rinkpartridge

Flood Insurance Basics

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:59:41 GMT

Have you ever wondered whether or not you really need flood insurance? According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), floods are the number 1 national disaster in the United States, with costly damage to your home and its contents arising from just a few inches of water. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) states that flooding causes about $8 billion dollars in damages every year throughout the United States.

Many weather conditions can cause floods including hurricanes and the rapid accumulation of rain after a wildfire, but more specific to our area in Western NYS are the results of spring thaws and heavy rains.

Here are a few things to take into consideration when deciding whether or not you should buy a flood insurance policy.

Homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage , and because floods can occur anywhere, you should consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy. The National Flood Insurance Program, managed by FEMA, and some private insurers issue flood insurance policies.
You may be required to have a flood policy if you have a mortgage through a federally regulated or insured lender and your home falls in a high-risk flood area.
There are a few factors that impact the price of flood insurance such as your property’s flood risk, how much coverage you purchase, and what the policy covers. For example, you can generally purchase coverage for the structure of your home up to $250,000 and up to $100,000 on your belongings.

Floods can occur anywhere and are usually unexpected and unpredictable. Most policies have a 30-day waiting period and do not go into effect right away, so it’s a good idea to consider purchasing coverage before storm season begins. Talk to your insurance provider about your flood insurance needs.

Pet Insurance

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 18:04:40 GMT

Pet Insurance is not required in the way your auto and other forms of insurance can be, and investing in it is your choice. When people hear about pet insurance, they often wonder “what is it and why would I need it?” Think about the things in your life that you feel are worthy of insuring. For example, you invest in car insurance partially because the state requires liability coverage, but also to insure from negligent drivers and accidents. You purchase homeowners insurance to financially protect your house and personal belongings, and health insurance to protect yourself- after all there is only one you. Many pet parents may feel the same way about their furry friend as they truly become part of the family! With the purchase of pet insurance comes peace of mind in knowing there is financial compensation if the covered pet becomes sick or has an accident.

How Does Pet Insurance Work?

Coverage for your pet is not as complicated as health insurance tends to feel, in fact it is rather simple. When you buy insurance for your cat or dog, you do not have to worry about visiting an “in-network” veterinarian. As long as the veterinarian is licensed, you can take your pet anywhere across the nation. All you have to do is visit your vet and pay the bill the way you normally would, and submit your receipts with a completed claim form. Once the claim is submitted, you will get reimbursed up to your policy’s limit.

Choosing a Plan

There are different coverage plans available, and choosing the right one may feel overwhelming. A few things to take into consideration are the age of your pet and the breed. Older pets are at a higher risk of getting sick or injured, and some breeds are more prone to certain illnesses and/or physical disorders than others. Coverage ranges from accident only to accident & illness plans- both have the option of adding on wellness coverage.

Is Pet Insurance Worth It?

Now is the time to ask yourself if pet insurance is worth it to you. When purchasing coverage, choose a policy that works for your budget as well as your animal’s individual needs. In the event of an accident or illness, is your pet covered?

DMV Point Changes and Insurance Impact

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:41:58 GMT

As we quickly approach 2026, there are changes coming our way for the New York State DMV point system that will impact many drivers across the state.

The New York State DMV uses the Driver Violation Point System to identify and take action against high-risk drivers. Points are added to your driving record for certain types of violations such as speeding, reckless driving, improper cell phone use, failure to signal and much more. The severity of the violation impacts the number of points per incident that are added to your record. There are some violations such as pedestrian and bicycle violations, parking violations, unregistered, unlicensed or uninsured operations that do not result in points.

Key Changes Coming in 2026

All drivers should understand the revisions of the NYS DMV’s point system which is scheduled to take effect in January 2026.

Why Is NYS Administering These Changes?

There are several intentions the state has for implementing these changes including addressing modern driving issues such as distracted drivers and the use of smart phones, improving overall road safety, reducing traffic-related deaths, and aligning with surrounding states.

How Do Points Impact Insurance?

Insurance companies have their own system to determine how an individual’s driving record will impact their premium and coverage eligibility. With more points from a broader range of violations comes a higher risk of policy cancellation problems as well as higher rates. Keep in mind taking a DMV-approved Point and Insurance Reduction Program will help reduce points on your license as well as save 10% on your liability and collision insurance premiums.

The upcoming changes aim to target dangerous driving more efficiently, but it will also create a greater cost for drivers who experience a seemingly minor violation which overtime can quickly add up to a major financial and licensing issue.

Common Halloween Insurance Claims

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 17:22:11 GMT

Halloween is here and while there are fun traditions that come along with the day- such as trick or treating, carving pumpkins, decorating the house with lights and decorations- there are also risks that come to life for some drivers and homeowners. Let’s talk about some of the most common insurance claims that arise on Halloween, how you can protect yourself and your property, and why it is important to have the right insurance coverage to keep your day worry-free.

Tricks

Vandalism - Halloween sees a large increase in vandalism claims from spray-painted cars, smashed doors and windows to egged houses and more. If you experience vandalism to your home, car, or other property take a minute to determine how much damage there is and consider the amount of your deductible. Once you know the amount of damage in comparison to your deductible, you can decide if the cost to repair the damage is worth filing a claim.

Car theft - carrying comprehensive coverage on your auto policy will help protect your vehicle if it is stolen or vandalized.

Fire Hazards - If you carve a jack o’lantern for your porch, consider using a battery-operated candle rather than a fire-lit candle. Decorations can create a fire exposure, especially when they are placed too close to a heat source. According to the National Fire Protection Association “From 2019-2023 there was an average of 832 home structure fires that began with decorations per year.”

Liability - Children and parents who are out and about trick-or-treating create more foot traffic on your property than any other time of the year. With an increase in foot traffic comes a higher potential of slip-and-fall incidents. Keep your walkways clear from obstacles and ensure it is well-lit to help stop accidents from occurring.

Treats

Park Smart - Choose a well- lit area and if possible, park in the garage or a visible place from your house. Remove valuable items from your car and make sure the doors are locked.

Secure Your Home - Keep your house well-lit, check your smoke detectors to make sure they are working properly and lock your doors if you are going away.

Stay Focused on the Road - Keep distractions low, put away your phone, and keep your eyes open for little munchkins who might not be watching the road.

Following a couple of simple steps can help make your Halloween fun and worry-free. If an incident occurs on your property or to your property, contact your insurance agent to see if your policy can help you.

Understanding a Home Insurance Inspection

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:07:04 GMT

A home insurance inspection is commonly conducted by insurance companies to assess the overall condition of your property. While it may sound intimidating, it is also necessary in order to ensure the house is insured to value. The inspection also helps the company evaluate potential risks that could arise at the time of a new insurance policy or renewal of an existing policy.

Who performs the inspections?
After the homeowners insurance policy is written, an inspector is hired by the insurance company to visit the property and take notes, photos and measurements. Depending on the situation and the company, they may allow your insurance agent to take the photos and submit them directly to the company.

What does an inspector look for?
In most cases the inspection is exterior, but in some cases the company will request for an interior inspection to be completed. The critical areas include the electrical, plumbing, roof and structure and HVAC system, but they will also look for potential red flags that may increase the chance of a claim. Additional details they will focus in on include:

Water damage
Signs of mold or mildew
Animal infestation
Rot or decay
Cracks in the foundation
Chimneys and fireplaces

If you are receiving a discount on your policy such as a home security system, the inspector may also look for that verification.

What do you need to do after the inspection?
After the inspection is completed, you may be notified if there are some issues that need to be corrected. They will give you a certain amount of time to make the improvements or to make changes to the insurance policy.

Anytime a new policy is written or as the 3-year renewal approaches, the company may be inclined to complete an inspection. It is always best to reach out to your independent agent with any questions and or concerns.

Homeowner Coverage Guide

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:56:50 GMT

Coverage A: Dwelling

Dwelling coverage protects your house and permanently attached structures such as an enclosed porch or garage.

Coverage B: Other Structures

Separate structures on your property such as a detached garage, shed, pool house, guest house or gazebo are protected under this coverage.

Coverage C: Personal Property

This part of your policy protects your personal belongings, with a few limitations that you should know about.

The standard homeowners policy will place a specific limitation of coverage on certain items such as jewelry, furs, firearms as well as a few other belongings unless they are specifically “scheduled” on your policy.
Unless you select the replacement cost option, a standard policy will pay for items that are damaged, lost or Stolen on an actual cash value basis (original value less depreciation).
Certain personal property are excluded under your policy such as:

-personal property of a tenant

-paper records or drawings

-software or disks

-animals, birds or fish

-aircraft or aircraft parts

It is important to read the exclusions and limitations outlined on your policy.

Coverage D: Loss of Use

This part of your policy provides protection for the additional living expenses after a loss to be able to maintain your normal standard of living.

Coverage E: Personal Liability

Liability insurance covers you for money up to your policy limits if the court finds you responsible for damage to another person’s personal property.

Coverage F: Medical Payments to Others

Medical payments insurance is homeowners coverage that compensates others who are injured while on your property or others whom you accidentally injure. This coverage excludes anyone who lives in your household.

Motorcycle Insurance: Understand Your Coverages

kris.rinkpartridge@gmail.com (Kristine Partridge) — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 20:07:12 GMT

Before hitting the open road on your motorcycle this season, you need motorcycle insurance coverage that you can count on. Whether you need a policy with liability coverage only or a policy that fully covers your bike, we have something for you! Let’s take a look at the coverages available on a motorcycle insurance policy.

Required Coverages

Liability: Similar to your auto insurance policy, New York State requires all registered motorcycles to carry bodily injury liability coverage in the minimum of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident to cover other parties’ medical bills and other related expenses if you are at fault for an accident. Property damage liability in the minimum of $10,000 is another required coverage that pays for another parties’ vehicle and property repairs if you are at fault.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Bodily Injury : This coverage goes hand-in-hand with the liability coverages mentioned above but instead of covering others, this coverage is for you and your passengers. The minimum limits are the same; $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident. Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage safeguards against motorists who do not carry enough insurance to cover you or your bike if you’re hit by another drive.
Pedestrian Personal Injury Protection : Also referred to as “no-fault insurance” the pedestrian personal injury protection covers medical and other related expenses for injuries incurred by a pedestrian that result from motorcycle, regardless of fault. The minimum requirement in New York State is $50,000.

Optional Coverages

Comprehensive coverage : provides protection for things that are often out of your control including theft, vandalism, hitting an animal, fire and weather-related damage.
Collision coverage : covers your prized possession if it strikes another object or vehicle, regardless of who is at fault.
Other coverages : check with your carrier to see if roadside assistance, accessory coverage, medical payments, and total loss coverage are available on your policy.

Home Inventory Checklist

kris.rinkpartridge@gmail.com (Kristine Partridge) — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 18:46:50 GMT

A home inventory can help you determine whether your policy is providing enough personal property coverage and may help save time and stress when filing a claim. If your personal belongings are destroyed, damaged or stolen from a covered claim, a detailed checklist of what you lost will be an excellent resource for you and your insurance adjuster.

What should I include on my checklist?

Many insurance companies have a template accessible with the details that should be included on your home inventory checklist. This information includes the name of your items, purchase price, when and where you bought it, as well as other details such as make/model and serial numbers (if applicable).

Steps to creating a checklist

Choose a method-you can handwrite your worksheet or you can complete it on a phone, tablet or computer.
Take pictures
Begin with valuables- think about the items that are the most costly to replace (such as collectibles, appliances, furniture, antiques, electronics, etc.)
Consider an insurance rider for items such as jewelry, firearms and fine art to ensure adequate coverage

Creating a home inventory can save time in the event of a claim and help ensure your belongings are covered properly. Remember to save receipts, be specific in your item descriptions and save photos with your checklist in a secondary location… such as with your agent! We are here to help you with all of your insurance questions and needs 607-324-0455

Protect Your Jewelry

kris.rinkpartridge@gmail.com (Kristine Partridge) — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 16:33:36 GMT

Jewelry often represents something special in your life-whether it be a family heirloom, a special engagement, or a milestone. Perhaps you even treated yourself with something that you have been dreaming of. Whatever the case, it is devastating to have something that is meaningful either damaged, lost, or stolen. How can you protect these precious belongings? Below is some information about how your homeowners, condo or renters insurance policy can help.

A homeowners insurance policy will generally provide coverage within specified limits. Coverage varies from one company and policy to the next. For example, one company may limit coverage on theft of jewelry, while another company may provide coverage up to a certain dollar amount regardless of the type of loss. Other companies will place a specified limit for each item. For this reason, it may be beneficial to add a rider to your policy.

What is a rider?

A rider, also referred to as a floater, is an endorsement that can be purchased on your homeowners policy to provide additional coverage on jewelry or other valuable items. A rider can provide coverage for an item that might not otherwise be covered on your policy. In order to do this, an appraisal or a receipt may be required by the insurance company to ensure that it is insured to the correct value.

Jewelry Protection Tips

Take photos of the item or collection
Save receipts, appraisals and photos in a fire-proof safe
Periodically update the value of your jewelry as expensive items can increase or decrease from year to year.
Store your jewelry in a secure area of your home
Avoid traveling with irreplaceable or extremely valuable jewelry

A great time to review your coverages is when your policy renews or when a big change is taking place. Whether you are giving or receiving a special item, it is worth taking a small amount of time to ensure that it is covered.

Keep this article in mind this Valentine’s Day! We are ready to assist you with your coverage needs! 607-324-0455

What's Driving Auto Insurance Rates?

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:30:04 GMT

While reviewing your auto insurance renewal, are you stunned by the increase in your policy premium? It is no secret that the price of everything around us has significantly increased over the last couple of years. How is this impacting the insurance world? Let’s take a look at what is driving auto rates.

There are several factors that play into this increase. One main factor is that there has been a rise in the severity and frequency of accidents which has led to insurance companies paying out higher claims. Advancements in vehicle technology and inflating costs to repair vehicles along with increasing medical costs has played a large role in increasing premiums. Here are a few additional factors and cost increase percentages that have been provided to us by Mercury Casualty Company:

Driving- the amount of drivers on the road has increased by 12.6% and has passed pre-COVID levels.
Accidents- with more people on the road, there has been a 26% increase in auto accidents
Accident severity- the average cost of each accident has dramatically risen by 34%
Labor Repair Rates- labor rates as well as parts has increased by 24%
Rental Car Prices- with a low rental car inventory the cost for a rental vehicle has increased by 26%
Car prices- when a vehicle is totaled, the cost to replace it has risen significantly: used cars +46.9% and new cars +22.1%

We are working daily to find better rates for our customers and are happy to answer any questions that you may have. Feel free to contact us for a FREE quote and to review your current policy coverages.

Motorcycle Safety

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 13:48:48 GMT

Spring is approaching quickly and the feeling of getting on your motorcycle for the first time of the year is thrilling. Inevitably there is a great amount of risk that comes with being on a motorcycle as you share the road with cars, pick-up trucks and large vehicles who often have trouble seeing motorcycles. A study from 2016 by The U.S. Department of Transportation found that motorcyclists were 28 times at a greater risk of dying in an accident than those in a vehicle. With statistics like this, it makes sense to pay attention to safety precautions as a driver in a vehicle as well as a motorcycle rider. There are a few things that everyone can do to be extra cautious as more and more bikes enter the roads this time of year.

Tips for Drivers

Always assume that motorcyclists are closer than they appear.
Give them plenty of room on the road and keep a safe distance between you and the motorcyclist. Many drivers tend to ride too close to the vehicle in front of them, which can be extra dangerous for a motorcyclist.
Be sure to check your blind spots before switching lanes or making any turns.

Tips for Motorcyclists

Wear protective and visible gear
Obey traffic rules, use your signals and follow the speed limit
Inspect your motorcycle before each ride- check your turn signals, brakes, headlights & taillights, fuel, oil, etc.
Check the weather before hitting the road
Take a safety course. There is a discount available on your motorcycle insurance policy by taking an approved safety course!

Following a few simple steps can significantly reduce the chance of being involved in a potentially serious and fatal accident. Please drive with caution and watch for others that are sharing the road with you!

Contact us to get started with a motorcycle insurance quote 607-324-0455. We are happy to assist you with all of your insurance needs.

The Importance of Homeowners Insurance

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 20:45:05 GMT

Whether you are a first time homebuyer or have owned a house for many years, all homeowners should have an insurance policy to protect their house as well as their belongings. Some people question whether or not homeowners insurance is required in the same way that auto insurance is. The answer to that is there is no law stating that you must have homeowners insurance, but we strongly encourage everyone to have a policy to protect your investment. If you have a mortgage on your home, many lenders require you to have homeowners insurance.

How much coverage do you need?

When considering a homeowners insurance policy, the question is… how much coverage do I need? Before we talk about how much coverage you should have, let’s talk about the different types of policies-replacement cost vs. actual cash value. A replacement cost policy is a very common type of insurance coverage that pays to replace or repair your property if you experience a covered loss. The total cost to rebuild your house in a replacement cost policy factors in today’s prices, building codes and construction method which can be higher than your home’s actual value. Another type is an actual cash value policy which pays you to replace your property minus the depreciated amount. When looking at the amount of coverage you need for your house, a few things are taken into consideration including:

Square footage of your house
The type of roof
Recent improvements
Overall condition of your home
The type of heating system
Age of your wiring and plumbing

Your insurance agent will use these factors to determine the amount of coverage you need.

What are the coverages I will see on my policy?

Typical coverages found on your policy are:

Coverage A- your dwelling
Coverage B- other structures (example: your garage, or a detached shed)
Coverage C-personal property
Coverage D-loss of use (if you need to stay somewhere else while your house is being repaired, this coverage will help towards the cost of living elsewhere)
Personal Liability- coverage if you are found liable for the injury of someone that is on your property
Medical Payments- compensates others who sustain an injury while they are on your property or someone you accidentally injure.

Questions about your homeowners insurance? Contact your local team of agents at Rink Partridge Agency! Visit our office at 360 Seneca Road, Hornell, NY 14843 or call us at 607-324-0455.

Top Fall Insurance Claims

Wed, 28 Sep 2022 13:40:34 GMT

As we see a change in the weather, it has been documented over the years that the types of claims for this time of year change as well. Fall is here and it is time to get prepared and understand the various claims that arise to help you as a homeowner or motorist protect yourself.

Animal collisions

Deer and other animals are on the move! Pay close attention when you are driving for animals in the road or on the side of the road- especially in the early morning and evening hours. Fall and early winter get both large and small animals venturing into areas they normally avoid. Activities such as hunting play a role in this, so it is important to be aware and drive defensively.

Rear end collisions

These claims increase more in the fall due to road conditions such as increased rain and changing weather. Always give yourself plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.

Fire and smoke

Fires starting from candles, fireplaces and cooking increase during the fall months as people begin to hunker down in their homes as the temperatures drop. While candles and cozying up next to the fire can be enjoyable in the cold weather, it also poses a threat to your home. Ensure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are fully charged and still effective.

Water damage/freezing pipes

Damage as a result of rain or freezing pipes occur more frequently between October-December than any other time of the year. Something to keep in mind is as temperatures drop, if it has a source of water, it has a potential of freezing. A burst pipe is expensive enough before factoring in the amount of water damage to your structure and personal belongings. Take the necessary and rather simple measures to ensure that your pipes and your home are ready for freezing cold weather.

Unfortunately, sometimes things are out of our control and there is nothing we can do. However, staying prepared and knowledgeable about the various types of claims that rise during this time of year is the best way to protect yourself ahead of time to reduce the amount of these risks. Regardless of the precautions that we take, protecting yourself with a quality insurance policy is beneficial. Contact an agent here at Rink Partridge Agency (607) 324-0455 to review your home or auto insurance needs.

Does My Homeowners Insurance Cover My College Student?

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 17:07:27 GMT

As fall approaches there are many families who are watching their children go off to college, perhaps for the first time. This might raise a few questions regarding your homeowners insurance and how it may provide coverage for your child while they move onto their next chapter. Generally, college students are covered under their parent’s homeowners insurance policy while they live on campus in two ways; it covers their personal belongings and personal liability if the student is responsible for damage caused to a third party.

Personal Property coverage:

This helps cover the cost of repairing or replacing your belongings if they are damaged by a covered peril such as fire or theft. This means that if their laptop is stolen from their dorm room, your insurance policy can help replace it. Most insurers will limit the amount of money they will pay out for property theft or damage that occurs away from the insured residence.

Personal Liability coverage:

If you or a family member is held liable for damage or injury to a third party, this coverage will help pay for expenses such as medical bills, legal defense and property repairs. This coverage generally extends to students living in a dorm.

Coverage Limits

Off premises theft- property stolen or damaged away from your home is covered up to 10% of the personal property coverage section of your policy.
Most policies will require your college student to live on campus, be a full-time student and be under the age of 21 (depending on the insurer).
Your insurance company may limit the liability coverage to a fraction of your coverage if there is an incident involved with your kid while they’re away at college
A basic policy has limits as to how much it will pay out for certain categories of expensive items such as jewelry, furs or electronics. You may want to consider increasing coverage limits by purchasing a scheduled personal property coverage if your student will have an expensive laptop or other expensive college items.

In many cases, college students are not eligible for coverage under their parents insurance if they decide to live off campus or if they are above a certain age. They may want to consider purchasing a renters insurance policy. We here at Rink Partridge Agency are happy to assist you with policy questions or with quoting your renters insurance needs. Give us a call at 607-324-0455 or stop by our office to speak with an agent about your insurance needs.

Flat Tire, What Now?

Wed, 18 May 2022 14:56:12 GMT

Regardless of wherever and whenever you get a flat tire, let’s agree that it is an inconvenience. When you notice that your tire is flat, one thing you definitely do not want to do is continue driving with that flat tire. This can cause serious damage to your wheel which can turn a rather minor repair into a full tire replacement. Driving with a flat tire can be dangerous, so it is important to safely get your vehicle off the road and follow the necessary steps to change your tire.

What do you need to do to repair your tire to get on with your day? Here are a few steps:

Put your emergency blinkers on and get your vehicle safely off the road
Remove the spare tire from your vehicle (often times found in the trunk)
Take the wheel cover off- you can use a flat head to do this
Loosen the lug nuts on the tire part way, but not entirely
Align the jack with the grooves underneath your car and raise the car all the way up
Remove the lug nuts the rest of the way from the defective tire
Replace your tire and tighten the lug nuts part way, but not completely
Remove the jack and then tighten your lug nuts the rest of the way
Put the wheel cover back on by hand to avoid dents and dings from a hammer or other tools

Now that you have a spare tire on your vehicle and you are ready to go, be sure to read the instructions that pertain to the spare (such as the maximum speed you can travel as well as how far you can go). Remember that if you break down during a storm, on a busy freeway, at night, or in any other dangerous condition it might be safer to call for help rather than taking matters into your own hands. Always put the safety of you and your passengers first.

Many insurance companies offer roadside assistance at a very low rate as part of your monthly premium. Check your policy to see if you have coverage for roadside assistance, or speak with your friendly and local agent at Rink Partridge Agency, Inc. We are happily at your service! 607-324-0455.

Special Event Insurance

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 19:41:37 GMT

Special event insurance is a policy that provides coverage for your investment in a specific event: such as a wedding, birthday party, baby shower, etc. Planning a private event can be costly, so it is a good idea to consider special event insurance when you start putting down deposits and purchases for your event. Keep in mind that there is generally a time restriction as to when you can purchase the policy, not too close to the event, but also not too far out. So, what does special event insurance cover? It may provide protection for liability, injury, cancellation fees and non-refundable deposits.

Event Cancellation Coverage

Event cancellation coverage can help reimburse you up to your coverage limits for lost deposits, if something unexpected forces you to cancel or postpone your event. A few examples include reimbursements for payments to DJ’s, photographers, caterers or other vendors. Every policy is different, so be sure to check the types of situations that may or may not be covered for this type of loss.

Event Liability Coverage

Event liability coverage can provide protection if property damage or injury takes place during your event and you are found responsible. Many venues require you to carry some sort of liability protection. Liquor liability coverage can be added to your policy to help protect yourself from liability that may arise from alcohol-related situations (subject to policy conditions and exclusions).

When looking into wedding and special event insurance, keep in mind that all companies and policies generally offer different limits and coverage options. We represent multiple companies, positioning us to find the best coverage and rate for your special day. Give us a call at (607) 324-0455 or stop in to see us for a quote!

Tips for Spring Break

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 14:31:37 GMT

Spring break is approaching quickly. For some, that means taking a trip for some fun in the sun. If you are planning on taking a spring break vacation this year, it is good to be prepared before leaving. Preparing for vacation should begin by ensuring that your home and your journey is safe. Here are a few home and auto insurance tips to take into consideration before leaving for your fun get-away.

Homeowners Insurance
Before you leave, make sure that your homeowner’s insurance is up to date, and consider reviewing your coverages to make sure that they are adequate for your needs. Being away for extended period of time is opportunity for theft, but here are a few things you can do to protect your home while you’re gone:

Consider getting an alarm system/other security device. Even a motion sensor light can help protect your house.
Make sure all windows and doors are locked
Keep the heat on- if it suddenly gets cold, pipes could freeze
Have a trusted family member or friend check on things while you’re gone and bring in your mail

Renters Insurance

Many of the home protection tips apply to your renters insurance, but here are a few things to think about:

The building is protected by your landlord, but your belongings are not.
Consider purchasing a renters policy to cover your belongings to help guard against damaged or stolen property

Auto Insurance

If you are taking a road trip- double check your auto insurance. Driving is dangerous, especially long distance.

If you are leaving your car at home, consider taking pictures of it before you leave in case any damage is done while you’re gone. Park it somewhere safe, secure, and make sure it is locked.
Before hitting the road check your vehicle’s tire pressure, brakes, fluid levels and windshield wiper blades
Stock your car with a portable jump-start as well as emergency supplies.

Are you ready for your spring break vacation? Remember to make sure you are protected for peace of mind while you are away. If you have any questions regarding your insurance policy, give us a call 607-324-0455 or stop in to see us!

ATV Insurance: What Does it Cover?

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 14:50:50 GMT

When it comes to owning an ATV or other off-road vehicle, protecting yourself goes beyond wearing the proper safety gear and driving responsibly. Having your vehicle and yourself insured is not only required by New York State, but it is an important aspect of owning an All-Terrain Vehicle.

NYS Requirements

New York State requires anyone who owns and operates an ATV off their property to carry liability insurance. The minimum required coverage is $25,000/$50,000 for injury, and $10,000 for property damage in any one accident. You must show proof of insurance at the request of a judge, police, or anyone who claims they have been injured or property damaged from your operation of the ATV.

What Does it Cover?

You can not rely on your homeowners or auto insurance to protect your ATV. However, there are separate insurance policies available to help protect you and your ATV if you’re in an accident.

Liability - if you cause an accident that injures another person or damages another person’s property, this coverage may help pay for the expenses associated with medical bills or repairs to the property.
Collision - If the ATV is damaged from hitting another vehicle or object, this coverage may help pay for the repairs.
Other-than-collision (Comprehensive) - if your ATV is damaged by something that isn’t collision such as fire or hail, this coverage may help pay to fix the damage.

With the right insurance coverage, you can enjoy the freedom and peace of mind that comes with owning and operating an off-road vehicle. Finding coverage is easy when you work with us! We will shop around with different companies to find the best rate and coverage to meet your needs.

Term Vs. Whole Life- What's The Difference?

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 20:42:58 GMT

Everyone deserves to have a secure financial future, and that’s why life insurance is important. When deciding on life insurance coverage, one of the biggest decisions to figure out is what type of policy best fits your needs. Each type of life insurance policy has pros and cons and the best option for you depends on a few different factors.

Term Vs. Whole Life

As we begin to compare term life and whole life insurance, two of the most recognized differences are the coverage period and premium cost.

Term Life

Term life insurance is often the more popular choice because it has a significantly cheaper premium and is designed to provide financial protection for a specific number of years. If you die during the duration of the policy, your beneficiaries get the death benefit payout. Once the term of the policy expires, typically there are fewer financial responsibilities and no longer have a need for a life insurance policy. At this point, there are often fewer debts as they have been paid off and there are retirement savings that take over for the life insurance funds.

Whole Life

Whole life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance which includes a cash savings component and stays active for your entire life. The cash value can be used to take out loans or used as a saving mechanism for retirement once the account matures. One thing to consider when thinking about the cash savings options that a whole life policy offers is that other investments usually offer a higher interest rate to invest in and there are penalties that apply if you cancel the coverage.

How Do I Buy Life Insurance?

Decide if you need life insurance
Determine how much life insurance you need
Decide which type of life insurance best fits your needs: If you want to leave a death benefit behind to financially support your loved ones and you expect to self insure, a term life policy may be best for you. A whole life policy might be the best fit for you if your estate will be subject to an estate tax, if you want to build cash value, or if you have long-term dependents.
Choose a life insurance company- we can help you find a company with the best rate!
Purchase your policy

Insurance For Your Teenage Driver

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 19:13:50 GMT

Taking on the world of driving is a big step for many teenagers. Reaching the legal driving age and learning the rules of the road is an exciting time, but it comes with a lot of responsibilities and can be pricey. When it comes to insurance, the first step is to decide if you want your teenager to be added to your existing policy, or purchase a separate policy.

Insuring Your Teen Driver

Purchasing a separate policy for your teen driver can be very expensive because of their lack of driving experience and higher risk of accidents. In most cases it is more affordable to add a young driver to an existing policy than to buy a separate policy. This gives you the control, flexibility and convenience of only managing one policy, and it gives them the benefit of the same coverages and deductibles that you have. All drivers have access to the cars that are on the policy, so the limits of liability remain the same from one driver to the other. When adding a teen to your policy, it is a good time to review your liability coverage and consider increasing your limits as your new driver poses a greater risk of accidents. Additional coverages on the policy such as roadside assistance, towing labor, and rental car reimbursement will also apply to your teen.

Safe Driving Practices

Here are a few tips to help ensure your teen is being a safe new driver.

Remove distractions . We live in a world that revolves around our cellphones. A good practice to consider is setting cell phones on do not disturb mode before putting the vehicle in drive.
Maintain distance. Leaving a safe distance between you and the car in front of you allows more time for the driver to react if something occurs ahead.
Watch your speed . Driving slower usually results in a better outcome if an accident occurs. It can also help prevent getting a costly speeding ticket.
Limit the number of passengers . While your teen will want to take on the world and drive around with their friends, it is important to limit the number of passengers in the vehicle, especially when they are first learning how to drive.
Teach your teen how to drive in all weather conditions . Allowing your teen behind the wheel in snowy or wet conditions is a scary thought. However, it’s better to allow them to learn while you are in the car with them than down the road when they are on their own.

Consider reviewing these steps with your teen driver when they are first getting behind the wheel.

Insurance Discounts

Adding a teenage driver to your auto policy will increase the premium because there is a greater risk of an accident occurring. However, there are ways to lower the cost of car insurance with discounts for students and teen drivers. Many insurance companies offer a good student discount, multi-car discount for your policy, as well as a discount for completion of a safe driving course.

Finding the right coverage to protect everyone in your household is important and should be an easy step for you. Contact your local agents at Rink Partridge Agency, Inc. and we will help you find the best rate and coverages available as we can shop around with multiple companies. Stop in and see us or give us a call at 607-324-0455. We are happily at your service.

A Guide to Landlord Insurance

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 15:03:29 GMT

Let's take a look at what is and is not covered by a landlord insurance policy.

Owning a home and renting it out to tenants comes with a lot of responsibilities and tasks. As a landlord, your duties include a lot more than just collecting rent. You work to maintain a safe, clean and functional environment for your tenants. Maintaining your property is a crucial role of being a landlord, as well as protecting your property from the unforeseeable future. A landlord insurance policy provides two forms of protection; property and liability.

What is Covered by a Landlord Policy?

Property Protection Coverage

Dwelling coverage. This applies to the rental building and provides protection if damage should occur because of a covered peril (such as fire or storm damage)
Other structures . Provides coverage for other parts of the rental property such as a detached garage or shed.
Personal property. The personal property that you, as a landlord, use to maintain the rental property (such as lawn equipment and appliances) is covered by this part of the insurance policy. The key here is that the personal property must be used to service the property.

Liability Coverage

Medical Bills and Legal Expenses. If you are found responsible for the injury of someone on your rental property, liability insurance will provide financial and legal protection for you. This coverage may apply to medical bills of the injured person(s) and legal expenses that may arise from the injury.

Additional Coverages to Consider

Vandalism
Burglary
Property under construction
Building codes
Loss of income coverage
Non-Occupied dwelling endorsement
Underground Utility Line

What Is Not Covered by a Landlord Policy?

While the coverages in a landlord policy are similar categories to a homeowners policy, there are some exclusions. So what are some things that are not covered by a landlord policy?

Equipment breakdown. The landlord policy does not cover the cost to repair appliances or other equipment in the rental property. If the furnace goes out, you are responsible to pay for that repair.
Shared property. Landlord policies are typically designed for non-owner-occupied property.
Tenant belongings . If the tenant’s car, furniture or other property gets damaged in a fire, the landlord policy does not cover that loss. The tenant should have a renter’s policy to cover their personal belongings.

Most insurance companies offer landlord insurance policies. Buying a landlord insurance policy is a good way to protect your property should something happen. It is not always easy to own a rental property, but shopping for insurance should not be a hard thing for you to do. Contact us for any questions about a new or existing landlord policy.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Ice Dam Damage?

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 20:13:25 GMT

Ice dams can create an insurance headache for many homeowners. What causes ice dams? Does my homeowners policy cover water damages from an ice dam? How can I prevent an ice dam from creating issues for my home?

Ice dams form when heavy snow builds up on a roof, melts and then refreezes as temperatures drop. As layers of ice form, it causes further snowmelt to go behind the ice which can seep under the shingles of the roof. In return, this can cause issues for the inside of your home as the leaks create water damage to your walls, ceilings, insulation as well as other areas.

Does my Homeowners Policy Cover Ice Dams?

For the most part, yes. Dwelling coverage on an HO3 special coverage form policy may help repair the damage that is caused from an ice dam. However, the dwelling coverage does not pay for the services to remove the ice dam. Keep in mind that it might not always be worth filing a claim if the damage amount isn’t much higher than your policy’s deductible. Take into consideration that there are a few ways to help prevent ice dams from forming.

Preventing Ice Dams

While some of the issues that create ice dams are unavoidable (such as snow, sun, changing temperatures, and wind) there are ways to help prevent damage from arising. Having a well ventilated attic can help ensure that the heat is dispersed leaving the attic area and roof deck as cold as the outside temperature. The colder the attic is, the less the snow on your roof will melt/refreeze. Additional steps you should take include:

Clear your gutters and downspouts of debris
Check vent pipes, light fixtures, exhaust fans, and anywhere warm air could leak from your home to the attic
Look for signs of bad ventilation
Keep snow from accumulating on the lower areas of your roof- use a roof rake to clear excess amounts of snow if necessary

If you have questions about your current homeowners insurance policy, give us a call! We are happily at your service 607-324-0455.

Winter Cold Is Finally Here

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 20:12:44 GMT

The cold winter weather is finally here and frozen pipes can be an issue for homeowners all over NYS.

When temperatures drop and winter weather conditions worsen, frozen pipes can pose a dangerous and costly problem for your home. When the water freezes, it causes an expansion in the pipe which then causes an increase in the pipe’s pressure. This change can cause the pipe to crack leading to water emerging from the pipe and therefore causing water damage to your home. Does your homeowner’s insurance cover frozen pipes? Let’s take a look at what is and is not covered.

Typically, your homeowners policy will cover the repairs and cleaning expenses that are caused directly from the water damage as a result of the frozen pipes.

What is covered:

The expense of accessing the damage (example: tearing out a wall to get to the damaged pipe/pipes)
Repairing the wall after the damage has been fixed
The cost to repair the damage to your property (example drying out a wet carpet)
Additional living expenses if you can not live in your home because of the damages

What isn’t covered:

The cost to repair the pipe
Damage caused by negligence (example: if you leave your house for a period of time and shut off your heat which causes a pipe to freeze, your insurer may deny your claim)

Ways to Prevent Frozen Pipes

Turn up the thermostat! If you plan on being away for a few days, set your thermostat to a minimum of 55 degrees. If you’ll be gone for an extended period of time, ask a friend to check on your house periodically to ensure that the heat is running as it should be. If you plan on leaving for the entire winter, winterize your home by draining your home’s plumbing system and turning your water off while you’re away.
Protect outdoor water sources by removing garden hoses from outdoor water faucets and covering the exterior faucet. Covers are inexpensive, reusable, and easy to install
Leave water running overnight when temperatures drop to help water move through the pipes and reduce the risk of the pipes freezing
Insulate your pipes near you crawlspace, attic and exterior walls of your home

Snowmobile Insurance

kris.rinkpartridge@gmail.com (Kristine Partridge) — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 20:35:16 GMT

The Need-to-Knows of Snowmobile Insurance

Winter is here and the snow is beginning to fall. For those of you who enjoy the recreational activity of snowmobiling, let’s talk about insurance coverage that is available to protect you and your snowmobile. While they are not typically covered under your auto, homeowners or renter insurance policies, it is necessary to keep your snowmobile protected for physical damages and liability purposes.

Insurance Requirements

Snowmobiles that are operated on any public road in New York State must carry a minimum amount of liability insurance. The limits are $10,000 per person and $20,000 per accident involving two or more people. A snowmobiler must carry the proof of insurance with them while riding and have it readily available at the request of any law enforcement officer, or person who has suffered injury to themselves or property damage because of the actions of the snowmobiler.

What is Covered?

Similar to auto insurance, snowmobile insurance is broken down into comprehensive, collision, and liability coverage. Damage that is caused to the snowmobile from incidents that are not related to an accident (ex:storms or vandalism) is covered under the comprehensive coverage section of your policy. Collision coverage comes into focus if the damage results from occurrences such as crashing into another rider or an object such as a fallen tree. If you are in an accident where you are at fault for injuring another person or their property, the liability section of your policy will provide coverage for bodily injury and property damage to the other rider.

How Much Does it Cost?

Snowmobile insurance coverage takes a few different factors into consideration including:

Location
Age
Snowmobile make/model
Driving/riding history

Snowmobiling is a fast and risky winter activity that many individuals in New York State enjoy participating in. Getting the right amount of insurance coverage can help you move into a worry-free winter season. Call us at 607-324-0455 to discuss what is available for you!

Winter Car Care

Thu, 03 Dec 2020 16:38:58 GMT

Tips for Safe Driving this Winter

December has rolled around yet again, and now is the perfect time to ensure that your car is ready to take on the cold months that we are about to face. Safe winter driving begins with lowering your speed and allowing yourself a greater distance between you and the vehicle that is in front of you. This allows you more time to react if conditions worsen quickly, or if an accident occurs ahead. Maintaining a few simple things with your vehicle is a great way to enter into harsh winter road conditions. Here are 3 things that you can do to prepare yourself and your car for the next few months.

3 Winter Car Care Tips

1. Keep those windows and mirrors CLEAN! This may sound obvious, but I think we all find ourselves driving at some point in the winter with dirty windows which can obstruct our vision… especially when driving at night. Many vehicles now have advanced safety systems such as forward collision warning sensors, lane switching sensors, as well as automatic emergency braking features. If snow and debris are in the way of these sensors and cameras, it could alter the effectiveness of the safety features.

2. Check your wipers: Ripped or torn wiper blades can create streaky lines when you are in need of a clear windshield. Winter wiper blades might be something that you want to consider purchasing this year. They are designed to undergo the harsh winter conditions and are less likely to freeze or shred.

3. TIRES! Having good tires is extremely essential to maintain each winter. If you are in need of new tires, make it a priority to get them changed before we get our first big snow storm of the season. Purchase the best snow tires that are in your price range, and possibly consider buying winter tires.

By following just a few simple steps, you can prepare yourself for bad road conditions. Of course, having the right auto insurance can help give you a layer of protection as well. We can help you find auto coverage that best fits your individual needs! Contact us to get started with a free quote.

Five "Must-Do" Fall Activities

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 15:51:57 GMT

Crisp air, crunchy leaves, and fun for the whole family to enjoy!

There is no doubt that fall is a cozy time of the year for us to enjoy time with our friends and family. Whether it’s curling up in a blanket for a family movie night, or bundling up in warm clothes to enjoy the crisp outdoors, fall offers a variety of activities for us to enjoy. Here are some ideas of activities for you to enjoy as the leaves change!

1. Visit a local pumpkin patch

Make a fun day out of a trip to the pumpkin patch to enjoy outdoor activities such as hayrides, corn mazes, and petting zoos! Everyone in the family can pick out their favorite pumpkin and bring it home to carve for Halloween.

2. Decorate your home

Have fun spicing up your home with spooky, silly or sophisticated fall decorations indoors and outdoors. Not all decorations need to be store-bought… save money by getting crafty with it! Making fall decorations can be a cheap and exciting activity for your kids to do. Outdoor items such as leaves, pinecones, and twigs can be great items to get a craft started with.

3. Make tasty treats

There are so many easy treats that are tasty too! Candy apples, festive trail mix, chocolate covered pretzels, apple chips, caramel corn and pumpkin seeds all make for yummy snacks that the whole family can enjoy munching on.

4. Go on a scavenger hunt

Get out and enjoy the crisp air and crunchy leaves! Plan a scavenger hunt that the family can participate in around your neighborhood. See who can collect the most colorful leaves, the biggest pine cones, and any other fall object.

5. Photoshoot!!!

Grab a sweater or flannel and get outdoors for a family photoshoot! Fall provides us with beautiful colors and views that create the perfect opportunity to take pictures with our loved ones that we can cherish forever. Add these pictures to a photo album, scrapbook, or print them out and decorate your home with a pretty picture frame.

Take the opportunity that fall provides and get your family and friends together to get out and enjoy activities that everyone will enjoy... but remember to travel safely while driving too and from your fall adventures.

Tips and Tricks for Homeowners

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 17:25:15 GMT

3 Tips for All Homeowners

Purchasing a home is an exciting time in our lives as it offers a lot of benefits for you, as well as your family. Taking a leap from being a renter to a homeowner can be an overwhelming step that comes with a lot of responsibilities. But don’t worry, there are things that you can do to prepare for future experiences as a homeowner. Use the following tips and tricks to ensure your home is being cared for.

Create a Binder

For many of us, it’s easy to let ourselves become unorganized with paperwork... but keeping a binder of documents that are relevant to your home can help you stay organized. A few things that you can include in your binder are documents for your mortgage and insurance paperwork. Once you have moved into your home, include the warranties and guides for your new appliances. Also, keep track of your receipts for any improvements that you make to your home.

Start a Home Emergency Fund

Life is unpredictable and we never know when something is going to go wrong. Do you have money to cover a future problem? How much will it cost? An important part of being a homeowner is having an emergency fund to cover unexpected expenses. The longer you’re in your home, the more likely it is that you will experience an unpleasant surprise in plumbing, heating or roofing. Start saving today to help eliminate stress for when those future incidents occur.

Learn How to Recognize a Potential Problem

Being able to identify a minor problem before it becomes a major issue is a sure way to save money. Take time to learn about issues that may be common in your home, especially if it’s an older home or one that was vacant for a period of time. A few things to start looking for are:

Foundation issues: sagging floors or ceilings, gaps between exterior walls and windows, chimney movement, cracks in the walls or floor
Signs of a leaking roof such as: musty odors, water stains, bulging patches on your walls, missing shingles
Basement flooding: wet spots on your basement floor, small streams of water, moist walls

By taking a few steps now, you can relieve stress in the future when something unexpected occurs. Is your home covered? Do you have questions about your homeowners insurance? We can help! Give us a call at 607-324-0455 or visit our office for a free quote.

Tips for Saving Money On Your Car Insurance

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 19:29:19 GMT

A Small Time Investment May Equal Big Discounts!

Car insurance can be a major cost to consider when it comes to car ownership. With most states requiring a car insurance policy and all states suggesting that a vehicle owner be covered, everyone who drives should take a look at what policies would be a good fit for their automotive and budget needs. As with all sorts of insurance, policyholders should be interested in saving as much money as possible without decreasing their quality of coverage. If you’re looking to save on your car insurance premiums, consider the tips below:

Take a defensive driving course. Many insurance companies offer discounted rates to drivers who demonstrate the desire to be safe while behind the wheel. Taking the initiative to spend from six to eight hours learning how to drive more carefully goes a long way in demonstrating the desire to be responsible on the road. Most insurance providers will discount your premium for three years after a defensive driving course, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars over those years.

Keep your driving record clean. The fewer accidents you experience as a driver, the more likely you will be to receive a discounted insurance rate. While this varies heavily from provider to provider, the longer you go without causing or experiencing any accidents, the more readily insurers will decrease your premiums. Violations can make your rate much higher, and companies take then into account for 5 years, and major violations longer.

Combine policies with one insurance company. Especially true when dealing with home and auto policies, many insurers are willing to bundle insurance packages to save the policyholder money without reducing the benefits of the policy. This process also streamlines insurance for both the customer and the company, making dealing with claims easier for policyholders.

Inquire with your insurer about low mileage discounts. If you’re someone who doesn’t log a lot of miles on the road, you may qualify for discounted premiums on your auto insurance. One key factor that helps fulfill a below-average mileage count is carpooling to work. Consider connecting with coworkers to help save the entire group on car insurance via the lowered mileage per car in the office.

Many companies offer a discount for paying the premium in full. Discount can range from small amount to 5% or more.

If all else fails, consider taking on a higher deductible. While safe driving and driving courses can help push rates down, policyholders also often have the option to mitigate their rates by paying more out of pocket when a claim needs to be filed. This is a riskier option for drivers, but can be effective if your current premiums are too high to sustain. Taking a higher deductible is likely to keep your coverage policies the same, but would reduce the payout benefit from your provider should you need to file a claim.

Need help navigating what automotive insurance is best for you? Please feel free to stop into our offices, or give us a call at 607-324-0455.

The Drawbacks of Buying Insurance Online

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 18:31:37 GMT

Relationship with a professional agent is valuable

Buying insurance of any kind is one of those things that we all hate to do, but know that we have to do. Unfortunately, it is also not an activity that can be treated as a ‘one and done,’ as rates are always changing and different insurance providers are offering new incentives for new customers. This said, the act of buying insurance is not one that should be taken lightly. Though many consumers flock to the internet to make insurance-buying decisions and this can bring a variety of benefits, there are also several drawbacks that buyers need to be aware of.

Why you should reconsider purchasing your insurance online

The entire reason that people purchase insurance is to protect themselves after a significant loss. In the event of a car accident, automobile insurance helps to cover medical bills as well as the cost of repairs or replacement of the vehicles involved. Product insurance helps to cover repair or replacement if the product stops functioning properly within a specific period of time. And life insurance helps to cover the cost of a funeral or burial expenses and helps to tie up loose financial ends in the event of a death. With anything that we do in life, there are risks, and insurance is there to help lessen the ramifications of those risks turn into reality.

With online insurance providers, you rarely have the opportunity to build a professional relationship with one person at the organization. Though this might not be important for all insurance buyers, many buyers appreciate the opportunity to have one insurance agent that understands their needs and makes sure that they are covered. And on this same line, it can be challenging with an online insurer to articulate your personal circumstances and ensure that you are receiving a quote or coverage that is personalized to your specific needs. This means that in the event you need to exercise your insurance through a claim, you could easily find out that you are over, or underinsured.

With online insurance, you may also find that you will lose out on potential bundles. As you are making an online purchase and do not have a dedicated agent to represent you, many systems do not contain an algorithm that looks at all of the insurance products that you have purchased with the company and as a result, can’t offer you additional savings. Further, many online insurance companies specialize in only one kind of insurance and do not have the ability to look at your insurance needs holistically.

Finally, as with any online transaction, you will be expected to provide a wealth of personal details online. Though this same information would need to be provided directly to an agent if you were purchasing your insurance directly, many buyers get a bit gun-shy when it comes to putting their information out on the internet. With cybersecurity an ongoing threat, this is a valid concern and will likely remain a concern for years to come. This said if you do elect to purchase insurance online, ensure that you do not engage in the transaction from a public computer, and do not use an unsecured wifi connection when you are sharing personal information.

Interested in experiencing Hometown Service and the Power of Independence for your insurance needs? Call us today or stop in and see us. 607-324-0455

The Benefits of Shopping Local

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 14:09:38 GMT

Shop Hometown When You Can!

Since 2010 and as a way to encourage shoppers to focus on small businesses as much as large, big-box retailers, American Express has promoted a unique holiday referred to as Small Business Saturday. This day is all about encouraging holiday shoppers to spend a portion of their shopping dollars at businesses that are both small as well as local. With Amazon and other online retailers eating up market share throughout the year and especially around the holidays, American Express determined there was an opportunity to drive those dollars to smaller retailers that want to stake their claim.

Why shop local?

Today’s shoppers love the convenience of Amazon and other online players, and in fact, just this past year, online shopping dominated over in-store shopping. But this isn’t to say that in-store retailers will become a thing of the past. Though product searches may begin online, plenty of customers will still make their way into a brick-and-mortar establishment where they can touch and feel the product, and interact with sales team members that are alive and well (rather than a chatbot who pretends to be human).

Aside from that, there are a host of benefits to shopping small and local.

More money stays in your local economy, which can have positive tax benefits over time.
You have the ability to embrace (and purchase) wares that are unique to your community and that will make your home look a bit different than everyone else's.
Shopping local not only creates new jobs but also ensures that there are more jobs for able workers in your community. These jobs aren’t strictly related to retail employees wither. The more commerce and the larger your community grows, the more need there is for educators, police officers, firemen, and other critical roles.
When you buy local, you help to protect and preserve our environment. Every time you make a purchase online, it results in additional shipping and packaging materials. Further, even brick & mortar shopping that is done at further distances requires additional gas than when you shop in your own community.
When you shop local, you get to create more connections and friendships within the local community. This creates a great sense of camaraderie and adds to a true “community” feeling and vibe.
You get access to variety as many small shopkeepers and store owners offer a greater assortment of items in different colors and styles. To that end, they also sometimes offer unique one-of-a-kind items that no one else will ever have.
The American economy was founded on creativity and entrepreneurship. So, when you shop small and local you help to bolster that entrepreneurial spirit and help ensure store owners can keep living their American dream.
When you find great items in your local community and you start to tell others about them, it is inevitable that more people will want to visit both your community as well as the retail establishment. This can have a great trickle-down effect in that more people will start to visit your community (which is good for gas stations, restaurants, hotels, and more) and the store, which helps with the prosperity of the business.

We are proud to be a local business that supports our community's people and economy. What to experience Hometown Service & the Power of Independence? Call on us today!

3 Important Considerations When Buying Life Insurance

Tue, 10 Sep 2019 14:44:02 GMT

Life insurance is an important decision

Purchasing life insurance can be a very difficult and confusing process. Though you understand the value, you may be wondering if you will really be able to benefit from the coverage. You may be concerned about purchasing too much or too little. And it is only natural to be curious about how your policy will pay out should you die, and if your loved ones will truly be protected as you hope that they will be.

The purchase of life insurance will likely be one of the most essential financial decisions that you will ever make in your life. It will protect those loved ones, but can also be a useful tool in advance of your demise. So, before going too far in the decision-making process, take a look at this list of considerations.

How much life insurance do you need? This is definitely a critical question. Insurance companies often calculate this in various ways. Factors may include the number of dependents you have, how much income you expect to earn before you retire, the lifestyle you hope to maintain after retirement, and what you want for your loved ones after you pass away. Most people start by considering income replacement, which is the amount of coverage that your loved ones will need if they wish to maintain the same lifestyle that they have today. Thus, you will need to account for day-to-day living costs, childcare, education, etc. And remember that inflation will cause costs to increase over time. Your insurance agent can help you calculate this, but be sure to do your homework as well.
How long will you need coverage? Life insurance is available in two types of policies. Time-bound policies are called term life and are only paid for during a certain period of time in which you wish to guarantee coverage, such as while your kids are growing up, or the length of your mortgage. If you want to ensure life insurance for as long as you live, then a whole or permanent coverage policy may better suit your needs. This type of policy can cover burial expenses or income replacement for your spouse or life partner.
Who will be your beneficiaries? For any life insurance policy, you will need to designate a beneficiary or beneficiaries. Your beneficiary is the person will receive the proceeds from your policy should you die. In most cases, people will choose either their parents, their spouse, or their children (though minor children may not be able to receive funds until they reach the age of adult). You will likely be able to select primary and secondary beneficiaries. Your secondary beneficiaries receive the proceeds of the policy should the primary beneficiary pass away or reject the proceeds.

Thinking about life insurance is not only stressful, but it can be an emotional process too. As you work through your policy requirements, it is only natural to let your mind wander to the “what-ifs” that might come into play should you pass away. And though it can be challenging to imagine a future without you in it, it will be worth taking the steps to ensure that your loved ones are well cared for in the event something happens down the road.

You must understand that you don’t need to go through the life insurance decision process on your own. You should leverage someone with your best interests in mind that will be able to assist you through the process. Often times, this is your insurance agent who has years of experience in the field and can guide you on the best approach that makes sense for you and your family.

Have more questions about Life Insurance? We LOVE to help! Please feel welcome to call us at 607-324-0455

Autumn Crafting and DIY Projects for You and Your Family

Tue, 03 Sep 2019 16:57:32 GMT

It's Easy to Enjoy the Autumn with These Great Projects!

The first day of fall is now less than one month away. For most American families, this means two things. First, time to start packing up the t-shirts and shorts and getting out the fall apparel, and second, time to get the kids ready for back to school. While autumn can signal a cooler season approaching and the end of summer, it can also mean a great time to slow down a bit and take time as a family to enjoy the new season. One of the best ways to get in a positive mindset around the approach of autumn is to come up with some fun do-it-yourself (DIY) and craft projects appropriate for fall.

Five fun family crafts for fall

The list below provides some great starting points for fun fall projects that you can do as a family. However, as you get started on these, let your imagination run wild. You may become inspired and will come up with additional fun ideas of your own.

Create a door wreath with hand leaves made from cut-outs in the shape of your children’s hands. For this project, purchase a wreath frame, some heavy-duty craft paper in fall colors, some glitter, and some craft glue. Make sure you have crafting scissors at home (or purchase one) so that you can cut the craft paper. Trace your children’s hands multiple times on the craft paper, then cut each hand out. Allow your child to decorate the paper with colored pencils or crayons (provide them with fall-colors - natural earth tones such as browns, greens, and oranges, are best). Then, apply a very thin line of craft glue along the top edge (perimeter) of each handprint and sprinkle glitter over the top of the glue line. After the hands have had the opportunity to dry, glue them on top of the wreath frame with the hands facing in different directions. Do this around the entire top of the frame, and voila, you have your own personalized hand wreath frame. Consider creating this wreath each year and watch your children grow up as their hands get larger each year.
Paint pumpkins in coordinating fall colors. Select three to five pumpkins of varying sizes (perhaps one pumpkin per family member). Wash the exterior of the pumpkin to remove dirt and dust. After the exterior of the pumpkin is completely dry, paint the exterior of each pumpkin with a different color of craft paint. You will likely need to apply two thick coats each. After the pumpkins are dry, either leave as is or consider painting a stencil letter on the front of each in a different paint color (use the letter of the first name of a family member so that everyone is represented on the pumpkin). Display the pumpkins on your front step.
Make caramel apples for a fun family dessert. While this might not be a craft, your kids will delight in the opportunity to dip their own apple into a vat of delicious caramel. After dipping the apples, allow them to dry and enjoy for dessert after dinner later in the day. Make sure your kids don’t have any teeth ready to fall out!
Create yarn pumpkins. Blow up a small balloon so that it is round and in the shape of a call (or pumpkin). Taking a craft brush, wipe a healthy layer of white glue (or slightly watered down Modge Podge) around the balloon. Then, take cotton yarn in your fall color of choice (or orange if you want a more traditional looking pumpkin) and wrap it around the balloon over and over. Make sure not to cover the balloon completely. Hang the yarn balloons to try for 24 - 36 hours (hang them by tying the additional string around the base of the balloon). After they are dry, carefully separate the yarn away from the balloon, and then pop it to remove all traces from the craft. Take some pipe cleaners and affix them to the base of the balloon to serve as a stem and leaves, and voila, your own unique pumpkins. No two will ever be the same.
Assemble homemade pine cone bird feeders. If you live in an area where there are many birds, you will delight in this project. Collect some pine cones from a local park or walking trail (open pine cones are easier). Tie 12 to 20” of twine to the top of the pine cone (so that it can hang from the tree). Spread some peanut butter all over the pine cone, and then roll the buttered pine cone in birdseed. Hang the completed bird feeders from the trees in your yard and have your children watch for birds to come and visit. Consider investing in a bird book for children, and see if they can identify the birds that come to enjoy their feast.

Tips to Help Your Kids to Excel at School This Year

Wed, 14 Aug 2019 13:21:40 GMT

A Successful School Year Starts at Home

The start of the school year is right around the corner. In fact, some students in the United States have already tackled this year’s first day of school for the year, and the rest of the students will be back in classes shortly after Labor Day. And as with every year as parents get their kids back into better sleep habits, getting through the school day, and keeping grades up, they also wonder if they are doing everything they can to help their kids be successful at school.

Five tips to help your kids be successful at school

Thankfully, there are several tried and true strategies that can help parents and kids work together for a more successful school year.

Parents need to remain engaged and involved. A key factor in this is by attending parent open houses and conferences. The more visibility you have to the student’s teachers and school environment, the better you will be able to understand your child’s day and their daily requirements. Further, partnering with your child’s teacher will encourage open dialogue to help your child where needed. Parents can also stay involved in their child’s education by chaperoning field trips, helping to organize class parties and events, reading a story to the class, or even helping to organize the senior class party if your child is older, are all helpful methods to stay informed on what is happening at school.
Make sure your child has a quiet and comfortable place to complete their homework. And not only should you provide the place, but also make sure that your child has adequate time for homework. Too many extra-curricular activities and even chores can distract your child. Make sure that the number of home responsibilities and extra activities such as sports, singing lessons, etc., are at a fair balance based on the age of your child. Your children will appreciate the opportunity to be kids as well, and when they get the right balance of leisure time, it can have a very positive impact on academics.
Your child needs to have sufficient rest each night and should be properly nourished when coming to school. Most children need somewhere between seven to ten hours of sleep per night, but this will vary by age. Further, children will function better and demonstrate better academic performance when they are properly fed before the school day begins.
Teach your child proper organizational and study skills. Be sure to check your child's homework folder or online assignment portal every school night so that you can help them to be on top of their assignments and so that your child doesn't fall behind. Also, help your child to prioritize their evenings, perhaps with homework first, followed by scheduled activities or some free time, and then chores before bed. No one is born with great organizational skills - your child will appreciate the opportunity to learn and to adopt these skills (though they might not acknowledge it until later in life).
Talk about your child’s school day. During dinner time or on the way to and from activities, spend time asking your child about their day. Use the time together to get them to share what they learned that day, and even to ask them what they had for lunch. While some children will share more than others, this daily habit will be good for your relationship with your child, but will also teach your child about the value of person to person communication (especially in today’s digitally-focused world). Not only that, but you will be indirectly working on memory exercises with your child as you help them to recall what transpired throughout the day.

While there are other things you can do to help your child, the above tips are perhaps the most important and the most linked to successful academic performance. Of course, if the above strategies aren’t working and your child is struggling in school, you will likely uncover these challenges much faster as a result of your engagement. Use those red flags you have identified through the process to work with your child’s guidance counselor to seek out methods that can help them to overcome the current situation.

A Simple Home Safety Inspection

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 10:54:48 GMT

It's Easy to Make Home Safety a Priority

As homeowners, we view our homes as a safe place. Our home is where we start our days, and where we end our days. We’re comfortable there, and in many cases, we know our home like the back of our hand, as the old adage goes. But in reality, our homes are full of safety risks and cause millions of injuries to homeowners each and every year. Therefore, no matter how safe our homes are, taking the time to conduct a regular home safety inspection can mean the difference between keeping our homes safe, or spaces that might send us to the hospital.

10 safety risks in the average home

According to Staysafe.org, home accidents claim 18,000 lives every year in the United States, accounting for 21 million medical visits annually. And, these visits cost over $220 billion per year! Most if not all of these accidents are avoidable. The most common home accidents are listed as follows:

Falls
Poisoning
Carbon monoxide
Fire
Drowning
Choking
Suffocation
Sharp objects
Stoves
Dishwashers

Conducting your own home safety inspection

When we get so comfortable in our homes, sometimes we miss obvious hazards that may be lurking. For this reason, homeowners can benefit from conducting regular safety inspections that can help to protect themselves and their loved ones. Follow these basic steps to ensure your home stays safe for the entire family.

Keep your window covering cords short - Ideally, cordless versions are best. But, if you already have corded window coverings, you should be able to shorten the cord or wind and tie it up high so that young children can’t reach.
Check your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors regularly - Batteries should be replaced annually at the least. However, a monthly inspection will help you stay safe rather than sorry.
Avoid extension cords running across doorways or under rugs - If you are currently using an extension cord as a permanent fixture, you may wish to have new outlets installed in places that are more conducive to your appliances.
Inspect your outlets every month or two - If your outlets feel warm, it is wise to contact an electrician to ensure the danger is not lurking behind the wall. Also, be sure that you are always following manufacturer guidelines for maximum wattage per outlet.
Conduct a chimney sweep - An annual flue and chimney sweep is highly recommended before starting your first fire of the season.
Ensure your water heater is set properly - Not only should you keep flammable or combustible materials away from your water heater, but you should have it set for a maximum of 120-degrees Fahrenheit to protect you and your family from scalding or burns.
Have multiple fire extinguishers in your home - In the least, you should have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and on every level. Make sure to follow guidelines from the manufacturer for replacement and routine maintenance.
Establish and practice a family escape route - Map out two or more exits for your home, and make sure that you have a fire rescue ladder on any upper-level floors. Practice your escape route and rescue plan with your family once or twice per year.
Save critical phone numbers in your mobile device - Make sure to have a list of all emergency phone numbers including local police and fire departments, as well as contacts for any of your home utilities, and key family members, saved into your mobile device. A back-up paper copy saved printed and placed on each floor of your home will also be very beneficial.
Keep poisonous chemicals behind locked doors - Make sure that children can not access any harmful or poisonous chemicals, and ensure liquor and tobacco products are also properly stored and locked away.
Surround your pool (or any water source on your property) with a four-foot fence - Ensure children can’t access any water sources. Also, make sure that your access gate opens out and locks automatically with a self-latching system when closed.
Childproofing is good for all ages - If you have an infant or toddler, childproofing is absolutely essential, but even when your children get older, leaving cabinet locks and outlet covers in place is a great idea especially in the event you have young visitors.

Taking the time to inspect your home for safety hazards regularly can seriously lessen your risk of an unplanned hospital visit. And, as you get into the habit of conducting these routine checks, you will also set a great example for children in your home by creating awareness so that they will follow your lead in the future.

Have question about how the safety of your home may impact your insurance costs? Give us call today 607-324-0455!

3 Tips for Being a Safer Driver

Sat, 27 Jul 2019 11:41:06 GMT

Safe Driving Keeps the Roads a Better Place

Obtaining a driver’s license is definitely a rite of passage, regardless of the age you are when you get your license. Once licensed, you join the ranks of an estimated 227.7+ million licensed drivers in the United States alone. With a total country population of 327.2 million, that means that over 70% of the population is out on the roads with you. That can be a pretty intimidating thought.

Every time you step into the driver’s seat of a motor vehicle, you are faced with the opportunity to operate a very dangerous and powerful piece of equipment. Whether you’ve been driving for years or you've just received that license, there is always room to improve your driving skills.

Become a safer driver by following these tips

Perhaps the best way to become a better driver is to practice. If you have ever heard the term Sunday driver, it refers to someone who drives erratically, slowly, or inexpertly. The term was derived from the practice of early automobile owners that did not rely on their car as their primary form of transportation. As a result, these drivers did not get behind the wheel very often and were not in a hurry as they took their car out once or twice a week for a leisurely drive, ogling at the countryside.

When drivers don’t drive regularly, it isn’t quite like riding a bike. While they may remember all of the necessary skills, drivers need to drive conscientiously and frequently to practice the multi-tasking skills that are required when driving a vehicle - managing the car, paying attention to road signs and signals, watching traffic, and anticipating the moves of other drivers that are sharing the road.

Another way to become a better and safer driver, especially in today’s modern times, is to avoid distractions, particularly as it comes to mobile devices. Over 2.5 million people are involved in vehicular accidents every year in the United States. Of those, 1.6 million of the accidents involved the use of a cellular device. And by now, we all know that texting while operating a motor vehicle is both dangerous and against the law.

It may be possible to drive safely when using your cell phone, but unless you can use your phone via a hands-free device, it is better to turn it off until you get to your destination. And if you are using your phone for navigation, set it in the cradle on your dashboard, turn on the navigation, and ignore anything else that shows up. But remember that distractions aren’t only caused by cell phones. If you are playing with the knob on the radio, eating a burger from the local fast-food restaurant, or even getting too engaged in a phone call or discussion with your passenger, it means that your focus isn’t entirely on the road. By eliminating as many distractions as possible, and refraining from texting and driving under any circumstances, you will improve the safety of your driving significantly.

One more way of improving your ability to drive is to avoid driving when drowsy. It is believed that approximately 6,000 fatal car crashes each year in the United States are caused by drowsy drivers. If that is not scary enough, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that one in 25 adult drivers have reported falling asleep while at the wheel. As such, drowsy driving is a serious problem. The risk, danger, and in many cases, tragic results of drowsy driving are staggering. These incidents usually occur when a driver has not enough rest, such as when returning home after a third-shift at work, or when suffering an untreated sleep disorder, on medications, or after alcohol consumption.

While there are many ways that drivers can be safer on the road, the most important factors to consider are to never drive in conditions that you cannot handle, and only drive when you are alert and otherwise not impaired. If you can focus on the road, you will be able to perceive the actions of other drivers better and take action accordingly and safely.

Have questions about your Car Insurance? Feel welcome to give us a call - 607-324-0455

Tips to Improve Your Home's Curb Appeal

Wed, 10 Jul 2019 16:44:12 GMT

Enhance Your Home's Value and Beautify the Neighborhood

We all know that first impressions really do matter. Whether it be a job interview, the first time you meet the parents of the person you are dating, and even when you arrive at a friend’s home for the first time, these interactions leave a long-lasting impression in our memories. If you have an older home that is no longer keeping up with the times, or you have purchased a fixer-upper that needs some love and attention, you probably know that the curb appeal of your home is critical, and can add three to five percent to the overall value of your home.

But exterior changes to your home can be expensive, and sometimes are deprioritized over internal updates that you might need to make to provide more space or usability within your home. Thankfully, there are some simple updates that you can make to your home that will improve the aesthetics, get you current with the times and styles, and will make you proud when you pull into your driveway after a long day at work.

Landscaping maintenance… it’s all in the details

Getting outside and caring for your lawn, garden, and other landscaping details can pay dividends in a variety of ways. An exterior lawn that is well-maintained provides added security as it shows that homeowners are present, versus a poorly maintained lawn which might indicate that homeowners are often away. Additionally, getting outside is good for your body and soul, and the exercise can provide a wealth of health benefits. So, in the least, be sure to do the following:

Trim hedges at least every month to help them keep their shape
Trim trees so the lowest limbs are above your head, which will provide additional visibility when looking outside from your windows. This is also a good feng shui tip, by ensuring that no positive energies are blocked from getting into your home.
Edge your hardscape if you have not done so, and along the perimeter of your home. Add river rock or mulch to those areas, to create depth and dimension.
Keep those weeds under control, and leverage a weed and feed solution that encourages growth for your lawn while reducing the growth of weeds. More and more environmentally friendly weedkillers are on the market now, so you can feel good about the chemicals that you are spraying on your lawn.
Add a few colorful and viny potted plants to your front porch or front stairway. Hanging plants can look great in front of a house if you have a place to add hooks. Just don’t forget to water them regularly.

If your budget has some wiggle room… go big or go home

If your budget allows, there are additional strategies to improve the overall look and value of your home.

New roof/shingles: A new roof can change the overall appearance of your home and can add considerable value when it comes time to do an appraisal. And, a new roof can help protect your home from leaks and other repair needs.
Fresh paint: Whether you decide to paint yourself, or hire a professional painter, new paint can also radically change the appearance, especially with the selection of the right colors. If you are painting and add a new roof, work with an exterior designer or design professional to match the paint and roof together for a cohesive look. \
Shutters: If your home currently has shutters, consider painting them a new color (especially if you are painting the rest of the house or updating your roof). Shutters don’t necessarily need to be functional, but they will add variety and texture and can create for a very unique look when paired correctly.

Have Homeowners Insurance Questions? We are the experts! Please give us a call 607-324-0455

How to Keep Your Family's Summer Safe

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 15:18:29 GMT

Remember, Safety First for a Fun Summer

Summer is here! While much of the United States has been blessed to experience some fantastic weather already this June and July, after Friday, June 21 that marked the first official day of the season. That means that we have just three months to maximize our summer fun until summer officially comes to an end, at least the calendar end, on Monday, September 23. Though the summer marks a fun time for families, it can also be a very dangerous season, so it is important to take the appropriate steps to keep you and your family safe all summer long.

Fishy, Fishy in the Brook

Perhaps the most sought-after activity that we look forward to during the other three seasons of the year is swimming. With over 7,600 hundred freshwater lakes in the state of New York, you don’t have to travel too far to take a dip. Swimming is a fun activity and is great for our bodies, but it can quickly turn deadly if we don’t follow proper swimming safety precautions. Follow these simple safety tips whenever you decide to head to a lake, pool, brook, or other to cool off and get your swim on.

Never swim alone, and do not trust a child’s life with that of another child. Children should only swim in the presence of an adult that knows how to swim.
Never leave a young child unattended in or near the water.
Young children and inexperienced swimmers should wear properly-fitted and secured U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets in and around the water, even if they are not planning to go swimming.
Adults should avoid distractions when supervising children around water.
Stay hydrated and drink water throughout the day, even if you are not thirsty, and avoid indulging in alcohol, as this can slow reaction times in the event of an emergency.
Have your mobile phone nearby, and know when to call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.

For Motorheads…

Summer is also a great time to take out the boat or an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) for some fun on the water or trails. But for these activities too, it is important to practice extreme safety so that you can maximize your fun and ensure that you will later be able to tell others about it.

When operating any motorized vehicle such as a boat, jet-ski, ATV, or dirt bike, refrain from consuming alcohol which can impair your ability to properly operate the vehicle. When boating and jet-skiing, where a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, and when ATVing or dirt-biking, where an approved helmet and other recommended safety gear.

For all of these activities, keep your eye on the weather, as conditions can often change quite quickly.

Celebrate our independence safely and lawfully

Fireworks have been a popular addition to 4th of July activities for centuries, literally. Use of fireworks to help us celebrate the day was the brain-child of John Adams. And, as such, the first commemorative Independence Day fireworks were used on July 4, 1777. The state of New York allows for the sale and use of consumer fireworks that are known as sparking devices. These are ground-based, and sometimes handheld devices, that produce showers of colored sparks or colored flames, accompanied by crackling and whizzing noises, and smoke.

If you want fireworks to be part of your family’s celebration this Independence Day, be sure to practice the following guidelines:

Supervise the use of all fireworks, and ensure that operations are only conducted by a competent, non-impaired adult.
After the sparklers burn out, toss them in a bucket of water or spray them with a hose. If you have trusted your child to hold a sparkler, and they proceed to drop it, instruct them to leave it on the ground and to move to a safe area to let the sparkler burn out. Then, ensure the sparkler is completely done burning by dousing it with water.
If you’re lighting a ground-based sparkler, be sure to set it off in a wide and clear area, and ensure all spectators are properly located at a considerable distance from the sparkler.