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For many, Labor Day signals the end of summer. However, summer doesn’t officially end this year until September 23. If you’ve made the most of the nice weather, now may be the time to start thinking about storing your boat for the winter. Whether you’re a new boat owner or a seasoned veteran, storing your boat properly during the winter months ensures it’ll be ready to go when the nice, warm weather returns.

According to Josh, West Bend claims manager, boat damage claims tend to increase during the off season. Damage may be noticed for the first time once the boat is removed from the water. Or, improper storage during the winter months could lead to expensive damages.

Here are a few claims scenarios that explain how insurance coverage may or may not apply.

Claim Scenario 1

Since it’s the end of the boating season you decide to cover and store your boat and trailer next to your cottage. In April, a strong thunderstorm blows through your area that produces large hail. The hail causes significant damage to your boat. Do you have coverage?

In this scenario, if you don’t have a special property form and your boat is not scheduled on the policy and it’s not stored in a building, there would be no coverage for wind or hail damage.

Claim Scenario 2

At the end of the boating season, you buy a new boat on clearance for $20,000. You contact your agent and schedule the boat on your policy for $20,000. By scheduling your boat, you have all risk coverage unless a specific cause of loss is excluded. If your boat is parked in your garage at your cottage and a fire breaks out and destroys it, you’d have the full $20,000 coverage. If you didn’t schedule the boat, you’d only have $1,500 coverage on the homeowners policy.

Claim Scenario 3

Your boat is scheduled on your policy for $20,000. Because your boat is scheduled, you have all risk coverage unless a specific cause of loss is excluded. In spring, you remove your boat from storage and realize mice have chewed up wires resulting in $5,000 in damage. Unfortunately, rodent damage is excluded from the policy so there’s no coverage.

Claim Scenario 4

Your boat is scheduled on your policy for $20,000. Because your boat is scheduled, you have all risk coverage unless a specific cause of loss is excluded. In the spring, you put your boat in the water and the motor doesn’t start. Your local mechanic explains that the water was not properly drained from the motor prior to storing it for winter. As a result, the frozen water caused damage to your motor. Unfortunately, the damage from freezing isn’t covered.

Unfortunately, there are several reasons why people may not schedule their boats.

• They feel the boat isn’t worth much.
• They don’t think about adding coverage.
• They want to keep their premiums lower.
• They assume their policy provides automatic coverage.

To make sure your boat is adequately covered, contact your insurance agent to discuss the policy options that are available to you. Scheduling your boat for a specific value will ensure you have adequate coverage when a covered claim occurs.

Proper storage and maintenance are important to keep your boat protected while in winter storage.

Here are some tips for storing your boat.

1. Remove your battery. Because of inconsistent use during the summer months, your boat battery may not be fully charged each time you use it. The problem is compounded if you leave it in your boat while it’s stored for the winter. More than likely your battery will be dead when spring arrives. It’s a good idea to remove your battery and store it in a warm dry place. Consider using a trickle charger to keep your battery in good shape during the winter months.
2. Drain excess water from your boat. Make sure to remove the bilge drain to empty water from your boat. Cracked hulls as a result of freezing aren’t covered by an insurance policy.
3. Drain excess water from your motor. This step can be confusing and a bit tricky. However, it’s very important that it’s done correctly. Frozen water can damage your motor, as well as other components. This damage isn’t covered by insurance. Consider taking your boat to a local boat dealer to have it winterized.
4. Top it off. Make sure your gas tank is full prior to storing. Also, add a gas stabilizer to prevent moisture.
5. Repair your hull. Your boat can take a beating during the boating season. If your hull was damaged, get it repaired prior to storing it. This ensures the damage won’t get worse and your boat will be ready for use when nice weather returns.
6. Inspect your trailer. So often I come upon cars pulling trailers and the lights aren’t working properly. At the end of each season, make sure your brake lights and directionals are functional.
7. Remove electronics and gear. Most insurance policies provide coverage for theft. However, to avoid filing a claim, remove electronics and fishing gear from the boat prior to storage. Storing the gear in your home is a better alternative.
8. Cover your boat. Covering your boat with a properly fitting cover can protect it from dirt, dust, and moisture. It also prevents rodents from getting into your boat and causing damage.
9. Keep rodents out. As mentioned earlier, rodent damage isn’t covered by an insurance policy. If you’re storing your boat in your garage, consider setting up mouse traps to catch them before they enter your boat. Also, consider placing moth balls or scented laundry fabric sheets strategically around the boat to keep rodents out. If your boat is damaged by a racoon, a West Bend policy will provide coverage.
10. Check your boat occasionally. If you have access to your boat, consider checking on it occasionally. Look for animal droppings or gnaw marks which may indicate a problem.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     SOURCE: West Bend, Posted by Scott Stueber on Sep 24, 2019 9:00:00 AM

Did you know, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, that nearly 35 million people pack up and move each year? Whether you’re relocating for a new employment opportunity, you need a bigger space for your expanding family, or you’re looking to live in a nicer neighborhood, moving can be extremely stressful.

From transferring children to a new school district and finding new utility and healthcare providers to creating new daily routines and making your new place feel organized and comfortable, making a move can be exhausting and disorganized if not done correctly.

While moving will never be one of America’s favorite pastimes, it can be an excellent opportunity to get organized, simplify your life, and throw out old belongings that are cluttering up your space. To ensure you stay calm during the chaotic whirlwind of packing and moving, here’s some guidance on how to prepare and make the transition as smooth as possible.

Make an Action Plan

The worst thing you can do is leave preparations and packing until the last minute. To keep yourself on track, make an electronic to-do list outlining what needs to be moved, what can be donated or thrown away, and what rooms you plan to tackle first. This way, you can access the information on your phone from any location. Always keep important documentation in an easy-to-access place and carry it with you during the move. This way, if you need to present any confirmations, receipts, or certificates, you won’t have to rifle through boxes in a frenzy trying to locate them. When you box up belongings, be sure to label each box to simplify the unpacking process. For example, you could label a box “Kitchen pots, plates, and silverware – Fragile.”

Keep it Simple

Juggling your home life and work demands during the moving process can seem overwhelming. Keep all your appointments, work deadlines, children’s schedules, and other important obligations stored on an electronic calendar, preferably your smartphone, so you can receive alerts and reminders straight into the palm of your hand. The goal is to find harmony between your regular routine and the added tasks that come along with pulling off a seamless transition to your new home. Share and coordinate schedules with your partner or family so you can divvy up packing, contacting vendors, and completing other necessary tasks that need to be done before moving.

Update your Address

In addition to notifying the postal service of your change of address, make sure your credit card companies, cable and internet provider(s); gas, electric, and utility vendors, insurance company; employer; and friends are all provided your new information.

Do an Inventory of your Home

There’s no better time to go through all your possessions and take inventory of valuable belongings for your insurance company. Additionally, you can group belongings into categories for packing, dispose of items you no longer need, and declutter your life. Anything you decide to get rid of can be donated to a local charity, sold on Craigslist, LetGo, or eBay, or thrown away all together.

Packing 101

Here’s a little tip on how to pack efficiently: use your bedding, sheets, and towels to wrap, cushion, and protect breakables, such as glassware, picture frames, and decorative pieces. Not only will this save you money on bubble wrap, but it’s an optimal way to use up space in your boxes while ensuring your valuables are kept safe. If you own luggage, you can use these bags to pack shoes, toiletries, clothes, or even last-minute items that you want to use up until your moving day arrives.

Author Bio: Brandon Morris has lived in the Dallas/Fort Worth area his entire life. He owns North Dallas Moving and Storage and focuses on residential and office moving in the Dallas area.

SOURCE:  West Bend, Posted by Scott Stueber on Jul 9, 2019 9:00:00 AM

Do you remember your first bike? I remember mine very vividly. My neighbor and I had matching his and her bikes. I also remember many bike trips to my grandmother’s house.

If you live in a big city, biking may still be a part of your life. Depending on traffic, biking may be a quicker alternative to get to work. In addition, many communities are adding bike trails which offer a great way to get out for a ride with your entire family.

Biking is a great way to improve your health, save wear and tear on your car, and reduce emissions.

If you’re in the market for a new bike you may want to consider buying an e-bike. While e-bikes are more expensive, they’re gaining in popularity and offer many benefits.

What’s an e-bike?

An e-bike is a bicycle with an electric motor. It’s another option for anybody that enjoys riding. A common misconception is that an e-bike is like a scooter or a motorcycle. All you have to do is jump on and go. With a power assist e-bike, you must pedal which still allows for a great workout. Power assist e-bikes allow you to travel further distances, climb hills in an easier manner, and reduce muscle soreness.

Are all e-bikes created equal?

There three classes classes of e-bikes. They are:

1. Class one – Pedal-assist up to 20 mph.

2. Class two – Found more often online, these bikes are pedal-assist with an electric throttle up to 20 mph.

3. Class three – Higher-end or performance type bikes, such as mountain bikes, that are pedal-assist only up to 28 mph.

Are e-bikes regulated?

E-bikes are regulated, but regulation can vary by state or municipality. Check with your local laws and abide by them.

What bike equipment do I need for an e-bike?

Like with any sport or hobby, the proper equipment is important. Here’s some equipment you should have no matter what type of bike you ride.

• Helmet
• Mirror
• Bell or horn
• Lights
• Bright clothing

Are e-bikes covered by insurance?

A West Bend policy automatically provides coverage if you buy an e-bike that goes 20 mph or less. If you buy an e-bike that goes faster than 20 mph, you’ll need to talk to your independent agent to have it added to your policy.

Here are some additional blogs to keep you safe while riding

Bike safety tips for commuters, families, and enthusiasts

As a motorist, do you understand biking laws?

How to prepare for your first bicycle ride of the season

SOURCE:  West Bend, Posted by Scott Stueber on Jul 2, 2019 9:00:00 AM

More cats and dogs go missing on the 4^th of July  than any other day of the year. While pet parents look forward to the cookouts, music, and fireworks, it’s terrifying for many of our furry family members.

One of my three dogs is terrified of storms, one loses it whenever there are loud noises, and one isn’t bothered by anything. Pets that suffer from storm anxiety or ones that panic around loud noises are more likely to find fireworks downright terrifying. I can verify that’s true in my home! Here are some tips to help keep them safe, reduce their stress, and prevent them from getting lost:

• Research when the fireworks in yours and surrounding communities will be so you can be prepared. Some cities schedule their fireworks for the weekend before the Fourth.
• Never bring pets to the fireworks. Even a pet that has never displayed any previous anxious behavior may be spooked. And obviously, never use firecrackers, sparklers, or any other type of fireworks with pets nearby.
• Many pets will try to flee to find shelter, including jumping fences, so keep pets indoors during festivities and fireworks. Close the windows and draw the blinds.
• Ensure your pets have their collars on and that ID tags/microchip information is up to date.
• If your pets use ThunderShirts or medication for storms, consider using them for firework time as well.
• Make sure you have a current photo of your pets, just in case.
• Have a frozen treat ready at fireworks time. For dogs, fill a Kong with peanut butter and freeze it overnight. Pull it out as a distraction during the loud bangs.
• If your pets have a safe place they like to hang out, have it prepared. Many pets like their crates, so have the door open and ready.
• If you’re having a party, keep alcohol, charcoal, lighter fluid, citronella insect spray, and glow sticks away from pets as they can be ingested and cause severe health problems.

Hopefully, these pet safety tips will help keep your four-legged family members safe while making the holiday more enjoyable.

Check out our other helpful pet blogs:

Pet-cation: Ways to help your pets cope during your absence

Ten safety tips to enjoy summer with your pets

Smart home technology for pets

Eight tips to protect your home and pet from a fire

Source:  West Bend, Posted by Kristin Bowen on Jun 25, 2019 9:00:00 AM

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-infographic-more-pets-are-lost-on-july-4th-than-any-other-day-of-the-year-300108062.html

So, you’ve arranged a moving-in date for your new home; cleared out your junk; organized transfer of your cable, mail, and utilities; and ordered your moving containers. What next?

Presuming you’re going to be using a moving company,you’ll want to get that service booked soon, but before you do, there’s one thing you absolutely need to think about: insurance.

Insurance isn’t the most exciting part of a home move but imagine the fallout if your moving truck ends up in a river or a rogue driver goes AWOL with a truckload of your possessions. It’s very rare that this kind of thing happens, but you’ll want to be prepared if it does. Of course, relatively minor mishaps, such as a dropped flat screen TV happen more frequently. After all, cardboard boxes can split and people can drop things.

Before you sign a contract with the moving company you should do some homework and a little bit of math. You may have a limited amount of coverage built into your homeowners or renters insurance policy. But usually, homeowners policies don’t cover personal property while in transit or storage. It’s important to sit down and discuss this with your agent.

To see what coverage you have, you’ll need to run through the following checklist of items:

• Are you covered for moving?
• Is there a time limit?
• Are you covered if you’re moving your items into storage?
• Are you covered if you use a professional moving company?
• Do your contents have to be properly packed? Does this mean the movers have to pack them for you?
• What deductible will you have to pay if you have a claim?
• Are any items excluded?
• Is there a price-per-item limit?
• What’s the claims process?

The answers to some of these questions may result in extra costs for you. For example, if you need the moving company to pack on your behalf they’ll likely charge for that.

When you call your insurance agent, you should ask about:

• Any riders or floaters that can increase your protection;
• Whether a claim would push up future premiums;
• If they offer any ‘basic perils’ coverage if you intend to continue using your current insurance company in your new property; and
• The effect of increasing or reducing deductibles.

You should get prices for all the above and use these to decide on the level of risk you’re comfortable with. There’s never zero risk!

If you’re a first-time buyer, note that your new insurance policy will probably not cover your possessions until they’re in the new house although if you have an existing renters policy that would provide coverage. If you don’t have an existing policy but were previously protected under another person’s policy (e.g. a parent’s), it’s worth asking them to check with their insurer to see if they’ll extend some coverage in return for you taking your first insurance policy out with them – this can work!

If you haven’t purchased homeowners insurance yet, West Bend offers a policy with numerous coverage options. A West Bend homeowners policy provides coverage for 30 days subject to the perils of the policy and home deductible, up to the limits of the policy for a newly acquired principal residence.

When you know what’s covered by your existing policy, you can look at what your moving company could offer you.

Can your moving company provide insurance coverage?

Federal regulations require all moving companies to offer two types of insurance coverage if you’re moving out of state. However, this isn’t technically regarded as insurance in the same way as your home, renters, or condo insurance.

Released Value Protection is liability coverage that’s based on weight. This coverage pays up to 60 cents per pound for personal property. However, with all the electronic devices in a person’s home, this coverage is very minimal and wouldn’t pay full replacement cost.

Full Value Protection may cover you for the repair or replacement of your personal property. If you purchase this coverage, make sure you check with your moving company to see how you’ll be covered. Usually, their insurance policy determines if the damaged items will be replaced with new ones or at their depreciated value (i.e. reduced value based on age and condition).

Once you’ve talked to your insurance agent and the moving company, you’ll have a better a better idea of how the different coverage options work.

Author Bio: James Levine is CEO of New Haven Moving Equipment (NHME). Together with his two brothers, Roger Levine (Co-President) and Larry Levine (Co-President), Mr. Levine manages the executive and daily operations. NHME has been in business for more than a century. They manufacture and distribute high quality moving boxes, furniture moving pads, moving equipment, and packaging supplies to professional movers and the general public at wholesale prices. Get in touch via Facebook.

SOURCE:  West Bend, Posted by Scott Stueber on Jun 4, 2019 9:00:00 AM