Boat insurance is an agreement between you and your insurance company that protects your watercraft and trailer, any damage you cause to others while boating, and other events. As with auto insurance, you’ll select and purchase “coverages,” which are things your insurer agrees to pay for.

How does boat insurance work?

Whether you buy watercraft insurance on your own, from an agent, or through a marine dealer, you’ll be asked some basic questions about you, your boat, and the coverages you’re looking for. All these factors will affect your price for insurance. Then, if you damage your boat or hit someone/something else, you’ll file a “claim” with your insurer. If it’s covered, they’ll pay for the losses or injuries up to your coverage limits.

Do you need boat insurance?

If you’re using your watercraft strictly for pleasure, only a few states mandate that you have boat insurance in certain circumstances. However, if you’re financing your boat, most lienholders will require you to carry insurance with comprehensive and collision coverage. In addition, if you plan to dock your boat, some marinas and harbors will require you to show proof of liability coverage. Regardless of the value of your boat, liability coverage is important and comes standard on watercraft insurance policies.

One of the biggest myths about boat insurance is that you and your boat will be adequately covered under home insurance. While your homeowners policy may offer minimal protection in some instances, it won’t offer the kind of coverage you need on the water—especially if you’ll be operating a large powerboat. Powerboats are typically more expensive and prone to accidents compared to small boats with smaller motors.

How to get boat insurance?

At Lallis & Higgins Insurance, you can buy watercraft insurance anytime and you can usually get coverage immediately. If necessary, we can provide you a verification of insurance form via fax or email. Prices can vary depending on how you buy. Contact us.

As a busy homeowner, it is easy to fall into the trap of pushing off tasks that maintain the long-term value of your home in favor of more pressing problems. That’s OK, to a point, as certain house-cleaning projects should be in the “long-term maintenance” category. But putting them on hold for too long can have disastrous results. As with so many things in life, preventive maintenance can save a lot of future effort and cost in your home, too.

We’ve put together the following checklist of cleaning projects that can save you headaches – and money – down the line.

1. Keep up with general cleaning: Giving the entire house a light cleaning every couple of weeks goes a long way toward preventing unwanted build-up. Dust and grime accumulate gradually and can permanently impact the sheen of hardwood and the sparkle of bathroom fixtures. Clutter and smaller messes also often disguise spills, leaks, and stains. Over time, these can set and become more difficult to remove.
2. Replace air filters: If your heating or air-conditioning system relies on vents or an intake with an air filter, make sure you know the proper replacement schedule. Extending an air filter past its useful life not only lowers your air quality, it also can force your air conditioner or furnace to work harder, leading to more frequent breakdowns.
3. Clean the dishwasher: The appliance we rely on so heavily to clean up after us needs to be cleaned itself every now and then! Its ability to operate effectively decreases between cleanings, and the longer you wait, the more likely it is to malfunction. A number of moving parts in dishwashers can easily get stuck when they are covered in food or soap residue, which can result in a less-than-appetizing smell that might even transfer to your dishes. For optimal results, periodically remove the filter system from the floor of your dishwasher and clean it off. Then run the dishwasher with white vinegar to remove build-up, stains, and odors.
4. Make sure drains are clear: A visit from the plumber is guaranteed to be expensive, so we recommend doing everything you can to limit build-up in your drains and toilets. Avoid putting coffee grounds or grease down your sink drains, purchase a drain cover to catch hair in the shower and use a slightly less-luxurious toilet paper to avoid clogs. At the first sign of a clog, use baking soda, dish soap, or store-bought drain cleaner on trouble spots.
5. Have your carpets cleaned: Heavily-trafficked areas should be professionally cleaned at least once or twice per year, depending on where you live and how conscientious you are about removing your shoes at the door. This will revitalize your carpets, and can prolong their lifespan, too. And whenever a spill occurs, react quickly! Just one noticeable stain can ruin a beautiful carpet. If you’re stumped, search online for a solution – there are an endless number of step-by-step guides to address every conceivable spill.
6. Check for leaks: Water damage can be one of the most significant (and expensive) repairs a homeowner can face – and it’s tough to spot before it’s too late. Proactively checking areas around bathtubs and sinks will help along with keeping an eye on walls and ceilings for discolorations as well. If a ceiling becomes discolored, investigate what could be causing the stain before giving it a fresh coat of paint.

Think back to when you purchased your home. You probably visited an open house where the fixtures sparkled, the floors gleamed, and the paint looked fresh. Following the checklist above can help you get that new-home feel again, while maintaining your home’s value as well.

For more information, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Reposted with permission from the original author, Safeco Insurance®.

Although homeowner's insurance covers many of the basic problems that can arise through homeownership, it does not offer the extra liability coverage that is necessary to cover tenants and protect landlords in rental properties. Landlord insurance is designed to offer coverage that more closely fits the needs of a renting landlord. Because of the differences in coverage, the cost of landlord and homeowners insurance differs. You may be able to lower these through certain discounts or tax deductions.

Tip

Homeowners insurance for rental properties is actually known as landlord insurance. This type of coverage tends to be more expensive due to the increased risk non owner-occupied homes carry.

Rental Properties are Higher Risk

Generally, insurance providers see the insurance of a landlord’s property which he intends to rent as a higher risk because the policy holder does not intend to reside at the property. The fact that the owner will not be at the property daily presents a greater chance that the dwelling can be damaged or abused in some way – renters have less motivation to take good care of the property. Landlord insurance will cost more for both this higher risk and the increased liability protection that a landlord will need to purchase.

Covers Basic Damage

Most landlord insurance policies cover basic elemental damages, although flood policies and other natural disaster coverage, such as earthquake, must be purchased separately. If the landlord plans to furnish the apartment for tenants by providing appliances and dishes, this is also covered under the insurance but will add to the premium. You can purchased emergency assistance coverage, which helps pay for immediate maintenance needs, and theft, vandalism and liability coverage at an additional cost. These additions are specific to the location and fixtures of your rental property.

Landlord Policy Costs More

A landlord can expect to pay up to 20 percent more to purchase a basic landlord insurance policy versus a standard . However, if you can prove that your rental property will be occupied for a majority of the year, you may be able to negotiate a lower premium. Vacant rentals tend to add to the cost of insurance as there is more chance of damage when a home is unoccupied. Some insurance providers may see the constant habitation as a risk reduction on emergencies, such as a fire which could destroy the property if unnoticed.

Property Tax Deduction

As a landlord, you may be able to use the costs paid for your landlord insurance on a property as a deduction on your overall property taxes. If your insurance costs have been combined with your monthly mortgage payment, the bank should provide you with a Form 1098 which reports insurance costs, along with interest paid, which can be deducted. Owners of a condo property pay their structural insurance costs as part of their membership in the condo association, although the landlord is still responsible for insuring their personal fixtures and liabilities.

Rates Depend on Geography

The location of the rental property can also be leveraged to secure better terms on your landlord insurance. Some policies offer a 25 percent discount on landlord insurance premiums if a landlord can prove that the local fire department is located near a major water source, which could include smaller streams. A further 10 percent discount can be earned if your rental property resides in a gated community. Ask your policy provider about possible discount options that can be applied to your policy. Likewise, the state and neighborhood a home is located can also add to the cost of coverage. Rental property in areas with high theft or crime rates can also cost more.

For more information, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Source: homeguides.sfgate.com

RV insurance can protect your motorhome, travel trailer, camper and even your horse trailer. Here at Lallis & Higgins Insurance, let us help you select the right coverage for your RV needs and get a great price at the same time.

Call us today at to get your free insurance quote.

Here are some things to consider when shopping for recreational vehicle insurance:

RVs that are for personal, recreational use can be insured for up to 250 days per year. This gives you plenty of time to travel south and enjoy some warmer winter weather or that extended vacation.

Liability coverage provides you with bodily injury and property damage coverage, medical payments, uninsured coverage and more. Coverage varies by state.

You may be able to choose how your Comprehensive and Collision coverage will be settled in the event of a covered total loss. Options tailored to your needs can include:

• Stated Value - market value/actual cash value of the RV
• Agreed Value – the insured amount, regardless of the current market value
• Replacement Cost – we will replace your insured RV with a new RV that is most like it

Consider Vacation Liability coverage for when you stop driving and start using your recreational vehicle as a temporary residence. Some policies can include additional coverage for physical damage in Mexico.

Personal Effect Coverage provides replacement cost for damage or loss to items normally used with your RV when physical damage coverage is selected.

Some policies include Roadside Assistance, which has you covered 24/7 in the event of a breakdown or accident. Some will even allow you to upgrade the coverage to include lodging, transportation and meal coverage if needed.

Ask if customer assistance is available 24/7 to answer all your insurance questions. In the event you have a loss, the insurance companies we work with have skilled claims teams who will work with you to get your RV repaired and back on the road.

Other additional coverage can include: Accident forgiveness, pet coverage, diminishing deductible, and more.

Discounts can lower your premium. Ask us at Lallis & Higgins Insurance whether you qualify for safe driver discounts, original owner discounts, package discounts and more.

You can save money if you insure more than one item with a single company, including your home, cars, motorcycles, classic cars and boats. It will also simplify your life.

Lallis & Higgins Insurance is independently owned and locally operated to handle your insurance needs. We focus on Boston and the South Shore and offer affordable and reliable insurance choices all across Massachusetts.

Nothing says Spring is here more than Easter Egg Hunts! Checkout our list of local events coming up this month to have fun at with the family.

Sat Apr 13, 2019 - Sun Apr 21, 2019
Easter Activities at Bass Pro Shops 1 Bass Pro Dr. Foxboro, MA
There will be Easter activities for the whole family, including photos with the Easter Bunny, crafts, and an egg hunt. Photos with the Easter Bunny (Saturdays from 11am to 5pm, Sundays from 12pm-5pm, Monday from 5:30pm to 7pm, and Friday from 2pm to 8pm). Crafts for Kids (Saturdays and Sundays from 12pm to 5pm, Friday 4/19 from 3pm to 7pm). Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday April 20 from 2-3pm. FREE 4x6 photo each day; one per family! https://stores.basspro.com/us/ma/foxborough/1-bass-pro-dr.html

Sat, Apr 13, 12 – 4 PM
Adult Easter Egg Hunt! The Brook Kitchen & Tap 200 S Franklin St, Holbrook, MA
Kids shouldn’t have all of the fun, so join the Holbrook Rotary Club in Holbrook's first ever Adult Easter Egg Hunt Holbrook Rotary Club's Adult Easter Egg Hunt will be held on Saturday, April 13. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/adult-easter-egg-hunt-tickets-56860754046

Sun 4/14 12:30pm
Spring on the Lawn: A Loring Greenough EggSpectacular! 12 South St. Jamaica Plain, MA
Egg Hunt, Ice Cream, Spring Parade and Portrait station with the bunny himself! – BYOCamera! Egg Hunt on the Lawn plus new kids activities, snacks, and special guests! New this year: Timed hunts for different age groups in separate hunt zones! Be sure to stop in at The Eliot School to decorate eggs before the event! 10:30 – 12:30. Arrive at 12:30 to register your hunter(s) in their age group. (If you pre-register online, you can skip the line!) http://loring-greenough.org/house-event/spring-on-the-lawn-annual-egg-hunt-and-spring-celebration/

Friday Apr 19th & Sat Apr 20th 11-3pm
C.N. Smith Farm 325 South St. East Bridgewater, MA
Due to the size of the contents of the eggs children must be a least 3 years of age to participate. Each Easter Egg Hunter is provided with one egg carton to fill with 15 eggs. Easter eggs are filled with candy and toys. We request that all young children be accompanied by an adult. http://cnsmithfarminc.com/special-events/easter-egg-hunt/

Sat, Apr 20, 9:30 - 12PM
Irish Cultural Center 200 New Boston Dr. Canton, MA
Check out Easter Egg Hunt at The Irish Cultural Centre of New England in Canton on April 20, 2019 http://www.irishculture.org $8 per person – pay at door. Includes pancake breakfast, face painting, hayride and more.

Sat, Apr 20th 10AM – 12 PM
United Church of Christ 460 Main St, Norwell, MA
This free event includes a DJ, crafts, games, and an Egg Hunt! All are welcome to this community Eggstravaganza. RSVP online at https://www.uccnorwell.org/event/3227

Sat Apr 20th 1pm
KPNA 6 Annual Easter Egg Hunt, 891 Montello St Brockton, MA
The Keith Park Neighborhood Association hosts their 6th annual Easter Egg event -- fun for kids up to about age 14. Enjoy arts, crafts, an egg and spoon race, the egg hunt, a free photo with the Easter Bunny, and every child goes home with a Bunny Bag of sweet treats. The event is free and you can find details here: https://kpnabrockton.weebly.com/

For more information, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

At Lallis & Higgins Insurance we realize that most home owners understand the basic limits and coverage a homeowner insurance policy offers, but many may be surprised to know there is additional coverage built into the homeowner policy that extends to the home owner beyond what is in the home.

• Grave Stones! Many homeowner policies will provide coverage to grave stones that have been damaged or vandalized. The limit is generally $5,000 but can vary per insurance company, so be sure to check with your insurance agent for more information if you can’t find it listed in the policy packet.
• Golf Clubs, lap tops, and other property inside your car! If your car is broken into and your golf clubs are stolen, then this would be covered under your homeowner insurance policy - not your auto insurance. This is also the case if you were to get involved in an accident and damaged personal property like your laptop.
• If you injure someone while driving a bicycle, or golf cart! The lability portion of a homeowner policy offers coverage if a claim is made, or a suit is brought against a homeowner that injured another person while operating a vehicle that is not a motor vehicle, and is not a vehicle that is meant to be a registered vehicle such as a bicycle or golf cart.

These are three examples of when a homeowner policy can help you, but be sure to read the language on the policy for any exclusions, or consult your independent agent. You can also contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance if you would like us to review your homeowner policy.

You have a lot of things that are important to you – from your clothes and furniture to your sound system, sports gear, and computer. And you want to feel confident that everything you’ve worked for is not at risk. Let Lallis & Higgins Insurance help you find coverage options that protect you, your family, and your personal property. Contact us and let us help to make sure you’re properly covered.

What you need to know about renters insurance

Your renters insurance policy covers your personal property against theft or damage subject to the limits and deductibles you select. The coverage applies even when you are away from home. For a small additional premium, you can choose to carry full value coverage on your personal property, which ensures that you will be paid the full replacement cost of items that are damaged or stolen without deduction for depreciation.

Protect yourself and your guests

Your renters insurance policy protects you and your family against certain bodily injury and property damage claims for which you are liable. Legal defense is also provided in the event you are sued after a covered loss, subject to the limits you have selected. In addition, you can select medical payments coverage which will pay for medical expenses incurred by a visitor who is injured at your residence regardless of fault. Various limits are available. Let Lallis & Higgins Insurance help you find the right amount of coverage to suit your insurance needs. Contact us today.

Get the right amount of insurance coverage Massachusetts at the best price

Whether you’re starting out, between homes or downsizing, Lallis & Higgins Insurance will help you pick the renters insurance coverage that best fits your needs. Give us a call today and get covered. Be sure to ask about available discounts including burglar alarm credits and the account credit for customers who package auto policies with their renters policy.

Extra coverage doesn’t have to cost a lot

Whether you’re starting out, between homes or downsizing, we will help you pick the renters insurance coverage that best fits your needs. If you have special valuable items such as jewelry, art, antiques or collectibles, ask about our Valuable Articles option which provides broader coverage and no deductible in the event of a covered loss.

When you think of water seeping into your home, the first thing you think of is probably a flood. But there are many more common causes of water backup, and they can get just as costly.

In fact, on average, water backup claims are the third most costly types of home insurance claims, after fires and liability claims. Additionally, basic home coverage doesn't always cover these types of incidents. For starters, having coverage against flood damage involves purchasing coverage from a federal flood insurance program. But, more common water damage incidents often involve specialized coverage, too.

Water, water everywhere

First, let's talk about water damage itself. This most commonly occurs when a drain, a sewer or a gutter backs up, or a pump fails, forcing water into your home. This could stem from a heavy rain, debris causing a clog, or even root invasion from your yard outside. The resulting water damage from such an occurrence is mostly likely to take place in a basement (roughly two-thirds of water backup events do), so one thing to consider right away is whether or not you have valuables stored there. If so, you have an increased risk of a costly insurance claim, especially if you happen to have a finished basement. In fact, claims involving finished basements are, on average, 65 percent more costly those in unfinished basements.

However, water backup isn't confined just to basements. Considering that your house is surrounded by water circulating through pipes and drains, this damage can occur on any floor. Thus, it's important to have some level of water backup coverage on your home. Your independent agent can help you assess your risks and determine the amount that's right for you.

Call for backup

Because water backup can vary in size and severity, good water backup coverage should be flexible and affordable. The Hanover offers both, with amounts ranging from $5,000 in coverage, all the way up to the replacement cost of your home (depending on which state you live in).

Getting dry

If you do suffer a water backup incident, some simple steps can help minimize the damage.

• Remove any standing water as soon as possible. This will help stem any potential structural damage to your home.
• Dry anything that has absorbed the water – especially carpets and rugs – to prevent mold growth.
• Hire a water mitigation vendor in your area to professionally treat the damage promptly. Your independent insurance agent can help you find someone if needed.

Then, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance to make sure you have the right level of coverage in place.

Source: Hanover.com

Water damage by the numbers infographic

Water damage is one of the most common causes of homeowners losses, causing billions of dollars of damage to homes each year. Make sure you’re home is protected with the right homeowners insurance policy and a water backup endorsement.

Tip: in the event of water damage, contact the Hanover claims team for referral to a service contractor who can begin water cleanup and drying work.

Contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance for more information.

Source: hanover.com

Most people have an idea of what’s covered and not covered under their various insurance policies. But at Lallis & HIggins Insurance we get a lot of questions about borrowing or loaning a car.

You might be looking to borrow your neighbor’s truck for a home-improvement project or a trip to the local landfill, we thought it was a great time to provide a little more information.

Generally, auto insurance coverage follows the vehicle rather than the driver. So in most instances, as long as the owner of the car has insurance, it’s covered even if someone other than the owner is driving it — as long as they have the owner’s permission.

The borrower’s insurance is considered secondary, meaning that in the event of an accident, it could apply if the owner’s insurance is insufficient to fully cover the damage.

It’s important to note that there are some exceptions to what is called “permissive use” coverage. For example, permission must be given by the owner, unless the borrower has a reasonable belief that they are allowed to use the car. However, the borrower cannot give permission to someone else. So if your teenager allows one of his or her friends to drive your car to {local destination}, your coverage likely won’t apply.

Coverage might also be denied if the borrower operates the vehicle in a negligent or criminal manner. And if the borrower is using your car for business purposes, your personal auto policy likely won’t cover that.

If you have a regular long-term arrangement to either borrow or lend a car, the borrower should probably be added to the owner’s personal auto policy. Those who don’t own a car, but often borrow one, might also consider “named non-owner coverage,” an endorsement that provides bodily injury and property damage liability, uninsured motorists coverage and more.

Ultimately, it’s usually safe to loan your friend your car for occasional errands or projects. And the same goes for borrowing a car. Just make sure it’s for “normal” use. You’ll want to confirm that the car has coverage and that your insurance, whether you’re the owner or borrower, will apply.

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions — after all, you don’t want to wait until after an accident to get answers!