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Avoid a Home Insurance Disaster: Know When To Replace Your Water Heater

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All of us here at Vernon Agency know that water heaters are important in any home, but especially in Flushing, MI. We all want hot showers, clean and sanitized dishes, and steamy baths. However, water heaters do not last forever. Expect conventional tank water heaters to last between 8 and 12 years, and tankless units to last around 20 years. You can take steps to make your water heater last longer, but knowing when to replace it will help ensure you have consistent hot water, lower utility bills, clean water, no leaks, and no insurance claims. 

Signs Your Water Heater Needs To Be Replaced

Cold water is coming from your water heater

Before concluding that your unit needs to be replaced, check that the thermostat is set correctly and the power is on. You may also need to replace the heat source. This can be an easy repair if it is the problem. 

Rusty water is coming from your faucet

No one wants to drink cloudy or rusty water. If the water coming out of your hot water tap is rusty, but not your cold water, the tank of your water heater may be rusty. If the water coming out of both sides is rusty, it’s probably the water line.

The water heater is making strange sounds

If your water heater begins rumbling and gurgling, it may mean there are mineral deposits or sediment in the tank. 

You notice condensation or pools of water on or around the tank

This could mean there is a leak. The leak could be from the tank, the drain valve, the pressure relief valve, or the plumbing connections. If it’s a connection, it can be easily fixed. If the tank is leaking, it’s time for a new one.

Protect Your Home With the Right Insurance

Replacing your tank at the right time will keep your home safe. Another essential way of protecting your home is having the right homeowners insurance. Contact us at Vernon Agency, serving Flushing, MI, for a quote.

Avoid a Home Insurance Disaster: Know When To Replace Your Hot Water Heater

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All of us here at the Vernon Agency know that water heaters are important in any home in or near Flushing, MI. We all want hot showers, clean and sanitized dishes, and steamy baths. However, water heaters do not last forever. Expect conventional tank water heaters to last between 8 and 12 years and tankless units to last around 20 years. There are things you can do to make your water heaters last longer, but knowing when to replace them will help ensure you have consistent hot water, lower utility bills, clean water, no leaks, and no insurance claims. 

Signs Your Water Heater Needs To Be Replaced

Cold water is coming from your water heater: Before jumping to the conclusion that your unit needs to be replaced, first check that the thermostat is set correctly and the power is on. You may also need to replace the heat source. This can be an easy repair if it is the problem. 

Rusty water is coming from your faucet: No one wants to drink cloudy or rusty water. If the water coming out of your hot water tap is rusty, but not your cold water, the tank of your water heater may be rusty. If the water coming out of both sides is rusty, it’s probably the water line.

The water heater is making strange sounds: If your water heater begins rumbling and gurgling, it may mean that there are mineral deposits or sediment in the tank. 

You notice condensation or pools of water on or around the tank: This could mean there is a leak. The leak could be from the tank, the drain valve, the pressure relief valve, or the plumbing connections. If it’s a connection, it can be easily fixed. If the tank is leaking, it’s time for a new one.

Replacing your tank at the right time will keep your home safe. Another essential way of protecting your home is by having the right homeowners insurance. Contact us at Vernon Agency, serving the Flushing, MI area, for a quote today.

What Are the Benefits of Getting Health Insurance?

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Health insurance in the U.S. is complex. Our agents at Vernon Agency, serving Flushing, MI, can provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your health coverage. 

Benefits of Getting Health Insurance

There are several reasons why someone might question whether health insurance is necessary. This is especially true for those who are young and in good health. Even older individuals may not see the benefit of having health coverage. 

While individuals are no longer penalized for not having health coverage, there are still benefits to having access to ongoing medical care. A health insurance policy also provides financial protection should you experience a medical emergency that results in hospitalization, rehabilitation, treatment, and high-cost prescription medications. 

A health insurance plan may also include coverage for mental health disorders, substance use disorders, wellness services, disease management, pregnancy, and care for newborns. With a health plan, you won’t be guessing about the state of your health since you will have access to regular check-ups that include bloodwork to screen and detect disease early on.

If you opt not to have health insurance and become ill and must be hospitalized, you will be responsible for the full cost of the hospital stay, tests, medications, etc. The amount you owe can be significant, which may lead to financial ruin as your funds are depleted. 

Contact Us

Contact one of our independent agents at Vernon Agency. We’ll help you find the right health insurance for your situation. We’re currently serving the Flushing, MI, area. 

What Are SR-22 and FR-44 Insurance?

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SR-22 insurance and FR-44 insurance refer to different documents that serve as proof of coverage. These are not actual insurance policies, but rather legal forms filed by your insurance company to prove you have the required liability coverage. If you’re a high-risk driver or have major violations, you may be told by the state that you need one. At Vernon Agency in Flushing, MI, we help drivers navigate these requirements with ease.

SR-22: The Most Common Filing

SR-22 is the more widely used of the two. It’s typically required after serious driving violations such as a DUI, multiple traffic offenses, or driving without insurance. 
The SR-22 form verifies that you have at least the state’s minimum auto insurance liability coverage. While the form doesn’t actually result in higher premiums, you can expect to pay more because you’re considered a high-risk driver.

FR-44: Stricter Requirements in Certain States

FR-44 is only required in a few states, most notably Virginia and Florida. It serves a similar purpose but with one major difference: the required liability coverage limits are significantly higher. FR-44 is often mandated by Virginia and Florida after some of the most severe violations, like reckless driving or worse. 

Because of the increased liability limits, FR-44 policies tend to be more expensive than those that just meet state minimum requirements. You won’t be asked for an FR-44 form if you’re in Flushing, MI, as Michigan only uses the SR-22.

Get Help With an SR-22

If you’ve been told you have to file an SR-22, we at Vernon Agency can help request and file this document. We’ll contact your insurance company and ask them to file it with the Michigan Department of State and confirm it’s been filed. Contact us for help.

Commercial Insurance for A New Warehousing Operation

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When opening a new warehouse, there are several types of insurance coverage to consider. Commercial insurance can protect your warehouse from theft, vandalism, natural disasters, and other unforeseen events that may disrupt or halt business operations.

Building and Land

The first consideration should be the building where your business will operate and the land it occupies. Both should be thoroughly assessed to ensure proper coverage.

Your insurance policy should include protection against criminal activity and catastrophic events. Coverage for property loss will allow you to repair or replace essential warehouse components as needed.

Transportation

Transportation is another critical area to focus on. If employees are responsible for deliveries, you must account for potential risks such as vehicular accidents, package theft, and property damage.

Ensure that your vehicles and the items being transported are included in your commercial insurance policy. Providing adequate insurance protection for these business essentials can prevent significant financial losses.

Warehousing Equipment

Investing in warehousing equipment is often one of the largest expenses when opening a new warehouse. It’s essential to include this equipment in your insurance policy.

Without insurance, you would need to cover out-of-pocket costs if the equipment is vandalized, stolen, or damaged during a catastrophic event. Adding these items to your commercial insurance policy ensures timely repairs or replacements when needed.

Consultation with an Insurance Agent in Flushing, MI

If you’re ready to learn more about commercial insurance products to protect your warehousing operation, contact one of our agents. An agent from the Vernon Agency will be happy to meet with you at your convenience.

Understanding How Home Insurance Addresses Mold and Water Damage

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When you own a home, unexpected issues like water damage or mold growth can quickly turn into a costly headache. At Vernon Agency in Flushing, MI, we know how confusing insurance policies can be when it comes to what’s covered and what’s not. That’s why it’s important to understand how your home insurance policy handles these common problems before they arise.

What Causes Water Damage?

Water damage can stem from a variety of sources, including burst pipes, overflowing appliances, or heavy rain that seeps into your basement. Most standard home insurance policies will cover sudden and accidental water damage. For example, if a pipe suddenly bursts and soaks your hardwood floors, you’re likely covered. However, gradual leaks or maintenance issues are typically excluded, which means it’s essential to keep up with routine home care.

Is Mold Covered by Home Insurance?

Mold is a bit trickier. If mold results directly from a covered water damage incident, such as a burst pipe, your policy may cover the cleanup. However, if mold is due to long-term moisture problems or poor ventilation, it’s usually not included. Some policies offer endorsements or riders that provide additional mold protection, so it’s worth asking your insurance agent about your options.

Prevention Is Key

While insurance can help with sudden mishaps, prevention is always your best defense. Regularly inspecting your home for leaks, using dehumidifiers, and addressing moisture issues early can save you from major headaches down the road.

If you’re unsure about what your current policy covers, or if you’re looking for more comprehensive protection, the team at Vernon Agency in Flushing, MI, is here to help. Reach out today to review your coverage and make sure your home is protected from the unexpected.

What to Know About Maternity Health Insurance Before Starting a Family

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Michigan is one of the top fifteen most affordable places to raise a family. Flushing, MI, offers plenty of great parks, museums, and other family-friendly venues that kids of all ages can enjoy. Even so, deciding to start a family or have more children is a significant decision, especially if you have financial or career-related concerns. Maternity health insurance can help by covering many of the costs associated with pregnancy and childbirth, but it’s essential to understand how it works before purchasing a policy.

Coverage Options

If you don’t already have health insurance, it’s best to purchase a plan that complies with federal mandates. These plans are required to cover OB-GYN visits, labor, delivery, and postpartum care. Additionally, ACA-compliant plans purchased through the health insurance marketplace cannot deny coverage for an existing pregnancy. Short-term health coverage that isn’t ACA-compliant typically won’t cover maternal healthcare.

If you’ve recently changed jobs and your employer offers healthcare, check the employer’s policy to see when maternal healthcare coverage begins. The waiting period may be up to 90 days, meaning you won’t receive maternal healthcare coverage if you were already pregnant when you started the job or became pregnant shortly afterward.

Call Vernon Agency for More Information

Health is the ultimate wealth, especially when you’re caring for yourself and an unborn child. To ensure you have maternity healthcare insurance that provides the coverage you need, contact Vernon Agency today. Our team serves families in and around Flushing, MI, and we can help you understand your insurance options and select a policy or policy bundle that offers the protection you deserve.

Is Auto Insurance Required to Drive My New Car Off the Lot?

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Auto insurance is an essential part of driving. If you own a car, having car insurance is a legal requirement to drive the vehicle off the lot. If you’re in the process of buying a new car, it’s important to understand when to get car insurance and how to obtain it.

The professionals at Vernon Agency, servicing Flushing, MI, are here to assist you. We provide valuable information to our customers about car insurance, home insurance, and other related products. Here’s what you need to know.

Is Auto Insurance Required?

Yes, auto insurance is required to drive vehicles in the state of Michigan. If you’re planning to buy a new car, you will likely need to show proof of auto insurance before driving it off the lot. Additionally, if you are financing your vehicle with a loan, you may be required to purchase full coverage auto insurance.

Most lenders will not approve the purchase of a vehicle without proof of this type of insurance. Be sure to consult with your car dealer and lender to confirm whether insurance is required before finalizing the sale.

I’m Buying a New Car – When Should I Get Auto Insurance?

Contact your insurance company before purchasing the vehicle. While you may not be able to finalize an insurance policy without a vehicle, your insurance agent can help set up the policy or provide an estimated cost for coverage. This allows you to be prepared when you’re ready to complete the purchase.

How Can I Get Started With an Auto Insurance Policy?

To get started with an auto insurance policy, contact Vernon Agency, servicing Flushing, MI. We’re here to help you find the coverage you need.

How Will My Home-Based Business Benefit from Commercial Insurance?

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One fundamental rule of running a small business is to keep personal and business finances separate. However, some home-based business owners overlook this rule when it comes to insurance, mistakenly depending on their personal insurance to cover business assets and activities. If you reside in or near Flushing, MI, and require insurance for your home and business, consider our team at Vernon Agency.

Insurance Considerations for Home-Based Businesses

Almost every home-based business possesses office electronics, supplies, furniture, or inventory owned by the business. Some store tools, equipment, or inventory at home, and as the business grows, these assets increase in value, making their proper insurance crucial. It’s important to note that many home policies cover no more than $2,500 in business assets. Assets exceeding this value require the protection of a commercial insurance policy. Besides asset protection, many home-based businesses have other commercial insurance needs.

If your home-based business is a small side gig, a home policy rider may provide sufficient coverage by doubling your business asset coverage to $5,000. Businesses with more assets or needing professional, liability, or other commercial insurance protection should acquire commercial insurance to safeguard themselves and their business.

Simple in-home business insurance providing property, liability, and other insurance elements often suits companies with $250,000 or less in revenues. Businesses with over $250,000 in revenue frequently opt for a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) that bundles multiple types of insurance. You can add Workers’ Compensation coverage to the BOP if you have employees.

Partnering with the Vernon Agency

The Vernon Agency team serves homeowners and businesses in and around Flushing, MI. Call us today at (810) 230-1375 to schedule an appointment to develop an insurance plan that meets all your needs.

What Documents Do I Need to File a Homeowner’s Insurance Claim?

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While you may have insurance for your home in Flushing, MI, you hope you’ll never need to use it. However, the reality is that most homeowners will need to file a claim at some point. The process of filing a claim can be straightforward, but overlooking a detail could potentially jeopardize your chances of receiving reimbursement. The agents at Vernon Agency are here to guide you through this process.

Guidelines for Filing Your Claim

When filing a claim, you will need to provide basic information, such as your name, address, contact details, and policy number. Additionally, you’ll need to provide the date and a description of the loss. Having a home inventory can be extremely helpful when filing a claim. If an injury occurs during the covered risk, you will also need to provide medical records. Although you typically have one year from the event date to file a claim, it’s best to do so as soon as possible.

If the damage to your home poses a threat to your safety, take steps to mitigate the damage immediately. Your insurance company may require you to complete specific forms that detail the loss. After you’ve done this, you can meet with an adjuster to review the incident and determine the cost of settling your claim. Before deciding on the claim, obtain several quotes from contractors to repair the damage.

What to Avoid When Filing a Homeowner’s Claim

When filing a claim, avoid speculating on the cause of the damage, admitting liability, or making unsupported statements about what caused damage to your property. Also, refrain from making threats or discussing litigation at this stage. When working with your insurance adjuster, please focus on the current claim and avoid discussing other claims; their job is to assess the damage.

If you need to file an insurance claim and are unsure of the process, Vernon Agency, serving Flushing, MI, is here to help. Contact our office today to discuss your homeowner’s policy.