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How to Create an Inventory of Your Valuables

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home inventory

We never anticipate disaster. A fire, a storm, a flood, or theft—they leave chaos and vulnerability in their wake. Did you know taking proper inventory of your valuables helps make sure your insurance claim is covered? When you lose everything, it’s difficult to go back in your mind and remember what you had, when you bought it, and how much it was worth. This adds stress to an already stressful situation.

However, using a home inventory checklist makes it easy to document your valuables now to give you peace of mind later. Storm season in Florida will be here before you know it. Here’s how to create an inventory of your valuables.

How to Get Started

At Synergy Insurance Group we understand protection. That’s why we created this free Home Inventory Checklist you can quickly download to help you keep a detailed account of your property. Once you’ve finished your room-by-room inventory, we suggest you talk to your insurance agent to decide if you have the right level of coverage based on your home valuables.

But I Don’t Have Anything of Value

Have you had this thought? Think again.

Your grandmother’s ring, your new juicer, your autographed copy of War and Peace – every room has something in it you wouldn’t want to lose. Musical instruments, knives, furniture, rugs, shoes, electronics, bicycles, outdoor equipment…we guarantee your home property items add up to more than you think.

The Nitty Gritty Details

homeowners insuranceA proper home inventory is more than a simple list of what you’d like to replace in the event of a disaster. Your insurance company will request a detailed account of home valuables which can include: receipts to prove dates of purchase and original purchase price and photos of the item.

As you document your items, write down brand names and serial numbers, and even consider taking video and verbally recording major items. Store your inventory, receipts, and photographs/video in a fire-proof safe deposit box.

It’s never too early to be prepared, so get started on your own Home Inventory Checklist today! Click the image to download your free copy, and protect your valuables this year.

How to Drink Responsibly this Holiday Season

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holiday safety

Between the food, the friends, and the festivities, it isn’t hard to go overboard on the booze during the holidays. It isn’t always clear when or where you hit your limit, so make sure you enjoy a safer holiday with a few tips for drinking responsibly.

Slow Down

We get it. Family reunions on a holiday come with their share of both fun and stress. We get together and raise our glasses in toasts, but we also reach for another drink every time Great Aunt Peg asks why the children keep throwing food at each other. If you’re drinking because of anxiety, try going outside for a few minutes to breathe and reset instead of opening another bottle of wine.

Stay aware of what you’re drinking and why throughout the day. Drink a glass of water for every alcoholic beverage you have, and/or limit yourself to a drink (or less) per course.

Know Your Myths

A cold shower or jolt of caffeine will not sober you up.  If you’re looking to limit the rate at which your blood absorbs the alcohol, the best thing you can do is eat.

Eating has no effect on your body after you’ve already been drinking, but it will affect your metabolism if you’re eating and drinking at roughly the same time. In other words, if you really want a couple cups of eggnog at the beginning of the party, make sure it’s to wash down some hors d’oeuvres.

Make Contingency Plans

Choose a designated driver before the party or schedule an Uber. Police officers are hyper-vigilant on the holidays, so even if you don’t feel drunk it’s likely you’re over the limit.

Driving while intoxicated is extremely risky and always the wrong choice. The problem is, once intoxicated it can seem like the right choice. “I didn’t have that much…I stopped drinking an hour ago…” the usual excuses. And why? Because calling a cab is expensive? Or phoning a friend feels inconvenient? So, plan ahead when you’re still thinking straight and keep yourself and others safe.

Homeowners Insurance - Home InsuranceCall Synergy Insurance to speak with one of our friendly and helpful agents today if you’d like more information about homeowner’s insurance. We provide exceptional coverage to Florida homeowners so they can enjoy the moments that matter most, during the holidays and all year long.

Your homeowners insurance covers the basics, but what about holiday accidents? Download our Home Insurance Claims eBook today and put your mind at ease before all of the holiday craziness.

How to Safely Deep Fry a Turkey

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holiday safety

Deep-fried turkey is mouth-watering good. Home chefs everywhere are getting ready to roll up their sleeves this Thanksgiving to prepare an unforgettable meal and for many that means trying something new—like a deep-fried turkey. If you want to join the fad, take heed first—deep fried turkeys are the cause of thousands of home fires around the US every year. Avoid an accident with a little research and take the following tips to heart!

Prepping the Turkey and the Fryer

The fryer needs to be at least 10 feet away from the house and should be placed on the flattest surface you can find. Never fry a turkey on an incline.

Ensure the turkey is completely thawed and then thoroughly dried. It takes about 24 hours to thaw a turkey for every 4 pounds, so you’ll need to give yourself plenty of time. If there’s any water in the turkey at all, it will expand and cause the scalding hot oil to spill over onto the burner and start a fire.

Keep a fire extinguisher on hand at all times in case of a fire. Remember—you cannot put out an oil fire with water!

Frying the Turkey

You will not be able to leave the turkey while it’s frying (it takes about 3 minutes per pound.) Be vigilant about children or dogs going anywhere near the fryer, and appoint another (sober!) adult to keep an eye on them.

Use a fryer with a thermostat or buy one of your own, and ensure the temperature doesn’t climb higher than it should (it’s normally 350° for a vegetable-based oil.)

Finally, be careful touching the fryer as the lid and sides can become extremely hot and cause severe burns.

Synergy Insurance Group wants you to get the fabled crisp skin and delectably tender meat that deep frying a turkey can bring, we just want you to do so safely! Serving our customers is our priority and protecting you is what we do best. If you have questions about coverage, contact Synergy Insurance today to speak directly with an agent. Happy Holidays and stay safe out there!

homeowners insuranceThe holidays can be stressful, and insurance coverage is probably the last thing on your mind during the hustle and bustle. Our Home Insurance Claims eBook is your one-stop guide to what exactly is and is not covered with your homeowners insurance policy. We know family time can get a little crazy, so rest assured we’ve got you covered.

 

3 Spooky Halloween Home Insurance Nightmares

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halloween safety

It’s not the undead homeowners need to fear when Halloween rolls around. It’s gaps in your homeowner’s insurance that don’t cover hazardous Halloween mishaps! But that’s not to say you should turn the lights out, hole up inside, and forego the festivities. Here are three common household liability issues that arise on Halloween and how you can avoid them.

1. Trip or Treat?

The most common home insurance nightmare is a trick-or-treater taking a tumble on your property, cracking their head open, breaking a wrist, or twisting an ankle. Keep kids and parents safe by minimizing hazards that lead up to your door. This includes trimming back shrubs, evening out the lawn, fixing loose tiles, and clearing wood piles or other debris away. Resist the urge to use low lighting for a more mysterious experience. Keep lights bright so everyone can see where they’re going. If you don’t plan to hand out candy, turn your porch light off. Most neighbors know to take that as a sign you’re closed for business.

2. To Haunt or Not to Haunt

Go ahead, make your home spooky and give it the effect of a haunted house. But when it comes to actually scaring people, don’t even think about it. No jump scares. No popping out from behind bushes. Or chasing people with fake chainsaws. We hate to be a buzzkill, but homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover the blood pumping risks that come with extreme shock and awe, or fear. Did you know Haunted House Insurance is a real thing? It’s true, but only amusement parks, corn mazes, zombies runs, and similar events carry it—homeowners don’t.

3. Decoration Danger

Jack-o-lanterns are a tried and true way to celebrate Halloween, but they also lead to home fires every year. If you want to line your sidewalk with lanterns and your porch with pumpkins, opt for little LED candles instead of real ones. Candlelit decorations are easily forgotten and left unattended during the festivities and can be a real nightmare. Don’t leave flames unattended and keep candles away from flammable objects like fake cobwebs and witches on straw brooms! Large lawn ornaments like inflatable pumpkins can also collapse unexpectedly, so keep them far away from sidewalks or anywhere people are walking.

homeowners insuranceWith a little precaution, you’ll have the safest Halloween yet! However, if you’re looking for more protection against the proverbial ghosts and ghouls, call Synergy Insurance Group to see how we can fill in the gaps and keep your property, home, and family safe.

It’s always a good idea to review your homeowners insurance policy to get a better idea of your coverage. The holidays are a great time to go over any questions you may have with your agent. In the meantime, our Home Insurance Claims eBook goes over the ins-and-outs of your coverage, answering your holiday-related coverage questions. Click the image to get started!

3 Tips for Better Fall Clean Up

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fall clean up

When temperatures start to warm, spring cleaning is on everyone’s mind. But as temperatures start to drop, have you thought about fall clean up? Here are three key steps you need to take to prepare your home for whatever winter has in store.

Caulk and Seal Windows 

Not only will caulking and sealing help your home feel cozier, but it will also improve your home’s energy efficiency and alleviate utility fees. If you’re like the average American, a third of your heated air is lost to poorly sealed windows and doors (that goes for A/C too!)

Winterize Your Lawn

Fertilize your lawn in early October to help it through the colder winter season without experiencing damage or disease. Depending on where you live in Florida, this is a good time to aerate your lawn and overseed the turf. If you’re in the panhandle, you might consider winterizing your irrigation system as well.

Clean Out Your Gutters 

As leaves and debris build up in gutters, you risk potential water damage to your home. Roofing problems and even foundation damage can occur if you don’t keep gutters clean. This task isn’t easy but it’s probably one of the most critical fall chores and should be at the top of everyone’s to-do list. 

Synergy Insurance Group wants your home to be as safe as possible regardless of the time of year. Contact us today for a free quote if you’re looking for a home insurance policy that goes the extra mile to keep your home and family secure. 

Now that your home is cleaned up for fall, make sure it’s prepared for hurricane season! Download our Disaster Preparedness Plan, filled with tips, hotlines and evacuation information for you and your family. Click the image to get yours today!

storm prep

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.

 

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!