What Your Typical Homeowners Insurance Policy Covers

Homeowners insurance policies typically cover a range of events, protecting you from significant financial loss. Common covered events include:

• Storms – Policies usually cover damage from hurricanes, windstorms, and other severe weather conditions.
• Hail Damage – Hail can cause significant damage to roofs, windows, and siding.
• Fire – Fire damage is one of the primary risks covered by homeowners insurance.
• Falling Objects – This includes damage from falling tree branches or other objects.
• Vandalism – Coverage for intentional damage caused by others.

Understanding these covered events is vital for ensuring your policy meets your needs. However, it’s equally important to know what is not covered.

Common Insurance Policy Exclusions

Not all damages are covered by homeowners insurance. Common exclusions include:

• Normal Wear and Tear – Insurance policies typically do not cover damages resulting from normal aging or usage of your home.
• Construction Defects – Issues resulting from poor construction practices are generally excluded.
• Foundation Failure – Structural problems with the foundation are often not covered.
• Pet and Animal Damage -Damage caused by pets or other animals is usually excluded.
• Mold and Fungus – Coverage for mold and fungus is often limited or excluded entirely.

Understanding these exclusions is crucial to avoid unexpected costs.

The Importance of Reading Your Policy Documents

Synergy Insurance Group prides itself on transparency and customer service for its policyholders. Whoever your insurance company is, when you receive your homeowners insurance policy documents, it’s important to read them closely. By doing so, you agree to all the terms and conditions at the commencement of your policy and each year when it renews. Key reasons to read your policy documents include:

• Clarifying Coverage – Ensure you understand what is and isn’t covered so you’re not caught off guard when filing a claim.
• Identifying Exclusions – Know the limitations of your policy to plan for additional coverage if necessary.
• Understanding Responsibilities – Be aware of your obligations, such as maintaining your home to prevent damage.

If you have any questions about your policy, do not hesitate to ask your insurance agent for clarification. It’s their job to help you understand your coverage fully.

Understanding your homeowners insurance policy is crucial to saving money and ensuring you’re adequately protected. By knowing what is covered and excluded, reading your policy documents carefully, asking questions, and performing regular maintenance, you can avoid costly surprises and keep your home in excellent condition. Remember, a well-maintained home is not only a safe home but also a financially sound investment. If you’re still looking for quality home insurance coverage, you can request a quote here or search for one of our Synergy Insurance Group trusted agency partners.

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As Florida prepares for the expected severe weather, with forecasts of damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and potential tornadoes, Synergy Insurance Group urges its policyholder to be watchful about storm damage to their homes. The storm, which is expected to impact the state starting Monday night and continues through Tuesday evening, poses significant risks to properties across Florida. Synergy Insurance Group emphasizes the importance of monitoring and promptly addressing any storm-related damages to ensure safety and minimize long-term impacts.

Synergy Insurance advises its policyholders to carefully inspect their homes for any signs of storm damage once it is safe to do so. Wind gusts are predicted to range from 45-60 mph in North Florida, and 30-45 mph in Central and South Florida, which can cause significant structural damage. Be sure to look for missing or damaged roof shingles, broken windows, and other structural damage caused by the high winds.

Tornadoes, heavy rainfall and the potential for flash flooding are also concerns for this storm. Recent rains have already saturated many areas, increasing the risk of flood damage. Check for water intrusion in basements, crawl spaces, and lower levels of homes. Minor leaks can lead to significant problems if not addressed promptly.

Remember that timely reporting of damage is crucial for efficient insurance claims processing. Synergy Insurance Group is prepared to support its policyholders through the claims process, offering guidance and assistance to ensure a smooth and supportive experience.

Synergy advises all residents to follow updates and safety instructions from the National Weather Service and the Storm Prediction Center. Staying informed and prepared is key to weathering this storm safely. Remember, Synergy Insurance Group is here to help its customers navigate through the aftermath of the storm and ensure their homes are restored and protected. Stay safe, Florida, and keep an eye on your home for any storm-related damages.

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Our pets have sharp senses and can detect changes in atmospheric pressure, electrical charges, and vibrations, which often precede storms. Thunder, lightning, gusty winds, and sudden changes in lighting can be unsettling for them. Signs of pet anxiety during storms may include restlessness, pacing, excessive barking or meowing, trembling, and seeking shelter in unusual places. By understanding their reactions, you can better address their needs.

Preparation:

1.     Create a Safe Haven: Designate a cozy, secure space where your pets can retreat during storms. A quiet room with familiar bedding, toys, and a comfortable hiding spot can provide them with a sense of security.

2.     Gradual Exposure: If your pets are anxious during storms, consider desensitizing them to storm-related sounds. Play recordings of thunder or rain at low volumes while engaging them in enjoyable activities. Gradually increase the volume over time to help them build a positive association.

3.     Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behavior during storms with treats, praise, or gentle petting. This positive reinforcement can help them associate the storm with positive experiences.

During the Storm:

1.     Stay Calm: Pets often mirror their owners’ emotions. If you remain calm during the storm, your pets are more likely to feel secure. Engage in soothing activities, such as reading, watching TV, or listening to calming music.

2.     Distraction and Engagement: Provide engaging toys or activities that capture your pets’ attention. Puzzle toys filled with treats or interactive play can divert their focus from the storm.

3.     Physical Contact: Physical touch and closeness can be reassuring. Holding, cuddling, or simply being present can help alleviate your pets’ anxiety.

Hurricane Preparedness for Pets:

1.     Emergency Kit: Include essential pet supplies in your hurricane preparedness kit: food, water, medication, a leash, a carrier, ID tags, medical records, and a recent photo of your pet.

2.     Evacuation Plan: Determine pet-friendly evacuation routes and shelters in your area. Keep a list of contacts who can provide temporary shelter for your pets if needed.

3.     Identification: Make sure your pets have proper identification, including a collar with up-to-date tags and a microchip with accurate contact information. This is important in case of separation during a storm.

Post-Storm Care:

1.     Reassurance and Routine: After the storm passes, establish a routine as soon as possible. Pets thrive on consistency, and returning to familiar activities can help restore their sense of normalcy.

2.     Check for Hazards: Inspect your surroundings for any potential hazards that might have been caused by the storm. Broken fences, fallen branches, or debris can pose risks to your pets.

3.     Monitor for Stress: Keep an eye on your pets for any lingering signs of stress. If their anxiety persists, consult a veterinarian to explore potential solutions, such as behavioral training or medication.

As responsible pet owners, our priority is making sure the well-being of our furry companions, especially during unpredictable weather events. By understanding their anxiety triggers, preparing ahead of time, and providing comfort during storms, we can help our pets feel safe and secure.

Having a plan in place ahead of time can reduce anxiety for the whole family. Download our Disaster Preparedness Plan to help you prepare for a storm.

The post How to Keep Pets Calm During A Storm appeared first on Synergy Insurance.

South Florida’s stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and sunny climate are alluring, but the region is no stranger to the annual threat of hurricanes. This blog covers the top 10 essential hurricane resources in South Florida, empowering you to weather the storm with confidence.

1. Emergency Management Agencies

Before a hurricane strikes, it’s crucial to be informed about local emergency management agencies that provide up-to-date information, evacuation plans, and resources. The Florida Division of Emergency Management, Broward County Emergency Management and Miami-Dade County Office of Emergency Management are primary sources of official guidance. Follow their social media accounts and sign up for alerts to stay informed.

2. Evacuation Routes and Shelters

South Florida has designated evacuation routes and shelters to ensure the safety of residents during hurricanes. Familiarize yourself with these routes and know where the nearest shelters are located. FloridaDisaster.org provides interactive maps and resources to help you plan your evacuation strategy.

3. NOAA Weather Radio and Apps

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) broadcasts crucial weather updates through NOAA Weather Radio. Additionally, various smartphone apps like Hurricane Tracker and Red Cross Emergency provide real-time hurricane tracking, emergency alerts, and safety tips.

4. Local News & Meteorologists

Local news channels and meteorologists are essential sources of information during hurricane events. Trustworthy meteorologists such as those from Local 10 News and WPLG Local 10 offer accurate weather predictions and storm tracking, helping you make informed decisions.

5. Preparedness Kits

Having a well-stocked hurricane preparedness kit is vital for any household. Include items like non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, important documents, and cash. Ready.gov offers a detailed checklist to ensure you have everything you need.

6. Insurance Information

Review your homeowners or renters insurance policy to understand your coverage in case of hurricane-related damage. Be aware of deductibles and what is and isn’t covered. Consider flood insurance, as standard policies usually don’t cover flood damage. If you don’t already have Synergy Insurance, get a free quote from us! 

7. Community Resources

Local community organizations and online platforms can provide valuable resources during hurricane season. Websites like Nextdoor and Facebook Groups often have posts about available shelters, supplies, and assistance for those in need.

8. Power Outage Information

Power outages are common during hurricanes. Stay informed about the power restoration process by checking the Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) website or app for outage maps and estimated restoration times.

9. Disaster Assistance Programs

In the aftermath of a hurricane, federal and state disaster assistance programs can provide financial support for housing repairs, temporary housing, and other disaster-related needs. Visit DisasterAssistance.gov for information on available programs and how to apply.

10. Mental Health Resources

Hurricanes can be emotionally and mentally taxing. Organizations like the Disaster Distress Helpline (1-800-985-5990) offer support for those in emotional distress. Stay connected with loved ones and seek professional help if needed.

Preparation today can make all the difference tomorrow

Living in the beautiful region of South Florida comes with the responsibility of being prepared for hurricane season. By knowing about all of your available resources, you can navigate the storm’s challenges with confidence and protect what matters most – your safety, well-being, and peace of mind. Remember, preparation today can make all the difference tomorrow. Stay informed, stay safe, and stay strong.

For more severe storm tips, check out our blog at Synergy Insurance. We know that great home insurance policies help families survive even the worst events. Give yourself the peace of mind you deserve by safeguarding your home against accidents and get a free quote to make sure you have the right insurance coverage for your home while you’re at it.

Disasters can happen at any moment – is your family ready for the worst? Our Disaster Preparedness Plan is designed to help you stay safe, calm and prepared in any situation. Download your copy today and be ready to face anything!

The post Top 10 Hurricane Resources in South Florida appeared first on Synergy Insurance.

It’s time to improve your driving habits! Sure, you know the rules of the road, but we can all use a little refresher sometimes. Better driving habits will help reduce the risk of an auto accident later. You’ll keep your car insurance costs low and more importantly, you’ll keep yourself and those around you safe and sound.

Check out this list of lesser known driving facts and think again.

No Such Thing as a Blind Spot!

When adjusted correctly, your side mirror is your best friend. Did you know blind spots can be eliminated? You never need to take your eyes off the road to glance frantically over your shoulder again!

Take your driving skills to the next level— click here to read more about eliminating blind spots.

Be a Last-Minute Merger

True, cutting to the front of the line at the taco joint is just plain rude. But racing to the start of a merge point on the highway? Not so rude. In fact, it’s the nicest thing you can do. Last second lane merges actually reduce congestion and decrease traffic confusion. Be a Nice Guy— go to the head of the lane merge!

Don’t Text and Drive!

You’ve heard it over and over again but the message is still the same, the text can wait! Distracted driving related accidents is on the rise and in our digital age where our phone is connected to us all day long, it’s difficult to just shut it down. The most effective way to avoid distracted driving is to put your phone out of reach when you get behind the wheel. Leave the phone in your purse, put it in the glove box, or anywhere else out of reach if you can. Another option for those who don’t mind the digital disconnection is to enable “Do Not Disturb” or “Driving” modes which most phone models have to disable incoming text messages or phone calls, but send back automated responses to senders that lets them know you’re behind the wheel and will return their message when it’s safe to do so.

However, there are some of us who’s jobs require us to be digitally connected.  For those people there are some helpful apps to receive messages while reducing distraction.

• Drive Safely will read your messages out loud to you so you can resist the urge to pick up the phone to respond. It will then respond automatically with a pre-set response letting your your friends know that you are driving and will get back to them shortly. If the message is important enough to require a response, you can then get to a safe area to stop and reply to the sender.
• Drivemode has a UI easy to access out of the corner of your eye, and text messages are turned into audio—your phone reads incoming messages aloud with the touch of a button. Swipe through canned responses to send a text back. The big, “no-look” interface runs atop any app you’re using, and breaks your phone down into various functions: Music, Calls, Apps, Destinations and Messages.

Headlights in the Daylight

Ever thought it was weird to see people driving with their headlights on during the daytime? Turns out, they’re making the roads safer for everyone.

Keeping a low watt headlight on during daylight hours helps reduce multiple-vehicle crashes, particularly head-on and front corner collisions.

Have you found yourself involved in a car accident and scrambling to remember important details? Let us take your worry away! Our Auto Accident Workbook was created to keep on-hand at all times in the event of an emergency. Click the graphic to get your free, printable version! Safe travels!

At Synergy Insurance Group, we pride ourselves on friendly service and professional know-how. If you’d like more great auto tips and tricks, subscribe to our monthly newsletter and get more information to help you and your loved ones stay safe out there on the road. 

The post 4 Ways to Improve Your Driving Habits Today appeared first on Synergy Insurance.

A vacation home is truly one of life’s ultimate luxuries. But it’s also one of the best long-term financial decisions a homeowner can make! Owning a vacation home is not for everyone though. There’s the stress of upkeep on a second property to consider and the how-to of managing renters and renters insurance. If you’re thinking about purchasing a vacation home, you’ll find the following tips valuable as you weigh your options.

Financing Terms

A vacation home sale differs in many ways from the purchase of your first home. For one thing, there are no friendly breaks from the government like tax incentives on secured loans. On top of that, you won’t be able to deduct the mortgage interest on accumulated debt over $750,000 (a number that is easy to hit with two mortgages).

You’ll need a blemish-free financial history regardless of whether you plan to rent the second home or keep it for yourself. So, what’s your first step toward buying a vacation home? Calculate the long-term expenses (property, taxes, water bills, etc.) along with the price of the mortgage to project future costs and determine what you can afford.

Landlord Precautions

Want to rent your home when you’re not there? It’s a great option, especially with services like AirBnB that make it easy to advertise your gorgeous home to eager renters around the world. A word of warning: it is also because of AirBnB that many cities have adopted more stringent, short-term rental rules. Check the area for city zoning and administration codes, and understand all rental regulations before you buy.

You’ll also want to create a system ahead of time for finding responsible and financially savvy renters. To get good tenants, you’ll need a thorough application process that includes background checks and requires renters insurance. The best rental properties are homes, guest cottages, or apartments in low-crime areas with plenty of job growth or tourism appeal.

If a second home sounds right for you, call Synergy Insurance Group to learn more about our homeowners insurance policies. We make it easy to customize your policy so you get exactly what you need without paying for anything extra.

Want to learn more about exactly what’s covered in a standard homeowners policy? Our Home Insurance Claims eBook takes you through different scenarios and explains whether you’d be protected. Click the graphic to get your copy, and protect your homes with ease.

The post How to Tell If You’re Ready for a Vacation Home appeared first on Synergy Insurance.

TEST YOUR SMOKE ALARMS AND CHANGE BATTERIES

Your smoke detectors need to be checked at least once a month. This means you need to hold down the test button and wait for the siren to sound. Easy, right? Bet it’s been a few months since you’ve checked! That’s ok, you’re going to get out there and test your smoke detectors today! If the siren is weak, it’s time to replace the batteries. Try lithium or long-life batteries to reduce how often you need to change them.

If the smoke detectors in your home are eight to 10 years old, experts recommend replacing the entire unit, even if it isn’t broken.

CHECK YOUR WINDOWS

More than 3,300 children are seriously injured a year from window falls, so don’t assume your screen is enough to keep kids safe and sound. Window safety doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the spring breeze, but you may need to be more conscientious of what your kids are up to. Keep furniture and general play spaces away from windows, and open the top sash (rather than the bottom) of double-hung windows for ventilation. An even better idea is to keep the windows locked unless you’re there to supervise the kids.

GET SMART SMOKE DETECTORS

Now you can link your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to your smartphone for maximum fire prevention! With this technology, firefighters can get to the scene fast and stop smoke and fire damage in their tracks. Ionization smoke alarms give fast warnings for flame fires and photoelectric alarms are faster at detecting smoldering fires. Try dual combination alarms for 360° protection against all types of fires.

It’s not enough to have smoke alarms, you need to put them in the right place! Keep them toward the middle of the room on the ceiling where air flows rather than at the edge of the ceiling. On vaulted ceilings, the smoke detector must be installed within three feet of the peak. Place smoke detectors three feet from a doorway into a kitchen or bathroom to reduce the chance of “nuisance alarms” going off from steam or burnt toast.

GO THROUGH YOUR MEDICINE CABINETS

Getting rid of either unwanted to expired medicine this spring is a smart safety move, and this tip isn’t just for people with kids! Most people who are sick or in pain aren’t painstakingly checking the expiration date before they take it. If your medicine cabinet is too crowded, you need to start organizing it so it’s easy to find the appropriate medication. The National Safety Council offers Seal & Send envelopes to safely return old or unwanted medication.

MAKE A FIRE ESCAPE PLAN AND PRACTICE IT

Map out your home on a piece of paper and identify at least two exits and then determine a safe meeting location outdoors. Practice your fire escape plan and note any doors or windows that are difficult to open so you can fix them. If your home has a second story, install escape ladders and have your children practice using them.

For more home safety tips and tricks, check out our blog at Synergy Insurance. We know that great home insurance policies help families survive even the worst events. Give yourself the peace of mind you deserve by safeguarding your home against accidents and get a free quote to make sure you have the right insurance coverage for your home while you’re at it.

Spring cleaning isn’t just a way to get rid of dust and cobwebs — it’s a good time to think about family safety in the home. Disasters can happen at any moment – is your family ready for the worst? Our Disaster Preparedness Plan is designed to help you stay safe, calm and prepared in any situation. Download your copy today and be ready to face anything!

The post Spring Cleaning for Safety: Change the Clocks, Change the Plan appeared first on Synergy Insurance.

Between nasty weather, highway congestion, and general stress, road trips take their toll on family travel during the holidays. Every year, more than 500 fatal accidents occur between Christmas and New Year’s. Don’t be one of them. Follow these eight tips to prepare for a safe holiday road trip.  

Get a General Auto Inspection

If your car hasn’t visited the mechanic in a few months, it’s time for a general inspection before you go. They will make sure all your fluids are full, oil is changed, and catch issues before they turn into problems. Don’t let a preventable issue leave you stranded. Talk to you mechanic about your holiday plans so they can give you location-specific advice.

Replace Windshield Wipers

It’s easy and inexpensive to replace windshield wipers yourself and new wiper blades make a huge difference if caught in an unexpected rain, sleet, or snow storm.

Consider Snow Tires

If you’re traveling out of Florida to visit family or friends, check the weather forecasts through all the states you’ll be driving through. If you’re going through any mountain passes, know that snow tires are often required by state laws when there are impending winter storms.

Line Up Emergency Roadside Assistance

In case you need roadside assistance or a tow, make sure you’re covered. Check your plan and update your policy if need be.

Pack a Car Emergency First Aid Kit

A well-stocked first aid kit is of the utmost importance for any road trip. From bandages and antiseptic to aspirin and antihistamines, you cannot be too prepared. If headed north through colder weather, it’s recommended to pack a snow shovel and emergency blanket, extra water and snacks, batteries, and head lamps.

Keep Phones Charged

Keep your cell phone fully charged by bringing a car charger. Also, bring a rechargeable battery pack should your car break down and you need to stay in contact with emergency services, hotels, and relatives.

Coordinate Your Plans 

Email a copy of your holiday travel plans to relatives at your destination as well as with any family or friends behind at home. Make sure everyone in the car is on the same page and prepped for what to do in case of a detour or accident. Plan your routes in advance and download road apps to stay up-to-date with weather and traffic conditions.

Auto Insurance Coverage

Does your auto insurance  provide enough coverage? Is it good for out of state travel? For more information about getting the right car insurance for you, call Synergy Insurance Group to discuss policies that will protect your family during the holidays and new year.

Before hitting the road, consider a little extra protection in case of an emergency with our Auto Accident Workbook or our Road Trip Safety & Tips eBook. These printable guides are meant to give you peace of mind if an accident were to occur, or even if you need an extra travel planning companion. Click either image to get your copy!

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The 2020 Florida Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday is here, from May 29th – June 4th. Unlike previous years, there is only ONE tax holiday for disaster preparedness supplies in 2020.  So it’s time to stock up on those high demand hurricane supplies and general household items. Because, don’t forget hurricane season starts on June 1st (what a crazy coincidence!) and a lot of disaster preparedness items are sales tax exempt during this time.

Hurricane Prep Savings Galore

When a hurricane hits, you don’t want to be scrambling to find these important disaster preparedness items. You can avoid long lines and a lot of stress by planning to pick up these top disaster preparedness items during the sales tax holiday. Click the image below to see the high demand tax free items.

While there are price limits on what you can buy, the range of emergency supplies isn’t half bad:

Planning Ahead

Remember that the most common emergency items are always exempt from taxes, including first-aid kits, basic foodstuffs (including baby formula), bottled water, and prescription medications.

There’s little worse than running smack dab into an emergency without the supplies you need! Now is the time to get the fuel, food, and lighting you need if worst comes to worst. Don’t stand in line with everyone else, only to find out the items you need most are sold out. Prep for hurricane season now (without those pesky taxes!) and rest easy when the storm hits. You can get all the details of Florida’s Tax Free Holiday here as well.

Download your free Disaster Preparedness Plan Ebook here!

Synergy Insurance has been helping Floridians improve family safety for years, and we want to help you too—whether you’re a client or not! For more information about disaster prep, download our Disaster Preparedness Plan to learn more about what to do when a storm touches down. If you have any questions about how homeowners insurance can help you get the coverage you need to stave off the worst of the storm, call Synergy Insurance today.

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