Fall Home Maintenance Tips

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fall home maintenance

Now’s the time to catch up on all your small home maintenance tasks before they turn into big, expensive problems. In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, there are also extra safety precautions to take that you might not have considered. Take advantage of the fall weather to protect your home and business from professional liability issues that arise from small oversights and neglect.

1. Clean Out Gutters

Once the leaves stop falling, it’s time to clean those gutters! Be thorough. A debris clogged gutter with backed up water leads to roof damage, water leakage, and mold issues. 

2. Evaluate Tree Damage

Are your trees basically healthy even after storm damage from Hurricane Irma? For major issues, consult a professional to see if your trees can be saved. For minor damage, unleash your inner arborist and remove broken branches, jagged limbs, and prune smaller branches down to where they meet large limbs.

3. Prepare for a Polar Vortex

If a cold snap comes knocking, you’ll want to make sure your home remains energy efficient and protected from the wind and chill. Seal up cracks and reduce drafts by adding weather stripping or calking between gaps in windows and doors. If you have a furnace, have it inspected for leaks and change the filter.

4. Test Detector Batteries

Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and do a test by pressing the test button or holding a smoking candle near the unit. Now’s also a good time to make sure your fire evacuation plan is up-to-date and all fire extinguishers charged (as indicated by the pressure gauge).

At Synergy Insurance Group, we strive to meet the unique coverage needs of all our clients. We understand that friendly, professional know-how and dependability is the first step toward a great relationship. If you’re looking for the peace of mind that homeowners insurance, business insurance, or auto insurance can afford, please contact us at Synergy Insurance Group today to see how we can help.

Are you prepared if another hurricane were to hit Florida? Make sure your home, family and belongings are safe by downloading our Disaster Preparedness Plan! Just click the image below to get your copy.

storm prep

Storm Prep to Avoid Scams

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assignment of benefits

It happens all too often. A vicious storm wipes through the region, causing damage to trees, vehicles, and homes. Maybe you were one of the victims, or maybe you were one of the lucky ones. A day or two following the storm, your family was approached by an individual offering to inspect your roof, replace the crack in your windshield or trim the tree in your front yard – for FREE. The individual holds out a form asking you to sign, promising to work with your insurance company so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Without giving it much more thought, you sign the form. You just became a victim of AOB fraud.

AOB scams like this happen every day, especially in climates that are subject to severe weather and frequent storms, such as Florida. The fact is becoming a victim of an AOB scam can end up costing families more than what they realize. Storm season is here, so taking certain precautions now can save you time and money down the road.

These tips can help you not only prepare for the upcoming storm season, but to also prevent an AOB scam.

What is an AOB?

Assignment of Benefits (AOB) is an agreement between a homeowner and an insurance company, which stipulates the transfer of rights, benefits, and financial interest to a third party. The insurance company is then responsible for making payments to the contracted third party for any repairs related to a claim. Although this agreement takes the pressure off the homeowner to deal with a contractor and the insurance company in the event of a claim, the homeowner also loses the ability to work with the insurance company.

AOB fraud occurs when a contractor or other third party approaches an individual or family claiming to be affiliated with the homeowner’s insurance company, and gets the homeowner to sign an agreement promising to make repairs to a property and to handle the insurance paperwork. The third party then collects the insurance money and takes off, leaving the homeowner stranded – without repairs or insurance money.

Storm Preparation to Avoid Scams

The good news is there are some things homeowners can do to prevent AOB scams. So, the next time there is severe weather in the forecast, here are some things you can do to not only protect your home, property, and vehicle from damage, but also to protect your family from an AOB scam.

  • Gather paperwork on previous repairs
  • Walk around the outside of your home and property and take pictures to assess current conditions before a storm
  • Re-assess your home and property after a storm, taking pictures as necessary to determine if there is legitimate damage
  • Prepare a list of legitimate, credible third party contractors directly from your insurance company to call in the event repairs are needed

By taking the time to follow these steps before and after the next storm, homeowners will save themselves a great deal of time, money, and hassle by avoiding an AOB scam.

homeowners insuranceHow Synergy Insurance Can Help

If you believe you have become a victim of an AOB scam or if you have questions regarding storm preparation, contact your Synergy agent today.

If disaster were to strike, would all of your valuables be accounted for? Download our Home Inventory Checklist today, and take the guesswork out of your insurance claim.

Assignment of Benefits – What You Need To Know

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assignment of benefits

Being a Florida homeowner can come with a lot of risks – a lot of them being weather related. During the 2018 storm season, you may need to consider getting work done on your house prior to or after a storm approaches. Before you hire a contractor, there are things you need to be aware of. Check out this list of important information regarding an Assignment of Benefits, and make sure you’re prepared before you sign an agreement.

What is an AOB?

An Assignment of Benefits is an agreement between you and a third party where you transfer your rights, benefits and financial interest in an insurance policy claim to another party. It is commonly used when hiring a contractor, roofer or water mitigation company to make repairs to your property. Once the Assignment of Benefits is complete, your insurance company must make payments directly to the party completing repairs and you lose the ability to deal directly with your insurance company for your claim.  This is a legal arrangement, but can allow unscrupulous contractors to submit improper claims, causing legal battles to ensue.  You should ALWAYS contact your insurance company to notify them of damages before taking any action to make permanent repairs after a storm. You can avoid the risk of this happening to you by recognizing warning signs and following some simple guidelines.

Warning Signs of AOB Seekers

  • Someone knocks on your door to let you know you have damage you weren’t aware of
  • Contract contains the words “Assignment of Benefit”
  • A contractor offers free services, such as remodeling other areas of your home not affected by damage
  • The Vendor offers to handle your claim and pay your deductible for you
  • Vendors show up immediately following major storms that affect your neighborhood

Prior to Signing Contract

  • Call your Synergy Claims Department, notify them of your damage and let them know a vendor has contacted you
  • Do NOT begin any permanent repairs before you have notified your insurance company or allowed them to inspect damages
  • Before agreeing to third party repairs, request everything in writing, including total cost, scope of project, and timeline
  • Look very carefully for any “Assignment of Benefits” language and, if possible, have someone else review the agreement with you as well
  • Get more than one repair estimate and never feel pressured to decide immediately
  • Always ensure that the vendor is licensed and it’s always a good idea to request references

What if you do sign an AOB?

  • homeowners insuranceAny benefits received from your claim payments will go directly to the third party and not you
  • You lose all decision making ability about how the damage will be repaired and how long it will take

If you feel that something isn’t right regarding your AOB, please contact Synergy immediately.

If disaster were to strike, would all of your valuables be accounted for? Click the image to download our Home Inventory Checklist, and take the guesswork out of your insurance claim.

 

What is Business Interruption Insurance and Why You Need It

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business insurance

Florida is known for its glorious weather, beautiful beaches, and severe storms. Not every day in Florida is paradise, especially during the summer months. In fact, June 1st is the official start of hurricane season. If a hurricane hits your business, are you prepared? Do you have the necessary coverage to recoup losses from damaged or lost property? What happens if your business is forced to shut down for several days or weeks until the damage is cleared or your building is repaired or rebuilt? Can you afford to take a loss like that?

Most business owners can’t. So what do you do? Let’s take a look at business interruption insurance and how it can help your business.

What is Business Interruption Insurance?

What exactly is business interruption insurance? This type of insurance covers the loss of any income that a business may encounter after a hurricane or another type of natural disaster. This type of insurance will help business owners with the loss of profits or income that would have been generated during the time a business is being rebuilt or repaired.

It’s also important to note that this type of insurance is separate from hurricane insurance. This means that if a business owner chooses to purchase hurricane insurance, business interruption insurance is a separate add-on, which costs extra. Similar to hurricane insurance, the amount that is covered depends on the policy amount, which is determined by risks associated with a particular business.

In the state of Florida, business interruption insurance is incredibly important, particularly for businesses located along the coast who may be at a higher risk of shutting down for repairs. This type of insurance will protect a business from being stranded after a disaster.

How Synergy Insurance Can Help

Synergy Insurance specializes in writing insurance policies for people and businesses throughout the state of Florida. In addition to serving their customers, the team at Synergy also wants to ensure that their customers and businesses are well informed and aware of how their policies work so that they can prepare for potential accidents and/ or disasters.

Do’s and Don’ts of Home Renovations

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homeowners insurance

Starting a home improvement project is exciting, but it can expensive. Home projects involve the cost of construction, labor and job materials. On top of that, improvements and additions can also cost homeowners even more in insurance.

Some examples of projects that may increase homeowners’ insurance premiums include installing a pool, hot tub or even a trampoline. While these home and property additions are fun, there are other home improvements that can actually save money and lower insurance premiums. These projects include a new roof and making plumbing, electrical, and heating or cool system updates.

Choosing a home improvement project that is enjoyable versus practical can be difficult. When it comes down to it, choose a home improvement project that increases the safety and efficiency of your home. It will pay for itself in the long run.

Here are some “Do’s” and “Don’ts” for home renovation projects.

Home Renovation Do’s

  • Do repair or install a new roof when needed. Never underestimate the importance of taking care of “the roof over your head.”
  • Do make upgrades, improvements, and regular maintenance to your heating/cooling system, such as your central air system.
  • Do upgrade the electrical in your home, including the electrical box that sits outside of your home. This is especially important for older homes. Upgrading your electrical can help you avoid fires.
  • Do upgrade the plumbing in your home. Pay close attention to areas that are prone to leaks, like sinks. Taking care of your plumbing can avoid leaks that can damage your home’s interior, your furniture, and other important belongings.
  • Do-It-Yourselfers, do wear safety equipment. Hard hats, gloves, and goggles are key when attempting a home renovation project.
  • Do ask for help. Seek advice from others who have done similar projects.
  • Do upgrade old appliances for new, higher efficiency models. Check your stove, fridge and washer/dryer.
  • Do enjoy it. Home improvement can be rewarding.
  • Do create a plan for your project.

Home Renovation Don’ts

  • Don’t attempt a project you’re not comfortable with.
  • Don’t start a home renovation project without a budget and a plan.
  • Don’t work with a contractor who is unlicensed.
  • Don’t begin a home renovation project without first discussing it with your insurance company. You will be surprised how much a project can impact your insurance premiums!
  • Don’t waste time and money. Create a plan and stick with it.

One of the best things you can do to save money while making home improvements is to choose the home renovation projects that make your home safe and more efficient. These can reduce your insurance premiums and increase your return on investment. Also, making sure you have the proper coverage can save you time and money down the road. Get a free quote on any of our products today!

If you have questions regarding a home renovation project and if you’re concerned about how this will impact your insurance premiums, call Synergy Insurance to speak with a licensed agent today. While you’re reviewing your current homeowners insurance, check out our Home Insurance Claims eBook, filled with real-life scenarios and whether or not they would be covered with a basic home insurance policy. Click the image to get started!

Homeowners Insurance - Home Insurance

Springtime A/C Maintenance For Your Home

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homeowners insurance

Floridians quickly turn on the A/C in their homes without giving it much thought. Warm weather is the norm in Florida so few homeowners may take the opportunity to have their A/C unit serviced before temperatures soar into the 90’s.

Although the spring might be a time for backyard barbecues or lazy afternoons on the beach, it’s also the best time to have your A/C unit serviced and also look for any needed repairs in preparation for the upcoming hot summer season. Taking the time now to make sure your A/C is working properly will ensure that your home is safe and comfortable all summer.

How do you know if you need to have your A/C unit serviced or repaired? Read on for some tell-tale signs that your A/C might need some work and also some tips on how to keep your unit running smoothly.

  • Keep your unit clear of bushes and shrubs. One of the easiest and money-saving things you can do to ensure that your A/C unit runs smoothly is to keep the area around your unit clear. Be sure to trim or cut back any bushes or shrubs growing near it. Sticks, branches, and leaves can find their way into your unit, which can cause a clog resulting in a malfunction.
  • Replace the filter. The most common reasons for A/C unit failure is due to a dirty filter. Replacing the air filter in your unit is easy and relatively inexpensive. By taking the time to check and replace your filter as needed, your A/C unit will not only run smoothly but also keep the air in your home clean.
  • Schedule an annual check up. Every A/C unit should be inspected by a pro at least once per year, even if you are good about checking it on a regular basis. The best time to get your A/C serviced is now – before the summer really heats up.

Although it may cost a little to have a service tech look at your unit or to perform an annual “tune up”, this can actually save you money. If your A/C unit goes down in the middle of the summer, then it can end up costing you more to get emergency repairs.

If the A/C unit in your home is acting or sounding a little funny or if it isn’t turning on at all, then it is time for maintenance and service. Even if your A/C unit sounds or seems to be running fine, there could be some issues you may not be aware of.

spring cleaning
If you’re going to be replacing your A/C unit, make sure and talk to your insurance agent first. They will be able to find you the best ways to keep your homeowner’s insurance premiums affordable.

Skip the dangerous this year, and stick to all-natural remedies for spring cleaning! Check out our Spring Cleaning eBook for some safe and effective ways to make your home spotless this year. Click the image to get your copy!

Spring is the Best Time for Routine Maintenance

homeowners insuranceSpring is by far the best time for scheduling routine maintenance, service, and making any necessary repairs to the A/C unit in your home before it gets too hot. Take the time now to schedule maintenance on your unit to ensure your home is safe and comfortable for the summer.

Here at Synergy Insurance Group, we’re dedicated to making sure you’re taken care of. Our insurance agents will help you find the best rates for your homeowner’s insurance. Contact us today to get a free quote on any type of coverage!

Is Workers’ Compensation Required?

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workers comp

If you run a business, you may have some small business insurance, such as a commercial auto policy or professional liability insurance. When it comes to workers compensation insurance, you may have some questions.

  • But what about “workers’ comp”?
  • Is it worth it?
  • Is it required?
  • Should you get it?

Many business owners are unsure if they are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. Depending on the type of business you run, workers’ compensation may be required in the state of Florida.

So, what exactly is workers’ comp and do you need it?

Let’s find out.

What is “Workers’ Comp”?

Workers’ compensation is insurance that protects both the employee and employer in the event an employee is harmed on the job. Workers’ compensation will provide compensation to the employee for their lost wages, medical expenses, and even long-term care, in the event of severe injuries and/ or illnesses. If an employee collects workers’ comp, then by law they cannot sue the employer. It protects you, your employee, and your business.

Is Workers’ Compensation Required for My Business?

In the state of Florida, if you have four or more employees, you must provide workers’ compensation insurance. If a business operates in the construction industry or in any other special trade, then it’s required. Even if your business is “seasonal,” you still have to provide workers’ comp coverage to seasonal workers.

Workers’ compensation must be compliant with local and state regulations. This means that you must purchase it from a licensed insurance carrier. Even if it’s not required, it’s a good idea.

What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover?

The most basic workers’ compensation insurance policy typically covers any injuries, illnesses or even death to a worker as a result of an accident that occurred on the property of a business or a job site contracted by the business. If an employee is harmed or suffers an injury or death while on your company’s watch, then they’re entitled to workers’ compensation…which could fall on you.

Workers’ comp provides compensation to employees for lost wages, medical bills and expenses, short- and long-term care. There’s a lot it covers.

The Dangers of Not Having Workers’ Compensation Insurance

Even if it’s not required, there are still dangers to not carrying workers’ comp insurance that you should be aware of. For example:

  • If an employee gets cut on the shredder, you might be liable.
  • If they fall off a chair, you might be liable.
  • Asbestos in your ceiling, you might be liable.
  • Burned on the stove, you might be liable.
  • Car wreck in your parking lot, you might be liable.
  • Hernia while lifting a box, you might be liable.
  • Bad chair leads to a bad back, you might be liable.

As you know, a lot can happen. Protect your business. Protect yourself.

With workers’ compensation, not only are you protected in the event of an accident on the job but you’re also protecting the integrity and reputation of your business.  You will have an easier time hiring good people if they know you have it. They know about it and ask about it. Show them you care, get covered.

How We Can Help with Workers’ Compensation Insurance Quotes

If you’re interested in learning more about small business insurance, including workers’ compensation, call Synergy Insurance today for a quote. Synergy Insurance can help businesses with various types of small business insurance in addition to worhomeowners insurancekers’ compensation. Don’t take the risk.

Call Synergy Insurance today for business insurance quotes for workers’ compensation, or click the button to fill out a free quote form!

Business Insurance: Who Needs It?

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business insurance

Everyone knows that running a business comes with a lot of responsibility. You might have employees, a large customer base, equipment, or other assets, which could mean high liability. Even if you just provide a service and don’t require inventory or assets, such as People, Property, and Equipment (PP&E), this doesn’t mean that your business isn’t subject to liability. There are a lot of ways you’re liable.

It can be stressful.

So, let’s lower that stress, and let’s lower your risk. To mitigate operational and legal risks, you have business insurance. But is it worth it? Let’s look at a few options.

  • Professional Liability Insurance – Let’s start with a common type of business insurance: professional liability. This is a great option for any business that provides a product or service to customers. This protects you if you are sued because of damages to your customers caused by your service or product. It’s great to have no matter what kind of company you run.
  • Commercial Auto Insurance – If your business owns a vehicle – whether for service or sales – then commercial auto insurance is important. In the state of Florida, you have to have it. Commercial auto insurance protects you, your employees, and drivers as well as the vehicles themselves in accidents. If you have one, or you have a fleet, you’ll want this.
  • Workers’ Compensation Insurance – If you have employees, you want workers’ compensation insurance. Depending on your business, workers’ compensation insurance may be required in the state of Florida. If your business is in a high-risk trade, such as construction or HVAC, workers’ compensation may be a necessity.
  • Commercial Property Insurance – Whether you’re business is ran in a retail store, restaurant, or other commercial space, it is important to protect your work space. This isn’t required in Florida, however it is a wise idea for business owners to fully protect themselves in case of a lawsuit.

If one of your employees is harmed on the job, then they can sue you for lost wages, medical expenses, and even pain and suffering. If you don’t have workers’ compensation, you could be liable.

Why You Need Small Business Insurance

Let’s face it, you’re always thinking about your costs. Sometimes, businesses try to avoid purchasing business insurance so they can avoid paying high premiums as well as keep their costs low. This can end up costing you more overall if there is a lawsuit with an employee or even a customer. These can be so damaging, that your business may be forced to shut its doors.

At the end of the day, small business insurance is a small price to pay to ensure that you’re protected. It’s common sense.

homeowners insuranceHow Synergy Insurance Can Help with Small Business Insurance Quotes

If you want to learn more about small business insurance and how it can help you and your business, contact Synergy Insurance. We help businesses with commercial liability, commercial auto, and commercial property in addition to workers’ compensation. Call us today for business insurance quotes to get the insurance that your business needs to ensure that you stay in business for years to come.

homeowners insurance

How to Choose the Right Auto Insurance Policy

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auto insurance

Finding the right auto insurance policy could feel like trying to aim at a moving target. You need to consider factors such as your own lifestyle and preferences, as well as local laws and regulations to make the right decision. Don’t rush into choosing an auto insurance policy – take the time and research to find the right amount of coverage for you and your family!

Here are what to consider when choosing your car insurance policy:

Do an Annual Rate Check

Auto insurance policy is not “set it and forget it.” Your circumstances may change, and you may need coverage different from the years prior. Make a habit of conducting a rate check before renewing your coverage, to make sure you’re getting the best policy possible.

Get a Personalized Quote

It’s important to get a customized quote from an agent who understands the local laws and regulations to make sure all your questions and concerns are addressed while taking into account your unique lifestyle and financial situations. Our agents are always available to help customers find the perfect policy for their needs and budget specific to the state of Florida.

Select a Top-Rated Insurer

Visit websites that rate auto insurers, such as Consumer Reports, to find out the latest ratings for auto insurance providers. See how insurers measure up in dealing with claims, payments, and non-claim problems to make sure they can meet your expectations.

Get Clear On Your Financial Picture

There’s often a give-and-take between deductible and premium — if you opt for a higher deductible, you’d lower your premium. Figure out what you can comfortably afford, and consider factors such as your driving record to see how they impact your premium. Don’t neglect your own risk-tolerance. After all, part of purchasing insurance is for the piece of mind.

You should also take into account your other assets. If you’re a homeowner and/or have sizable financial assets, you may want to protect your assets by increasing your liability coverage limits above the legal minimums. To make sure you’re covered without paying more than you have to, get a personalized quote from an experienced agent. Here at Synergy, we’re always ready to help.

Consider Your Unique Circumstances

auto insuranceThere’re many factors that’d affect your premium and deductibles — e.g. your driving record, car make and model, driving habit or mileage, and even location (more accidents happen in densely populated areas.) Since there’re so many moving parts that could determine the best policy for you based on lifestyle, preferences, and circumstances, it’s always advisable to speak to an experienced agent before finalizing your decision.

Safety behind the wheel is crucial. In case of emergency, always have the right documents on hand. Our Auto Accident Workbook has all the important information needed to file a claim, so you can take the guesswork out of your coverage. Click the image to get your copy today, and keep it on file in your vehicle!

Cheap Car Insurance May Not Be Affordable

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car insurance

Nobody wants to pay extra for auto insurance. There’s nothing wrong with that. However, if you make your decision based on cost alone, you could be setting yourself up for potential sticker shock and safety issues down the line. Avoid the hassle that comes with cheap car insurance, and educate yourself on the differences between ‘cheap’ and ‘affordable.’ Here are some potential mistakes that come with cheap car insurance!

Risking Your Assets

Most cheap auto insurance policies only provide liability coverage that meets the state minimum limit. In the event of a serious accident, that amount may not be enough to cover the damage. If you’re found to be legally liable, the court could order you to make up the difference by taking money out of your savings or other assets.

Here at Synergy, our agents specialize in car insurance policies in the state of Florida. We understand the local laws and regulations better than anyone else and will give you the best quote to meet your needs and budget without putting you in unnecessary risks.

High Out-Of-Pocket Cost

A “cheap” car insurance policy usually lures consumers in with a low premium. However, a low premium often translates into high deductible and insufficient coverage. That means you could be in for an unpleasant surprise if you get into an accident and face a sizable repair bill.

Poor Customer Service and Claim Support

Providers of low-cost car insurance rarely invest in high-quality customer support. The price of their products is simply not structured to provide quality customer service or train knowledgeable agents to support their customers. Moreover, these providers often push for cheaper replacement auto insuranceparts during repair to cut cost. These non-OEM parts are often less durable and more prone to rusting. Some of them may not even meet federal safety standards, ultimately putting you and your family at risk. If you purchase cheap auto insurance, you may save a few bucks upfront but suffer the frustration, not to mention wasted time and energy, when you most need the support.

Safety behind the wheel is crucial. In case of emergency, always have the right documents on hand. Our Auto Accident Workbook has all the important information needed to file a claim, so you can take the guesswork out of your coverage. Click the image to get your copy today, and keep it on file in your vehicle!