Author: AgentInsure

How Does Home Insurance Really Help Me: 4 Tips to Know

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Insurance, in general, tends to have a bad reputation. It seems that people just think they give part of their paycheck to a company while getting very little in return. However, there are a number of ways that home insurance can help you, and The Insurance Shop USA knows it’s all a matter of seeing the benefits. If you live in Sandypoint, ID, then there are a few things you should keep in mind when you’re feeling a little selfish. 

1. Keeps you from calling upon friends and family 

Having support after a major storm or break-in is priceless, but that doesn’t mean that you want to ask people you know for financial help. Insurance takes care of many of the logistics — including the financial ones. 

2. Helps your property value 

When you have help to fix your house (including your yard), you can keep it in good shape throughout the years. It’s one of the best indicators that your house will do well once it’s put up on the market, without having to do any extra renovations or repairs. 

3. Puts you in control 

You won’t have to worry when you check the weather and there’s a major storm coming in Sandypoint, ID because you know you have the right protection. You can rest easy about what the future will bring because you’ve done the proper preparations when it comes to home insurance. 

4. Gives you a hand to hold 

Your insurance company can’t right every wrong, but they can certainly be a major comfort when you’re feeling lost. The Insurance Shop USA is here for you when you need it the most, so give us a call today if you need a new policy. 

3 Ways to Avoid Electrical Problems in Your House

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Electrical problems can cause house fires in your home. To protect your family and avoid a home insurance claim, it’s must take measures to prevent electrical problems in Sandypoint, ID. Fortunately, the following tips can help you uncover potential problems and avoid a house fire.

Get an Electrical Inspection

The first place you should start when it comes to assessing your electrical system is hiring a professional. Experienced professionals can easily assess the state of your electrical system, and they can highlight problems you may not have noticed. Additionally, their knowledge of the current codes, rules, and regulations makes them the best resource for fireproofing your home.

Redo Dated Electrical Wiring

If your electrical professional suggested upgrading old wiring systems, then start there. Dated wiring systems were fine a century ago, but they’ve proven to be fire-prone now especially aluminum wiring. Additionally, with so many devices relying on your electrical system, you don’t want dated wiring powering your expensive devices. Make your home safer by removing those old wires and installing new wires.

Fix Faulty Electrical Outlets

Most homeowners are keenly aware of outlets that don’t work in their home. Even though they know, they avoid making the repairs because they don’t want to spend the extra money. Unfortunately, not making the repairs can be a costly mistake because an outlet that doesn’t work is a symptom of a bigger problem. You can avoid the risk of house fires by checking and fixing faulty electrical outlets as soon as they stop working.

House fires are one of the most common claims when it comes to home insurance in Sandypoint, ID. You don’t have to be a victim of a house fire. Take steps today to ensure your home is safe from electrical fires. If you don’t know where to start, contact The Insurance Shop USA to get information about local electrical professionals we recommend in the area.

 

 

Winter Auto Tips To Keep You Safe All Year Long

Posted on by AgentInsure

Residents of Sandpoint, Idaho are lucky to experience a beautiful range of seasons including beautiful winters perfect for outdoor activities. As one of America’s most beautiful locations, you are lucky to be living in or near this naturally gorgeous area.

With winter on its way, it’s a good time to go over your vehicle and make sure it is ready for the cold, snowy season. Many traffic situations can be avoided this time of year by doing a seasonal safety inspection, and doing some simple prep. Here are some things to check:

  • Check your battery and terminals. When the temperatures drop, more strain is put on your battery. It’s a good idea to have your battery tested to make sure it has enough juice to get you through the season. Visually inspect terminals and cables to make sure everything looks good. You don’t want to be stranded!
  • Check your tires. Make sure you have adequate tread. Roads are slippery, so tires need to be in good condition.
  • Check wiper blades  and replace if necessary.
  • Make sure brakes are working optimally. 

It’s also a good idea to update your auto emergency kit, making sure that you have fresh batteries in your flashlights and things like warm blankets and a first aid kit. Double check and make sure your roadside assistance is up to date, and that you are equipped with chains and any other snow gear, if necessary.

It’s best to take your vehicle in for a thorough check before winter starts, and it’s also a good idea to make sure your auto insurance is up to date. Sit down with an agent at The Insurance Shop USA to make sure you have the coverage that you need.

A Simple Tire Pressure Check

Posted on by AgentInsure

A simple maintenance aspect of car care involves the tire pressure. The pressure is created by pumping a sufficient amount of air into the tire that it not only inflates but stays that way even when a significant weight load is applied to the tire. It also allows the tire to absorb shock and changes in surfaces that the tire rolls over, making the design an ideal way to move transport without an extremely rough ride (as would occur with wood or steel wheels). However, a tire is only as good as its ability to maintain pressure and keep that air contained. When the pressure goes too low, the tire begins to lose its ability to retain shape and strength. The typical result is that the tire then disconnects from the wheel rim it is a frame on, or the tire material itself rips apart due to too much drag and friction with the road.

Fortunately, maintaining one’s tire pressure in Sandypoint, ID is a simple task of using a tire pressure gauge and regularly checking (every two weeks or so). Car tires have the normal inflation printed on the outer side just for this purpose. A good check applies the gauge, confirms the pressure needs increasing, and then uses an air compressor at a gas station to raise the tire pressure up to the right amount again. If the pressure continues to keep falling after multiple checks, then there’s a good likelihood the given tire has a small air leak and needs replacement.

To find out more tips on how to take care of your car and avoid car accidents, contact your local Sandypoint, the ID insurance agent at The Insurance Shop USA. There are multiple ways to easily monitor and keep your car in good operating condition, which goes a long way in avoiding accidents.

Top Tips for Home Window Safety

Posted on by AgentInsure

Accidents can happen no matter where you are, but preventing them in your home is vital in order to keep your family safe from danger. You may have or need insurance in case an accident occurs. The agents at The Insurance Shop USA of Sandypoint, ID can help with your needs and offer some simple advice to improve the safety of your windows to prevent a disaster.

Easy Window Access

When you painted your home last year, did you make sure not to paint the windows shut? If a fire breaks out in your home, window access may be the only means for you and your family to escape. Check the windowpanes to make sure that they are not nailed down or painted shut. You don’t want to be stuck inside of a burning building with no way to exit.

Don’t Risk a Fall

When you have young children, you should keep your windows closed. It is dangerous for a child to play next to an open window. Falling from an open window can cause serious injury or even death. If you want to keep the windows open for cool air to circulate, open windows that children are unable to reach. You can also install window screens or safety latches that only allow the window to partially open.

Air Conditioner Safety

Air conditioners that are placed inside of windows are convenient for each room. When installing this type of air conditioner, be mindful of the living space. Make sure that there is more than one window in the room. If you need to escape, a large air conditioner will not be easy to remove. You should not have anything in your path if you need to leave your home quickly.

Giving you top tips to keep your home safe is part of our business. Visit us at The Insurance Shop USA. Get insurance information for Sandypoint, ID as well the surrounding communities.

5 Ways to Lower Homeowners Insurance Costs in 2017

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As your property increases in value, you may experience an increase in the cost of home insurance to compensate for the higher cost of home replacement or repairs. There are measures you can take, however, to keep home insurance costs at affordable prices for the new year. Here are just a few.

Shop Around

Comparison shop online to get an idea of home insurance costs in your area and companies that offer good deals. Some companies offer discounts for customer loyalty, bundling, claim-free history, etc.

When selecting an insurer, however, be leery of compromising service for low home insurance price. Working with a reputable company like The Insurance Shop USA in Sandypoint, ID, ensures you receive quality service at affordable costs.  

Raise Your Deductible

Raising your deductible will lower the cost of your insurance premium. The higher your deductible, however, the more you pay out of pocket when filing a claim. Before increasing your deductible, make sure you are financially able to cover your end of repair costs.

Upgrade Home Structure

In some cases, you may qualify for lower insurance rates by making structural changes that improve the safety and function of your home such as replacing old windows, installing storm shutters or fortifying the roof. By discussing home improvements with your insurer in advance, you can see if they qualify you for a reduced premium.

Enhance Home Security

Putting in smoke detectors and a burglar alarm system could also help to reduce your insurance premium as these measures enhance protection against theft and fire.

Bundle Insurance Policies

By bundling home, auto and life insurance policies, you could save money on home insurance costs; many insurers offer incentives for taking out multiple policies with their company.

A good home insurance policy will adequately cover the replacement of your home and its contents. For quality home insurance options at affordable prices, visit The Insurance Shop USA in Sandypoint, ID. 

 

Idaho in the Fall: What a Lack of Preparedness Could Mean for Your Home

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People living in Sandypoint, Idaho have a lot to look forward to when they enter the fall season. The changing of the leaves, the cooling of the air, and lots and lots of pumpkins. For all of the great elements that you can look forward to each and every year, fall – like any other season – has its fair share of faults as well. If you allow yourself to focus too much on the positives of the seasonal change, this may prevent you from seeing all of the dangers.

If you are not prepared for the cooling off of the weather or to deal with the leaves falling off of the trees, this could hurt your home in more ways than one.  For one, if you do not make sure that your windows and doors are all properly sealed to keep the outside weather out, not only could this require you to spend more money on heating your home in the winter, dry air could turn out to be murder on your woodwork and your furniture. If you do not have the appropriate insurance to deal with these potential follies, you may find that your wallet is being emptied by more than heating bills if you have to spend any money out of pocket in order to fix your woodwork and replace your furniture. It is especially a shame if the furniture you have to replace has any sentimental value, as while you can replace your late Grandfather’s chair, you cannot replace the memories and feelings that are associated with it.

If you are a Sandypoint, Idaho resident and want to be more prepared for the fall season, you can contact The Insurance Shop USA and we will figure out the best insurance plan for you.

How to Protect Your Car During the Winter

Posted on by AgentInsure

Residents of Sandypoint, ID deal with the harsh winter weather. Although the cold and ice are a nuisance, quite unpleasant and an inconvience, they’re much worse on vehicles. Residents can protect their car from damage, though.

1. Garage

Keep your vehicle in the garage when it’s parked. The snow, ice and salt will harm the paint and may even lead to rust. Not to mention, this alleviates the need to warm your car before leaving.

2. Always Warm Your Car

Start your car and allow it to warm up completely before you drive it in the winter. The cold is harsh on your engine and the other components of your vehicle.

3. Clean Your Car Off Totally

While it seems convenient to only wipe the snow and ice that’s obstructing your vision, you should clean all the snow and ice before you pull out. The snow is dangerous to other drivers when it falls off of the car. You don’t want to leave the ice and snow on the paint any more than you have to. It can damage the paint and ultimately lead to rusting. When cleaning off ice, always allow your car to heat up 10 to 15 minutes before tackling it. Allow as much of the ice to melt from the interior heat as possible. Only use the scraper on thick layers of ice and stop when the defrosters and heat are enough to melt it.

4. Remove the Salt

Wash your car regularly to remove the salt. Pay attention to the undercarriage of your vehicle. Many car washes offer this service. You should also opt for one that has steam cleaning. Keep in mind, the salt doesn’t just harm the finish; it promotes rusting.

To get insurance to protect yourself in the event of an accident on the slick roads, contact The Insurance Shop USA, serving Sandypoint, ID and the surrounding area, at 208-263-0888. 

 

 

Sandypoint, ID

 

How To Find The Right Life Insurance

Posted on by AgentInsure

When you live in Sandypoint, ID, you want to do right by your family. This means exploring life insurance and finding the right policy. This way, should something happen to you, the financial future of your family is safely intact. Finding a policy can be easier than you think.

Understand the Options

With life insurance, you can find various options. Term life insurance can be obtained for between 5 and 30 years. It is by far the most affordable option available. However, if you outlive the term of the policy, the coverage goes away.

Universal and whole life insurance is also available, and covers you through your entire life. It is more expensive, but there is a cash value associated with it, which can be used to help provide additional income during your retirement years.

Identify the Value of the Policy

How much do you want to leave your loved ones? Policies are generally between $10,000 and $1 million. You will want to factor in the cost of living increases over the years to ensure the money goes as far as you wish it to go. You also have to decide what you want to provide the money for and this is where it can be a very personal decision. Some people want to make sure that life insurance at least covers burial expenses while others want to help their family take care of college tuition, mortgage, debt, and various other things.

Finding the right policy is not something that has to be done on your own. Instead, you can work with an agent to research the possibilities and receive recommendations on what’s best for you, your family, and your budget.

At The Insurance Shop USA, our agents can help you find life insurance affordably. Learn more about available policies by contacting us today.

 

 

What Is A Business Owner’s Policy?

Posted on by AgentInsure

What exactly is a business owner’s policy? It is an insurance instrument for small to medium-sized businesses.  A Business Owners Policy often referred to as a "BOP" provides coverage for property, liability, and business interruption. The Insurance Shop USA can help steer you through all the events that come with obtaining coverage, understanding insurance, and all of the questions that go with incidents and accidents. 

The BOP property covers products and operations, and the perils include fire, lightning, wind, hail, aircraft, riot/civil commotion, vehicle, explosion, smoke, vandalism, sprinkler leakage, sinkhole collapse, volcanic action, and transportation. 

The BOP Liability coverage includes bodily injury, property damage liability, personal injury liability and advertising injury liability. Business Interruption is the portion of the policy that protects the company from a fire or another incident that may have resulted in a loss of income or operation for the company. You can also customize BOP with additional endorsements also known as riders. 

What types of Supplemental Coverages are Available?

  • Accounts receivable  
  • Burglary and robbery
  • Debris removal
  • Employee dishonesty
  • Interior glass
  • Signage (outdoors)
  • Tools and equipment
  • Valuable records protection 

What kind of things doesn’t a Business Owner’s Policy cover?

  • Company-owned vehicles (auto accidents get covered under a General Liability policy)
  • Damage to a client’s property stored or services on your property.
  • Earthquakes or floods (natural disasters)
  • Group health
  • Life or disability insurance
  • Specialized liability risks (e.g., professional liability, directors & officers, and malpractice)
  • Workers’ compensation

What type of a business isn’t eligible for Business Owner’s Policy?

  • Auto repair 
  • Banks and other financial institutions
  • Camera shops
  • Carnivals
  • Large companies
  • Service operations

Still fuzzy as to what is in a BOP or who is ineligible? You don’t have to know all the ins and outs of insurance in Idaho, but you do have to get help from a trusted agency and broker such as The Insurance Shop USA. 

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