Your Home
Home Remodeling: Are you Adequately Insured?
Insuring your Home. Is your home insured adequately to protect your investment?
Installing a swimming pool? What you need to know
Reduce Your Risk of Wildfire. The threat of wildfire is real, how to best be prepared.
Windstorms: What to do in the aftermath
Shake Rattle and Roll... Earthquakes in WA?
What about my Personal Property?
Identifying Toilet Failure Risks
Don't Get Soaked - Reduce the risk of a water loss!
Preparing your home for Spring Checklist
Get a CLUE: Understanding your home's claims history before you buy
Protect Your home from burglary
Importance of Annual Chimney Sweeping and Inspections
Happy Safe Decorating this Holiday Season
How to Avoid Winter Storms
Winter Storms Ahead: Are You Ready?
Navigating Today's Mortgage Market….Let's Do It Together!
Your Kids
A few tips for the College-Bound: Home and Auto
High-Risk Years: Money Smarts Key to Strong Credit, Lower Insurance Rates
Helping your teenage driver
Lending your vehicle can land you in trouble
School Bus and School Zone Safety
Your Car, Motorcycle and other toys
Minimizing the Gas Crisis Crunch
Insuring your Motorcycle - Are you ready to hit the open road?
Taking to the water this Summer? What you need to know before you launch out.
Going on vacation? Planning to rent a car? - What you need to know before you go.
Are you wondering why those speeding tickets wreak such havoc on your insurance rates?
Will you still be paying off a loan if your car is totaled? Auto Gap Coverage
Safe Winter Driving
Your Life and Retirement
Do you suspect your Identity Information has been compromised?
Snowbirds – Heading south for the winter?
Term Life Insurance - Why should I buy it?
Preparing for Retirement: Some “Get It”, Some Still Don’t
Yours, Mine and Ours - Passing separately held assets to children from prior marriages
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Call: (509) 924-4424
Fax: (509) 924-4481
Email: Info@CenturyInsuranceAgency.com
Located: 1406 N. Pines Rd Spokane Valley, 99206
Call: (509) 924-4424
Fax: (509) 924-4481
Email: Info@CenturyInsuranceAgency.com
Located: 1406 N. Pines Rd Spokane Valley, 99206
Home Remodeling: Are you Adequately Insured?
Warm weather is the perfect time for home remodeling projects. Building an office, bedroom or an extra bay in your garage are all great ways of modifying your home to suit your growing personal needs.
As you add to your home; however, talk with your independent insurance agent to make sure you are still adequately insured so you’re fully protected against a covered loss. Depending on the addition or improvement, you may need to increase your level of coverage.
Some homeowners may be tempted to save five or ten dollars a month by not informing their insurance companies about the changes they’ve made. That approach can have severe financial consequences if you have a large fire or other major loss. You could find yourself on the hook for tens of thousands of dollars—all to save a few dollars in the short run.
The following tips could help you adequately insure your remodeled home so you can avoid one of the common pitfalls of home improvement projects:
- If you’ve recently remodeled your home or built an addition, contact your independent agent immediately to determine if you need to increase or change your coverage.
- If you’re planning a remodeling project, contact your independent agent before construction begins. If your new addition is damaged or destroyed before the new coverage starts, you may be responsible for the repairs and rebuilding costs.
- Make sure the contractor is properly insured, bonded and reghome remodel 2.jpgistered through the Department of Labor & Industries. Ask the contractor to show you copies of the bond. You also can check if the contractor has any complaints filed against it by looking online at http://www.lni.wa.gov.
- Check references to verify the quality of the contractor’s work. To find a reputable contractor, check with your local homebuilders association.
- If you buy additional items such as furniture, exercise equipment and electronics, you may need to increase your coverage for personal possessions. Talk with your insurance agent. Keep the receipts, take pictures of the new items and keep them with your home inventory.
Insuring Your Home, Is your home insured adequately to protect your investment?
Making improvements to your home such as remodel, finishing your basement or adding on a room is a good investment and adds value to your home. If you have made improvements to your home recently, it is wise to stop and ask yourself the question: Am I adequately protecting my investment? For many people, the answer is no.
We have found upon reviewing coverages for our customers recently that many of the homes we insure have been underinsured, some of you have may have received calls from us and increased the coverage on your home.
A nationwide survey found that 64% of the homes surveyed were underinsured by an average of 27% below what it would cost to replace them. Most homeowner’s policies cover up to an estimated replacement cost (as determined by a Marshall & Swift/Boeckh cost estimating system, a standard program used in the insurance industry). Others add extended replacement cost protection of up to an additional 20-25%. With building material prices continuing to increase and other construction costs on the rise, many Spokane-area homeowners are underinsured and would be unable to rebuild their homes if they’re lost to fire or another catastrophic event. Especially vulnerable are people who have made substantial improvements to their homes and haven’t made their insurance professional aware of the improvements. In the market today, even though we apply an inflation-based increase, sometimes annual coverage increases are simply not enough.
The reason for this gap between coverage and construction cost in some cases is the building-materials market, in which many types of building materials have increased in price sharply in recent years, with some even being in short supply. For example a recent survey showed that the cost of panel wood products have surged 85%, compared to a year earlier. Cement shortages in the Inland Northwest and elsewhere in the U.S. also are well documented. In addition to material-cost increases, home builders have seen increases in fuel, equipment, labor and liability insurance. This is all passed onto the consumer in increased replacement cost factors.
People are often shocked at the cost of rebuilding their homes and have made comments that they could never sell their home for that much why should they insure it for that amount. You must remember however that you are insuring your home for what it would cost to rebuild a brand new home for you, not what you could sell your home for.
So what do you do if you are concerned that your home is underinsured? How do you determine the cost of rebuilding your home? We recommend contacting us for a review of your coverages, making us aware of any special features or changes you have made to your home, accurately describe your homes details – built-ins, antique wood, glass or special windows, upscale kitchen appliances, marble/granite and/or solid surface counter tops. Make sure you have given us the correct style and square footage of your home. If the basement is finished include that information, along with how many bathrooms - full, half and three quarter baths.
Another option you might consider is contacting a builder in your area that for a flat fee will go through your home and provide an estimate. Try to find someone who builds individual, custom homes that don’t benefit from the economies of scale that tract homes offer. Even if your home was built as part of a tract development, it will not be replaced on the same scale and costs will vary as a result. If you want the same antique moldings, stone fireplace, and plaster-and-lathe walls as before make sure the builder takes that into account. Otherwise, the estimate may reflect less costly modern materials. Make sure you let us know what the estimate is, so that we can adjust your coverage accordingly.
Source: Spokane Journal of Business – September 15, 2005; www.money.cnn.com; www.homesite.com
Making improvements to your home such as remodel, finishing your basement or adding on a room is a good investment and adds value to your home. If you have made improvements to your home recently, it is wise to stop and ask yourself the question: Am I adequately protecting my investment? For many people, the answer is no.
We have found upon reviewing coverages for our customers recently that many of the homes we insure have been underinsured, some of you have may have received calls from us and increased the coverage on your home.
A nationwide survey found that 64% of the homes surveyed were underinsured by an average of 27% below what it would cost to replace them. Most homeowner’s policies cover up to an estimated replacement cost (as determined by a Marshall & Swift/Boeckh cost estimating system, a standard program used in the insurance industry). Others add extended replacement cost protection of up to an additional 20-25%. With building material prices continuing to increase and other construction costs on the rise, many Spokane-area homeowners are underinsured and would be unable to rebuild their homes if they’re lost to fire or another catastrophic event. Especially vulnerable are people who have made substantial improvements to their homes and haven’t made their insurance professional aware of the improvements. In the market today, even though we apply an inflation-based increase, sometimes annual coverage increases are simply not enough.
The reason for this gap between coverage and construction cost in some cases is the building-materials market, in which many types of building materials have increased in price sharply in recent years, with some even being in short supply. For example a recent survey showed that the cost of panel wood products have surged 85%, compared to a year earlier. Cement shortages in the Inland Northwest and elsewhere in the U.S. also are well documented. In addition to material-cost increases, home builders have seen increases in fuel, equipment, labor and liability insurance. This is all passed onto the consumer in increased replacement cost factors.
People are often shocked at the cost of rebuilding their homes and have made comments that they could never sell their home for that much why should they insure it for that amount. You must remember however that you are insuring your home for what it would cost to rebuild a brand new home for you, not what you could sell your home for.
So what do you do if you are concerned that your home is underinsured? How do you determine the cost of rebuilding your home? We recommend contacting us for a review of your coverages, making us aware of any special features or changes you have made to your home, accurately describe your homes details – built-ins, antique wood, glass or special windows, upscale kitchen appliances, marble/granite and/or solid surface counter tops. Make sure you have given us the correct style and square footage of your home. If the basement is finished include that information, along with how many bathrooms - full, half and three quarter baths.
Another option you might consider is contacting a builder in your area that for a flat fee will go through your home and provide an estimate. Try to find someone who builds individual, custom homes that don’t benefit from the economies of scale that tract homes offer. Even if your home was built as part of a tract development, it will not be replaced on the same scale and costs will vary as a result. If you want the same antique moldings, stone fireplace, and plaster-and-lathe walls as before make sure the builder takes that into account. Otherwise, the estimate may reflect less costly modern materials. Make sure you let us know what the estimate is, so that we can adjust your coverage accordingly.
Source: Spokane Journal of Business – September 15, 2005; www.money.cnn.com; www.homesite.com
Installing a swimming pool? What you need to know
Pools and Insurance
All pools—from a simple above-ground kiddy pool to an aquatic extravaganza—can be dangerous and need to comply with local safety standards and be properly insured.
According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 3,200 people drown each year. Among children, ages one to four, most drowned in residential swimming pools. Most of these young children had been out of sight for less than five minutes and were in the care of one or both parents at the time.
If you plan to purchase a pool, we suggest that you:
Contact
Your Town or Municipality Each town will have its own definition of a “pool,” often based on its size and water depth. If the pool you are planning to buy meets the definition, then you must comply with local safety standards and building codes. This may include installing a fence of a certain size, locks, decks and pool safety equipment.
Call your Insurance Agent Let your insurance agent know that you have a pool, since it will increase your liability risk. Pools are considered an “attractive nuisance” and it may be advisable to purchase additional liability insurance. Most homeowner policies include a minimum of $100,000 worth of liability protection. Pool owners, however, may want to consider increasing the amount to $300,000 or $500,000.
You may want to talk to your agent about purchasing an umbrella liability policy. For an additional premium of about $200 to $300 a year, you get $1 million of liability protection over and above what you have on your home. It would also provide added liability protection when you drive.
If the pool itself is expensive, or if you decide to install an in-ground structure, you should also have enough insurance protection to replace it in the event it is destroyed by a storm or other disaster.
Pool Safety Tips
1. Put fencing around the pool area to keep people from using the pool without your knowledge. In addition to the fences or other barriers required by many towns, consider creating “layers of protection” around the pool, i.e. setting up as many barriers as possible (door alarms, locks and safety covers) to the pool area when not in use.
2. Never leave small children unsupervised—even for a few seconds. And never leave toys or floats in the pool when not in use as they may prove to be a deadly temptation for toddlers trying to reach them.
3. Keep children away from pool filters and other mechanical devices as the suction force may injure them or prevent them from surfacing. In case of an emergency, know how to shut off these devices and clearly post this information for easy use.
4. Be sure all pool users know how to swim. Learners should be accompanied by a good swimmer. If you have children, have them take swimming lessons as early as possible.
5. Don’t swim alone or allow others to swim alone.
6. Check the pool area regularly for glass bottles, toys or other potential accident hazards.
7. Keep CD players, radios and other electrical devices away from pools or nearby wet surfaces.
8. Don’t allow anyone who has been drinking alcohol to use the pool.
9. Pay attention to the weather. Excessive heat can cause dizziness, which can be dangerous around a pool. And never swim during rain or lightning storms.
10. Never dive into an above-ground pool and check the water depth before plunging into an in-ground pool. Keep clear of the area near a diving board.
11. Don’t swim if you’re tired or have just finished eating.
12. In the event of an accident, clearly post emergency numbers on the phone. Keep a first aid kit, ring buoys and reaching poles near the pool. You may also want to consider basic first aid and CPR training.
Pools and Insurance
All pools—from a simple above-ground kiddy pool to an aquatic extravaganza—can be dangerous and need to comply with local safety standards and be properly insured.
According to the Center for Disease Control, more than 3,200 people drown each year. Among children, ages one to four, most drowned in residential swimming pools. Most of these young children had been out of sight for less than five minutes and were in the care of one or both parents at the time.
If you plan to purchase a pool, we suggest that you:
Contact
Your Town or Municipality Each town will have its own definition of a “pool,” often based on its size and water depth. If the pool you are planning to buy meets the definition, then you must comply with local safety standards and building codes. This may include installing a fence of a certain size, locks, decks and pool safety equipment. Call your Insurance Agent Let your insurance agent know that you have a pool, since it will increase your liability risk. Pools are considered an “attractive nuisance” and it may be advisable to purchase additional liability insurance. Most homeowner policies include a minimum of $100,000 worth of liability protection. Pool owners, however, may want to consider increasing the amount to $300,000 or $500,000.
You may want to talk to your agent about purchasing an umbrella liability policy. For an additional premium of about $200 to $300 a year, you get $1 million of liability protection over and above what you have on your home. It would also provide added liability protection when you drive.
If the pool itself is expensive, or if you decide to install an in-ground structure, you should also have enough insurance protection to replace it in the event it is destroyed by a storm or other disaster.
Pool Safety Tips
1. Put fencing around the pool area to keep people from using the pool without your knowledge. In addition to the fences or other barriers required by many towns, consider creating “layers of protection” around the pool, i.e. setting up as many barriers as possible (door alarms, locks and safety covers) to the pool area when not in use.
2. Never leave small children unsupervised—even for a few seconds. And never leave toys or floats in the pool when not in use as they may prove to be a deadly temptation for toddlers trying to reach them.
3. Keep children away from pool filters and other mechanical devices as the suction force may injure them or prevent them from surfacing. In case of an emergency, know how to shut off these devices and clearly post this information for easy use.
4. Be sure all pool users know how to swim. Learners should be accompanied by a good swimmer. If you have children, have them take swimming lessons as early as possible.
5. Don’t swim alone or allow others to swim alone.
6. Check the pool area regularly for glass bottles, toys or other potential accident hazards.
7. Keep CD players, radios and other electrical devices away from pools or nearby wet surfaces.
8. Don’t allow anyone who has been drinking alcohol to use the pool.
9. Pay attention to the weather. Excessive heat can cause dizziness, which can be dangerous around a pool. And never swim during rain or lightning storms.
10. Never dive into an above-ground pool and check the water depth before plunging into an in-ground pool. Keep clear of the area near a diving board.
11. Don’t swim if you’re tired or have just finished eating.
12. In the event of an accident, clearly post emergency numbers on the phone. Keep a first aid kit, ring buoys and reaching poles near the pool. You may also want to consider basic first aid and CPR training.
Reduce Your Risk of Wildfire. The threat of wildfire is real, how to best be prepared
Keep your roof and yard clean
Clear pine needles, leaves and debris from your roof, gutters and yard to eliminate an ignition source from tinder-dry vegetation. Remove dead limbs and branches within 10 feet of your chimney and deck. Tidying up is especially important during the hot, arid months of fire season when a single spark can lead to an inferno.
Signs, addresses and access
Easy-to-read road signs and address numbers that are visible from the road allow firefighters to find your home quickly in an emergency. Safe, easy access to your property includes two-way roads that can accommodate emergency vehicles and give them space to turn around. Bridges should support the weight of emergency vehicles. Driveways should also be trimmed of peripheral vegetation to allow emergency equipment to reach your house. Contact your local fire department for recommendations on access and signage.
Rate your roof
Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your house in a wildfire. If you have a wood shake roof, consider treatment or replacement to make it more fire-resistive. If you have a fireplace or woodstove, install an approved spark arrestor on your chimney to prevent sparks from reaching your roof or flammable vegetation.
Recycle yard debris and branches
Check into alternative disposal methods like composting or recycling. Burning may be restricted or not allowed in your community, and should only be used as a last resort. Always contact your local fire department for current burning regulations before striking a match.
What to do when fire strikes
Monitor your local media for fire reports and evacuation procedures and centers. Keep an emergency checklist handy and prepare to evacuate if your neighborhood is threatened. You should know at least two exit routes from your neighborhood. Proper preparation includes closing all windows and doors, arranging garden hoses so they can reach any area of your house, and packing your car for quick departure.
Keep your roof and yard clean
Clear pine needles, leaves and debris from your roof, gutters and yard to eliminate an ignition source from tinder-dry vegetation. Remove dead limbs and branches within 10 feet of your chimney and deck. Tidying up is especially important during the hot, arid months of fire season when a single spark can lead to an inferno.
Signs, addresses and access
Easy-to-read road signs and address numbers that are visible from the road allow firefighters to find your home quickly in an emergency. Safe, easy access to your property includes two-way roads that can accommodate emergency vehicles and give them space to turn around. Bridges should support the weight of emergency vehicles. Driveways should also be trimmed of peripheral vegetation to allow emergency equipment to reach your house. Contact your local fire department for recommendations on access and signage.
Rate your roof
Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your house in a wildfire. If you have a wood shake roof, consider treatment or replacement to make it more fire-resistive. If you have a fireplace or woodstove, install an approved spark arrestor on your chimney to prevent sparks from reaching your roof or flammable vegetation.
Recycle yard debris and branches
Check into alternative disposal methods like composting or recycling. Burning may be restricted or not allowed in your community, and should only be used as a last resort. Always contact your local fire department for current burning regulations before striking a match.
What to do when fire strikes
Monitor your local media for fire reports and evacuation procedures and centers. Keep an emergency checklist handy and prepare to evacuate if your neighborhood is threatened. You should know at least two exit routes from your neighborhood. Proper preparation includes closing all windows and doors, arranging garden hoses so they can reach any area of your house, and packing your car for quick departure.
Windstorms: What to do in the aftermath
Windstorms can topple trees, damage homes and vehicles and leave thousands of people without power.
As cleanup crews begin removing downed trees and repairing power lines, it’s also important for homeowners, renters and business owners to take action and thoroughly inspect their property and vehicles for wind damage.
Homeowners Insurance and Business Insurance policies cover wind damage to the structure of your home or business and your belongings. If you have Renters Insurance, only damage to your personal possessions is covered. Damage to your vehicle caused by falling trees or other wind-driven objects is insured if you have purchased optional Comprehensive Coverage in your Auto Policy.
Following are some coverage facts about wind damage:
What’s typically covered?
Your Home
Your Vehicle
What’s typically not covered?
Your Home
Windstorms can topple trees, damage homes and vehicles and leave thousands of people without power.
As cleanup crews begin removing downed trees and repairing power lines, it’s also important for homeowners, renters and business owners to take action and thoroughly inspect their property and vehicles for wind damage.
Homeowners Insurance and Business Insurance policies cover wind damage to the structure of your home or business and your belongings. If you have Renters Insurance, only damage to your personal possessions is covered. Damage to your vehicle caused by falling trees or other wind-driven objects is insured if you have purchased optional Comprehensive Coverage in your Auto Policy.
Following are some coverage facts about wind damage:
What’s typically covered?
Your Home
- Damage to your home from wind and falling trees.
- Removal of trees that have fallen on buildings.
- Damaged personal property (both home and renters) inside a damaged building.
- If you can’t occupy your primary residence due to storm damage, additional living expenses such as increased housing costs, extra food costs, furniture rental, and storage fees.
- Costs for reasonable temporary repairs to prevent further damage to the building or contents.
Your Vehicle
- Damage caused by wind and falling trees – if you purchased optional Comprehensive Coverage.
What’s typically not covered?
Your Home
- Removal of trees that have fallen in your yard without damaging a building.
- Upgrades that weren’t part of your home before the storm.
- Damage to your vehicle if you don’t have Comprehensive Coverage.
- Document damage and take pictures.
- If safe to do so, make temporary repairs to prevent further loss from rain or wind. Save receipts for reimbursement.
- If your home or property is damaged by a windstorm, contact your insurance agent or company to file a claim immediately. Filing a claim quickly enables your insurance company to get to you sooner.
- Use only licensed, reputable building contractors and be sure they get the proper building permits.
- Avoid contractors who ask for a large deposit up front or bids that are remarkably low. This may indicate a willingness to cut corners or leave work unfinished.
- Don’t pay a lot for temporary repairs unless authorized by your insurance adjuster. You could get stuck with the bill if the repairs are deemed excessive.
- Don’t discard anything that is damaged until it has been examined by your adjuster. You could miss out on coverage for that item.
Shake, rattle and roll…Earthquakes in Washington?
By Peggy Lloyd - agent
Worldwide, this old earth sustains an average of 50 earthquakes per day. During the last two years Washington has experienced 31 quakes measuring between 2.7 and 4.9 on the Richter scale. It’s no wonder that homeowners as well as insurance companies are asking questions about earthquake coverage.
In the past a limited amount of coverage for earthquake damage was included in most homeowner’s policies, but the increase in seismic activity created a need for better coverage and now the standard homeowner’s policy does not cover loss caused by earthquakes. Instead, coverage for earthquake damage must be purchased either as a rider, or as a separate policy. If you want to check into earthquake coverage, the time to do it is before an earthquake occurs. Earthquake coverage cannot be purchased during an earthquake or up to 72 hours after an earthquake.
What is earthquake insurance?
Earthquake coverage is catastrophe insurance and is intended to cover major losses. It is written for a specific amount on the dwelling, with a deductible of usually 15 to 25% of the coverage amount. This means that on a $100,000 home, your deductible would be $15,000 to $25,000. Masonry chimneys are excluded, and there is no coverage for structures other than the house itself. Personal property coverage is limited to $10,000 or $25,000 and does not cover swimming pools, hot tubs, china or glassware. The premium for earthquake coverage may be as low as $100 per year or as high as $700 depending on the amount of coverage required.
Can I get earthquake insurance?
Not all homes qualify for earthquake coverage. To qualify, the foundation must be bolted to the wall sill plate and the water heater must be strapped to the studs. Cripple wall construction must be properly braced. Photo verification is required along with pictures showing the slope of the land. Homes built on a significant slope (25 degrees or greater) are not eligible, nor are homes with foundations of concrete block, stone or post and pier. You may want to contact a contractor for help in determining if your home is eligible, or in making it eligible if it is not.
How can I reduce damage from an earthquake?
If you want to know how to reduce damage inside, look up. Look at your ceiling and walls to see what might fall. Anchor bookcases and filing cabinets to the walls. Secure ceiling lights and suspended items to the building structure. Water heaters and large appliances can be strapped to the walls with safety cables and gas appliances can be fitted with flexible connections and breakaway gas shut-off devices.
If you’d like to learn more about earthquakes, the internet is full of information, or you can contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency at Federal Regional Center Region 10, 130 228th St SW, Bothell WA 98021
By Peggy Lloyd - agent
Worldwide, this old earth sustains an average of 50 earthquakes per day. During the last two years Washington has experienced 31 quakes measuring between 2.7 and 4.9 on the Richter scale. It’s no wonder that homeowners as well as insurance companies are asking questions about earthquake coverage.
In the past a limited amount of coverage for earthquake damage was included in most homeowner’s policies, but the increase in seismic activity created a need for better coverage and now the standard homeowner’s policy does not cover loss caused by earthquakes. Instead, coverage for earthquake damage must be purchased either as a rider, or as a separate policy. If you want to check into earthquake coverage, the time to do it is before an earthquake occurs. Earthquake coverage cannot be purchased during an earthquake or up to 72 hours after an earthquake.
What is earthquake insurance?
Earthquake coverage is catastrophe insurance and is intended to cover major losses. It is written for a specific amount on the dwelling, with a deductible of usually 15 to 25% of the coverage amount. This means that on a $100,000 home, your deductible would be $15,000 to $25,000. Masonry chimneys are excluded, and there is no coverage for structures other than the house itself. Personal property coverage is limited to $10,000 or $25,000 and does not cover swimming pools, hot tubs, china or glassware. The premium for earthquake coverage may be as low as $100 per year or as high as $700 depending on the amount of coverage required.
Can I get earthquake insurance?
Not all homes qualify for earthquake coverage. To qualify, the foundation must be bolted to the wall sill plate and the water heater must be strapped to the studs. Cripple wall construction must be properly braced. Photo verification is required along with pictures showing the slope of the land. Homes built on a significant slope (25 degrees or greater) are not eligible, nor are homes with foundations of concrete block, stone or post and pier. You may want to contact a contractor for help in determining if your home is eligible, or in making it eligible if it is not.
How can I reduce damage from an earthquake?
If you want to know how to reduce damage inside, look up. Look at your ceiling and walls to see what might fall. Anchor bookcases and filing cabinets to the walls. Secure ceiling lights and suspended items to the building structure. Water heaters and large appliances can be strapped to the walls with safety cables and gas appliances can be fitted with flexible connections and breakaway gas shut-off devices.
If you’d like to learn more about earthquakes, the internet is full of information, or you can contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency at Federal Regional Center Region 10, 130 228th St SW, Bothell WA 98021
What about my Personal Property?
Do you know what you have? Most people would answer yes to this without giving it a second thought, however, when asked to make a list of things when a loss occurs find it very difficult to remember everything. Be prepared for disaster. A household inventory of your personal property is one of the most important things you can do to prevent problems if the unthinkable happens.
There are generally two ways to insure your personal belongings:
Replacement Cost Coverage - This coverage will pay costs to replace damaged personal property with items of like kind or quality without reduction for depreciation.
Actual Cash Value - This coverage will pay the costs equal to the replacement value of damaged property less depreciation. Unless your homeowner’s policy specifies that property is covered for its replacement value, the coverage is for actual cash value.
Here are a few ways you can make sure you have enough insurance protection:
• Check the coverage limits on your policy (Coverage C) on personal items, such as jewelry, silverware, furs, money/securities, firearms and property used for work/business. If you believe the limits don't accurately reflect the value of your property, consider buying a special personal property endorsement to add coverage for additional or special items.
• Make an inventory of everything you own in your home and in other buildings on the property. Be specific. Record the serial number, make and model number, purchase price, and date of purchase whenever you can. Don't include any vehicles; they must be insured separately.
• Don't forget to include your furniture, appliances, stereos, computers and other electronic equipment, hobby materials and recreational equipment, china, linens, silverware and kitchen equipment, jewelry, and clothing.
• Have your older children inventory their CD collections and video games, providing you a copy of the list for your record keeping.
• Don’t forget to include your tools and sporting goods, again keeping a copy in your records.
• Take either still or video pictures of these items. Store copies of your receipts, inventory checklist and visual records. Keep this inventory in a safe place – a safe deposit box or fireproof safe away from your residence.
• Add major purchases to the inventory and visual record soon after the purchase.
Most policies cover you for replacement cost of your personal property (check your policy to be sure). Taking a few minutes to keep and maintain an inventory of your personal property can save you time and headaches if the unthinkable happens. We have seen in the past year garage break-ins and several car prowling where the customer had to come up with a list of all the tools or CD’s stolen with values of each - It’s tough if you’re not prepared.
Do you know what you have? Most people would answer yes to this without giving it a second thought, however, when asked to make a list of things when a loss occurs find it very difficult to remember everything. Be prepared for disaster. A household inventory of your personal property is one of the most important things you can do to prevent problems if the unthinkable happens.
There are generally two ways to insure your personal belongings:
Replacement Cost Coverage - This coverage will pay costs to replace damaged personal property with items of like kind or quality without reduction for depreciation.
Actual Cash Value - This coverage will pay the costs equal to the replacement value of damaged property less depreciation. Unless your homeowner’s policy specifies that property is covered for its replacement value, the coverage is for actual cash value.
Here are a few ways you can make sure you have enough insurance protection:
• Check the coverage limits on your policy (Coverage C) on personal items, such as jewelry, silverware, furs, money/securities, firearms and property used for work/business. If you believe the limits don't accurately reflect the value of your property, consider buying a special personal property endorsement to add coverage for additional or special items.
• Make an inventory of everything you own in your home and in other buildings on the property. Be specific. Record the serial number, make and model number, purchase price, and date of purchase whenever you can. Don't include any vehicles; they must be insured separately.
• Don't forget to include your furniture, appliances, stereos, computers and other electronic equipment, hobby materials and recreational equipment, china, linens, silverware and kitchen equipment, jewelry, and clothing.
• Have your older children inventory their CD collections and video games, providing you a copy of the list for your record keeping.
• Don’t forget to include your tools and sporting goods, again keeping a copy in your records.
• Take either still or video pictures of these items. Store copies of your receipts, inventory checklist and visual records. Keep this inventory in a safe place – a safe deposit box or fireproof safe away from your residence.
• Add major purchases to the inventory and visual record soon after the purchase.
Most policies cover you for replacement cost of your personal property (check your policy to be sure). Taking a few minutes to keep and maintain an inventory of your personal property can save you time and headaches if the unthinkable happens. We have seen in the past year garage break-ins and several car prowling where the customer had to come up with a list of all the tools or CD’s stolen with values of each - It’s tough if you’re not prepared.
Identifying Toilet Failure Risks
Toilet failures are the second leading source of residential water losses, after plumbing supply line failures, costing an average of $5,584 per incident after the deductible was paid, according to the Institute for Business & Home Safety.
In a recent study, IBHS identified key findings that could help policyholders prevent losses caused by toilet failures, including the important role of regular maintenance and the different risks facing the owners of newer and older homes.
Although the owners of newer and older homes were each likely to experience toilet related water losses, their risks were different, according to the study. Owners need to be mindful when leaving their homes alone.
• Newer homes were more likely to have a sudden toilet failure, such as one caused by a faulty supply line or fill valve, resulting in a more severe loss.
• Older homes were more likely to experience a slow, seeping leak, such as from failed drain lines or faulty seals, which will result in less severe damage.
• Approximately 14% of all toilet failures occurred in unoccupied homes.
Frequency of Toilet Failure Types by Age of Home
The simplest way to prevent water damage from a toilet failure is to remain in or near the bathroom until the valve has finished refilling the tank and bowl. It’s important to remember not to continue flushing a clogged toilet and to shut off the supply valve at the first sign of an overflowing toilet. Regular maintenance can help a homeowner avoid toilet failure.
Recommended maintenance includes:
Toilet Failure Mode Claim Frequency
The report analyzed loss sources by the age of the homes and the location of the water loss.
Toilet failures are the second leading source of residential water losses, after plumbing supply line failures, costing an average of $5,584 per incident after the deductible was paid, according to the Institute for Business & Home Safety.
In a recent study, IBHS identified key findings that could help policyholders prevent losses caused by toilet failures, including the important role of regular maintenance and the different risks facing the owners of newer and older homes.
Although the owners of newer and older homes were each likely to experience toilet related water losses, their risks were different, according to the study. Owners need to be mindful when leaving their homes alone.
• Newer homes were more likely to have a sudden toilet failure, such as one caused by a faulty supply line or fill valve, resulting in a more severe loss.
• Older homes were more likely to experience a slow, seeping leak, such as from failed drain lines or faulty seals, which will result in less severe damage.
• Approximately 14% of all toilet failures occurred in unoccupied homes.
Frequency of Toilet Failure Types by Age of Home
The simplest way to prevent water damage from a toilet failure is to remain in or near the bathroom until the valve has finished refilling the tank and bowl. It’s important to remember not to continue flushing a clogged toilet and to shut off the supply valve at the first sign of an overflowing toilet. Regular maintenance can help a homeowner avoid toilet failure.
Recommended maintenance includes:
- Inspecting the components inside the toilet twice a year, including lifting the toilet tank lid to ensure the fill and flush valves are operating properly.
- Periodically checking the supply line connection to make sure it’s secure.
- Closing and opening the supply valve to the toilet twice a year. Make sure it’s free of rust and operates smoothly. If not, replace it.
- Paying attention to water running periodically in a toilet tank between uses. This can be a sign internal components are beginning to fail.
- The most common problem is a leaking flush valve.
Toilet Failure Mode Claim Frequency
The report analyzed loss sources by the age of the homes and the location of the water loss.
- Toilet failures accounted for more than 14% of all water losses resulting in claims in homes less than 10 years old. This is compared to an average of just 9% of water losses in homes 40 years old and older.
- Toilet failures on a home’s first floor resulted in 50% greater losses than those that occurred on upper floors or in basements. This is likely due to the proximity of the bathroom to expensive furniture, flooring and appliances.
Don't Get Soaked!
Of all the appliances found in the home, the water heater and washing machine are the most likely to cause serious damage, and cost home owners a bundle.
According to a nationwide analysis by Safeco Insurance, one out of every 10 water-damage claims can be traced back to a malfunctioning hot water tank or washing machine. These two appliances are more likely than Mother Nature to inflict damage on the home.
“Water is the most common cause of home damage today – even more likely than fire,” said Jim Swegle, vice president of personal property for Safeco Insurance.
“Americans are spending twice what they were 10 years ago to repair water damage. In most cases, home owners can save themselves a lot of time and money by adding a few simple protective devices and doing routine maintenance. These tasks usually take just a few minutes and the parts often cost less than $20,” Swegle said.
Some water damage is covered under homeowners insurance, but some damage is not, he noted. Home owners who fail to maintain appliances and plumbing systems may face thousands of dollars in repair costs and weeks of invasive home repairs.
Simple fixes, such as installing a $10 stainless steel hose or replacing an aging water heater, could save a homeowner thousands of dollars and a lot of hassle.
But home owners can take simple steps to reduce their chances of water damage.
Of all the appliances found in the home, the water heater and washing machine are the most likely to cause serious damage, and cost home owners a bundle.
According to a nationwide analysis by Safeco Insurance, one out of every 10 water-damage claims can be traced back to a malfunctioning hot water tank or washing machine. These two appliances are more likely than Mother Nature to inflict damage on the home.
“Water is the most common cause of home damage today – even more likely than fire,” said Jim Swegle, vice president of personal property for Safeco Insurance.
“Americans are spending twice what they were 10 years ago to repair water damage. In most cases, home owners can save themselves a lot of time and money by adding a few simple protective devices and doing routine maintenance. These tasks usually take just a few minutes and the parts often cost less than $20,” Swegle said.
Some water damage is covered under homeowners insurance, but some damage is not, he noted. Home owners who fail to maintain appliances and plumbing systems may face thousands of dollars in repair costs and weeks of invasive home repairs.
Simple fixes, such as installing a $10 stainless steel hose or replacing an aging water heater, could save a homeowner thousands of dollars and a lot of hassle.
But home owners can take simple steps to reduce their chances of water damage.
- Replace old water heaters. Water heaters do damage when they get too old and the tank rusts and bursts. Replace your tank once a decade. Today's energy-efficient systems also will be cheaper to operate.
- Stainless steel hoses: Inspect standard rubber or plastic hoses used with washing machines, refrigerators and dishwashers and consider replacing them with stainless steel-braided or mesh hoses. Worn-out hoses with kinks, cracks or bulges need to be replaced immediately. A $10 braided steel hose can save thousands.
- Turn it off before you leave. Don't leave dishwashers and washing machines running if you leave the house.
- Check attic air conditioners. At least once a year, go up to the attic or roof to check these appliances before they wear out. Look for wear and tear and loose connections.
Spring Checklist
Did you know the weight of heavy winter snows could change the slope of your front lawn, or that the air conditioner outside your home could cause water damage inside your house?
Winter weather can be extremely hard on a house. Spring-cleaning is an excellent opportunity to identify and correct minor, seasonal problems that could end up causing more significant damage, frustration, and possibly an insurance claim down the road.
Check roofs and windows...
Foundation…
Walk your yard...
Inspect gutters...
Test pumps...
Some work, particularly on roofs, may require professional services. Some homeowners may not be comfortable inspecting or working on their roof or on ladders. If so, check references with your local better business bureau, homebuilders association, or contractors association to help ensure you're hiring a qualified, reputable repair professional to work on your home. Here is a link to the Washington State contractors licensing website so you can check out your contractor before you hire them... https://fortress.wa.gov/lni/bbip/
Did you know the weight of heavy winter snows could change the slope of your front lawn, or that the air conditioner outside your home could cause water damage inside your house?
Winter weather can be extremely hard on a house. Spring-cleaning is an excellent opportunity to identify and correct minor, seasonal problems that could end up causing more significant damage, frustration, and possibly an insurance claim down the road.
Check roofs and windows...
- Visually inspect roof valleys, chimneys, skylights, and vent flashings.
- Temperature changes from the hot summer to the cold winter can cause expansion and contraction, which may lead to cracking in some roof cement and window caulking materials, creating potentially damaging water leaks. All exterior caulking maintenance should also be performed during spring-cleaning.
- What areas need paint? How about a new color trim?
- Inspect and clean siding. Check all wood surfaces for weathering and paint failure. Check for loose nails.
Foundation…
- Basement window wells should also be cleaned, and covers considered, avoiding rainwater build-up and unnecessary leakage in these areas.
- Check foundation walls, floors, concrete and masonry for cracking, heaving or deterioration – seal and/or repair as necessary.
Walk your yard...
- Check the grading of your property to ensure it drains away from your home's foundation.
- Wet and snowy winter weather can cause soil to settle in plant and flowerbed areas, which are usually adjacent to your home's foundation wall. This can cause water to build up next to the foundation and possibly get into your home. If needed, re-fill or re-grade depressed areas.
Inspect gutters...
- Gutters should be inspected for debris and proper mounting.
- The expansion and weight of ice and snow from winter storms can loosen gutters from their mounting points causing a change in pitch and water flow. Also, make sure downspouts are extended far enough to carry water away from the foundation wall of your house.
- Check the drainage pan and lines.
- The drainage pan and drain line should be free of dust and debris that may accumulate over the winter. An obstructed pan and line could lead to an overflow and water damage.
- Lubricate blower motor or have bi-annual service to prepare for cooling season.
Test pumps...
- If you have a sump-pump, test it to make sure it is working properly.
- Test the motor, float switch, and check valve to see if they are working properly and water is draining from the chamber. A back-up pump, or system, may be a consideration if you live in an area prone to groundwater problems.
Some work, particularly on roofs, may require professional services. Some homeowners may not be comfortable inspecting or working on their roof or on ladders. If so, check references with your local better business bureau, homebuilders association, or contractors association to help ensure you're hiring a qualified, reputable repair professional to work on your home. Here is a link to the Washington State contractors licensing website so you can check out your contractor before you hire them... https://fortress.wa.gov/lni/bbip/
Get A CLUE: Understanding a home's claim history before you buy
If you’re in the market for a new home, we encourage you to obtain a Loss History Report before making an offer. Loss History Reports gives potential buyers the ability to review up to five-years of a home’s claims history and verify if any prior damage was repaired correctly. Without knowing a home’s claims history, many new homeowners may be stuck living in money pits instead of their dream homes.
New tools have become available in recent years that help a prospective homebuyer evaluate the condition of a home and the likelihood of burglary or vandalism in the neighborhood. Some new homeowners who were unaware of these tools have been left with structural problems, substantially higher insurance rates or have had difficulty finding coverage because of past claims filed by previous owners.
Checking a home’s claims history is similar to examining a car’s Vehicle History Report from CarFax, AutoCheck or ConsumerGuide, and allows you to make a well-informed purchasing decision.
How can you find out the history of a home before you buy? Ask the seller to provide you with the Loss History Report. This report gives you a five-year claims history of the home. If the current homeowner filed a claim in the past five years, including claims for water-damage, fire or theft, the Loss History Report will show it.
If you’re considering buying a new home, the following facts and tips may help you examine a home’s claims history:
CLUE – Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange, developed by ChoicePoint Inc., Atlanta, Ga. This report is a five-year history of claims filed by all past and current owners of the property.
A-PLUS – Automobile-Property Loss Underwriting System, developed by Insurance Services Office (ISO). The A-PLUS report is a history of the current owner’s claims up to five years. If the seller has owned the home for less than five years, the report will not include claims filed by past owners.
If you’re in the market for a new home, we encourage you to obtain a Loss History Report before making an offer. Loss History Reports gives potential buyers the ability to review up to five-years of a home’s claims history and verify if any prior damage was repaired correctly. Without knowing a home’s claims history, many new homeowners may be stuck living in money pits instead of their dream homes.
New tools have become available in recent years that help a prospective homebuyer evaluate the condition of a home and the likelihood of burglary or vandalism in the neighborhood. Some new homeowners who were unaware of these tools have been left with structural problems, substantially higher insurance rates or have had difficulty finding coverage because of past claims filed by previous owners.
Checking a home’s claims history is similar to examining a car’s Vehicle History Report from CarFax, AutoCheck or ConsumerGuide, and allows you to make a well-informed purchasing decision.
How can you find out the history of a home before you buy? Ask the seller to provide you with the Loss History Report. This report gives you a five-year claims history of the home. If the current homeowner filed a claim in the past five years, including claims for water-damage, fire or theft, the Loss History Report will show it.
If you’re considering buying a new home, the following facts and tips may help you examine a home’s claims history:
- Loss History Reports are a powerful tool for both buyers and sellers. Buyers can request a Loss History Report from the seller as part of the real estate transaction. The reports can identify potential problems for the buyer’s inspector to investigate.
- A Loss History Report is simply a record of past claims.
- 70 to 80 percent of homes have clean Loss History Reports.
CLUE – Comprehensive Loss Underwriting Exchange, developed by ChoicePoint Inc., Atlanta, Ga. This report is a five-year history of claims filed by all past and current owners of the property.
A-PLUS – Automobile-Property Loss Underwriting System, developed by Insurance Services Office (ISO). The A-PLUS report is a history of the current owner’s claims up to five years. If the seller has owned the home for less than five years, the report will not include claims filed by past owners.
- Both reports include a five-year loss history for homes and homeowners.
- Homeowners, insurance companies and insurance agents have access to Loss History Reports.
- CLUE Reports are available online at http://www.choicetrust.com or by mail at (888) 497-0011 for $9.
- A-PLUS reports are available at (800) 709-8842 for $9 by mail $13 by fax.
- Consumers adversely affected by their Loss History Reports can get free copies of their reports from CLUE or A-PLUS.
Protect Your Home from Burglary
There is a burglary every 15 seconds in the United States - and more than 6 million home break-ins every year.
The good news: Your house doesn't have to be one of them. There is plenty you can do, experts say, to make it tougher for housebreakers to make off with your hard-earned, perhaps irreplaceable personal property.
What to do Inside Your Home
A few smart moves within your house can keep a burglar out - or at lease minimize his haul.
Put lights and a radio or a television on timers. People who leave the lights on all day "might as well put out a sign in their front yard saying they are out of town," says Ann Lindstrom of ADT Security Services, the nation's oldest alarm-system company. Look for the type of timer that can be set for random on and off times (one brand is Leviton, about $40 each). Otherwise, it is too easy for crooks to get wise to the fact your lights are coming on at the same time every night.
Don't rely on your dog. You would like to believe that your "vicious" golden retriever will scare off burglars. And although barking may persuade them to skip your house, you should not count on it. "Most of us train dogs to be friendly to strangers," says Frank Santamorena, an expert on the Discovery Channel's burglary-prevention show, "It Takes a Thief." Some thieves even bring dog biscuits.
Close most shades. If a thief can't see inside, he won't know whether there's anything worth stealing, says Lauren Russ, executive director of the nonprofit Burglary Prevention Council (BPC). But keep a few shades open on the second floor to make it look as if someone is home.
Lock up valuables. It may sound obvious, but thieves know we all like to hide our most important things under the bed, in a coffee tin, or behind a bookcase. So keep passports, Social Security cards, and the like in a bank safe-deposit box or in a heavy-duty combination safe you can bolt to the floor in a closet. Santamorena likes the Gardall brand (from about $300, depending on the size).
Keep two jewelry boxes. Store inexpensive pieces in the nice case on your dresser. Stash the good bits in a safe. A thief may be fooled by the "cheap box" and not bother looking for more.
Lock away guns. Weapons are attractive to thieves, so if you have them in the house, hide them in a safe, just as you would conceal other valuables.
Make your things harder to sell. Use an engraving pen (sold at hardware stores) to mark big-ticket items, like electronics and computers. Prominently engrave your initials and driver's license number (not your Social Security number) on the back. Since many pawn shops won't accept ID-engraved items or are required by law to report them to police, burglars may pass on them. At the very least, you will have a better chance of recovering them.
Get an alarm system. A recent survey by Temple University researchers found that alarms, when used in combination with other precautions, reduce the likelihood of burglary by as much as 66%.
All monitored electronic-security systems are operated through phone lines. More recent types have backup service that uses cellular technology or digital radio, so if the line is cut or the power goes out, you are still protected. This can add a few hundred dollars to the bill, but experts say it is a must. Expect to pay at least $350 for installation and $35 a month in monitoring fees. Some of these costs can be offset by the savings on your homeowner's insurance policy, so make sure you inform your agent if you should install a security system.
Certified Security Systems 509-922-9111 ADT Security Systems 1-800-238-2727
Brinks Security Systems 509-462-2106 Allied Fire and Security 509-624-3152
What to do Outside Your Home
A thief usually assesses your house from the street first. Take these steps and he'll avoid yours:
Evaluate the landscaping. Is that lovely flowering dogwood a good hiding spot for someone trying to open a ground-floor window? "Prune back shrubbery from windows, doors, and walkways," says Russ. She also adds, "Examine the 'climbability' of tall trees near second-floor windows." Prune these as well so burglars can not use them like ladders.
Check the lighting Every exterior door should be illuminated with at least a 40-watt bulb. Experts recommend easy to install motion-detecting light sensors (about $20 each at home-improvement stores). Thieves want anonymity." says Santamorena. " If a spotlight shines on them the second they step on your property, they'll keep moving." Random timers are also a good idea, especially if you typically arrive home after dark.
Secure windows and sliding glass doors. Look for windows made with laminated glass, which is not as breakable as tempered glass. Sliding glass doors are notoriously simple for thieves to get open, so put a metal bar or a solid-wood dowel in the tracking to secure the door when it is closed, says Terri Kelly, managing director of Community Outreach and Government Relations for the National Crime Prevention Council.
Install--and use--reliable locks. In about 32% of home burglaries, there is not sign of forced entry, meaning the burglar entered through an unlocked door or open door or window. It takes most burglars less than 60 seconds to get inside, according to the BPC, and they typically enter through the front door.
For all exterior doors, plus the door inside the garage that leads into the house, choose high-quality dead bolts (such as ASSA, Abloy, Medeco, or the Schlage Primus, which start at around $140). If the lock is near a window or within 40 inches of a glass pane, install a double-cylinder dead bolt, which can be opened from the inside and the outside only with a key. (This way, burglars can't break the glass, reach in, and turn the lock.) It's best to use a locksmith who is a certified dealer of the brand you want, says Santamorena. (To find a locksmith, visit the manufacturer's Web site.)
Fortify your doors. Exterior doors, including the garage door, should be solid wood, fiberglass or steel, and the hinges should be on the inside, not the outside. If you do have exterior hinges and don't want to move them, Santamoreno suggests that you at least secure them with a locking pin, which makes the hinges difficult to remove.
Put the street number, not your name, on the mailbox to avoid what Kelly calls one of the oldest tricks in the book: "Thieves dial information with your name and street address, and then call to see if anyone's home." But make sure your house number is clearly marked so emergency personnel can find you.
Advertise an alarm system, even if you don't have one. "While it is best to have the real deal, just posting a lawn sign or a sticker will help," says Russ. Try to get one from a friend or neighbor who has an alarm; experienced thieves can spot a fake.
Declutter the yard. When you are out or away, don't leave tools, ladders or even toys lying around. Thieves can use them to break into your house.
Forget the fake rock and other hide-a-key tricks. Thieves know all the hiding spots you've though of. "You can't fool a burglar by putting a key above the doorjamb, under the doormat, or beneath a plastic figurine in your yard," says Santamorena. Give a spare key to a trusted neighbor, or buy a steel combination lockbox made specifically for keys. (One model is the GE AccessPoint KeySafe, from $40. Bolt it to something on the property that is easy for everyone in your family to access. "These lockboxes are so reliable that I've installed them right next to the door," says Santamorena.
Don't leave your garage-door opener exposed. Burglars can swipe a garage-door opener from an unlocked car and use it later to get into the house.
Censor your trash. The box your new flat-screen TV came in announces that you have items worth stealing. "Cut the carton up and tie the pieces together before you put them out on the curb," says Russ.
What to do When you go on Vacation
There is a burglary every 15 seconds in the United States - and more than 6 million home break-ins every year.
The good news: Your house doesn't have to be one of them. There is plenty you can do, experts say, to make it tougher for housebreakers to make off with your hard-earned, perhaps irreplaceable personal property.
What to do Inside Your Home
A few smart moves within your house can keep a burglar out - or at lease minimize his haul.
Put lights and a radio or a television on timers. People who leave the lights on all day "might as well put out a sign in their front yard saying they are out of town," says Ann Lindstrom of ADT Security Services, the nation's oldest alarm-system company. Look for the type of timer that can be set for random on and off times (one brand is Leviton, about $40 each). Otherwise, it is too easy for crooks to get wise to the fact your lights are coming on at the same time every night.
Don't rely on your dog. You would like to believe that your "vicious" golden retriever will scare off burglars. And although barking may persuade them to skip your house, you should not count on it. "Most of us train dogs to be friendly to strangers," says Frank Santamorena, an expert on the Discovery Channel's burglary-prevention show, "It Takes a Thief." Some thieves even bring dog biscuits.
Close most shades. If a thief can't see inside, he won't know whether there's anything worth stealing, says Lauren Russ, executive director of the nonprofit Burglary Prevention Council (BPC). But keep a few shades open on the second floor to make it look as if someone is home.
Lock up valuables. It may sound obvious, but thieves know we all like to hide our most important things under the bed, in a coffee tin, or behind a bookcase. So keep passports, Social Security cards, and the like in a bank safe-deposit box or in a heavy-duty combination safe you can bolt to the floor in a closet. Santamorena likes the Gardall brand (from about $300, depending on the size).
Keep two jewelry boxes. Store inexpensive pieces in the nice case on your dresser. Stash the good bits in a safe. A thief may be fooled by the "cheap box" and not bother looking for more.
Lock away guns. Weapons are attractive to thieves, so if you have them in the house, hide them in a safe, just as you would conceal other valuables.
Make your things harder to sell. Use an engraving pen (sold at hardware stores) to mark big-ticket items, like electronics and computers. Prominently engrave your initials and driver's license number (not your Social Security number) on the back. Since many pawn shops won't accept ID-engraved items or are required by law to report them to police, burglars may pass on them. At the very least, you will have a better chance of recovering them.
Get an alarm system. A recent survey by Temple University researchers found that alarms, when used in combination with other precautions, reduce the likelihood of burglary by as much as 66%.
All monitored electronic-security systems are operated through phone lines. More recent types have backup service that uses cellular technology or digital radio, so if the line is cut or the power goes out, you are still protected. This can add a few hundred dollars to the bill, but experts say it is a must. Expect to pay at least $350 for installation and $35 a month in monitoring fees. Some of these costs can be offset by the savings on your homeowner's insurance policy, so make sure you inform your agent if you should install a security system.
Certified Security Systems 509-922-9111 ADT Security Systems 1-800-238-2727
Brinks Security Systems 509-462-2106 Allied Fire and Security 509-624-3152
What to do Outside Your Home
A thief usually assesses your house from the street first. Take these steps and he'll avoid yours:
Evaluate the landscaping. Is that lovely flowering dogwood a good hiding spot for someone trying to open a ground-floor window? "Prune back shrubbery from windows, doors, and walkways," says Russ. She also adds, "Examine the 'climbability' of tall trees near second-floor windows." Prune these as well so burglars can not use them like ladders.
Check the lighting Every exterior door should be illuminated with at least a 40-watt bulb. Experts recommend easy to install motion-detecting light sensors (about $20 each at home-improvement stores). Thieves want anonymity." says Santamorena. " If a spotlight shines on them the second they step on your property, they'll keep moving." Random timers are also a good idea, especially if you typically arrive home after dark.
Secure windows and sliding glass doors. Look for windows made with laminated glass, which is not as breakable as tempered glass. Sliding glass doors are notoriously simple for thieves to get open, so put a metal bar or a solid-wood dowel in the tracking to secure the door when it is closed, says Terri Kelly, managing director of Community Outreach and Government Relations for the National Crime Prevention Council.
Install--and use--reliable locks. In about 32% of home burglaries, there is not sign of forced entry, meaning the burglar entered through an unlocked door or open door or window. It takes most burglars less than 60 seconds to get inside, according to the BPC, and they typically enter through the front door.
For all exterior doors, plus the door inside the garage that leads into the house, choose high-quality dead bolts (such as ASSA, Abloy, Medeco, or the Schlage Primus, which start at around $140). If the lock is near a window or within 40 inches of a glass pane, install a double-cylinder dead bolt, which can be opened from the inside and the outside only with a key. (This way, burglars can't break the glass, reach in, and turn the lock.) It's best to use a locksmith who is a certified dealer of the brand you want, says Santamorena. (To find a locksmith, visit the manufacturer's Web site.)
Fortify your doors. Exterior doors, including the garage door, should be solid wood, fiberglass or steel, and the hinges should be on the inside, not the outside. If you do have exterior hinges and don't want to move them, Santamoreno suggests that you at least secure them with a locking pin, which makes the hinges difficult to remove.
Put the street number, not your name, on the mailbox to avoid what Kelly calls one of the oldest tricks in the book: "Thieves dial information with your name and street address, and then call to see if anyone's home." But make sure your house number is clearly marked so emergency personnel can find you.
Advertise an alarm system, even if you don't have one. "While it is best to have the real deal, just posting a lawn sign or a sticker will help," says Russ. Try to get one from a friend or neighbor who has an alarm; experienced thieves can spot a fake.
Declutter the yard. When you are out or away, don't leave tools, ladders or even toys lying around. Thieves can use them to break into your house.
Forget the fake rock and other hide-a-key tricks. Thieves know all the hiding spots you've though of. "You can't fool a burglar by putting a key above the doorjamb, under the doormat, or beneath a plastic figurine in your yard," says Santamorena. Give a spare key to a trusted neighbor, or buy a steel combination lockbox made specifically for keys. (One model is the GE AccessPoint KeySafe, from $40. Bolt it to something on the property that is easy for everyone in your family to access. "These lockboxes are so reliable that I've installed them right next to the door," says Santamorena.
Don't leave your garage-door opener exposed. Burglars can swipe a garage-door opener from an unlocked car and use it later to get into the house.
Censor your trash. The box your new flat-screen TV came in announces that you have items worth stealing. "Cut the carton up and tie the pieces together before you put them out on the curb," says Russ.
What to do When you go on Vacation
- Make sure you can really relax on your next getaway by taking these extra safety precautions:
- Enlist a trusted neighbor or family member to keep an eye out, park a car in your driveway, and have the lawn mowed or walks shoveled. The fewer clues you give that your house is unoccupied, the better.
- Don't leave e-mail or phone messages saying you are away. Forego the "automatic vacation reply" feature on e-mail and keep a generic message on your answering machine. Use call forwarding to screen phone calls from the road.
- Suspend delivery of newspapers and mail, or have someone collect them for you. Avoid telltale pileups. To a thief, they're an open invitation.
Chimney Sweeping and Inspections
As the temperatures begin to cool, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (www.csia.org) issues its annual chimney inspection reminder. Both the CSIA and the National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org) recommend annual chimney inspections by a qualified professional and sweeping when necessary.
“Don’t think that just because you have not used your chimney lately that it is ready to go,” reminds Ashley Eldridge, CSIA’s Director of Education. “Any variety of things, such as animals, can get into your chimney in the off-season.”
According to the most recent statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an average of 25,100 chimney fires are responsible for 30 deaths and $126.1 million in property damage on average each year.
Annual chimney inspections allow the chimney sweep to note cracks, creosote buildup or other obstructions which may diminish the functionality of the system and create an environment where chimney fires or carbon monoxide intrusion are likely. (The CSIA website features a video about the three levels of chimney inspections.)
CSIA recommends that people take a few steps when considering which chimney sweep will perform an annual chimney inspection or related service. While the CSIA recommends that people consider a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® (visit their website to locate one), there are additional questions that should be asked to ensure that the person hired is a credible service technician:
Homeowners can watch short videos, learn more about chimney safety and can locate a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep online at www.csia.org.
The Chimney Safety Institute of America is a non-profit, educational institution dedicated to educating the public about the prevention of chimney and venting safety hazards, and is a proud sponsor of National Chimney Safety Week.
As the temperatures begin to cool, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (www.csia.org) issues its annual chimney inspection reminder. Both the CSIA and the National Fire Protection Association (www.nfpa.org) recommend annual chimney inspections by a qualified professional and sweeping when necessary.
“Don’t think that just because you have not used your chimney lately that it is ready to go,” reminds Ashley Eldridge, CSIA’s Director of Education. “Any variety of things, such as animals, can get into your chimney in the off-season.”
According to the most recent statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an average of 25,100 chimney fires are responsible for 30 deaths and $126.1 million in property damage on average each year.
Annual chimney inspections allow the chimney sweep to note cracks, creosote buildup or other obstructions which may diminish the functionality of the system and create an environment where chimney fires or carbon monoxide intrusion are likely. (The CSIA website features a video about the three levels of chimney inspections.)
CSIA recommends that people take a few steps when considering which chimney sweep will perform an annual chimney inspection or related service. While the CSIA recommends that people consider a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep® (visit their website to locate one), there are additional questions that should be asked to ensure that the person hired is a credible service technician:
- How long has the chimney sweeping company been in business?
- Does the company offer current references?
- Does the company have unresolved complaints filed with the city or state consumer protection agency or Better Business Bureau?
- Does the company or individual carry a valid business liability insurance policy to protect your home and furnishings against accidents?
- Does the company ensure that a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep will be on the job site?
Homeowners can watch short videos, learn more about chimney safety and can locate a CSIA Certified Chimney Sweep online at www.csia.org.
The Chimney Safety Institute of America is a non-profit, educational institution dedicated to educating the public about the prevention of chimney and venting safety hazards, and is a proud sponsor of National Chimney Safety Week.
Happy Safe Decorating this Holiday Season
"Thinking of the holidays” brings to mind enjoyable visions of festive tables, traditional ceremonies and quiet, comfortable places of relaxation…all with candles prominently etched in those visions. For many, candles are a traditional religious element of the holidays. Others include them as a significant part of holiday decorating. While there are some who use candles for relaxation and therapy all year 'round and bring out the candles on a regular, and not necessarily holiday, basis.
But whatever the reason, the prevalence of those beautiful candles seems even more so during the holidays. Along with them come the Christmas trees, slowly and predictably losing their moisture in warm, dry living rooms, and fireplace mantles and hearths, laden with brittle-dry evergreen boughs and candles.
Now at this point it would seem natural and also predictable that a big CAUTION about fire safety would be in order. And it is! After all, nothing can ruin a great holiday more than a blazing Christmas tree in the corner of your living room or melting candles igniting your table centerpiece with 35 astonished guests commiserating about the uniqueness of your décor. We should all be cautious of not only our own decorations, but also those of others we may visit during the holidays.
Sadly, it reminds me of a news story I heard a few years ago. A 12-year-old daughter was the sole survivor of a candle-ignited fire that destroyed her home and killed her mother, father, and 5-year-old sister. “Investigators traced the source of the fire to a large candle set in a Christmas-style potpourri standing on a partition between the living room and the kitchen.” And every holiday season, there are many such tragic stories on the morning news.
Between 1999 and 2002, candles were the heat source in 8% of the home Christmas tree fires per year. And speaking of Christmas trees…they were the items first ignited in an estimated average of 310 reported U.S. home structure fires per year in 1999-2002. These fires caused an average of 14 deaths, 40 injuries, and $16.2 million in direct property damage per year. These statistics include both real and artificial trees.
More than four of every 10 home Christmas tree fires are caused by an electrical problem or malfunction. One in four (25%) home Christmas tree fires resulted from a heat source placed too close to the tree. Seven percent were started by children playing with fire.
Sixty-one percent of home Christmas tree fires were reported in December, 22% were reported in January. Not surprisingly, the number of these fires spikes during the week of December 22-28.
These statistics are based on fires that started with Christmas trees and do not include fires starting with other products. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can very quickly become large.
Holiday Safety Tips
So enjoy the holidays! Just take care of your tree and keep an eye on those candles. When decorating, be sensible and be safe!
"Thinking of the holidays” brings to mind enjoyable visions of festive tables, traditional ceremonies and quiet, comfortable places of relaxation…all with candles prominently etched in those visions. For many, candles are a traditional religious element of the holidays. Others include them as a significant part of holiday decorating. While there are some who use candles for relaxation and therapy all year 'round and bring out the candles on a regular, and not necessarily holiday, basis.
But whatever the reason, the prevalence of those beautiful candles seems even more so during the holidays. Along with them come the Christmas trees, slowly and predictably losing their moisture in warm, dry living rooms, and fireplace mantles and hearths, laden with brittle-dry evergreen boughs and candles.
Now at this point it would seem natural and also predictable that a big CAUTION about fire safety would be in order. And it is! After all, nothing can ruin a great holiday more than a blazing Christmas tree in the corner of your living room or melting candles igniting your table centerpiece with 35 astonished guests commiserating about the uniqueness of your décor. We should all be cautious of not only our own decorations, but also those of others we may visit during the holidays.
Sadly, it reminds me of a news story I heard a few years ago. A 12-year-old daughter was the sole survivor of a candle-ignited fire that destroyed her home and killed her mother, father, and 5-year-old sister. “Investigators traced the source of the fire to a large candle set in a Christmas-style potpourri standing on a partition between the living room and the kitchen.” And every holiday season, there are many such tragic stories on the morning news.
Between 1999 and 2002, candles were the heat source in 8% of the home Christmas tree fires per year. And speaking of Christmas trees…they were the items first ignited in an estimated average of 310 reported U.S. home structure fires per year in 1999-2002. These fires caused an average of 14 deaths, 40 injuries, and $16.2 million in direct property damage per year. These statistics include both real and artificial trees.
More than four of every 10 home Christmas tree fires are caused by an electrical problem or malfunction. One in four (25%) home Christmas tree fires resulted from a heat source placed too close to the tree. Seven percent were started by children playing with fire.
Sixty-one percent of home Christmas tree fires were reported in December, 22% were reported in January. Not surprisingly, the number of these fires spikes during the week of December 22-28.
These statistics are based on fires that started with Christmas trees and do not include fires starting with other products. A small fire that spreads to a Christmas tree can very quickly become large.
Holiday Safety Tips
- When decorating with candles, be careful about placing candles too close to foliage (real or imitation) or other flammable items.
- When decorating Christmas trees, always use safe tree lights. (Some lights are designed only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.) Larger tree lights should also have some type of reflector rather than a bare bulb and all lights should be listed by a testing laboratory.
- Never use electric lights on a metal tree.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use tree lights. Any string of lights with worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulb connections should not be used.
- Check your strands of lights to determine the number of strands that may be connected. Connect no more than three strands of push-in bulbs and a maximum of 50 bulbs for screw-in bulbs.
- Always unplug Christmas tree lights and extinguish candles before leaving home or going to bed.
- Bring outdoor electrical lights inside after the holidays to prevent hazards and extend their life.
- Candles should be placed well away from your Christmas tree and should never be used to decorate your tree.
- Try to keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water daily. Do not purchase a tree that is dry or dropping needles.
- When purchasing a live or cut tree, check for fresh, green needles.
- Choose a sturdy tree stand designed not to tip over.
- When purchasing an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire retardant.
- Children are fascinated with Christmas trees. Keep a watchful eye on them when around the tree and do not let them play with the wiring or lights.
- Store matches and lighters up high, out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet.
- Make sure the tree is at least three feet (one meter) away from any heat source, such as fireplaces and radiators. Try to position the tree near an outlet so that cords are not running long distances. Do not place the tree where it may block an exit.
- Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in a house or garage, or placed against the house.
So enjoy the holidays! Just take care of your tree and keep an eye on those candles. When decorating, be sensible and be safe!
How to Avoid Winter Claims
During these cold winter months, most of us would prefer to sit inside the house by a warm fire, sipping on hot chocolate. As temperatures plummet and snow accumulates we would like to remind you of some safety precautions and tips to follow for a warm and comfortable winter:
Frozen Pipes
Water Claims
Christmas Decorations
Personal Safety
During these cold winter months, most of us would prefer to sit inside the house by a warm fire, sipping on hot chocolate. As temperatures plummet and snow accumulates we would like to remind you of some safety precautions and tips to follow for a warm and comfortable winter:
Frozen Pipes
- Shut off and drain the water system before an extended vacation and set the heat at no lower than 55 degrees.
- Insulate pipes near outer walls, in crawl spaces and in the attic.
- In extreme cold weather, open cabinet doors and leave the faucets dripping where pipes are located near exterior walls.
- Never attempt to thaw pipes with a torch or any kind of open flame. Use hot water or a U-labeled device such as a hand held dryer.
Water Claims
- Keep downspouts and gutters clean to prevent ice dams on the roof.
- Make sure downspouts are directed away from the house to prevent flooding from a heavy downpour or sudden thaw.
- Turn off portable space heaters before going to sleep or leaving the room.
- Keep chimney liners clean and have the mortar on brick chimneys inspected regularly to be sure there are no cracks where fire can wick through to the framing.
- Install and test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- If there is a fire hydrant near your home, remove snow from it and clear a 3-foot area to allow quick access for firefighters.
Christmas Decorations
- If using a real tree, be sure and keep it well watered. Dry needles are highly combustible.
- Purchase longer extension cords rather than connecting multiple cords. And inspect cords regularly for cracks or hot spots.
Personal Safety
- Never use unventilated propane heaters, charcoal briquettes or gas ovens to heat your home. Doing so can be a source of potentially toxic fumes.
- If using synthetic logs, follow the directions on the package. Never break apart a synthetic log or use more than one log at a time. This causes them to burn unevenly, releasing higher levels of carbon monoxide.
- Clear snow and ice from sidewalks and driveways and use sand for better traction.
Winter Storms Ahead: Are you ready?
We admit it: As insurance pros, our picture of winter isn’t exactly cozy. Winter storms mean traffic snarls, hillsides turning to sheets of ice, and cars sliding around like hockey pucks. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to burst, frost swells and other damage. Heating your home with fireplaces and holiday lighting can increase the risk of fire.
A picture-perfect winter requires a few precautions
Know what your insurance covers
We admit it: As insurance pros, our picture of winter isn’t exactly cozy. Winter storms mean traffic snarls, hillsides turning to sheets of ice, and cars sliding around like hockey pucks. Cold temperatures can cause pipes to burst, frost swells and other damage. Heating your home with fireplaces and holiday lighting can increase the risk of fire.
A picture-perfect winter requires a few precautions
- Here are a few of our top tips to help reduce weather-related hassles this winter.
- Winter-proof your car with good snow tires or chains, new wiper blades, antifreeze, and emergency road supplies.
- Keep your attic cool to help prevent ice dams. Insulate the attic floor and make sure it is well-ventilated.
- Do not overload circuits with holiday decorations.
- If you do not have to drive, stay put. If you must drive, make sure you’ve winterized your car and have a full tank of gas.
- When the air is cold, keep bath and kitchen cabinet doors open so warm air can circulate around pipes. If pipes do freeze, let them thaw normally—they’ll be less likely to burst.
- And if the power is out, make sure you avoid leaving candles or fires burning unattended. If you use a portable generator, follow the instructions and do not use it indoors.
Know what your insurance covers
- We want to help you rest easy. You will be more relaxed when you know you have prepared your property to lessen the chance of winter storm damage. Your insurance policy covers repair or rebuilding costs. However, your deductible does apply. Check your policy to see what is covered and to confirm the deductible you have chosen.
Navigating Today's Mortgage Market….Let's Do It Together!
With mortgage interest rates at some of the lowest levels in decades, borrowers need to know where they stand and what they should do next. Now might be a good time to buy a new home or refinance your current mortgage. You owe it to yourself to do your homework and get the information to help you make an informed decision. A lot of money can be saved with a little effort and making sure you are working with the right local lender. We can do this together!!
By now most readers should know that the mortgage industry is a little crazy. Due to a variety of factors; increase in mortgage defaults, decrease in real estate prices, interest rates at historic lows, and others, it has become confusing on what type of loans are available and just who can get qualified.
For the people with good to average credit looking for conforming loans, the market is very good. Interest rates have come down to generational lows….but for how much longer? The loan markets have opened up nicely. These are the easiest deals to get done. Furthermore, buyers in markets under $400,000 have the advantage. Supply has increased dramatically and many great seller concessions are available. Take advantage of this market by asking sellers to pay closing cost or making more aggressive (lower) bids. If a borrower is in this range, life will not get much better than it is right now.
Now, more that any other time, borrowers need to be smart and make sure they are working with the right local lender. Getting the best mortgage can save a borrower thousands, possibly even hundreds of thousands, of dollars over the life of the loan.
Whether you want to look at refinancing your current mortgage or looking to purchase a new home, as your local Mortgage Banker let’s work together in securing you the best available program and interest rate.
These interest rates won’t last forever! Make the right decisions now.
Contact me at:
Rick Andreas
Mortgage Consultant-NMLS #297715
Envoy Mortgage-NMLS#6666
1101 N Argonne Rd., Suite 107
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Cell-509.230.1334; work-509.232.0103
With mortgage interest rates at some of the lowest levels in decades, borrowers need to know where they stand and what they should do next. Now might be a good time to buy a new home or refinance your current mortgage. You owe it to yourself to do your homework and get the information to help you make an informed decision. A lot of money can be saved with a little effort and making sure you are working with the right local lender. We can do this together!!
By now most readers should know that the mortgage industry is a little crazy. Due to a variety of factors; increase in mortgage defaults, decrease in real estate prices, interest rates at historic lows, and others, it has become confusing on what type of loans are available and just who can get qualified.
For the people with good to average credit looking for conforming loans, the market is very good. Interest rates have come down to generational lows….but for how much longer? The loan markets have opened up nicely. These are the easiest deals to get done. Furthermore, buyers in markets under $400,000 have the advantage. Supply has increased dramatically and many great seller concessions are available. Take advantage of this market by asking sellers to pay closing cost or making more aggressive (lower) bids. If a borrower is in this range, life will not get much better than it is right now.
Now, more that any other time, borrowers need to be smart and make sure they are working with the right local lender. Getting the best mortgage can save a borrower thousands, possibly even hundreds of thousands, of dollars over the life of the loan.
Whether you want to look at refinancing your current mortgage or looking to purchase a new home, as your local Mortgage Banker let’s work together in securing you the best available program and interest rate.
These interest rates won’t last forever! Make the right decisions now.
Contact me at:
Rick Andreas
Mortgage Consultant-NMLS #297715
Envoy Mortgage-NMLS#6666
1101 N Argonne Rd., Suite 107
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Cell-509.230.1334; work-509.232.0103
Contact Century Today!
Call: (509) 924-4424
Fax: (509) 924-4481
Email: Info@CenturyInsuranceAgency.com
Located: 1406 N. Pines Rd Spokane Valley, 99206
Call: (509) 924-4424
Fax: (509) 924-4481
Email: Info@CenturyInsuranceAgency.com
Located: 1406 N. Pines Rd Spokane Valley, 99206
