It is fire season, at least in California. And the fires are already starting. The Angora Fire in the Sierra Nevada mountains has burned over 2,500 acres and 200 homes. After a fire like this, you need to call your…
Posts Categorized In: Homeowners Insurance
Insurance Companies Inspecting Fire Prone Homes
This shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone. Insurance companies are inspecting fire prone homes and may be requiring consumers to take steps to protect their homes. Some consumer groups and consumers are upset. This is a pretty straightforward issue….
FAQ: Do I have to give a recorded statement?
Q: I filed a homeowners insurance claim for damage to my house. The adjuster told me they want a recorded statement. Do I have to give them a recorded statement? A: Probably not. Read your policy. You have a duty…
FAQ: Can filing a homeowners claim be a bad idea?
This came from a reader and you can read it here. Answer: Yes. If you have a low deductible, you may think you should file smaller claims. However, as discussed in this article from United Policyholders, there is a phenomenon…
FAQ: What is fair market value?
Q: What is fair market value? How does it differ from the depreciated amount? A: Fair market value is the cost to replace the item in its pre-loss condition. So, if the item is a 4 year old 40″ tv,…
FAQ: Can I cut down my neighbor’s tree?
Q: My neighbor’s tree overhangs my property. I am concerned it will damage my house. Can I cut it down? A: You can cut the branches that are hanging over your side of the property. It is a simple rule:…
Allstate to stop selling insurance in California?
In an interesting move, Allstate may stop selling homeowners insurance in California. The information comes from Allstate agents who wished not to be named. The company, of course, denies the truth to this report. Insurance companies are odd. The apparent…
FAQ: How do I figure out what a dog bite is worth?
Q: I was bit by a dog. How do I figure out what a dog bite case is worth? A: Dog bites are some of the more complicated cases to evaluate. There are a lot of factors to consider. These…
State Farm Told to Pay
In an update on a Hurricane Katrina case, State Farm has been ordered to pay $2.5 million in damages to a couple whose home was destroyed in the hurricane. State Farm said an appeal is likely. (Have they ever lost…
FAQ: Do I have to tell them about my dog?
Q: I have a dog. What happens if I do not tell my insurance company about my dog? A: First, having a dog does not exclude coverage for things like fire, theft, etc…. However, you should let the insurance company…