Protecting Your Home From Common Holiday Hazards Last Updated on May 8, 2020 by Tampa Bay Insurance Company The holiday season is exciting, festive, but also dangerous. There are many unique holiday hazards that pose extra risks to your home. Don’t overlook the biggest threats in your home, even if they are holiday inspired. Use these tips to protect your biggest investment and keep your family safe. Pay Attention to Common Sources of House Fires What conjures up the image of a cold December night more than a Christmas tree, a warm fireplace, and a scented candle? Unfortunately, all three are common causes of house fires. Make sure an unexpected fire doesn’t play a part in your holiday celebrations by following these tips: Only use space heaters in clear, open areas Inspect your fireplace and chimney before its first use of the season Test your home’s carbon monoxide and smoke detectors Don’t leave candles and fireplace flames unattended Continue reading “Protecting Your Home From Common Holiday Hazards” →
Water Damage Vs Flood: What’s Covered and What’s Not Last Updated on May 8, 2020 by Tampa Bay Insurance Company The difference between flood damage and water damage isn’t well understood by most homeowners, yet it’s an essential distinction that has the potential to severely limit your ability to recover from a storm or other water incident. Make sure you understand what’s covered and not covered by your insurance when it comes to water and flood damage. What Qualifies As Flood Damage? The National Flood Insurance Program defines a flood as a temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of two or more acres of normally dry land area or of two or more properties. A flood must be caused by an overflow of inland or tidal waters, unusual and rapid accumulation of surface waters, mudflow, or the collapse of land along the shore of a body of water. As a homeowner, this means that water damage on your properly only qualifies as flooding if it also affects at least one of your neighbors. Keep in mind that most flood insurance policies require a 30-day waiting period before the policy takes effect, so implementing a flood insurance policy the day before a hurricane arrives won’t help you minimize your losses. Continue reading “Water Damage Vs Flood: What’s Covered and What’s Not” →
Hurricane Preparedness: How to Protect Your Home This Season Last Updated on May 8, 2020 by Tampa Bay Insurance Company The harsh Florida summer season is almost over, but it will quickly be replaced by hurricane season. Even if you don’t live on the coast, your home is still vulnerable to wind damage, flooding, and other issues caused by natural disasters. Use the following tips to prepare your home and minimize costly damage during this year’s hurricane season. Trim Overgrown Trees Now Strong winds turn majestic shade trees into weapons of destruction. Take the initiative now to trim trees with large, high branches that pose a risk to you, your home, and your neighbors. Preventative action now will minimize damage during the next inevitable hurricane. It could even save a life! Continue reading “Hurricane Preparedness: How to Protect Your Home This Season” →
Homeowners Insurance 101: The Importance of a Personal Article Floater Last Updated on May 8, 2020 by Tampa Bay Insurance Company You have a homeowner’s insurance policy, but is it enough to cover you in every unexpected situation? If you don’t have a personal article floater, the answer is likely “no”. A standard home insurance policy will cover the major items in your home like appliances, furniture, and clothing. The exact specifications of your policy may or may not allow coverage for jewelry, electronics, and antiques. Many homeowners don’t realize the limits of their coverage until tragedy hits and their settlements do not cover the true costs of their damages. You can prevent falling into this situation by purchasing a personal article floater. Continue reading “Homeowners Insurance 101: The Importance of a Personal Article Floater” →