Preparing food safely

Kitchen Safety for the Holidays!

Many of us spend quite a bit of time in the kitchen during the holidays. We are cooking, baking and icing all types of goodies for our friends and family. Food preparation can be tricky.  If you are anything like me, you make too much and so there is leftover maintenance.

Here is a quick check list for kitchen safety this holiday season:

Use Two Cutting Boards: Keep one for raw meats and seafood and the other for

ready-to-eat foods .

Use a Food thermometer and cooking temperature guide: Ensure foods have reached the safe minimum internal temperature with a food thermometer. 

Use Shallow containers: Store leftovers in shallow, covered containers to reduce  the temperatures faster and help them stay safer, longer.

Use Soap, lots of soap: Have plenty of soap nearby so everyone helping in the

kitchen can wash their hands thoroughly before and after handling foods. While lathering up, sing two choruses of “Happy Birthday” to make sure you wash your hands for 20 seconds.

Use Paper towels:  Sponges and kitchen towels can easily soak up bacteria and

cross-contaminate kitchen surfaces and hands. When a crowd is coming over and food prep gets hectic, it can be better to use disposable paper towels.

I know these are not insurance tips, but we want you to stay safe this Holiday season!

Please let us know if we can help you with your home, auto, toys and commercial insurance!

Email Brockman Premier Insurance or visit our website at www.wekeepuinsured.com

Thanks for reading!

Nancy Brockman

Insurance claims

What does my renewal premium have to do with my neighbor's claim?

   Insurance agents often dread renewal calls. It would help if rates went down more often. Lord knows it would make our lives easier! But the truth is, everything seems to cost more and more each year. And often, Insurance is no different.
   Texas is the most volatile weather state in our country. Yea us!
We have Hurricanes, Hail storms, Thunder storms, Snow, Flooding and even an occasional Earthquake! Most states have one, maybe two, of these. But Texas has to the be the over-achiever and go for all of them. This volatile weather leads to the number one reason for insurance rate increases; Claims.
   "But I didn't file a claim!" you cry in frustration on the phone to your agent. To which your agent may reply, "But all of your neighbors did." And then you shake your head and think to yourself (or out loud), "So I have to pay for their claims?" Yes, yes you do.
   I know this is hard to believe, but insurance companies are not volunteering to fix your damages for free. They expect to be paid. It is a huge business. And like every other type of company, if a carrier has more expenses (claims) than they budgeted for, they will have to raise their rates to cover those expenses (claims). So if there are major ice storms in January, chances are many carriers are going to have to raise rates to pay for those claims by year's end.
   Most of the carriers I have seen do try to take care of the customer in a fair and appropriate manner. Of course "fair and appropriate" means different things to different people. But what the consumer must understand is that the insurance carrier is the one taking the risk. If you had to pay someone $500,000, wouldn't you make pretty darn sure they should get the money? I would.
   Whether it is $5,000 or $500,000, there are rules and guidelines to paying out claims. These are supposed to guide the carriers in evaluating what claims to pay and to what extent. There are some carriers who are being sued in a class action lawsuit by the state for not paying out eligible claims. So we know there are watchdogs out there looking out for the consumer. If you have a carrier who did not take care of you for an eligible claim, I am so very sorry. And I urge you to call the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) at 1-800-252-3439 and report them or file a complaint online.
Do not let them get away with not taking care of you. You are a paying customer!
   * So my point here is that claims are the #1 reason premiums are increasing almost every year. There is no way around that. All insurance carriers are not evil any more than all consumers are scam artists.
   You can counteract increases by shopping around. (Another good reason to go with an independent agency!) When a renewal hits, I re-shop the client. While I cannot guarantee a lower rate, at least I can show the client that my agency cared enough to see if I could find something better for them!

Have a question on your home, auto or business insurance?
Email Brockman Premier Insurance for a quote or answer to a question you have.
or call Toll free: 877-987-8683 or local: 214-592-0859

Personal property on vacation

Are you covered while traveling?

   Most of us take the "necessities" with us while traveling. My computer, my phone, my tablet are all necessary for me to survive a trip. (Don't worry - I consider my toothbrush necessary too!)
   So what if your personal property is stolen, broken or lost while traveling with you? Your stuff isn't at home, so will your homeowners/renters insurance policy cover this loss? Most will. But there are restrictions. The coverage varies from carrier to carrier, policy to policy. Always call your agent before you take a trip and make sure you know the specifics of your policy.
   For most policies, these necessities would be covered under Off Premises coverage. Most policies will cover up to 10% of the Personal Property coverage for off premises personal property. So if your Dwelling value is set at $200,000 and you have 50% personal property coverage ($100,000) then your off-premises coverage would be $10,000. Personal property means your necessary electronics, as mentioned above, but it also means your jewelry and your clothing. Keeping that in mind, $10,000 can go quickly. So think about the value of what you are taking with you. You may want to leave some things at home. You may want to add a jewelry rider to your policy. This would list specific pieces of jewelry at their appraised value. They would not detract from your off-premises coverage. You can also add extra coverage for cameras and computers on some policies. Again, contact your agent and see what your options are for your policy.
   Also- keep in mind that your personal property is subject to your All Other Perils deductible. So keeping with the $200,000 dwelling amount, if you have a 1% deductible, you will pay out the first $2,000 for any property loss. So if you have a $10,000 loss, you will only be compensated up to $8,000. If you add the extra coverage for a specific piece of jewelry or a camera, there is no deductible.
   Traveling can be great fun. Make sure you protect your property while you are traveling so your trip isn't ruined by loss.

Do you have questions about your home, auto or commercial insurance? 
Call Brockman Premier Insurance:
Local: 214-592-0859
Toll Free: 877-987-8683
or email: brian@brockmanpremier.com
Visit our website for great tips! www.wekeepuinsured.com

Trees and home foundation damage

Should They Stay or Should They Go?

   I love trees. I climbed them as a child. I am amazed at their beauty as an adult. They serve a great purpose, both as something beautiful to admire and as a natural resource. Trees in a yard can make a house look fantastic. But trees can be dangerous to home. They need to be planted a certain distance from the home, depending on the tree and its root system. If you are planting a new tree or evaluating an existing tree in your yard, call an arborist. Do it right, or you can cause a major damage to your home's foundation.
   Trees can cause foundation damage in 3 ways:
1. Physical contact with your foundation.
2. Affecting the moisture content of the soil under or near your foundation.
3. Causing air gaps and shifting soil due to decaying roots under or near a foundation.
   Larger trees are a bigger concern with physical contact. Obviously, the larger the roots, the more damage may occur. The roots can extend more than 3 times the height of the tree. So if you have a 50 foot tree, it's roots may grow out to 150 feet. The proximity of the tree makes a huge difference. A good gauge is if your tree has limbs near or over your home, its roots are probably growing under your foundation. If you have a Pier and Beam foundation (usually found in older homes), this is less of a concern. Slab foundations sit on the soil and is more easily affected by root pressure.

   Trees can affect the moisture content of the soil under and around your foundation. This is a concern if your foundation is "floating" on that soil (slab foundation). Trees transpire (draw) water through their roots. And where are their roots? In the ground. If the tree is too close to your home, it is drawing moisture from the soil supporting your foundation and it will begin to recede. If you are not watering the entire perimeter of your home's foundation, it will recede much quicker. If you are not watering around your perimeter, the tree roots will look for water elsewhere. And the closest place for them to find it is under your home. They will grow out looking for an adequate water supply. If you keep it watered and your trees are set the right distance away from your foundation, you are less likely to have foundation damage. Unless your foundation was not built correctly. But that is a whole other issue!
   If you have trees removed, make sure the entire root system is removed and the gap is filled in. If the roots are left, there will be gaps when they decay. Your soil will shift to fill those gaps, causing
your foundation to shift. If your tree has many years of life left, it is often recommended to steer the roots away from the house, rather than remove the tree. If the tree is near the end of its life, removal is recommend.
   Again- call an arborist when dealing with trees. There are lasting consequences of improper planting, maintenance and removal of trees. They are beautiful and a wonderful resource, but they must be maintained properly or they become a hazard for your home. Insurance carriers will not insure foundation repairs due to wear and tear. Letting a tree root system grow into your foundation is wear and tear. Not watering your foundation properly is wear and tear (and neglect!).  As a homeowner, this is one of your responsibilities. Take good care of your foundation. It is the entire base your home rests upon!

Do you have questions about your home, auto or commercial insurance? 
Call Brockman Premier Insurance:
Local: 214-592-0859
Toll Free: 877-987-8683
or email: brian@brockmanpremier.com
Visit our website for great tips! www.wekeepuinsured.com

Shopping for Auto Insurance

How Do You Get the Most in Your Auto Insurance?

    I have lost count of the number of auto insurance companies in Texas. There are all types out there. Those who sell "preferred policies" to those who sell "junk policies." The type and amount of coverage you have matters. In the case of an accident, your coverage can make or break you.
   There are many coverages for you, as a consumer, to consider. Most states require every driver to have Liability Insurance. In Texas, you must have at least $30/$60/$30 in liability. This means if you are in an accident and you are at fault you have coverage to pay the other party $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident  for damages and medical. It would also cover $30,000 for property damage. This may sound like quite a bit of coverage, but expenses accumulate quickly after an accident. And what if the other party has long term medical expenses? The minimum I suggest to clients is $50/$100/$50, but I would seriously consider raising your liability to $100/$300/$100 or higher. The cost to raise your liability is usually minimal and it can save you more than you will ever pay in insurance premiums. 
   Where Liability will cover the other party, Comprehensive and Collision coverage will cover your car if you are at fault for an accident. Comprehensive covers you if something "hits" you- a deer jumps in front of your car, a thief steals your car, a storm floods your car, a rock hits your windshield. It is not usually too expensive. You can affect the price by changing your deductible. If you have a $500 deductible, the carrier will pay for damages minus $500. If you have a $250 deductible, it will cost you more in insurance premium, but you will pay out less in the case of a claim. If you have a $1,000 deductible, it will cost you less in premium, but more out of pocket for a claim. There is no right or wrong amount. It is your choice. The same applies to Collision deductibles. Collision covers you if you hit anything- another car, a tree, a house (don't laugh - it happens!) It is usually the most costly coverage, so people find the deductible decision very important for this coverage. If you have an older car, you may consider removing Collision altogether. Just know if you do that, you will not have any coverage to pay for repairs to your car if you are at fault in an accident. 
   Rental and Towing are great coverages. But if you have several cars, you may want to forgo the rental coverage to save money. Towing isn't usually costly and it can come in handy! 
   Uninsured Motorist is always a debate. Many drivers don't think it is necessary. I would caution you against removing this coverage. If you are in an accident and the other driver doesn't have any insurance or not enough insurance (like those carrying minimal liability), your UIM coverage will cover you. It is estimated that 20% of registered Texas drivers are driving without insurance. Add in the "unregistered" drivers and it gets scary. Without UIM coverage, you are self-insuring. Can you afford this? I bet it will cost you less to have the coverage than to not have it if you are in an accident.
   There are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for insurance. Talk with an independent agent who can shop several carriers for you. Find an agent you trust- talk to them, ask questions. Make them earn your trust. Make sure they know you expect good service throughout the life of your policy, not just during the sales process. 
   If your child goes to college more than 100 miles away from home and doesn't take a car, you can remove them from the policy. Or most carriers will list them as a "distant student" which gives you a nice price break on their coverage. This way they can drive when they are home from school. 
   And last but not least, keep your credit score high. Good credit = better pricing. It is just the way of the world. Good credit means you are less of a risk. Now, we know that isn't always true, but the numbers say it usually is. Carriers live by the numbers. 
   Shop for what you want in a policy. Do not just go with the first person you talk to. Ask your friends and family for recommendations. Ask them why they like the agency. Pricing is important, but so is an agent and carrier who will take care of you when you need them. 
Do not settle. Expect more!

Do you have questions about your home, auto or commercial insurance? 
Call Brockman Premier Insurance:
Local: 214-592-0859
Toll Free: 877-987-8683
or email: brian@brockmanpremier.com
Visit our website for great tips! www.wekeepuinsured.com
 

Safeguarding against Identity Theft

Stop! Identity Thief!

   Identity theft is a very lucrative business these days. It is the fastest growing crime. An estimated 15 million people have their identity stolen each year. These thieves are making out well, to the tune of $50 billion annually! But there are ways to safeguard against this type of theft.

• Order your credit report annually and verify the information. There are 3 national credit repositories you can do this through: Equifax, Experian and TransUnion.

• Guard your Social Security number. Keep it in a safe and secured place. (Your wallet is NOT a safe and secured place!) Check you Social Security Earnings and Benefits statement each year and make sure it is accurate and no one is using it for employment. A home safe is a good idea for all important documents.

• Protect your mail from theft. Mail outgoing bills from the post office collection boxes. Years ago we had a water bill taken from our mail box and within a month, there had been over $10,000 in fraudulent checks written on our account. If you don't have someone who can pick up your mail daily, have it held at the post office if you are away. 
• Destroy documents before you throw them away. You can buy a personal shredder for as low as $25. Shredding your personal documents can save you much more than $25!
• Be careful shopping online. This one is tough to manage. Online shopping is expected to gross over $240 billion this year. The convenience of shopping online is a great draw. Even if you stick to companies you know and trust, data breaches happen. Minimize your online shopping.
• Open and question those "Congratulations! you are approved!" letters from credit card companies. Often you are receiving it because someone opened an account in your name. By the time you receive that, a thief may have already spent thousands of dollars on that card you never even applied for.

   High School and College students are a growing group vulnerable to identity theft. They do everything online these days. Posting personal photos and information on social media is an easy way to have your identity stolen.  College students are easily seduced into getting their own credit cards. Talk to your students about watching their statements for accuracy. 

   

   Many home insurance carriers do include Identity Theft coverage. This will not guard you against identity theft, but it will help cover the cost of recovering your identity and putting the thief out of commission. It can help cover the court costs, lost wages, re-filing applications for grants, notarizing affidavits and other costs associated with recovery. The average cost of remediation is over $1000. That is just to put your affairs back in order. Identity theft can affect your credit score, your job opportunities, your peace of mind. Make sure to talk to your insurance agent about Identity Theft coverage.

If you have your identity stolen, check out how to Recover from Identity Theft. 

There is more to recovery than you may know.

If you have questions, please contact  Brockman Premier Insurance.

Local 214-592-0859

Toll Free: 877-987-8683

Visit us at www.wekeepuinsured.com

Roof Coverage

Why Does Your Roof's Age Matter?

   One of the first questions we ask is "How old is your roof?" Often we get asked why it matters. Roofing and foundation are the start and finish of your home. If one of them is damaged, the rest of the house is in danger as well. This is why insurance carriers are interested. If your roof is in poor shape, the chances of a claim are greater. Which is exactly what carriers want to avoid. Insurance is there to make you whole again in the case of a loss. But carriers do not want to have to pay claims. They will (most of them anyway!), but it costs them more money than you have paid them. So it isn't very cost effective. And trust me, while they are providing a very needed and valuable service, profit is a priority.
   We live in Texas. And in Texas, we have storms, many, many storms. Texas has the most volatile weather of any state. We have wind, hail, tornadoes, hurricanes, even a few earthquakes! Roofs are the first line of defense for a home during a storm. It is the first part damaged, which leads to damage for the rest of the home. It is a huge risk to insure.
   Most carriers will send out inspectors to look at the home they are insuring. Sound business practice if you ask me. This is NOT the same as the pre-sale inspection. I have seen the carrier inspection come back with a very different view of the home than the pre-sale inspector. The carrier inspector's results are the ones the carrier will use. The two inspections have different goals. The pre-sale inspector is there to evaluate the condition of the home for move in. The carrier's inspector is there to evaluate the RISK involved in insuring the home.  The most common issues found are fences and the roof. Thankfully, most carriers will give the insured 30-45 days to get the issue fixed or find another insurance policy. But chances are, you will run into the same issue with the next carrier.
   Sometimes, we run into customers who want to debate whether the carrier is right or not.This is the point I want to get across to the consumers out there. You can argue all you want. But in the end, it is the carrier who will have to cover the cost of replacing your roof or any other claim. They have the final decision as to whether or not they want to insure a risk. 
   It can be so frustrating to both the insured and the agent. Our goal, as agents, is to keep you insured. Your goal is to stay insured. We both need the carriers to reach our goals. Since they set the rules and guidelines, we are subject to those rules and guidelines.
   Now keep in mind, insurance is one of the most regulated industries out there. Each state has a Department of Insurance that governs what the carriers can and cannot charge, cover and pay out. The carriers are not out there just setting whatever limits and premiums they want. So again- you can debate all you want, but the rules and guidelines are set long before you buy your insurance. The gray area lies in the hands of the carrier as to whether they will insure a risk. Now, whether they will pay a claim once they have agree to insure your home is a different story (and a different post). 
   When you are shopping for home insurance, be honest with your agent. Tell him/her about your claims history and the age and condition of the home. This will help the agent place you in the correct policy from the start. Different carriers allow different levels of risk. Some carriers will not insure a home over 40 years old. Some will require a different deductible amount if your roof is over 10 years old. Give your agent all of the details so he can offer you the most suitable choices. And if you are served a cancellation notice because of conditions of your home, take it seriously. Either get it fixed or get with your agent and see if he/she can find you a different policy. 

If you have questions or need a quote, 

please contact Brockman Premier Insurance.

Local 214-592-0859

Toll Free: 877-987-8683

Visit us at www.wekeepuinsured.com

Insurance Agency Fees

What is an agency fee and should you pay it?

Not all states will allow Insurance agencies to charge an additional agency fee. Texas does. It is not mandatory, but many agents do charge them. So you should know the rules about charging agency fees. The Texas Insurance Code states:

Sec. 4005.003.  FEES.  (a)  A general property and casualty agent or personal lines property and casualty agent may charge a client a fee to reimburse the agent for costs the agent incurred in obtaining a motor vehicle record or photograph of property described under Section 4005.002.  The fee may not exceed the actual costs to the agent.

(b)  For services provided to a client, a property and casualty agent described by Subsection (a) may charge a reasonable fee, including a fee for:

(1)  special delivery or postal charges;

(2)  printing or reproduction costs;

(3)  electronic mail costs;

(4)  telephone transmission costs; and

(5)  similar costs that the agent incurs on behalf of the client.

(c)  A property and casualty agent described by Subsection (a) may charge a client a fee under this section only if, before the agent incurs an expense for the client, the agent:

(1)  notifies the client of the agent's fee; and (2)  obtains the client's written consent for each fee to be charged.

Blah, Blah, Blah -right? Let's break it down a little. It states in (a) that an agent may charge a fee as reimbursement for costs incurred for a motor vehicle report or a property photo. The fee may not exceed the cost incurred. In (b) it states the agent may also charge  a reasonable fee for various costs (listed) and in (c) it states an agent can only charge these fees if they notify the client of the fee and obtain written consent for each fee.
Before you agree to pay an "agency" fee, please make sure the agent has fulfilled the above listed obligations. You can refuse to pay the fee if they have not. Ask what services you are paying for.
   Also- keep in mind you will pay a policy fee to the carrier. These are non refundable and non negotiable. Many independent agents I know do NOT charge an agency fee on top of the policy fee. Agents receive commissions designated by the carriers. These commissions are based on the premium minus the policy fee. In other words we do not make money off of the carrier's policy fee. This is the reason some independent agencies do charge their own agency fee to replace the fee the carrier gets. Legally, agencies have a right to do this, within reason. I think charging a $195 agency fee on a $600 policy is excessive. I think charging the fee again to reshop someone is excessive. It just has never sat right with us.
   When we opened Brockman Premier Insurance, we made the decision not to charge these fees. And I honestly can say our business (and our cash flow) have never looked better. So we don't feel the need to add extra fees to our customers premium.
Again- agencies have the right to charge these fees, but not if they are not telling you exactly what they are for and getting your written permission to charge them. You, the consumer, have every right to ask for this fee disclosure. Please don't throw that right away. You may be paying quite a bit more than you need to!
  If your agent is charging you an agency fee (on top of the carrier's policy fee), call us. We would love to quote you. And we won't charge you an extra fee to take care of you.

  If you have questions or need a quote,                                       please contact Brockman Premier Insurance.                             Local 214-592-0859                                                                     Toll Free: 877-987-8683                                                               Visit us at www.wekeepuinsured.com

Motorcycle Insurance coverage

Make sure you are covered                         before you hit the road!

   There are some great Motorcycle trips to take. Here in Texas, I know there more roads through our state than even the most avid motorcycle enthusiast is able to conquer. Whether you are a weekender or the Ride Captain, all Motorcycle riders have two things in common. They need to be safe and they need to be covered in case something goes wrong.
   Motorcycle insurance is similar to auto insurance. The types of coverage are basically the same. You need Liability, Property damage, Uninsured motorist (Yes! you need this one!), Collision and Comprehensive coverage. You can add a few extras on a motorcycle policy such as custom parts and equipment coverage, specialized Roadside assistance and Trip interruption coverage. Trip interruption is a great coverage for you extended motorcycle trip takers. This will pay for your lodging, food and transportation if you get stranded on your trip. 
   Many carriers offer a discount if you have taken a Motorcycle Safety Course. This is a good idea whether you break on your insurance or not. Check out the Motorcycle Safety Foundation for a course. Statistics show 49% of Motorcycle crashes are the result of a bike colliding with another vehicle. Of the riders killed in a two vehicle accident, 35% were due to the excessive speeding by the biker.  Texas has historically had the highest annual number of motorcycle deaths, with as much as 37% being alcohol related.  
Please be smarter!

   Bikers claim riding is one of the most freeing ways to enjoy the countryside. Make sure you are safe and covered so that you can truly enjoy your time out there on the road. 

If you have questions or need a quote, please contact Brockman Premier Insurance.

Local 214-592-0859

Toll Free: 877-987-8683

Visit us at www.wekeepuinsured.com

Boat Insurance

I'm Sailing Away

   School is out in a few weeks. That means it is time for Summer vacation! The boats have already starting showing up in driveways around my neighborhood. So as you pack up your family for that first trip to go sailing on the lake, do you know if you are ready? Are you covered?
   Watercraft insurance coverage goes beyond the scope of a standard home or auto policy to include Roadside Assistance, which covers towing of your boat or personal watercraft for free, as long as your trailer is covered; On-Water Towing, in case you're stranded on the water; and Uninsured Boaters coverage. Many carriers have additional coverage like Fuel Spill Liability and Wreckage Removal, even Pet injury. Without watercraft insurance coverage, you may end up getting stuck with the bill for cleanups and removals. Personal Effects and Fishing Equipment coverage are also available. They do not come as basic coverage on all watercraft policies, so make sure you talk to your agent about your coverage. When you file a claim is NOT the best time to find out you were not covered when you thought you were!
   Most carriers have several available discounts also, similar to auto policies. If you are a homeowner, have good driving history (no tickets/accidents), if you are the original owner, if you pay in full, if you have taken a safety course. Each carrier is different so be sure to talk with your agent about what you may qualify for.

   Summer is a great time to have fun out on the lake. Make sure you are protected through your insurance policy. But also make sure you are following boating safety processes also. Did you know someone is injured or killed in a boating accident every 2 1/2 hours? The chance of drowning while wearing a life jacket is 1 in 66. The chance of drowning while not wearing a life jacket is 1 in 11.  These statistics, along with great boating safety advice can be found through the US Coast Guard's Boating Safety Resource Center.

Have a great, but safe summer!
If you need answers or a quote on your insurance, please contact Brockman Premier Insurance.
We love to Keep You Insured!

RV coverage

Have RV, Will Travel

   It is that time of year- summer travel time! The kids are out of school and the weather is just right. (until the triple degrees hit!) Many people travel by RV so they can see the countryside while they travel. You want to make sure you have the coverage you need for that trip!

* Your RV policy will have the same basics as your auto policy. Liability, Collision, Comprehensive, Uninsured Motorist are all included on an RV policy.

* Make sure you have Roadside Assistance. Breakdowns happen! Many carriers include added coverage for temporary living expenses and transportation costs if needed.  

* Not all policies cover personal property so be sure to ask your agent. One of the big benefits of traveling by RV is that you have all of your belongings right there with you. Not much of a benefit if you are not covered to replace them in case of damage or theft!

* There are other optional coverages you should look at such as Electronic lock and key replacement, Pet coverage, loan or lease protection. 

* At the end of the season, you can reduce your RV coverage to Comprehensive only if you don't travel during the winter months. This will save you money!

Traveling by RV can be a fantastic way to take a trip. Just please make sure you have the coverage you need to protect your family and your belongings on that trip!

If you have any questions or need a quote, 

please call 214-592-0859 or 877-987-8683. 

You can also email us at Brockman Premier Insurance

We would love to keep you insured!

Spring Maintenance - sticky doors and windows

April showers bring... Sticky Doors?

So the cold is finally moving out. Spring is moving in. What is that old saying? "April showers bring May flowers." Those showers can also cause doors and windows to stick. The cold winter has more than likely caused damage to the wood. Then spring rains come along and the wood swells, causing doors and windows to stick because they are no longer the right size.This can be irritating and cause further damage.

What can you do for a sticky door or window?
*Many times, they are easy fixes. Start by marking where the door or window is sticking. Start with some sand paper and sand down the area a bit. Often, this is all you will need to do. If this doesn't help, you will need to take the door or window off. You will want to prop it securely on a flat surface. Use a hand plane (which can be bought at any hardware store) and remove any excess material. Start small- you don't want to remove too much. The door will shrink during the summer dry times and then the gap will be too wide. That won't help you much- and it will be much harder to fix! Some of you DIY lifers may want to go for that Power Plane- I would rethink that option. Usually a hand plane will be all the power you will need. (So stow your pride on this one!)
* You can often avoid the sticking in the first place by making sure you doors and windows are sealed with a good coat of paint- don't forget the top and the bottom. Just because you can't see it, doesn't mean it doesn't need protection!
   Keeping your home in good condition is a great way to keep your insurance costs down. Damage can lead to claims, which can lead to higher premiums, both with your current carrier and with other carriers when you decide to shop and possibly switch carriers. It makes no sense to pay higher premiums if you can avoid it!

If you have any questions or need a quote, please call 214-592-0859 or 1-877-987-8683
or  email us: Brockman Premier Insurance.
We would love to keep you insured!

Springtime maintenance -Gutters and Roofs

The Damage Drainage Leaves Behind

   It's the first day of spring. (Although the 40 degree weather this morning didn't feel very springy.)
I don't know about you, but around my part of Texas, we have had more ice, snow and freezing temperatures than I ever remember having before. Now that we are beginning to thaw (and hopefully will NOT have any more freezes until next winter), there is some home maintenance to consider. Freezing rain, snow and ice can cause quite a bit of damage to your home. This is the first in a 4 part series on Spring time home maintenance.

Clogged Gutters
   Who would think this could be such a problem? But once a clog starts in a gutter, there isn't much chance of it dissolving all on it's own. And who wants to climb up a ladder and check gutters in the ice and snow? I don't even like do it in the sunshine and 70 degrees!
But the longer you wait after the thaw, the more it will cost you to repair the damage. The best way to clean out gutters and check for damage is to climb up that ladder and get to work. You will need to go foot by foot and make sure you pull out any clogs. Tip: use barbeque tongs to get into downspouts and hard to reach areas. (You may want to buy new ones before you barbeque this summer!) You should also use a hose and flush out any left over debris. Check for loose nails/screws, especially at the joints. If you need to replace any nails/screws, take a look at long "lag" screws. There are several types so you can choose the heads that fit your tools. And they tend to be strong and hold up against weather. 

Roofing Repairs

   Ice and snow can rip up a roof. This can cause leaks which can lead to even further damage to interior ceilings, walls and even floors. Possible leaks are most easily spotted in the attic. Look for water stains. Hopefully you can find leaks before you see them in your ceiling or walls. By then, it can be costly to fix the damage. You should also look at the siding under your roof eaves and in the ceilings of rooms next to or below them. Look for discoloration, indicating leaks caused by ice dams. (This is when a block of ice traps water that is trying to drain off. The water can back up into your home and cause damage, leading to leaks.  While you are up there inspecting those eaves, take a look at your shingles. Asphalt shingles (the most commonly used roofing material) can last up to 20 years. But weather can shorten that life span. Roof repair is not always a do it yourself type of situation. Prevention is the best course, but if the damage is already done, it is a good idea to call a licensed roofing contractor.   

   Weather damage is usually covered by your homeowner' insurance policy. But remember- you have a deductible and claims can raise your rates. So if you are thinking about filing a claim, I would advise you to get an estimate first. It makes no sense at all to file a claim if it is below your deductible. You will not get any payment from your carrier and you will have a claim on your history that will follow you for 5 years, even if you change carriers. Even if you move. 
Early detection and prevention is the best way to avoid costly damage to your home. So put on those maintenance gloves, grab your barbeque tongs, your ladder and get to detecting and preventing!

If you have any questions or need a quote, please call 214-592-0859 or 1-877-987-8683
or  email us: Brockman Premier Insurance.
We would love to keep you insured!


   

Home Inventory

A Picture is Worth Thousands

"Jade elephant with ivory tusks. 
  Bought in Africa in 1953." 
The description doesn't do justice to the item as well as the picture, does it?  My grandmother brought back a pair of these solid Jade elephants from one of my grandfather's business trips. He worked for Ford Motor Co for almost 50 years. And trips to places like Africa were a part of his job. The elephants are unusual items. And a picture to supplement a time/place of purchase  and market value can make a difference.  

   No one thinks their house will burn down. Or get ripped to shreds in a tornado. And let's be honest- the odds are against it. But not everyone will beat the odds. What if it is you?  Do you have the tools in place to make sure your insurance does everything it is supposed to do for you? 
   Insurance is in place to make you whole in the event of a loss. Insurance cannot replace the sentimentality of Mom's ring or Grandma's china. But it can make sure the things that can be replace are replaced. But contrary to what many people think, your insurance carrier will not just take your word for what you had and cut you a check for the amount listed as your Personal Property coverage on your policy.
How can you make sure what you own is covered/replaced in the case of a loss?
  1. Make sure you have an insurance policy in place with an A-rated carrier that is legally certified through the Texas Department of Insurance (or whichever state you live in). 
  2. Make sure you have enough insurance to cover your home, plus your personal property. Talk to your agent about this. Discuss any special items you may have. Things like expensive electronics or specialty collections like guns, coins or art, are good things to discuss with your agent.
  3. Make a Home inventory list. This is very important. Put together as much information as possible for the list. Date of purchase and current market value are the minimum. I definitely encourage you to take pictures or even video.  Unusual items, like my elephants, can be questioned. Just because you have receipts, doesn't mean you still had the items when the loss occurred. A picture (especially a dated one!) will prove possession. This is just an added protection. 

   Insurance carriers are in the business of protecting your home, car, possessions, etc. But as much as we wish they were, they are not in it out of the goodness of their hearts. It is big business. This is just the way it is. So make sure you have documentation upon documentation of what you are insuring. Protect yourself! You are paying a pretty penny for insurance these days. Make sure you get those pennies back if you suffer a loss. 

Questions on your Home, Auto, or Commercial Insurance?
Contact Brockman Premier Insurance  or call toll free at 877-987-8683 today
and let us Keep You Insured!
Visit our website as well! www.wekeepuinsured.com

Insuring your jewelry

Protect those Valentine's Day Sparklies! 

  Picture it. Valentine's Day. Dinner at her favorite restaurant with wine or maybe even Champagne. You ask her if she wants to take a walk after dinner. You walk down to the bridge. And with the moon overhead, you get down on one knee and bring out that velvet box with the ring. She says "Yes!". Life is grand.
   Flash forward a few years. You have the house with the white picket fence, great neighbors and Junior is playing in the back yard with Fido. You surprise your lovely wife with an anniversary cruise (and your in-laws are taking Junior and Fido for the week!)  Life is grand.
   While you are on your trip, your house is broken into. Your big screen TV. Your computer. Your printer. Gone. Then your wife remembers - "I didn't take my wedding rings with me. I was afraid I might lose them on the ship!" She runs to the bedroom and sure enough, her jewelry is gone. Most of it is costume, but that wedding set- you had that custom made. You begin to worry. The police give you a copy of the police report and tell you your insurance company will want that for the claim. Insurance! Of course! You have a solid homeowner's policy. Your stolen items can be replaced. Life is grand!
   You call your insurance agent. You explain about the break in. He asks you for an itemized list of what was stolen.You fill out the home inventory list he sends you. He calls back to let you know everything is covered, except the wedding rings. Your policy only covers up to $2500 for jewelry. The wedding set was custom made. That $2500 won't even come close! You give your agent a piece of your mind. He tries to tell you he asked if you needed any special items scheduled out when he wrote the policy. You don't remember that 5 year old conversation. And what does "schedule out" mean anyway? Arrgghhh. Your wife is crying over her now irreplaceable rings. Life just lost a little of its grandeur!

   What can you do to avoid that last part of the story? 

You can call your agent today and tell him you want to add scheduled personal property protection for your wedding rings! This coverage will replace specific items listed on your policy. It can be wedding rings, pendants, bracelets. You can also add SPP for pieces of art, coins, furs, books or guns. What will you need? Appraisals for each piece. You should have your item appraised every 3-5 years. Most carriers will have a guideline for how recent the appraisal must be. Policies will insure each piece, down to the penny. Appraisals should include a picture, serial numbers, descriptions and replacement value. This coverage will add to your premium, but if the unthinkable happens, it will be worth it!

Questions on your Home, Auto, or Commercial Insurance?
Contact Brockman Premier Insurance  or call toll free at 877-987-8683 today
and let us Keep You Insured!

Home Insurance FAQs

Navigating the Home Insurance               Mix-master- Arrgghh!

   Have you ever tried to navigate the mix-master in an unfamiliar city? I have lived in and around the Dallas/Ft Worth metroplex most of my life and I still haven't mastered them. There was only one or two when I first started driving. Now it seems every suburb has it's own version of the Mix-master. 
   Have you tried to navigate shopping for Homeowner's Insurance lately? Same story. There used to be a few carriers- we all grew up with Allstate, State Farm and Farmers. Now, there are dozens and dozens. Talk about navigating confusing roads!
   It is easy to get overwhelmed trying to figure out your policy. So I thought I would share a few of the questions we hear the most often:
* Why is my dwelling insured for so much more than I paid for the home?
Because your insurance covers the cost to REBUILD your home, not move into it. Most carriers have their own dwelling amount estimator. Agents plug in the specifics of a home- square ft, roof type, age, updates, etc and the estimator computes the cost that carrier is willing to pay to rebuild the home from foundation to roofing. 
* Are my wedding rings covered?
Most policies will have some type of jewelry coverage. Most of them will be basic, $2500-$5000 in coverage. But if you want your precious jewelry covered, you will want to consider a scheduled personal property endorsement. It will cover specific pieces without a deductible. It will also cover theft and mysterious disappearance. The basic jewelry coverage in the policy will not.  The same goes for your coin collection, art collection, gun collection (Hey - we are in Texas!)
*If my dog bites a neighbor, will my insurance cover it?
Yes. Your personal liability will cover this.  As long as it is not a ineligible dog breed and there isn't an animal exclusion on the policy. Most carriers will have an ineligible dog breed list. Some will not write the home at all, while others will exclude liability in the case of a dog attack. Most of the dogs on the forbidden list are aggressive breeds; Pitbulls, Dobermans, Rottweilers, etc...
  Believe me- not all insurance policies are the same! As independent agents, my husband and I see many different types of policies. I feel for people calling in with questions- the ones who are truly trying to understand what their coverage is. I know the time and effort it took us to learn the carriers and coverage. And it is what we do everyday, all day. We realize most of our clients don't have that kind of time. And you shouldn't have to. That is what we agents are for! 


Got questions? Call or visit it our website: 
Brockman Premier Insurance
local: 214-592-0859
toll free: 1-877-987-8683   

Auto Liability coverage

Yes, it is worth the cost!

   We all know it is illegal to drive without Liability insurance. (At least I hope you know) But why is it so important that the states require it? Is the other coverage important, even though it isn't required by law?
Does it really protect me? Yes. Yes it does. But there are many levels of protection and this is where you have some decisions to make.

 Liability Coverage

This pays for any damage you inflict, on other drivers in an accident. I never liked that word "inflict"? It insinuates you found the guy, sped up to 100 mph and rammed his car. Let me put it in a more fair sounding way. If you are found to be at fault, Liability will pay for the damage done to the other drivers car and body, or bodies if he has passengers. There is a state minimum, but other than that, you will get to pick the amount. The choices usually fall to $30/60, $50/100, $100/300, $250/$500 and so forth. These are in the thousands (so $30/60 is actually $30,000/60,000)

Bodily Injury Liability 

This pays for the cost of any injuries, including death, of a person as a result of an accident you cause. It would cover medical bills, loss of income, pain and suffering. If you end up in a lawsuit, it is important you have enough liability coverage to handle any monetary judgement that is handed down. If you do not have enough insurance coverage, you are still responsible for the remaining damages amount. Bodily Injury is only for the "victims" of the accident. It will not cover your own medical bills. Again you can choose the amount of coverage you wish to have. So think of the worst case scenario and pick the amount of coverage you want.

Property Damage Liability

This pays for the damage you and your vehicle do to another person's property. It usually used for the other car in the accident, but it also covers fencing, plants, trees and houses. It is not required in most states, but it is worth the cost. If you hit a Mercedes or someone's home, can you cover the cost of repairing or replacing?
Again you can choose the amount of coverage you wish to have. So think of the worst case scenario (like hitting that Mercedes) and pick the amount of coverage you want.

Coverages Other than Liability

Liability is a very important coverage, but it is not the only one.
Uninsured/Under-insured Coverage: This will cover the costs associated if you are hit by someone with no insurance or not enough insurance. This is not required by law, but it is a coverage I will always talk to my customers about. I have a friend who was hit by a drunk driver one night. The other driver had no insurance, nor was he a US citizen so there was no way they could go after him for damages. My friend had $50,000 in hospital bills (2 surgeries) and missed 10 weeks of work. If he didn't have Uninsured Motorist coverage, he would have had to cover those costs himself. That's a scary thought!
Collision Coverage: This covers your car if you hit anything. This is one that many people opt to reject, especially if they have older cars. It can be expensive and you will have a deductible. You need to decide if it will save you enough money in premium to cover the cost of repairs if you are in an at fault accident. Also keep in mind, if you are paying off your car, or if you have a lease, the company you are financing through will most likely require this coverage.
Comprehensive Coverage: This is also known as "other than collision" coverage. It covers your car if something hits it. This could be a tree falling on it, flooding, theft, a deer hit you. Yes, you did not hit the deer, it jumped in front of your car.
None of these coverages are mandatory, but the expense of the coverage can be far outweighed by the expense of the repairs. We call it "self insuring" and most people cannot afford to self insure. But other than the Liability, you get to decide if you want a coverage or not.
There are other bells and whistles coverage like rental, towing, stereos and rims. These coverages are meant to make your life a little easier, not as much protect you. It is always good to have coverage, but it may not be necessary to have every piece of coverage. Insurance is in place to protect you, but you have to make the decision as to how much is worth the cost.

Any questions? Please give us a call at Brockman Premier Insurance
local: 214-592-0859
toll free: 1-877-987-8683

Insurance Pricing

What affects your insurance policy pricing?

   The majority of Homeowners out there are seeing increases in their home insurance policies. I know here in Texas, home insurance prices have been on the rise for several years. We talk with so many frustrated people. Many of our leads/customers are people just looking to save some money anywhere they can. I know how frustrating it can be as a customer to get that renewal and see a price increase, knowing you didn't file a claim this year. why did your price go up? As Independent agents, our agency can offer several options. We cannot change insurance pricing. What we can do is explain what affects the pricing. You must keep in mind carriers do have the right to minimize the risk they are willing to take. If you have a loss, the carrier will be the one paying out the money to get you back in your home as good as new. And while we assume our carrier is there to protect us (isn't that what insurance is for?), they are also in this business to earn a living. So it makes good business sense that they minimize their risk. And that is what the pricing comes down to. How much the customer will need to pay to offset the carrier's potential risk of paying out a claim?
Dwelling Value
I cannot tell you how many times I have had someone ask me why their dwelling amount is so much higher than what they paid for the home. The best way I can explain this is the Dwelling amount is how much it would cost to completely rebuild your home from the ground up in case of a total loss. That is what your insurance is for. The make you whole again in the case of a loss. And you need to be protected against the risk of a total loss. 
Credit
No one likes to talk about it, but there are very few Insurance Carriers who do not price their customers based on their credit score. Whether you pay your bills on time is a big factor in assessing risk. If you have been reported to a credit collector, the risk you will not pay your insurance is greater. It doesn't matter the reason. Your credit history will follow you around for up to 10 years. 
Age, Marital status, Education
Many carriers will price their customers based on age, marital status and their education level. Younger customers are generally a riskier bet. They don't have much history, they are most likely not as well established. Married people are often considered a safer risk than single people. We all know that is not necessarily the case, but most studies will show it is. Education can be a factor, but most carriers do not weigh this on pricing.
Zip Code
This is mainly to assess related risk history in the same area. Homes on the coast are riskier than homes further inland. Homes in certain zip codes are more likely to have theft risk or vandalism, than homes in other zip codes.This is generally based on the history of the zip code and has little to do with the inhabitants.
Protection Class
Your PC is based on the ability to fight a fire if your home should burn. How close is the first responding fire station? How close is the nearest fire hydrant? A PC of 1 is the best, while a 10 is a higher risk and usually more expensive to insure. If the carrier will even in sure it. Many will not insure a PC of 9 or 10. And if it is a high value home (Over $750,000), many carriers require the first responding fire department be within 5 miles of the home.  
Age and Condition of the home, when it was purchased
There are carriers who specialize in newer homes and there are carriers who specialize in older homes. The condition of the home, specifically the roof, the plumbing and the electrical can greatly affect the pricing. If you have and older home that has not been updated, you are limited in the carriers who will write your policy. Being a new home owner can get you a discount with most carriers but the discount will diminish after the first few years. But being a home owner with a long, stable history can lower your pricing for the life of the policy.

There are many other factors that go into your home insurance policy pricing. If you have questions about your policy- it's coverage and/or pricing- I urge you to call your agent. Agents are here to support you. We may not always give you the answer you like (yes your rates will go up sometimes!) But hopefully, we can answer your questions and help you understand why you are paying the price you are paying. 

If your agent can't answer your questions, why don't you give us a try?
For information on our agency, please visit our website at www.wekeepuinsured.com
Or contact me at nancy@brockmanpremier.com   
We would love to answer any questions you have and help keep you insured!

Nancy Brockman, Owner
Brockman Premier Insurance