Blog | Top O' Michigan Insurance Solutionshttps://tomia247.com/blog/2024-03-28T20:25:40+00:00Blog
Come back often for all the latest insurance news updates.4 Tips for Winter Roof Maintenance2020-12-30T14:52:11+00:002024-03-28T14:28:45+00:00Tyler Bartoshhttps://tomia247.com/blog/author/TBartosh/https://tomia247.com/blog/tips-for-winter-roof-maintenance/<p>The Michigan winters can bring a lot of rain, sleet, ice, wind, and of course <strong>snow</strong>. Depending on what side of the discussion you are on, the extra snow can bring heaps of fun or added work. Keeping your roof in good shape is truly a year-round job but it is especially important that you focus on solid roof maintenance during these cold-weather months. Between all of the precipitation and frigid temperatures, the winter weather can also bring on some extra wear and tear to your roof. Here are <strong>Four Winter Roof Maintenance Tips</strong> to help you prevent costly damage or losses at your property.</p>
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<h5><strong>Clear the roof and gutters of debris, leaves and branches before a major snowfall.</strong></h5>
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<li><strong>This is best completed before winter sets in. Be sure that you clear your gutters and roof of debris from the summer and fall. This can help avoid ice dams so it is important that water and snow can easily run off the surface and into your gutters.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Be sure that you also cut back any tree branches near or touching the roof. The ice build-up on the trees can cause them to hang lower or even break off causing additional damage or problems throughout the year.</strong></li>
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<li><strong><strong style="color: #01529b; font-size: 1.4em;">Remove snow and ice as soon as possible.</strong></strong>
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<li><strong>Although it may be a nice picture to look at, the snow and/or ice building up on your roof can be detrimental. The weight of snow and ice can lead to collapse or additional build-up creating ice dams. </strong></li>
<li><strong>If you can safely do so, be sure to remove all ice and snow from your roof as quickly as possible. Since these conditions can make it very slippery, it is best to hire a roof maintenance company to help take care of the snow/ice for you.</strong></li>
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<li><strong style="color: #01529b; font-size: 1.4em;">Check your attic.</strong>
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<li><strong>Pests can be one of the biggest problems a property owner can face throughout the year. Make sure that your home is "pest-proof" and that you keep an eye out for any signs that unwanted critters may have moved in with you for the winter. Some of these signs include noises in the attic, damage to gutters or holes/damage in your siding.</strong></li>
<li><strong>You will also want to make sure you have proper insulation and ventilation. These are critical to the roof when the weather begins to get colder. You may be able to notice common signs of ventilation issues such as heating/cooling issues or a build-up of condensation/moisture.</strong></li>
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<h5><strong>Get a complete roof inspection by a professional.</strong></h5>
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<li><strong>A licensed roofing contractor can provide a full inspection of your roof. They can then help identify any weaknesses or existing damage that needs repairs.</strong></li>
<li><strong>By hiring a professional, you can ensure that repairs to siding, flashing, shingles, gutters are done correctly.</strong></li>
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<p>It is always best to get this done before the severe winter weather hits but you can follow these four winter roof maintenance tips to protect your roof. Taking care of any small issues now can help prevent them from '<strong><em>snowballing'</em></strong> into a major catastrophe later in the winter. Not sure where to find a local roofing contractor, please reach out to any member of our agency for suggestions in your area. </p>
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<p><span><em class="x-el x-el-span c2-9 c2-a c2-3g c2-s c2-o c2-3i c2-3j c2-3">This Blog/Web Site does not provide insurance or legal advice. This site is for educational purposes only as well as to provide you with general information and a general understanding of insurance, not to provide specific legal advice or specific contract advice. Viewing this site, receipt of information contained on this site, or the transmission of information from or to this site does not constitute a client relationship. </em></span></p>
<p><span><em class="x-el x-el-span c2-9 c2-a c2-3g c2-s c2-o c2-3i c2-3j c2-3">The information on this Blog/Web Site is not intended to be a substitute for professional insurance or legal advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed agent in your state pertaining to insurance and legal issues.</em></span></p>
<p><span>Author: Tyler Bartosh</span></p>
<h4></h4>8 Life Events that Affect Your Insurance Needs2019-07-17T18:20:52+00:002024-03-28T10:05:19+00:00Tyler Bartoshhttps://tomia247.com/blog/author/TBartosh/https://tomia247.com/blog/8%20Life%20Events%20that%20Affect%20Your%20Insurance%20Needs/<p>Think about your most recent favorite show to binge watch. The characters continue to develop and deal with a lot of uncertain changes through each season. Unlike these characters, our lives are not scripted and that means there is a lot more unknown in life that we need to prepare for. As we age and reach different milestones in our lives, our insurance needs change. In order to ensure adequate coverage, contact your insurance broker if you’re affected by any of the following life events:</p>
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<li><strong>New home ownership</strong>— Purchasing a new home is a big investment—one that you will want to protect. After purchasing a home, ensure that you have homeowners insurance to protect against things like fire, weather damage, theft, vandalism and accidental damage. This advice also holds true if you are buying a new condo or vacation home.</li>
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<td style="width: 50%; height: 85px;"><img alt="New Home" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/Stock%20Images/family-home-475879_640.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="25%"/></td>
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<li><strong>Home renovations</strong>—Once you own a home, you may want to make updates to create a better living space. Be sure to report major home improvements to your insurance company to protect any increased value to your home. </li>
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<td style="width: 50%; height: 25px;"><img alt="Home Renovations" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/building-1080591_640.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="25%"/></td>
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<li><strong>New children</strong>—Having or adopting children is not only a huge life change, but it’s also a major financial commitment. As such, it’s important to purchase the right policy to secure your child’s future. Add your child as a beneficiary on any life insurance policies, and make sure your coverage is sufficient.</li>
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<td style="width: 50%; height: 25px;"><img alt="Family" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/family_sunset.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="25%"/></td>
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<li><strong>Teenage drivers</strong>— Teen drivers often carry the highest risk of auto accidents. While you want your teen driver to remain safe on the road, costly accidents can happen without warning. Consider adding your teen driver to your auto policy, as it is generally cheaper than purchasing a separate policy.</li>
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<td style="width: 50%; height: 25px;"><img alt="Teen Driver" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/Stock%20Images/istock-1011161156.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="25%"/></td>
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<li><strong>Retirement</strong>—When you retire, you may change residences. If you have more than one home, this is a good time to let your insurance provider know where you plan to spend your time. You may also have changing financial needs that can be protected and maximized with a life insurance or annuity product.</li>
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<td style="width: 50%; height: 25px;"><img alt="Retirement" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/Stock%20Images/istock-1174972796.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="25%"/></td>
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<li><strong>Marriage</strong>—When your marital status changes, so do your insurance needs. Marriage typically leads to the combination of households, vehicles and other property, so it is critical to update your insurance policies accordingly. What’s more, life insurance is vital to married couples as it can ease the financial burden in the event of an untimely death of a partner. Ask about discounts on car insurance for married policyholders.</li>
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<td style="width: 50%; height: 25px;"><img alt="Marriage" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/images/wedding_bw.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="25%"/></td>
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<li><strong>Valuable purchases</strong>—A standard homeowners policy has limited coverage for highly valuable items. Supplement purchases and gifts that exceed the policy’s limits with a floater—a separate policy that provides additional insurance.</li>
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<td style="width: 50%; height: 25px;"><img alt="Valuable Jewelry " src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/Stock%20Images/diamond-2594307_640.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="25%"/></td>
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<li><strong>Purchasing or selling a business</strong>—If you’re an entrepreneur, there will likely come a time when you will either buy or sell your business. During these times of major change, the proper coverage is crucial.</li>
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<td style="width: 50%; height: 25px;"><img alt="Business Sale Purchase Contract" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/Stock%20Images/contract-3002431_640.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="25%"/></td>
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<p>Insurance is critical for nearly every stage of life. Seeking coverage should be an active process, and individuals shouldn’t assume their insurance needs remain steady over time. Consider contacting your broker today to better understand your insurance and future needs.</p>
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<h4 style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.tomia247.com/about/contact-us/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Contact Us"><span>Have you had one or more of these life events recently?</span></a></h4>
<p><a href="https://www.tomia247.com/about/contact-us/" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Contact Us"><span> <img alt="Contact Us" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/icons/istock-609801866.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="75%"/></span></a></p>
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<p><span><em class="x-el x-el-span c2-9 c2-a c2-3g c2-s c2-o c2-3i c2-3j c2-3">This Blog/Web Site does not provide insurance or legal advice. This site is for educational purposes only as well as to provide you with general information and a general understanding of insurance, not to provide specific legal advice or specific contract advice. Viewing this site, receipt of information contained on this site, or the transmission of information from or to this site does not constitute a client relationship. </em></span></p>
<p><span><em class="x-el x-el-span c2-9 c2-a c2-3g c2-s c2-o c2-3i c2-3j c2-3">The information on this Blog/Web Site is not intended to be a substitute for professional insurance or legal advice. Always seek the advice of a licensed agent in your state pertaining to insurance and legal issues.</em></span></p>
<p><span>Sources: <a href="http://www.zywave.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Broker Briefcase">Zywave</a></span></p>
<p>Provided by Top O' Michigan Insurance</p>
<p>This Risk Insights is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. © 2015 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.</p>Auto Insurance Reform Bill Passed2019-05-29T21:42:35+00:002024-03-28T20:25:40+00:00Tyler Bartoshhttps://tomia247.com/blog/author/TBartosh/https://tomia247.com/blog/auto-insurance-reform-bill-passednow-what/<h2><strong>Michigan Lawmakers Pass Auto Insurance Reform Bill</strong></h2>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">After more than four decades under the current no-fault system, Michigan is about to see major reform for the first time since the No-Fault Automobile Insurance Law took effect in 1973. <span>Last week, Governor Whitmer signed a bill into law that contains a number of sweeping changes to the No Fault Act. While we are still reviewing all 125 pages of the law to understand these changes and their potential impacts, we thought we’d share a brief summary given the current level of interest.</span></p>
<p>In a statement on Friday, May 24, Governor Gretchen Whitmer wrote:</p>
<p><em>"This plan will help drivers from Detroit all the way to the U.P. It guarantees lower auto insurance rates for eight years, protects people’s choice to pick their own insurance and coverage options while preserving the safety net, and bans insurance companies from using discriminatory non-driving factors when setting rates."</em></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">As reported in last Friday’s NewsNow, the legislature overwhelmingly passed a bipartisan no-fault reform package after weeks of negotiations between the legislative leadership.</p>
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<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span></span>Allows an insured person to select an Unlimited, $500,000 or $250,000 Personal Injury Protection (PIP) option. </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span></span>Allows seniors on Medicare to opt out of purchasing PIP coverage entirely, and allows Medicaid recipients to purchase a PIP policy of $50,000. </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span></span>Permits enhanced coordination with health insurance. For insureds who select the $250,000 PIP option, the bill will allow for 100% PIP reduction with health coverage that covers injuries related to an auto accident. </li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span></span>Includes a mandatory rate rollback on the PIP line of the auto policy. The rollbacks are:
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<li style="font-weight: 400;">10% for Unlimited coverage</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">20% for $500,000</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">35% for $250,000</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">45% for $50,000</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">and 100% PIP reduction for Medicare or Enhanced opt-outs.</li>
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<li style="font-weight: 400;">Freeze PIP rates until 2028</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span></span>Increases current minimum coverage of residual liability insurance from $20,000/$40,000 to $50,000/$100,000.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span></span>Increases the mini-tort provision from $1,000 to $3,000.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span></span>Prohibits the use of most non-driving rating factors. Insurers will still be allowed to use credit information and territory as a rating factor.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Creation of a statutory form by <a href="https://www.michigan.gov/difs/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS)</a> that requires the insured's signature acknowledging coverage level. This is a consumer protection issue since the current no-fault system has been in place for over 40 years and has been advocated for by <a href="https://www.michagent.org/home" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Michigan Association of Insurance Agents</a>.</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;">Establish an anti-fraud unit within DIFS</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span>Implement a medical fee schedule for medical services based on Medicare fee schedules</span></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;"><span>Place limitations on family-provided attendant care services to 56 hour per week</span></li>
</ul>
<p style="font-weight: 400;"> <strong>What's Next?</strong></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;"> Important to note is the date the new law goes into effect: <strong>July 1, 2020</strong>. We will be your source in the upcoming weeks and months on the changes resulting from no-fault reform and the impact these have Michiganders. </p>
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<h2><strong>Will the auto insurance reform bill actually save you money?</strong></h2>
<p><strong><img alt="" src="https://www.tomia247.com/media/uploads/wallet-669458_640.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400"/><br/></strong></p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>MCCA Change</strong>: <strong>Effective July 1, 2019,<span> </span></strong>the MCCA Assessment is increasing $28<span> </span>per vehicle, per year.</p>
<p>The assessment for Antique and Collectible Autos is increasing $5.00 per vehicle,<span> </span>per year.</p>
<p>While this senate bill took an important step towards reforming the outdated and broken Michigan no-fault system, often times bills include loop holes. There are many professionals who believe it may not have the same impact as expected. </p>
<p style="font-weight: 400;">This bill also does not address the issue of collision costs. Have you looked at your most recent collision repairs? With new technology in windshields, bumpers and other areas of the vehicle, the cost for repairs in increasing rapidly.</p>Disability Insurance - How Much Do You Need?2019-05-06T21:06:54+00:002024-03-28T10:11:55+00:00Tyler Bartoshhttps://tomia247.com/blog/author/TBartosh/https://tomia247.com/blog/disability-insurance-awareness-month/<h3>How Much Disability Insurance Do You Need?</h3>
<p>May is Disability Insurance Awareness Month which means this is a great time to begin the conversation of how you can protect your ability to earn an income. One third of workers are concerned about becoming sick or disabled and not being able to work - yet only 20% have disability insurance. <sub>2018 Insurance Barometer Study, Life Happens and LIMRA.</sub></p>
<p>According to the Life Happens survey in 2018, 88% of employed Americans know much more about their favorite TV show than their disability insurance(41%). Often times, individuals don't imagine becoming disabled in their lifetime however, you actually have a 3 in 10 chance of suffering a disability that keeps you out of work for 90 days or longer at some point during your working career.<sup>1</sup> You may think if you don't work in a dangerous profession, that you won't need disability insurance. Keep in mind that 90% of disabilities are caused by illnesses, not accidents.<sup>2</sup></p>
<p>Are you thinking about disability insurance and how you can protect your financial future yet? So where do you start? The first step is determining how much disability insurance you need. You can use a simple worksheet like this:</p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" height="1567" scrolling="no" src="https://onedrive.live.com/embed?resid=A68573B9B4F90B3B%215387&authkey=%21AAttdfbPpLo6y0o&em=2&wdAllowInteractivity=False&AllowTyping=True&Item='DI%20Budget'!B1%3AE33&wdHideGridlines=True&wdDownloadButton=True&wdInConfigurator=True" width="700"></iframe></p>
<p>Once you've determined what amount you need for disability, reach out to your insurance solution provider to protect your income at 800-686-8664, <a href="mailto:ClientService@TOMIA247.com">ClientService@TOMIA247.com</a> or <a href="https://www.tomia247.com/about/contact-us/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">contact us here</a>!</p>
<p><sup><span>1 The Real Risk of Disability in the United States, Milliman Inc., on behalf of the LIFE Foundation, May 2007</span></sup><br/><sup><span>2 The Council for Disability Awareness, Long-Term Disability Claims Review, 2010</span></sup></p>