Untouched snow on the roof of home looks pretty, but this winter's heavy snowstorms mixed with frigid temperatures can cause an ice dam to develop on that roof. Ice dams prevent melting snow from properly draining. This can cause serious damage to insulation, ceilings, and walls if the water seeps inside the home. ... which leads to that...
Why FEMA Maps Can’t Determine People’s Need for Flood Insurance
Extreme floods are exposing issues in the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) flood maps, according to a recent article by the Washington Post. Americans rely on these maps to warn about potential flood risks, but that’s creating dangerous situations for residents around the country as it leaves them uninformed about the potential...
Understanding Types of Ownership and Insurance Coverage Options
Trusts, estates, LLCs, and family limited partnerships are just some types of ownership used for properties and assets. They're gradually becoming more common because they're a good option for wealth management and the transfer of legal ownership for properties such as rental properties, personal homes, and vacation homes. The benefits of these...
Insurance Appraisals: What are Inspectors Really Looking For?
Insurance appraisals play an essential part in determining coverage types and costs for a property. Unlike a purchase appraisal, insurance appraisals don't consider a property's market or land value like they would for the sale or refinancing of a property. Instead, inspectors conduct an in-depth assessment to determine the property's replacement...
How FEMA’s First Flood Insurance Update in 50 Years Will Affect Rates
In the wake of natural disasters, a pandemic, and supply shortages, higher insurance rates are everywhere. Many living in coastal areas or in flood zones can also expect to see higher rates to insure their homes under the Federal Flood Insurance Program. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released new rules in the spring regarding...
Sharing Economy Trends Pose New Concerns for Insurance Coverage Gaps
Over the last few years, an entirely new way to add to household income has entered the market place. It’s called the “sharing economy.” This is an exciting and profitable industry but far too often homeowners forget a crucial step: insurance. According to Forbes: “The sharing economy is currently worth about $26 billion and grows bigger each...