tcg_admin, Author at Raymond Nelson Insurance

Homeowners Insurance and Halloween Mishaps

Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year, especially for children. With more people walking around your property, the chances of accidents—like someone tripping on a decoration or falling on your porch—can increase. Does your homeowners insurance cover a Halloween mishap?

Fortunately, if you’re a homeowner, your insurance policy may provide important protection during this spooky season. Here’s what you need to know:

Personal Liability Coverage

The personal liability coverage in your homeowners’ insurance policy is designed to protect you financially if someone gets injured on your property and holds you responsible. If a trick-or-treater trips over a pumpkin on your porch or slips on your walkway, they could suffer injuries that require medical attention. In this case, personal liability coverage would help pay for their medical expenses, and even legal fees if the family decides to sue you for negligence.

Medical Payments Coverage

In addition to liability coverage, homeowners insurance policies typically include medical payments coverage, which can help cover minor injuries for guests on your property. Unlike liability coverage, medical payments coverage is a no-fault benefit, meaning it can help pay for medical costs (such as a quick visit to the doctor or emergency room) regardless of who was at fault for the injury.

Preventing Accidents

While homeowners insurance can help protect you financially, it’s still best to avoid accidents altogether. Here are some safety tips to keep trick-or-treaters safe while they visit your home:
- Clear Walkways – Make sure your sidewalks, stairs, and driveways are free from obstructions like garden hoses, fallen branches, or debris.
- Secure Decorations – Ensure that any Halloween decorations you set up are securely fastened and not creating tripping hazards. Watch out for low-hanging or dangling items that could obstruct vision or cause falls.
- Light It Up – Keep your property well-lit so trick-or-treaters can see where they’re going.
- Keep Pets Indoors – Even the friendliest pets can become anxious with a constant stream of visitors. To prevent accidents or scares, keep pets away from the front door.

By ensuring your property is safe and knowing your policy’s details, you can enjoy the holiday knowing that both you and your Halloween visitors are protected.

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At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most: the business you’ve built and the people you love. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

How Often Should You Review Your Insurance?

A good rule of thumb is to review your insurance at least once a year. Now is a great time to review insurance before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Benefits of Regularly Reviewing Your Insurance:

Avoid Gaps in Coverage: Life is unpredictable, and failing to review your insurance regularly could leave you underinsured. For example, if you fail to update your life insurance after having children, your family might not be adequately protected.
Potential Savings: If your risk factors have decreased—such as quitting smoking or installing security systems—you might qualify for lower premiums.
Update Beneficiaries: Life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child should always lead to an update of beneficiaries in your policies.

When is the Best Time to Review Your Insurance?

While annual reviews can occur at any point in the year, certain times might be more convenient or advantageous:

- Before the Holiday Season
  - You’re more likely to forget during the hustle and bustle of the holidays.
- Tax Season
  - As you gather your financial information for tax preparation, it’s a natural time to take stock of your overall financial health, including your insurance policies.
- During Major Life Changes
  - As mentioned earlier, any major life event, such as marriage, buying a home, or having a child, should prompt an immediate review of your policies.

Here’s a List of Life Events or Milestones that should Prompt Immediate Review:

Change in Employment

- - If you’ve changed jobs, lost your job, or started your own business, your insurance needs might shift. Employer-provided health or life insurance may no longer apply, so it’s essential to ensure you have the coverage you need.

Marriage or Divorce

- - These significant life changes affect all aspects of your finances, including your insurance. After getting married, you may want to combine policies or increase your coverage. After a divorce, updating beneficiaries and removing your ex-spouse from policies is essential.

Home Purchase or Rental

- - Whether you buy a new home or move into a rental, you’ll need to ensure your homeowners or renters insurance aligns with your new living situation.

Having a Child

- - Expanding your family means more responsibility. Reviewing your life and health insurance policies can ensure that your loved ones are protected should anything happen to you.

Major Purchases

- Acquiring high-value assets like a new car, jewelry, or electronics should prompt a review of your auto or home insurance to ensure they’re adequately covered.

Reviewing your insurance policies isn’t something you should only do once. Whether it’s an annual review or triggered by a major life change, regularly assessing your coverage ensures you’re protected and potentially saves you money. By aligning your insurance with your current life stage and needs, you guarantee peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.

Insurance Coverage for College-Bound Children

Does my child need insurance in college? Here are some tips for ensuring your college-bound children have the right insurance coverage:

Health Insurance

Stay on Parent’s Plan:
- Under the Affordable Care Act, children can stay on their parent’s health insurance plan until they turn 26.
Student Health Plans:
- Many colleges offer student health insurance plans but check with your provider to see if they are of value.

Auto Insurance

Notify Your Insurer:
- Inform your auto insurance company that your child is moving to college. This can affect rates based on the new location and mileage usage.
Good Student Discounts:
- Many insurers offer discounts for students who maintain good grades.
Resident Student Discounts:
- Some companies offer discounts if the student is attending school more than 100 miles away and doesn’t have regular access to a car.

Renters Insurance

Coverage for Personal Belongings:
- Renters insurance can protect your child’s belongings in case of theft, fire, or other damages.
  - Check if your homeowner’s insurance covers your child’s dorm room or if separate renters insurance is needed.
Liability Coverage:
- Renters insurance also provides liability coverage, which can protect your child if someone is injured in their dorm or apartment.
Roommate Considerations:
- If your child has roommates, suggest they get their own renters insurance policy, as one policy typically does not cover multiple people.

Additional Tips

Identity Theft Protection:
- Consider adding identity theft protection to your insurance plan. College students can be particularly vulnerable to identity theft.
Umbrella Insurance:
- An umbrella policy can provide additional liability coverage beyond your auto and homeowners insurance limits, offering extra protection.
Review Policies Regularly:
- As your child progresses through college, review your insurance policies annually to ensure they continue to meet your needs and take advantage of any available discounts or adjustments.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that your college-bound child is well-protected, giving you peace of mind while they focus on their education.

How Does Having a Pool Affect Your Homeowner’s Insurance?

A pool can add value to your home, but it can also add some insurance complications. Here are several ways that can significantly affect your homeowner’s insurance.

Increased Liability Coverage

Higher Risk:
- Pools are considered an attractive nuisance, meaning they can attract children and increase the risk of accidents.
Higher Liability Limits:
- Insurers may require higher liability coverage.

Increased Premiums

Higher Costs:
- The increased risk associated with owning a pool generally leads to high premiums.
Maintenance and safety features:
- Pools with safety features like fences, covers, and alarms might mitigate premium increases.

Property Coverage

Increased property value:
- A pool can increase the home’s value, which might lead to higher property coverage limits.
Repair and replacement:
- Coverage for damage to the pool itself (due to natural disasters, vandalism, etc.) may be limited or require additional endorsements.

Safety Requirements

Inspections:
- Insurers might require safety inspections to ensure compliance with local regulations and safety standards.
Safety features:
- Requirements may include fencing, pool covers, and lockable gates to reduce the risk of accidents.

Tips for Keeping Your Pool Safe:

Erect a locking fence around your pool.
Mount lights by your pool to keep the area well-lit at night.
Install one or more security cameras that let you monitor activity around the pool.
Avoid installing diving boards, slides, and other accessories that people may injure themselves on.
Keep the pool deck clean, dry, and free of any glass that might break and get in the pool.
Make sure that anytime the pool is being used there’s an adult present who is trained to perform CPR.

Homeowners need to discuss their specific situation with their insurance provider to understand how a pool will impact their coverage and premiums.

The History of Our Agency

Do you know how Raymond Nelson Insurance Agency first got our start? Read about the history of our agency in our latest blog.

1971 – Door-to-Door Insurance

In 1971, Mr. Raymond Nelson was living in Hopkinsville, KY, selling life insurance door-to-door. His dedication and commitment to helping people protect their futures saw him build strong relationships within the community over the next decade.

However, after ten years of hard work in this demanding role, Raymond sought a more effective and impactful way to assist his clients. Raymond envisioned a brick and mortar business where personal relationships and reliability formed the foundation of every interaction, marking a significant shift from the traditional door-to-door sales approach he had known.

1981 – Brick & Mortar Building

This aspiration led to the founding of Raymond Nelson Insurance, Inc. in 1981. Driven by a passion for providing exceptional service, he established the agency with the core principle of always going above and beyond for clients. His dedication to this mission set a new standard in the insurance industry, while ensuring that Raymond Nelson Insurance would be a trusted partner for clients in their times of need.

Today – Licensed in 22 States

Initially focused on the trucking and transportation industry, we have since expanded both our regional footprint and our insurance offerings. From our beginnings in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, we now operate as a full-service agency licensed in over 22 states. We are proud to provide comprehensive coverage across the United States and Canada as well. Whether for personal or commercial insurance needs, we are always committed to securing the best protection for your business and loved ones.

Today we offer a comprehensive range of insurance solutions designed to meet the diverse needs of their clients. Our personal lines agents manage policies that cover home, auto, and other personal assets, ensuring individuals and families are well-protected. For businesses, our commercial agents provide tailored coverage options for various industries, safeguarding companies against potential risks. Our transportation agents offer policies that cater to the unique requirements of the logistics and transportation sectors.

Additionally, we are proud to continue our founder’s legacy by providing life insurance policies, helping clients secure their loved ones’ financial future.

Over 100 Years of Combined Experience

With over 100 years of combined experience, our agents specialize in safeguarding businesses, homes, and families too. We offer a wide range of coverage options, leveraging our expertise to provide insurance solutions that are both affordable and thorough.

Personalized, compassionate service is our hallmark. We prioritize our clients’ needs above all, taking the time to understand and serve their best interests. We ensure they receive the coverage they truly need.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most: the business you’ve built and the people you love. We always take the time to get to know each client and serve their best interests as well. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover My Yard?

Homeowners insurance typically covers the structure of your home, personal belongings, and liability, but is there insurance for your yard? Your policy may have limited coverage for landscaping. Basic policies usually cover landscaping only to a certain extent and it may be conditional to covered perils.

What does homeowners insurance cover?

Yard

Your yard may be covered depending on the type of damage that occurs. If the damage results from a peril such as fire, lightning, or theft, it will typically be covered.
Coverage may include damage caused by a vehicle that isn’t owned by a resident of the house.
- Keep in mind that coverage may only help with the removal, not the replacement of the damaged landscaping.

Fallen trees

If a tree falls on your property due to a storm or strong winds and damages an insured structure, the removal costs will likely be covered.
- However, if your tree falling was a result of the homeowner’s negligence or a maintenance-related issue, the removal costs likely won’t be covered.

Trees, Plants, and Shrubs

Trees, plants, and shrubs are typically covered by homeowners insurance. For other landscaping features, damages may be covered if they’re due to perils such as fire, explosions, lightning, theft, and vehicles.

If you have expensive landscaping or want more comprehensive coverage, then you may need to purchase additional coverage or a rider to your policy.

If you have any additional questions about insurance for your yard, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help ensure you have the information and protection you need throughout your remodeling journey.

At Raymond Nelson Insurance, we go the extra mile to find the coverage that best protects what matters most to you. We always take the time to get to know each client and also serve their best interests. Call us today at (270) 885-1800 or contact us online for more information.

Does My Insurance Cover Home Renovations?

Your homeowner’s insurance may provide coverage for minor renovations you made to your home before a covered loss. However, if your renovations include things like adding a room or installing a pool, your policy may need to be updated to provide additional coverage.

What does homeowners insurance cover?

Typical homeowners insurance policies protect your home and your personal property from damage caused by several unforeseen events including:

Fire
Windstorm
Hail
Lightning

Your policy typically includes dwelling coverage to help pay to repair or rebuild your home if damaged or destroyed by a covered cause of loss.

Many policies also provide coverage for other structures on the property that are not attached to your home, such as:

Garages
Sheds
Fences

Additionally, many policies offer:

While standard policies generally don’t cover remodeling expenses, they do often provide coverage for damages that may occur during the renovation process. For instance, if a fire were to break out during construction or if your property were to sustain damage due to a covered peril, such as vandalism or theft, your insurance may help cover the cost of repairs or replacements.

It’s essential to review your policy carefully and consider discussing your remodeling plans with your Raymond Nelson insurance agent. We can offer guidance on any potential coverage gaps and advise you on whether additional insurance, such as a builder’s risk policy or a renovation endorsement, may be necessary to protect your investment adequately.

If you have any further questions or need assistance navigating your homeowner’s insurance coverage, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help ensure you have the information and protection you need throughout your remodeling journey.

Why & When You Should Review Your Coverage

It is critical to review your insurance coverage regularly to help ensure that your property, your possessions, and your loved ones are well protected.

Here are a few reasons why and how often you should review your insurance coverage:

Life Changes:

Significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, purchasing a home, changing jobs, or retirement can impact your insurance needs.
- It’s crucial to review your coverage whenever these life changes occur to make necessary adjustments.

Policy Changes:

Insurance companies periodically update their policies, terms, and rates.
- Reviewing your coverage allows you to stay informed about any changes that may affect your coverage or premiums.

Coverage Gaps:

Over time, your insurance needs may evolve and you may find that your current coverage no longer adequately protects you against potential risks.
- Regular reviews help identify any coverage gaps and ensure you have the appropriate level of protection.

New Risks:

With advancements in technology and changes in society, new risks may emerge that you weren’t previously aware of.
- Reviewing your coverage allows you to assess whether you need additional coverage to protect against emerging risks.

As for how often you should review your insurance coverage, it’s generally recommended to do so at least once a year, However, certain life events may prompt the need for more frequent reviews. Check with your Raymond Nelson Insurance agent about when you should review yours.

By staying proactive and regularly assessing your insurance needs, you can ensure that you have the right coverage in place to protect yourself and your asset

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Protect Your Property From Frozen Pipes

During these winter months, we want to bring to your attention the increased risk of frozen pipes in residential properties. Frozen pipes can lead to significant damage and result in costly repairs, which may only be covered if preventive measures are taken.

To ensure the safety of your property and the preservation of your coverage, we recommend the following precautions:

Insulation:

Adequately insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
To learn more about insulation, click here.

Seal Gaps:

Identify and seal any gaps or cracks in walls, floors, and around windows and doors to prevent cold air from entering.

Heating:

Maintain a consistent temperature in your home, especially during extreme cold spells. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (12°C) when you are away.
Think about a programmable thermostat.

Drip Faucets:

Allow faucets to drip slightly to relieve pressure in the pipes and prevent freezing.

Open Cabinet Doors:

Keep cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Leave Interior Doors Open:

Allow warm air to flow freely throughout your home by keeping interior doors open.

Exterior Faucets:

Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and shut off exterior faucets if possible.

Taking these precautions can significantly reduce the risk of frozen pipes and potential water damage to your property. Please remember that your insurance policy may not cover damages resulting from neglecting these preventive measures.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Are You Winter Weather Prepared?

This time of year, it’s crucial to ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared for the challenges that winter weather can bring. Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe and comfortable during the winter months:

Bundle Up:

Dress in layers to trap body heat and protect yourself from the cold.
Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and a scarf to cover exposed skin.

Winterize your vehicle:

If you drive, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready.
- Check the tires, brakes, and antifreeze levels, and keep an emergency kit in your car.
Winter Car Kit checklist
- Windshield scraper
- Small broom
- Flashlight
- Blanket
- Spare radio batteries
- Snacks or energy type food
- Water
- Flares and matches
- Shovel
- Hats, socks and mittens
- First aid kit
- Fluorescent distress flag

Practice Safe Driving:

If you must drive in snowy or icy conditions, drive slowly, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and use snow tires if possible.
Be cautious of black ice on the roads.
Travel with a fully charged cell phone.
If you know you’ll be driving during a snowstorm, let others know about your route, destination, and estimated time of arrival.
If you become stranded in deep snow and are idling the engine to keep warm, keep the area around the tailpipe clear to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning inside the vehicle.
- Also, open a window slightly to let in fresh air.

Take Care of Your Health:

Cold weather can strain your health, so get enough rest, eat well-balanced meals, and keep yourself physically active to boost your immune system.
Stay hydrated! Even in colder weather, it’s important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to help your body regulate temperature and stay healthy.

Remember, being winter-ready is more than just having the right gear; it’s also about being informed and proactive. You can enjoy the winter season safely and comfortably by taking these steps.