https://www.bbb.org/get-a-quote.
- Do your research. Check references and ask for photos. Verify your contractor’s license and insurance. Read online reviews and look up your contractor on the Better Business Bureau.
- Get a written contract. Make sure it includes the contractor’s name, address, phone, license number, an estimated start and finish date, a payment schedule, the scope of work and cost of labor and materials. Make sure it also includes a written statement of your right to cancel the contract within three business days if you signed it in your home or in a location other than the contractor’s permanent place of business. Make sure it has no blank spaces that a contractor could fill in later.
- Guard your money. Never pay a deposit that is more than 25% of the total cost and never pay anything until materials are delivered to your home. Don’t sign over insurance checks to contractors. If you have any questions, contact your insurance agent. Don’t make the final payment until the job is complete.
- If you suspect a scammer, report them. You can report scams to the Better Business Bureau, the National Center for Disaster Fraud, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). You can also consult StopFraud.gov.
Your home is one of your greatest investments. Make sure it is covered with the right insurance.
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.
by California Casualty | Educators, Helpful Tips |
Imagine turning your classroom into a hub of creativity and efficiency with just a few clever tweaks. These classroom hacks aren’t just about organizing supplies; they’re about saving time, reducing stress, and making learning more fun for everyone. Ready to unlock the secrets to a smarter, more effective classroom? Let’s dive in!
General hacks
- Painter’s tape: Put painter’s tape on the wall, desks or bulletin boards before attaching Velcro or even using hot glue. It makes it so easy to remove everything when you’re done.
- Shrink-it and laminate: Reduce your schedule and your class list(s) down to a tiny size. Laminate and wear them behind your badge for easy access.
- YouTube edit: Add a dash after the “T” in the YouTube link and you’ll get access to the ad-free version of your videos.
- Rubber band: Fasten a rubber band under the hand sanitizer pump (or any other pump) to limit the amount that comes out. You can adjust the placement as needed.
Organization and storage
- Backpack hooks: Get those backpacks off the floor with hooks that fasten right on the back of students’ chairs. The extra wall space and maneuverability will make your classroom seem larger.
- Magazine racks: Organize papers in magazine racks or file boxes. Label them so you know which is which. This way, they’re also easy for students to access as needed.
- Hanging shoe rack: These are perfect to store supplies, from multiples (like headphones) to basics (scissors, tape and more). Get one with clear pockets so you can easily see what’s inside. Pro-tip: Keep one slot for errant marker tops that could then be used for markers suddenly missing tops.
- Shower curtain rod: Once you set up this rod, you can use hangers with clothespins to hold plastic packets with papers.
Classroom management
- Coloring tablecloths or murals: Allow students to color when they finish work early or while awaiting transitions.
- Tap lights: Place the lights next to the descriptions of classroom noise levels (e.g. playground voice, table talk, whisper, and no voice). Then tap the light corresponding to the appropriate level. For a fun alternative, try this website to alert students when they’re too loud.
- Mystery rewards: Write down a series of rewards, such as extended recess or no homework. Then cover those rewards with Post-it notes. Write a desired behavior on the Post-it, such as lining up quietly. When students do it successfully, remove the Post-it to reveal the reward.
- Mirror: Hang a full-length mirror horizontally and at an angle above the white board, smart board, or blackboard in your classroom. This works as a rear-view mirror so you can see student behavior while you’re facing away. Pro tip: One teacher uses extra-large binder clips to attach to mirror corners, then runs a cord through the black part between the clip and mirror for a no-tools way to secure the mirror.
- Quiet spray: Fill a spray bottle with water. Colorfully and clearly label it “quiet spray.” When you need the class to settle down, spray the mist in the air. You will automatically grab student attention and generate lots of smiles.
Arts and crafts
- Soap dispensers: Store paint in old, clean soap dispensers so students can pump to get the paint.
- Salt shakers: Fill salt shakers with glitter for an easy way to dispense. Pepper shakers will work too but they have fewer holes.
- Laundry drying rack: These racks are perfect for drying student artwork overnight, without taking up that coveted counter space.
- Duct tape marker caps: Take a box of new markers and duct tape the caps together in a set. That way, students can pull out the markers, use them and replace them in the set. It’s an easy way to make sure none are missing.
Small groups
- Stadium seating: These seats have backs, which make sitting on the floor comfortable. Students love them and they are perfect for small group work when you don’t have an extra table and chairs.
- Rolling carts: Long the domain of traveling teachers, rolling carts are wonderful self-contained storage units. Use them to store the essential supplies, from books to manipulatives, for small group work.
- Dry-erase clipboards: These eliminate the need for a desk and can be used again and again. For a tip on storage and erasers for these markers, see the next section. Pro Tip: Not enough white boards to go around? Use a plastic plate. You’d be surprised at how well it works.
- Number assignments: If you have a Chromebook cart, assign each student a laptop number for the year. Make sure there’s a corresponding number on the cart. That way, you can easily track that the Chromebooks are returned and plugged in to charge.
Independent work
- Socks and pom-poms: Use old socks to store dry erase markers. The socks also make great erasers. Alternatively, glue pom poms at the end of dry erase markers for automatic erasers.
- Dry erase pockets: Place worksheets in dry erase pockets so students can work on problems again and again.
- Silverware tray: Get an inexpensive silverware tray and use it to organize writing utensils in your writing center.
- Highlighter basket: Place a basket of highlighters by the place where students turn in work. Have them highlight their name before they place their paper in the bin. This helps reduce no-name papers.
Check out our blog on Design Tips for more ideas of how to organize your classroom. Our Welcome Back to School blog offers tips on the first 10 days of prep and plans.
Do you have a classroom hack that’s not on the list? Share it with your fellow educators in the comments.
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.
by California Casualty | Helpful Tips, Pets |
Who says fetch is the only game in town? From puzzles to hide-and-seek treats, brain games turn playtime with your dog into a mental workout, keeping your pup entertained with tail-wagging fun! Games help focus high-energy pups, reduce anxiety and bored behaviors, and build confidence. These fun activities also strengthen your bond with your dog.
Best of all, with just a few supplies, you can make your own brain games. In honor of the Dog Days of Summer, we’ve put together some of our favorites for you to try. Make sure you supervise your pup while playing so they don’t eat something they shouldn’t. Remember to give your dog plenty of praise and positive reinforcement when they solve the puzzles.
Muffin Tin Puzzle
Supplies: muffin tin, tennis balls, treats or kibble
Instructions:
- Turn the muffin tin upside down. Place treats or kibble between the cups. Let your dog eat them.
- For a slightly harder version, place tennis balls in the indentations between the cups and above the treats.
- Increase the level of difficulty by turning the muffin tin right side up. Place treats in the cups and cover them with tennis balls.
- For the hardest level of difficulty, fill only some of the cups with treats or kibble. Cover them all with tennis balls.
Egg Carton Puzzle
Supplies: empty egg carton, treats or kibble
Instructions:
- Open the egg carton and place treats or kibble in some of the cups.
- Don’t close the carton completely. Challenge your dog to try to open it and get the treats.
- Once your dog can open it, try it when the carton is closed completely. Your dog will likely bounce it around in the process.
- Help your pup out as needed to learn the skill.
Treat Dispenser Puzzle
Supplies: Plastic container with lid (empty yogurt or sour cream containers, empty water bottle), cutting tool, treats or kibble
Instructions:
- Cut some holes in the lid that are big enough for treats or kibble to pass through. Make sure the holes are not so big that too many will fall out.
- Put some treats or kibble inside and close the top. Give it to your dog and watch him or her roll it around to dispense the snack.
- You can increase the difficulty by using a container with a smaller opening, such as a plastic water bottle with the cap off.
The Shell Game
Supplies: 3 identical plastic cups, treat or kibble, small ball (optional)
Instructions:
- Place your dog in the sit position.
- Put the 3 plastic cups upside down on the floor in front of him/her.
- Place a treat underneath one cup. Slide the cups around to mix up the order.
- Ask your dog to identify the cup with the treat. When he finds it, and topples the cup, he can eat it. Or he can touch it with his nose, and you can lift the cup.
- For a variation of this game, use a ball instead of a treat.
Destruction Toy
Supplies: empty cereal box or paper towel or toilet paper tube, tape, treats or kibble
Instructions:
- Remove the plastic bag from the cereal box.
- Place a handful of treats inside.
- Tape it up and watch your dog tear it apart.
- Alternatively, use a toilet paper tube or paper towel tube. Put the treats inside. Fold and tape the ends.
- For an easier game, skip the tape.
Mystery Box
Supplies: paper, shoebox, treats or kibble
Instructions:
- Place a treat or two in the middle of the paper and then crunch it into a ball.
- Place the paper balls with treats in a shoebox.
- Add some decoy paper balls without treats.
- Have your dog find the treats.
- For an easier variation of the game, make a treat-paper ball and throw it for your dog to retrieve.
Doggy Ball Pit
Supplies: kiddie pool, balls, treats or kibble
Instructions:
- Fill the kiddie pool with balls.
- Sprinkle treats on top of the balls.
- Have your dog go into the pool to find the treats.
- The treats will shift as your pup walks around.
- To make this easier, start with a few balls and increase as your dog’s comfort level builds.
Snuffle Mat
Supplies: plastic mat with a grid of holes (like a sink mat), fleece strips, scissors as needed
Instructions:
- Cut or tear the fleece strips so they are 6-8 inches long.
- Push them through the holes in the mat. You may need a scissor to open the holes.
- Tie the fleece strips as needed to create a carpet.
- When the mat is filled with fleece, toss in a few treats and let your pup snuffle through to get them.
Hot and Cold Game
Supplies: Kibble or treats
Instructions:
- Hide a treat in a room while your pup is not there.
- Bring your dog into the room.
- Using your voice, give your dog clues as to where the treat is location.
- Calm quiet tones signal that your dog is walking away from the treat.
- Excited higher pitch tones indicate they are heading toward the treat.
- This will take practice, but once you are successful, it is an easy game to play anywhere, anytime.
- A simpler version is to toss the treats in the air and have your dog retrieve them.
Finally, don’t forget to protect your fur baby with pet insurance for added peace of mind, and to save on your vet bill. Remember, you can easily add pet insurance from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.
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.
by California Casualty | Finances, Helpful Tips |
Back-to-school shopping can be stressful and expensive. But it doesn’t have to be. Discover how to turn this annual ritual into a stress-free, budget-friendly adventure, ensuring your kids are well prepared without breaking the bank.
#1: Do an inventory at home.
Before you buy anything, “shop” at home. See if there are leftovers from last year. You might already have a supply of #2 pencils or unused notebooks. Check closets and last year’s backpacks. Make it a fun treasure hunt where the kids get involved.
#2: Spread out the shopping.
Give yourself plenty of time to find the best prices on the items on your list. Start early so you won’t feel pressured to buy everything in one trip. Also, remember that you don’t have to get it all by the start of school. Email the teacher to ask which items are most important, and which can wait. For clothing, start with the necessities: one pair of everyday shoes, one pair of sneakers, and a couple of new outfits. Wait until the fall holidays to shop the clothing sales.
#3. Check giveaway groups.
There are communities of recyclers who give away things for free. You can find many of them online. Check with your our local Buy Nothing Project group on Facebook or the Buy Nothing app. Look for your area’s Freecycle Network. Join these groups and ask your neighbors for what you need. You might be surprised at what you find, and it could inspire you to do your own decluttering.
#4. Shop without the kids.
It will be less stressful to shop without the kids and easier to stick to your budget. Plus, if you’re not doing a dedicated shopping trip for school supplies, it’s easier to pick up things as you’re out. However, if you are going to bring your kids, get them involved. Set expectations about what they will be getting so they are not disappointed. Start with a short list of items and a budget. Pro Tip: If they can spend under that amount, give them the extra to spend on something they’d like.
#5. Go with a plan.
Estimate how much items will cost and set your budget. Keep that list with you so you can check it periodically as you’re out. Importantly, stick to the list. Remember you don’t have to get everything in one trip or at one location. Watch weekly ads from local stores. Download apps to get notices of sales. Be strategic about how and where you shop.
#6. Compare prices before you buy.
How do you know you’re getting the best price? Try online tools like Google Shopping, which will compare prices. Coupon browsers like Honey, Capital One Shopping and CouponCabin also can help. Some stores match competitors’ advertised deals but there are limitations. (For example, Walmart will match a price on one item per day and only if it’s on Walmart.com for a lower price.) Shop with a credit card that gives cash back for extra savings.
#7. Check dollar stores and thrift stores.
Dollar stores offer great deals on essential supplies, such as glue, highlighters, pencil pouches, notebooks, and more. However, as our teacher friends often mention, it’s worth purchasing the name brands, Crayola and Ticonderoga, for crayons and pencils which may not be found at the dollar store. Thrift stores are also a great source to gear up for back to school. Look for gently used items from clothing to backpacks. Just make sure to check back regularly for new finds.
#8. Use discounted gift cards.
This clever hack allows you to buy a gift card for less than its face value. Then you can spend it at full value. That’s an automatic discount if you use it for school supplies. Check out sites like GiftCardGranny, Raise, MyGiftCardsPlus, and CardCash. Just make sure to carefully read the requirements. Do you have an unused gift card that you won’t use? You can sell it for extra cash too.
#9. Buy in bulk.
If you have membership to a warehouse store, check out school supplies that you can buy in bulk. You can split them among your children or share them – and the cost – with friends and family.
#10. Watch for sales after you’re done.
Keep your receipts. If the price drops on your item within two weeks, you may be able to get some of your money back. Policies vary per store so check with yours when you make the purchase.
Finally, prepare for the school year by brushing up on back-to-school safety and carpooling tips. Teach your kids how to be safe around cars. For added peace of mind, make sure you and your precious cargo are fully protected with the right vehicle policy. Wishing you a happy and healthy back-to-school season!
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.
by California Casualty | Auto Insurance Info, Helpful Tips, Safety, Travel |
From traffic jams to reckless drivers, it can be stressful on the road. When you’re also juggling life’s daily demands, the stresses can leave you frazzled behind the wheel. Stressed driving not only affects your personal wellbeing, but it poses risks to road safety. Here’s how to bring back a sense of calm and control — and crush your daily commute.
How Stress Affects the Brain
Stress is the body’s reaction to potential threats. It affects your frontal lobe, where you set goals, make plans, and keep your emotions in control. It also impacts the hippocampus, which stores your memories. Importantly, stress causes a chemical reaction known as “fight or flight.” When you’re stuck in traffic or upset about being cut off, there’s often nowhere to go. That’s when your emotions can turn to road rage.
Driving While Stressed
Stress can cause mental and physical symptoms that affect not only how you feel but how you drive. Recognizing these symptoms can help you take steps to manage your stress.
Physical Signs of Stress
You may notice your heart beating faster or your palms getting sweaty. Those are common symptoms of stress. You also may feel muscle tension in your neck, shoulders and back. Biting nails, tapping fingers, and other repetitive motions also are indicators of stress. You may even get tension headaches or feel unusually tired after a short drive.
Distracted Driving
Stress often leaves you distracted. When you’re worrying about traffic, other drivers, or being late, you’re not focusing your attention fully on the road. Your concentration is reduced. You could have difficulty with decision-making and slower reaction times as a result. If you’re sitting in traffic and you pick up your cell phone to complain about the stress, that adds another level of distraction.
Irritability
When you are stressed, you may feel easily annoyed or angered by minor inconveniences. You start to engage in aggressive driving behaviors such as tailgating, speeding or frequent lane changes. This can escalate to emotions that are hard to control.
Tips to Reduce Your Stress While Driving
Stress may be unavoidable, but you can take steps that help you manage it. Follow these tips to reduce your stress behind the wheel.
- Plan ahead. Know the route you’re taking and plan your journey in advance. Be aware of alternate routes should you encounter traffic or road closures. Bringing the kids along? Pack books, snacks, and games to keep them entertained so that they do not add stress to your trip.
- Leave early. Allowing extra time for your journey can help you better handle the unexpected, such as traffic, weather, or detours. When you leave early, you are less likely to worry about being late.
- Set your playlist. Research shows that listening to music can enhance immune system function and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Create a mindful playlist and avoid news or any content that might stress you out. Sing along to your favorite tunes for a mood boost.
- Adjust your posture. Improving your posture can increase oxygen flow, decrease tension in the neck and shoulders, and reduce physical discomfort. Adjust your seat and mirrors to maintain a comfortable and relaxed driving position.
- Breathe. Inhaling through your nose and into your belly is a proven way to reduce stress. Deep breathing sends a calming message to your brain, helping you relax. If you’re feeling stressed, try this breathing exercise: breathe in for a count of 8, contract one muscle group (like your neck and shoulders), then exhale and relax. Repeat for muscle groups in your neck, shoulders, and back as needed.
- Change your perspective. Managing your thoughts can help control your emotions. Instead of getting angry at a driver who cuts you off, think, “I’m glad no one got hurt.” Don’t let a stranger’s actions affect your mood.
- Pull over if needed. If stress becomes overwhelming while driving, don’t risk it. Find a safe location to pull over and take a break until you feel calmer.
- Stay fueled. Keep your car filled with gas to avoid the added stress of running low. When planning your trip, make sure you know when you plan to fuel up.
- Maintain and insure your vehicle. Make sure your vehicle is well maintained so it is less likely to break down and leave you stranded. In addition, protect your vehicle with the right insurance coverage. This will give you peace of mind for your journeys ahead. Safe travels.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to education professionals, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
