College Students and Insurance

College Student in Your Household? Check Your Insurance Coverage

Peter Wallin, Insurance Agent Elmira NY

If you’re helping one of your children go off to college for the first time, or return to college, we may be able to help you save some money and gain some extra protection.

Here are four things to consider about insurance when a child enters college.

1. You could get a discount on your auto insurance. Because you’ll have one less driver living at home when your son or daughter goes off to school, your household might get a discount — as long as they don’t take a car along. If he or she does take a set of wheels, contact our agency. We can review your coverage to make sure your child is properly insured.

2. Your homeowners insurance might extend to his or her belongings. Usually, the belongings of your child-turned-college-student will be covered by your homeowners insurance, but it’s best to be sure. If for some reason the coverage doesn’t extend, consider purchasing renters insurance. Students who live off campus may not be covered by their parents’ homeowners policy and may need to purchase their own renters insurance.

3. Student loans might call for extra protection. If student loans are involved, you might want to consider life insurance* for your son or daughter. It can help financially in the case of an unexpected tragedy (although no one wants to think about that). If a tragedy never occurs (thankfully), your son or daughter can also opt to carry the life insurance to the next stage of life – making it a wise investment.

4. Insurance can help in the most unexpected cases. Accidents happen — sometimes tragically. Extra liability coverage through a Personal Catastrophe Liability policy, commonly called an umbrella policy, can help protect you should a lawsuit ensue from a big mistake.

Most importantly, let your insurance agent know of the changes happening in your household so we can double check your specific situation and coverage needs.

Fire Claims – Be prepared when disaster strikes

FIRE CLAIMS
2011 was a rough year
for some of our valued
homeowner clients:
by Peter Wallin, Insurance Agent 
www.WallinInsurance.com

 

Here’s a few actual fire claims that occurred right here in our community:

**Lighting struck a tree and spread to a storage shed in Big Flats – resulting in major loss of household contents and business inventory.  Thankfully the homeowner had the right insurance coverages for their home and business.

**Fire at a beautiful log home in Lowman.  The entire house burned to the ground, along with all the contents.  I was on the scene with the homeowner as we worked closely with Erie Insurance to provide immediate financial assistance.

**A gas spill in an auto repair shop in Alpine.  The owner tried to extinguish the blaze but it was out of control.  He will be out of business for several months as his facility is rebuilt. It’s a good thing he has “Loss of Income” coverage.

These are not only devastating financial losses, but they are also very emotional.  I have learned in the 25 years I have been in this business the importance of providing proper insurance coverage (at a reasonable price!) but also that it is my job to be there when the client needs me the most. 

In a letter to the Editor in the Elmira Star-Gazette the following was written:
   Family says thanks for help after fire
    “Many thanks to the firefighters, our insurance agent, Peter Wallin, family, friends, neighbors, co-workers and even strangers who helped us through the devastating fire that destroyed our home on October 14.  You have all been so very kind and we are so very grateful.”
              Bob ad Debra Watts, Lowman

As we enter 2012 I urge you to take a look at your own home insurance policy. Make sure you are comfortable with the coverage limits.  Be sure you are prepared for whatever disaster (big or small) may come your way.  And please contact my office if you have any questions or would like to discuss your situation in detail.  It’s our job to help you!

Peter Wallin
www.WallinInsurance.com
Elmira, New York

Candle Safety in the Home

Insurance agent Peter Wallin discusses
safety in the home

Tricks of the Wicks

House-warming candles, left unmanaged, can lead to dangerous fires

 

Candles are a great way to make a house feel like home, but if left unattended, they can have devastating effects.

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, candles cause an estimated 15,600 fires in homes each year. Over half of those fires start because the candle is too close to combustible material and one in 10 are related to the homeowner falling asleep while the candle is lit.

Thankfully, most candle-related fires can be prevented. Here’s what to know (courtesy of the U.S. Fire Administration):

• Avoid using lighted candles.
• If you do use candles, ensure they are in sturdy metal, glass, or ceramic holders and placed where they cannot be easily knocked down.
• Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets.
• Set a good example by using matches, lighters and fire carefully.
• Children should never be allowed to play with matches, lighters or candles.
• Never put candles on a Christmas tree.
• Never leave the house with candles burning.
• Extinguish candles after use.
• Establish a fire-safe home, especially a safe sleeping environment.
• Never leave burning candles unattended

For more safety tips on using candles, see the National Candle Association Web site, or visit www.WallinInsurance.com

in Elmira, New York

Fireplace Safety Tips

By Peter Wallin, Insurance Agent
Elmira, NY
www.WallinInsurance.com

Nothing adds warmth to the cold winter evenings than a nice fire in the fireplace – or woodstove or pellet stove.  Before you light up another fire, though, check this safety list:

• Keep a chimney cap to keep out debris and small animals
• Always use a metal screen or glass fireplace door.
• Have your chimney inspected annually and cleaned as necessary by a qualified specialist. As it burns, wood can leave a deposit called creosote along chimney walls, and it can catch fire if not removed regularly.
• Burn well-seasoned hardwood that has been split for a minimum of 6 months.  Never burn Christmas trees or treated wood.
• Never burn cardboard, newspapers, or trash in your unit.
• Keep furniture, decorations, and other potentially flammable material at least two feet from the fireplace.
• Keep a fire extinguisher handy.

For more information contact Peter Wallin at www.WallinInsurance.com

Elmira NY Insurance Agent gives Insurance Maintenance Tips

Insurance Tips

An Ounce of Prevention
- By Peter Wallin, Insurance Agent
Elmira, New York   www.WallinInsurance.com

Turns out, your mom was right when she always said “an ounce
of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Whether you’re maintaining your home
or your car, a few easy preventative steps can keep your home in tip-top shape,
and your car purring like a kitten.

Home
Maintenance:

• Clean up any water spills immediately to prevent mold growth. Exhaust fans can help draw out excess moisture as well.
• Even if you think you live in a safe town, lock your doors and windows at night and when you leave. It’s a tiny step that can keep you safe just in case someone with sticky fingers slides into town.
• Only you can prevent house fires. All right, it’s not exactly how the saying goes, but by making sure that your smoke alarms are in working order, and that you have fire extinguishers strategically located, you can greatly reduce your chance of serious house fires.

 

Auto
Maintenance:

• Change your oil regularly.
  Oil keeps your engine lubricated, reduces friction and reduces nasty sludge from building up in your engine. Regular oil changes can keep your car running better for longer.
• Replace your windshield wipers every six months. If you see streaks on your windshield or hear strange squeaking sounds, it’s time for a new set of windshield wipers. A new set of wipers can significantly improve your vision during bad weather, which might make all the difference in the world.
• Rotate your tires.
  Your front and rear tires wear differently, and rotating them can help increase their lifespan and prevent blowouts. Every car is different, but many tire manufacturers recommend rotating your tires every 6,000-8,000 miles.

By following these simple steps, you can reduce your chances
of car and home trouble, and save yourself time, hassle and money. Want another
way to save those things? Bundle your insurance with ERIE Insurance. By covering your home and car both
through us, you’ll pay less, and have the peace of mind of having just one
insurance Agent to turn to whenever the need strikes. Contact me at www.WallinInsurance.com to learn more

Carbon Monoxide Detectors now Required in Homes

By Peter Wallin
Elmira, NY Insurance Agent                                     
www.WallinInsurance.com

CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTORS REQUIRED UNDER NEW LAW

Amanda Hansen was a teenager whose life was tragically ended by a carbon monoxide leak from a defective boiler while she was sleeping at a friend’s house in a Buffalo Suburb in January 2009.  When I heard about it I was heartbroken.  I used to live in this neighborhood.

Amanda’s Law, passed in the 2009 Session of the New York State Legislature, established a new requirement for installation of carbon monoxide detectors in ALL homes.

Under the law, one-family homes, two-family homes, dwellings located in condominiums or cooperatives, and multiple dwellings must have a carbon monoxide detector installed regardless of the date of construction or sale.

The new law requires that the carbon monoxide detector be a device meeting New York State standards, and that it be installed in an operable condition in dwellings where there are appliances or systems that may emit carbon monoxide or have an attached garage.

Prior to Amanda’s Law, carbon monoxide detectors were required in one-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and dwellings located in condominiums or cooperatives only if they were constructed or offered for sale after July 30, 2002. For multiple dwellings (such as a tenement, hotel, and dormitories) carbon monoxide detectors were required if they were constructed or offered for sale after August 9, 2005.

As a result of Amanda’s Law, a carbon monoxide detector will be found in nearly all residential structures in the state. This creates a safer living environment for New York residents and creates a greater awareness of home safety issues that are intensified by seasonal heating issues prevalent in the Northeast.

Amanda’s Law took effect on February 22, 2010.  For more information please visit me at www.WallinInsurance.com or Peter@WallinInsurance.com

NY Flood 2011 Insurance update

FLOOD 2011 Update                          

By Peter Wallin, Insurance Agent
Elmira NY
www.WallinInsurance.com

It has been a devastating few months for many of our friends and neighbors in the Southern Tier.  Yes, we did have some insurance clients who had flood insurance policies and they are working to have their claims settled.  Unfortunately, many affected people did not live in a flood zone and were not required by their bank to carry flood insurance.  The damages they sustained were not covered.

We have seen several smaller insurance claims paid when the homeowner carries a special endorsement called “Sewer and Drain Backup.”  PLEASE make sure you have this coverage.  It is very affordable and our companies have paid numerous claims when there is a power outage and a pump stops working, or back up of water from an overflowing pipe or drain. 

As far as auto insurance goes, if you carry comprehensive coverage on your car you are covered for flood.  Water that damages your vehicle is something that will be picked up by your insurance company.  This is subject to your deductible.

Please read your home and auto insurance policies carefully so you fully understand what is covered and what is not.  As always, we are available to answer your questions.                   

Peter Wallin
WallinInsurance Agency Inc
1364 College Ave
Elmira, NY 14901
877-310-7276
www.WallinInsurance.com

“Tornado’s can be destructive in NY” says Elmira Insurance Agent

 Don’t Let a Tornado Topple You  
      By Peter Wallin, Elmira Insurance Agent
      www.WallinInsurance.com

 

Tornadoes are one of nature’s most powerful and destructive forces; an F5, the strongest and most violent of tornadoes, can level almost any house and its occupants. Thankfully,  F5 tornadoes are rare. Most are weaker and can be survived.   We recently had a tornado spotted in Chemung County.

Now is the time to prepare for them if you haven’t already.

Tornadoes are most common from  late winter through mid-summer.

Here’s what to do before and during a tornado:

• Know where you can take shelter in
  the event of the storm. Practice a family tornado drill once a year.
• Prepare by gathering emergency supplies, including nonperishable food, water, medication, batteries and flashlights. Keep the emergency kit packed and easily accessible.
• Knowthesigns of a tornado: persistent winds, swirling dust or debris under a cloud base, loud continuous roar or rumble.
• Know the difference and help your children understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.

1. Tornado Watch: Current weather conditions could create a tornado, so be on the lookout.
2. Tornado Warning: A tornado has been sighted in the area. Seek shelter immediately and listen to the radio for further updates. A tornado warning is much more serious than a tornado watch.

• If a tornado is likely or known, take shelter indoors, preferably in a basement or interior first-floor room or hallway.
• Avoid windows and seek additional protection under large furniture or mattresses. This will protect you from flying debris.
• After a tornado has struck, stay out of heavily damaged homes or buildings. Keep clear of downed power lines, broken glass and other debris. Avoid lighting matches and cigarettes due to possibly ruptured gas lines. Try to stay calm. Help will arrive.

And remember, be prepared financially, too, before a storm ever hits. Don’t let nature blow away what you’ve worked hard to build. If you’ve made improvements to your home or purchased large ticket items, let us know. We can ensure they are properly insured. We can also help you review your homeowners policy anytime so you’re aware of the coverage limits and can adjust them as needed. Give us a call.

Flood, Wind, Rain & Ice: How does my insurance handle this?

Our Elmira,  NY area has seen several weather related cases during the Summer of 2011.  Here’s a brief rundown of coverages, according to Insurance Agent Peter Wallin

Heavy winds – Microbursts.  Trees falling into yards and on houses.  YES, There is insurance to pay for the removal of trees, and subsequent damage to your home.  Talk to your agent to make sure you are comfortable with your deductible.  If you have trees that are big or old you may want to take action to remove them before the next big storm.  Also, if a neighbors’ tree falls on your property YOU are responsible for the damage you incur, not your neighbor.  This is considered and act of God and technically your neighbor is not responsible.  the same goes if your tree hits their home! 

Rain or Ice - You may have rain or ice build up and then backup on your roof or through a window gap.  The resulting damage to your property is covered.

Sewer and Drain backup – this is often an optional coverage you can add to your home or landlord property.  It will pay for backup of water through drains, toilets, tubs or a sump pump that fails to work.  We have paid many claims for clients who have this coverage, and we’ve denied them when they don’t have this endorsement

Flood – here’s the problem.  This is not a covered peril on a regular home policy.  You need to have a seperate flood insurance policy.  This is a FEMA product that can be purchased from your local insurance agent.  Once you buy the policy, coverage begins in 30 days.  Beware that banks require flood insurance if your property is located in a flood zone.  But anyone can buy it.  There is options for building coverage as well as contents.   Read your policy carefully so you understand what is and what is not considered a flood.

For more information visit www.WallinInsurance.com or Peter Wallin at Peter@WallinInsurance.com

Elmira Insurance Agent Discusses Fatal Fire

                 Fire!- Tragically, we lost one of our clients
                       by Peter Wallin, Insurance Agent, Wallin Insurance Agency, Inc.

It was the morning of December 23^rd.  I saw on the news that there was a house fire in Elmira,NY.  The reporter stated that there was a possible fatality.

Once my staff and I determined that the house belonged to one of our insurance clients, I drove to the house and saw the disaster with my own eyes.   Ashes were still burning and ice from the chilly air was forming where the fire hoses had left their trace.  It was soon confirmed to me by the city police that one of the residents had perished.  The fire apparently had started late the previous evening from cigarettes smoldering in an ash tray.

It is the day before Christmas Eve and it had now become my job to have a conversation with the man of the house, Marty.  In addition to the tragic loss of his wife, everything inside the home was destroyed – furniture, clothing and personal belongings.   

I was thankful I had created a strong relationship with our flagship insurance carrier – Erie Insurance.  I immediately secured a money advance for Marty so he could buy some clothes.  So while most families were rushing to purchase last-minute Christmas gifts at Wal-Mart, this man was buying essentials for himself.  Yes, it was sad.  

The funeral was difficult to attend but I knew I had to go and pay my respects.  My job as his insurance agent was just beginning.  I needed to assure the family I would work very hard to help them through the next few months.

Over the ensuing days I had frequent conversations with Marty.  We had to appraise the remains of the home and the contents and to obtain an insurance settlement that would allow him to pay for a new house and new furnishings.  This took time only because we wanted to be sure he had a plan (he did not want to rebuild on the same site) so the money would be wisely used.  I introduced him to a local banker that would assist him in preparing for his new life.

Moving forward, the healing process will take a long time – but I am proud to say we were there for him each and every minute.  That’s the value of an insurance agent – more than just price for a product (sorry, Geico!).

I have thought long and hard about sharing this story in an appropriate manner.  I want to share with all my clients that insurance, if done right, is a truly remarkable product that can help at a time when it is needed most.  And I am so honored and pleased to have such a dedicated and supportive staff that understands their role – that of serving our clients.

I called Marty yesterday to ask his permission to use this story in my newsletter.   He said it would be ok.  He then said:  “I appreciate what you and your staff have done for me.  I am now looking to use the insurance money to buy a house with several bedrooms (so his 2 daughters can visit him) in the country with some land.  I want to be able to spread out, relax a bit and take a deep breath of some country air. “