In 2021, more than $95 million in property damage was the result of winter weather’s icy touch.

Your home keeps you safe, so consider winterizing your home to return the favor and keep winter-related damage out of reach.

Get proactive when the temperature drops

1. Add weather stripping

By sealing gaps on your doors and windows you can avoid mold, mildew and water damage around your windows and doors.

2. Insulate pipes

Insulating your pipes will help prevent weather damage no matter what season. One in 50 insured homes have a water damage or freezing pipe claim every year, with an average claim for frozen pipes coming in at about $11,098. Make sure you have the right water backup protection in place as well.  

3. Ready your roof

FEMA studies show that your roof is the most vulnerable part of your home to weather damage. The buildup of ice dams on your roof in the winter could cause melted snow to spill into your home. Keep the entire roof the same temperature as the eaves (part of the roof that overhangs) by making sure your attic is well ventilated and insulated.

4. Seal air leaks

Sealing air leaks in your home can help reduce energy costs in your home by about 20%. Luckily, there are several steps you can take to check for air leak problem areas and take action to help save money on those pesky leaks.

5. Clean gutters

If your gutters are clogged, the snow and ice will not drain properly when it melts, which can overflow the gutter, or even worse, weigh the gutter down and possibly detach from the house. Consider installing gutter guards in time for next winter as an added layer of protection.

6. Service your heat sources

Whether you have a furnace, boiler and/or chimney, get them serviced once a year to prevent smoke and fire damage. Changing the filter on your furnace prolongs its life and can save you money on your energy bill.

7. Tend to your trees

Branches are more vulnerable to break during the winter, as the wood hardens and becomes more brittle and susceptible to wind damage. In addition, snow and ice can accumulate on trees and branches, increasing the chances of damage to your home.

8. Check or install detectors

With a higher risk of fires in winter, make sure to install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and check them regularly to make sure they are working properly. Water and heat monitoring devices can help you detect a small issue before it becomes a big problem.

Next steps

The Hanover offers a broad portfolio of insurance solutions to help protect your home during the winter, spring, summer and fall, including protection against equipment breakdown and total account with waiver of deductible in case a tree falls on your home or garage and damages more than one asset. Contact your local insurance agent be sure you have the right protection in place.  

Sources:

National Weather Service
Insurance Information Institute
U.S. Department of Energy
Forbes

Severe winter weather can cause power outages and loss of heat. Here are some tips on how to help handle an outage during the winter.

Before the storm

• Set your refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings.
• Check flashlights and portable radios.
• Be sure to have extra batteries on hand.
• Fully charge electronics, including cell phones, tablets and laptops.
• Maintain your HVAC system*
  • Make sure the system is working properly and schedule preventative maintenance every year.
  • Change the air filters on a regular basis and ensure that exhaust gases are properly ventilated.
  • Have a heating system repair service to work with before any maintenance issues arise or unexpected outages. Make sure you can contact them after hours in case they need to come quickly.

• Ensure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly and have fresh batteries.
• For those with well water, fill your bathtub with water to help replace the water after flushing.
• Get out extra blankets, coats, hats and mittens.
• Prepare generators and other alternative heating supplies. Start them to ensure they are working*.
  • For permanent generators:
    • Permanent generators should have a proper maintenance plan that includes weekly, monthly, and annual checks. See the manufacturer’s specifications for more information.
    • Run the unit weekly on its maintenance plan to ensure it is properly functioning in case of an emergency. Individual units may have a timer that allows a programmed test to be scheduled. Qualified personnel should oversee these scheduled weekly tests.
    • Check the generator enclosure for loose debris or other conditions that could cause the unit to not function properly.
  • For portable generators
    • Store in a dry location.
    • Set up a maintenance schedule to include periodic test runs for the unit.
    • When renting a portable unit, make sure you have a contract in place ahead of winter weather. Also consider where the unit will be housed, how it will be delivered, and who will be responsible
      for receiving it. Note that delivery of the unit can be delayed due to the severe winter weather, which may cause some business downtime.

During the outage

• Check with your power company for updates. Many have outage maps and information on their websites.
• Use 911 for true emergencies only.
• Use flashlights, instead of candles, as much as possible.
• Take safety precautions when using a generator. Never run generators indoors where carbon monoxide can cause harm.
• Dress warmly, in layers.
• If you lose your heat, close the doors of unused rooms and place towels under the doors. At night, cover windows with shades, extra blankets or sheets.
• Unplug sensitive electronics to protect them from surges when power is restored.
• Know and watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.

After the outage

• Be careful around downed power lines. Assume they are live and never touch them or drive over them.
• Throw away foods that have been exposed to greater than 40 degree temperatures for more than two hours.
• Safely put back all items, such as flashlights, batteries, candles, generators, to have them ready for the future.

Sources: Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency, The Hanover Risk Management, *IBHS

Independent insurance agents help to simplify the process of buying insurance by doing much of the groundwork and research for you. Your agent will take time to understand your needs — and offer valuable advice as those needs change. You can count on them as trusted advisors whose mission is to help make sure you are protected. Independent insurance agents work for YOU.

"Consumers really value the advice independent insurance agents provide. Independent insurance agents are trusted experts similar to other experts, like financial advisors, accountants and even your doctor – experts who have your best interest – and best future – in mind."

— Richard W. Lavey, President, Hanover Agency Markets

How independent agents make buying insurance easier

Insurance is not a "click-to-buy-now" type of purchase. Independent agents will take the time to help you understand complicated insurance information, offering objective advice on the right coverages for your circumstance.

Your coverage should fit your needs

When you work with an independent agent, you'll never be shoehorned into a policy simply because that's the policy they are able to sell. Despite all the commercials on television, buying the right insurance for your needs is rarely as simple as making a ten-minute phone call. Robots and algorithms may be quick, but your peace of mind isn't a variable in their quoting equation. Buying insurance is about protecting the ones you love, the home you live in, and the business you own.

The benefits of using an independent agent include:

• An independent agent is a knowledgeable advisor
  Independent insurance agents are licensed insurance professionals akin to a financial advisor. They look out for you and your assets.
• Personalized customer service
  A one-on-one meeting with a local agent can point out any gaps in your coverage, and help make sure you are covered for contingencies.
• More choice is better
  Independent agents deal with multiple insurance carriers so you will be offered options. Agents also make sure you receive group discounts when applicable.
• An inside advocate when you need to make a claim
  Should you need to make a claim, your independent agent can help you every step of the way through to an acceptable settlement.
• Keeping it local helps your town
  Your local independent insurance agent is a vital part of your local economy, paying local taxes, and contributing to local charities and programs.

The Hanover has done business through independent insurance agents for more than 165 years because we believe agents help tailor the best combination of coverage, value and price for individuals, families and businesses. For even more benefits to working with an independent insurance agent, check out this infographic. And, find an independent insurance agent that is ready to work with you.

*2021 study conducted by OnePoll and The Hanover

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice.

When it comes time to shop for insurance, you may decide to seek out the expertise and convenience of an insurance agency.

But not all agencies are alike. Understanding the difference between "captive" and "independent" insurance agents can go a long way toward ensuring you get the best combination of coverage, value and price. This chart helps explain the advantages and convenience of working with an independent insurance agent.

Independent agents – a real difference-maker

Seek your independents

When you're ready to shop, contact your independent insurance agent today. At The Hanover, we've sold insurance exclusively through independent agents since our founding in 1852.

LC 2017-54

16, 17, 18. These are probably significant numbers to your teen. That’s because, depending on where you live, those are ages when they can finally get a driver’s license.

Now, here are two significant numbers for you if you are a parent of that teen: 79 and 92. According to a recent New York Times article, 79 is the percentage you can expect your auto insurance rates to increase when you add a teen driver to your policy…and 92 if that teen is a boy.

Here’s a number that may make you feel a little better: Five. That’s how many ways you could minimize this increase, by educating your teen driver, understanding their driving habits, and rewarding their smart decision-making on the roads.

Insuring teen drivers – by the numbers

30 – When teens complete teenSMART’s driver education course, you’ll reduce not just your rate, but their chances of an accident by up to 30 percent. TeenSMART utilizes driving simulations and real life scenarios to help better prepare your youthful driver for the roads.

5 – That’s the dollar amount your teen could receive in Amazon rewards every 30 days with SmartPath. When you sign up and download the app, you will be able to monitor your new driver’s behavior behind the wheel, including level of distraction, speeding and hard braking and more. When your teen participates and maintains a good driving score, they’ll earn rewards.

2,500 – You probably know that, with most insurance policies, increasing your deductible and can help reduce your rate. With ParentChoice, The Hanover can offer a smart way to apply a special deductible to certain vehicles. Start with increasing the deductible by $2,500 on the cars you don’t want your teen to drive. If there is a claim involving one of these cars, this increased deductible applies only if your teen was the driver.

3.0 – Some auto insurance carriers, including The Hanover, offer a good student discount for drivers who maintain a B or better average.

21 – With The Hanover’s student away at school discount, you can save when drivers 21 and younger are off at school, while their car stays at home.

Have that phone number handy

When you are ready to add a teen driver to your auto policy, call your independent agent to discuss these five ways to save. You can also visit our Safeteen website to learn more.

LC 2018-201

With teen drivers, it is very important to have coachable moments early on to instill safe and responsible habits that will carry throughout their driving. The Hanover offers some conversation starters for you and your teen.

"Keep your eyes on the road, hands on the steering wheel."

New, inexperienced drivers are more likely to be in an accident. It is important to focus only on driving. When you are first behind the wheel, even actions like using voice controlled features, adjusting the radio or eating can be a distraction.

"Take your time."

 Always stop for the total three seconds at stop signs to avoid being cut off, or cutting off other drivers. Be aware of the speed limit at all times.

"Check in."

Before you take the car out, always let someone know where you are going and when you will be back.

"Nothing good ever happens after midnight."

Be extra cautious when driving at night, especially if you are a newer driver. The National Safety Council advises that impaired drivers are most frequently on the road after dark – particularly between the hours of midnight and 3 a.m. on weekends. And, in many states, it's against the law for you to be on the roads during those hours.

"The weather can change in a blink of an eye."

Obviously, the best scenario is for you to be home, and not behind the wheel, if severe weather hits. Nonetheless, it's important how to drive safely in rain and snow. Also make sure your car is equipped with the right tools to drive in these conditions, such as workable windshield wipers, antifreeze and snow brushes.

"Stay organized."

Keep your insurance card in your vehicle in case you ever get in an accident.

"Know your car."

Know how to perform minor fixes to your car such as changing a flat tire, jump starting your car or changing your oil.

"Know what to do In Case of Emergency."

In a situation where you are not able to speak, first responders will go to your phone and call contacts listed as "ICE" in order to inform them of the accident, as well as obtain medical information about you. Make sure you have your emergency contacts clearly labeled.

Let's talk safety

We are dedicated to helping our customers feel safe and confident with their teen driver on the road. Talk to your independent agent to learn more about the tools The Hanover offers to help keep your teen driver safe, and save you money as well.

LC July 2018-334

They are six words that give parents of young drivers anxiety: your teen has a driver’s license. With their driver’s license in place, maybe you are in the market for buying a vehicle to help them hit the roadways for the first time. Before you commit your money to just any vehicle, consider six more words to aid you in your decision:

Stars

There are a lot of car rating systems to choose from that can make selecting a vehicle difficult. Consider ratings from organizations such as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and Consumer Reports. The two organizations have joined forces to publish the 2020 list of 65 recommended used vehicles, ranging from $5,300 to $19,600, showing that safety can be both affordable and practical. Review list. They collaborate to put out lists of four- and five-star purchases based on criteria that takes into account several safety features, data from crash tests and overall reliability.

Control

All drivers will have to hit the brakes from time to time to navigate slippery roadways and other drivers.

Look for vehicles with standard electronic stability control, which has the technology to help all drivers brake more efficiently and maintain control.

Sporty cars also come with the temptation to test the speed limits frequently. This also means a higher risk of accidents. Avoid them and go with a car that provides not-too-fast, not-too slow speeds to help your teen gain valuable experience first.

Middle

When considering the size of the vehicle, don’t go too big or too small. Smaller sized cars may not provide enough protection in the event of a crash.

On the other end of the spectrum, there may be a temptation to surround your young teen in a truck, large SUV or minivan for protection. However, with great bulk comes greater demands on the young driver to handle its size and in many cases, lesser handling.

Search first for mid-sized vehicles and review their safety ratings before making the final purchase decision.

History

Used vehicles are an affordable option many car buyers steer towards for their children. A recent IIHS study stated that 83% of parents who purchased a vehicle for their teen driver bought it used. If you decide to look at used cars, make sure to check to see if there have been any recent recalls or safety issues that have come to light.

Connectivity

Distracted driving is a real issue on the road, especially for younger drivers. Check vehicles for connectivity options like Bluetooth or verbal assistance features to help reinforce good driving habits by keeping your teen’s hands and eyes off the phone and on the road. Features such as lane departure warning, blind spot warning and others may cost you more money, but add an extra layer of protection for newer drivers.

Coverage

Once you have a vehicle in mind, consider talking to an agent about your options. Also, check out The Hanover SafeTeen program that offers parents and teen drivers resources that could help give you six words: peace of mind while they drive.

Sources:

1. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
2. Consumer Reports
3. USA Today

This material is provided for informational purposes only. Customers should make the decision on which vehicle best meets their need.

LC 2020-514

Dislodged shingles.

Structural damage.

Water-stained ceilings and walls.

These are just a few symptoms of an ice dam – a winter weather culprit. Ice dams form when the sun or warmth from your attic melts snow high up on your roof which then pools and freezes at lower, colder portions of the roof.

If you see your gutters coated in layers of ice under snow, there are things you can do problem-solve this drainage issue.

Remove ice dams safely

If you can safely reach the roof, fill a nylon stocking with calcium chloride ice melt, typically sold at any hardware store. Place the nylon stocking vertically across the ice dam, and it will melt a channel in the dam through which water can flow. Make sure the channels extend all the way to the edge of the roof.

If safety is an issue, call a pro

If you cannot reach the roof safely from the ground or question whether you need assistance, contact a professional. If you see water damage, a restoration service can dry out the walls and ceiling, preventing decay, mold and mildew from forming.

Prevent future ice dams

• Keep your gutters clean, so melting snow can flow off the roof.
• Monitor your roof in cold weather. Check for icicles, as their presence means the conditions for an ice dam to form are present.
• Use a snow rake to remove snow from your roof or hire a licensed professional snow remover or roofing contractor.
• Use heating cables on eaves and gutters to create channels for water to drain.
• Ensure proper attic ventilation and insulation so warm air doesn’t rise to the attic.

You have coverage options

Ice dams can lead to costly damage, escalating the need for protection against equipment breakdown, siding and/or roof restoration coverage and green upgrades.

Contact your independent insurance agent to review your existing insurance coverage protection and determine if you have the proper amount of coverage for contents and coverage A, as well as limits in place to protect should an ice dam damage your home.

Sources:

Consumer Reports

Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety

Family Handyman

You are probably currently researching home insurance in advance of a big purchase, like a new or second home. As a result, you may have seen an article or two discussing surprising and unlikely events covered by a typical homeowners insurance policy. For instance, meteor strikes, or cattle stampedes (and no, we are not making this up). Fun trivia to share with your friends, but you are here to learn more about homeowners insurance, and find the right plan. So, it's good to know there are also some more, common occurrences that are also covered. Ones that may surprise you.

• Student property – The first thing to know is that, just because it's home insurance, doesn't mean an event has to occur at home to be covered. A good example of this is when a student is off at college. They may be away from home, that doesn't mean they are away from your home policy. In the event their possessions get stolen, your home policy can provide some coverage for this.
• Accidents – outside of your home – Another good example is personal liability coverage. Most homeowners policies come with a degree of this coverage, and a covered event doesn't have to take place on your property.
• Dog bites – Again, it doesn't matter where. If you own a dog, your home policy could provide a level of protection against expenses related to your dog's bites. Which is good, because otherwise, these incidents can take a big bite out of your bank account. Keep in mind, though, that if a lawsuit arises due to a dog bite (or an accident, as mentioned above), costs may exceed the level of liability coverage provided in your home policy. That's where an umbrella policy can provide additional – and affordable – peace of mind.
• Living expenses – Let's say a major accident has rendered your home temporarily uninhabitable. You may start making a mental list of friends or relatives who have couch space available. But, with "loss of use" coverage, your home policy can cover you for reasonable expenses related to a temporary living arrangement while your home undergoes repairs. This includes rent or hotel costs, food and transportation.
• Food – If you've ever experienced a power outage, you probably remember what a bad feeling it was to throw away all of the food from your refrigerator. But, many carriers, including The Hanover, offer optional coverage for refrigerated contents in the event of a power outage. So, at least you won't have to "eat the cost" of what you've lost.
• Identity theft – Home insurance often provides options against many forms of theft, and that includes your personal information. In the event your life has been hacked, your home policy could help cover costs related to restoration, document replacement, and legal expenses. In fact, The Hanover partners with CyberScout to help identity theft victims recover in the event of an incident, and provides resources to minimize the chances of a future hack.
• Building code upgrades – If you live in an older home, you may be familiar with the complications that can arise when you undergo repairs. In the event of a claim, your home policy can make this a little easier. Sometimes called "ordinance or law" coverage, you could be covered if, after a claim, you are required to make additional upgrades to bring your building up to current code.

No surprise here

Your local independent insurance agent is the best source to turn to for more information on the right homeowners policy for you. Talk to your agent today.

Source: Christian Science Monitor

The recommendation(s), advice and contents of this material are provided for informational purposes only and do not purport to address every possible legal obligation, hazard, code violation, loss potential or exception to good practice. The Hanover Insurance Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries (“The Hanover”) specifically disclaim any warranty or representation that acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein will make any premises, property or operation safe or in compliance with any law or regulation.  Under no circumstances should this material or your acceptance of any recommendations or advice contained herein be construed as establishing the existence or availability of any insurance coverage with The Hanover.  By providing this information to you, The Hanover does not assume (and specifically disclaims) any duty, undertaking or responsibility to you.  The decision to accept or implement any recommendation(s) or advice contained in this material must be made by you.

LC AUG 2018-360

Many homeowners and business owners rely on a sump pump to keep water out of their basement in the event of a storm. Without the proper maintenance, however, a sump pump may fail right when you need it. Simple preventative maintenance could save you the cost of cleaning up a flooded basement. Use the following tips to help keep your sump pump in good condition, so you'll be ready in the event of a storm.

• Test the sump pump. Test the pump every year before the "wet season" in early spring to make sure it will be functioning effectively when you need it. Test the pump by pouring a bucket of water slowly into the sump pump. If the pump doesn't turn on once the water level reaches a predetermined level or if it does not properly discharge the water, then the pump may be broken or clogged. Call a licensed plumber for help.
• Clean the pump. Unplug the unit. Then, remove the pump's lid (if it has one), and use a flashlight to check inside. Remove any dirt, sand, gravel or other debris from the pump opening. If the incoming drainage lines are blocked, it becomes difficult for water to channel into the sump pit.
• Check for worn parts. A sump pump's moving parts can wear out over time, preventing the pump from operating in the event of a flooded basement. The float switch is the most common part that fails on a sump pump, and many manufacturers recommend replacing the float every two years. Also, check for corrosion and clean the inlet screen, which is located at the base of the pump.
• Install a battery backup. A battery backup will help make sure your pump doesn't fail, even in the event of a power outage. If you have battery backup installed, make sure you test the battery by unplugging the pump.
• Inspect the water discharge area. Ensure water is being directed at least 20 feet away from your house and confirm the water is flowing and not clogging along the line.

Your sump pump will display some distinct characteristics if it needs to be repaired or replaced. Contact a professional if you encounter any of these signs:

• Aging. Experts recommend that you replace an average-use unit every 7-10 years. If your pump runs frequently, its lifespan ranges from 5-7 years.
• Odors. If rotten, moldy smells are coming from your basement, your sump pump may be malfunctioning.
• Rust. An older pump may not have been made with rust-resistant materials. A pump with rust that can't be scrubbed away needs to be replaced or the rusted part needs to be repaired.
• Noises. Sump pumps shouldn't generate loud noises. If your pump is making unusual noises, like humming, clanging or banging, it could be time for a replacement.
• Water. The most noticeable sign your sump pump needs repair or replacement is the presence of water in your basement. If there is water in your basement, the pump isn't doing its job.

Keep yourself covered

Even if you perform routine maintenance, your pump might still fail, potentially causing thousands of dollars of damage. Basic home coverage doesn't always cover pump fails. Consider water backup coverage to keep your assets protected in the event of a failed sump pump.

Sources:

The Spruce
Bobvila.com
Home Advisor