One of the top insurance mistakes is having a bunch of insurance policies bought from multiple agents, one for you primary residence, another for a vacation home, and another for your cars. That can leave you with policies that aren’t coordinated, so you have coverage gaps. Here’s a summary of some of the biggest issues.

Home.

Be sure to review your homes replacement cost with your agent every three year or so to make sure it’s in-line with what the cost should be to replace the same like and kind home. Look for expanded replacement cost coverage where the insurer agrees to replace the dwelling even if the replacement cost exceeds the policy limit. And check that the home insurance policy would replace any special architectural and historical features if that’s important to you.

Vehicles.

Consider increasing your auto insurance deductible to $1,000 or more, and use the premium savings to increase your liability limits, or adding accident forgiveness if you do not already have the coverage in place on your policy. Check how your insurer would value your car if you own a collector or antique vehicle – is it insured at market value or at an agreed value (you want the latter).

Collectibles.

Often collectibles are very much under-insured, or not insured at all. If you have art, wine, or other valuable collectibles, you need a collectibles rider to your homeowner’s policy or a separate collectibles policy. The best policies will pay market value up to 50% higher than the scheduled amount of coverage in case of loss. Having an inventory system to keep track of your collection, and its fluctuating value, is key.

Boats, ATVs and more.

If you have ATVs, boats, or snowmobiles not covered by your homeowner’s policies, make sure they are covered by your personal umbrella liability policy.

For more information on personal lines insurance policies, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Forbes

It takes hard work, dedication, creativity, and tenacity to get a small business up and running successfully, and it makes sense to have the right business insurance coverage in place to protect it. In fact, purchasing business insurance may be one of the most important decisions that the new business owner will make. The right coverage can help prevent unforeseen events from ruining all the work invested in starting and managing your new business.

Small business owners often make mistakes in the area of insurance. To help you avoid them, some common insurance mistakes business owners make are listed below:

Thinking that two insurance agents are better than one:

This is simply not so. When you use more than one agent, you are setting your business up for lost discounts (higher premiums) and potential gaps in coverage. It is better to use one agent for all your business insurance needs.

Buying unneeded insurance policies:

This is one of the most common mistakes of small business owners – paying for coverage they don’t need. Our independent business insurance agents serving the Quincy, Weymouth and South Shore area can help you determine the coverage you need and most economical way to obtain it.

Only buying general liability insurance:

This could be a serious mistake. While general liability insurance can protect you from many business risks, it does not cover everything. Work with our knowledgeable insurance agent to evaluate your risks and determine what additional coverage you need.

Not buying loss of income coverage:

Also known as business interruption insurance, this covers loss of business income in the event of a disaster. Property insurance only covers physical damage should a disaster require you to shutter your operations. Loss-of-income coverage can be added as a rider to your business owner’s policy or business property insurance policy.

Not keeping policies updated:

Successful small businesses are continually expanding and evolving. It is essential to review with your agent and update business insurance policies accordingly at least once annually, if not more frequently.

Paying too much for business insurance:

Always shop the coverage offered to find the best rates available. Our agents will work hard to help ensure that you have the right business insurance coverage for the lowest available premiums.

If your business is expanding, you may be purchasing equipment, setting up new facilities, hiring employees, or adding to your product or service lines. To protect all you have invested in your business, it is crucial for your insurance coverage to keep pace with the changes. Contact the independent insurance agents at Lallis & Higgins Insurance. We have the knowledge, experience and affiliations to advise you on the coverage you need, shop the policies for the best rates, and help you make the right business insurance decisions.

Corn Mazes, apple and pumpkin picking.

• Sauchuk’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch in Plympton has fun activities for all ages. Two corn mazes, Hay Wagon ride, cow rain jumpy pillows and more! This is one of our favorites to visit each fall. www.sauchukmaze.com.
• Lookout Farm in South Natick offers both pumpkin and apple picking during the fall. The farm also has children’s play area along with a train and hay ride. www.lookoutfarm.com
• Connors Farm in Danvers on top of the apple and pumpkin picking – this farm offers a 7-acre corn maze, barn yard animals hay-jump and slide, and more… www.connorsfarm.com

Go for a walk or hike! Some of the most beautiful walking and hiking trails are at our footsteps. Here are a few of our favorites.

• World’s End Hingham GPS address 150 Martins Lane Hingham, MA 02043. Overlooking the Boston sky line, this location brings the best of both land and sea.
• Blue Hills trails in Canton are a great location to hike. They have different levels of hiking from beginner to intermediate. You can also visit the Trailside Museum at the base of trails after you’re done with your hike.
• If you enjoy the foliage and like going for car rides, then you may want to take a trip up to New Hampshire this fall for a hike. A Moderate Hike Moose Mountain is just a little more than an hour and a half from Boston. For those more adventures keep driving north to the Franconia Notch State Park.

Haunted houses! If you like a good thrill, then these places may give you want you’ve been looking for.

• Factory of Terror – located in Fall River, Worcester and West Warwick RI. www.factoryofterror.com. If you like a good old fashion scare, then this is right up your alley.
• Barrett’s Haunted Mansion in Abington www.bhmansion.com. Experience the madness behind the walls of Black Hinge Maximum Security Penitentiary at Barrett's Haunted Mansion. Prisoners are unhinged and running rampant!
• Ghost Ship Harbor is a unique experience that brings the terror of a haunted house onto the historic USS Salem battle ship. www.ghostshipharbor.com

Visit a zoo. The Fall is a great time to visit a zoo, and many of the zoos decorate for the seasons. Here are our top three zoos to visit in New England:

• Southwick Zoo in Mendon, MA. Just an hour south of Boston this zoo is a must see. They even have carnival rides for the little ones to enjoy. Zoo Boo Days are from October 13 – 31th. www.southwickszoo.com
• Franklin Park Zoo in Boston www.zoonewengland.org/franklin-park-zoo. Conveniently located in Boston. The Jack O’Lantern Journey started October 5th and runs to November 4th from 6:00 – 10:00 p.m.
• Rogers Williams Park Zoo in Providence Rhode Island. This zoo has a fun Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular from October 4th to November 4th. www.rwpzoo.org

Fall is a wonderful time in Weymouth, Quincy and the surrounding areas — if your home is ready for it.

Yes, this is the time of year to fix small problems before they become big, and big ones before they become catastrophic. Here are 10 tips to help:

1. Look up. Examine your roof closely. Remove moss, clear debris from your gutters and downspouts, and repair any damage.

2. Look down. Check for signs of animals and insects around your home and garage, including in the basement and crawlspace. Bring in a professional to get rid of unwanted guests.

3. Keep things warm. Heat escapes through leaks around windows and doors, so seal up any drafty areas. Outside, put covers over faucets before temperatures drop.

4. Keep things dry. Drain outdoor hoses, faucets and irrigation systems. Look in the basement and crawlspace for wet spots. And, make sure your water heater or boiler isn’t leaking.

5. Clear the air (or vents and filters, at least). When’s the last time you checked your dryer vent? You should take a look at attic vents and exhaust ducts, as well. And, change that furnace filter!

6. Take a walk. Cracks in your driveway or walkways will only get bigger, so get them fixed soon. If your deck has signs of wear, make repairs now.

7. Get a tune-up. You or a professional should clean and tune your furnace, boiler and/or water heater, as well as your oven and range.

8. Don’t play with fire. Before building your first fireplace fire of the season, check for soot or creosote build-up.

9. Don’t play with fire extinguishers, either. But, check them to ensure they still have pressure. Don’t have fire extinguishers? Put them on your shopping list, ideally one for each floor.

10. Don’t forget those smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors. Replace batteries when needed, and test regularly that alarms are working.

Keeping your home insurance policy in tip-top condition is smart, too. Remember to check in with us at least once a year to update your policy so you’re covered for your new remodel, additions or personal possessions.

For more information on home owners insurance, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Buying a fixer-upper can be great – you can get the house you want for a little less, and it comes with all the charm and history of an older home. But that adorable home that “just needs some TLC” can quickly turn into a money pit, if you’re not careful.

And we’re not just talking about the contractor’s fees and unexpected problems that will undoubtedly arise during renovation. Even basic costs – like the cost of insuring the home – can be a huge surprise for many homeowners.

Plus, some things about a fixer-upper are just more difficult. The buying process involving loan paperwork and contractors’ quotes is a little more muddied, and getting insurance can be a downright pain.

We'll leave the buying process to your mortgage lender, and here we will talk about how to get insurance on that fixer-upper. Even if you’re buying that dirt-cheap home with cash, you’ll need at least basic insurance to protect your investment from fire, flood and theft. But getting that insurance can be quite the feat. Why it’s so difficult to get insurance h3

Most homebuyers don’t think much about the process of getting insurance. It’s just part and parcel with the buying process. You get quotes, pay for your first year’s premiums at closing and roll your payments into escrow.

You can do this, too, with insurance on your fixer-upper. But you may have to do some more shopping around. Fixer-upper homes – especially those that have been foreclosed on or abandoned – are a higher risk for insurance companies. The fixing up process itself comes with some risks, including problems that might occur when no one is living in the home during the renovation process.

Since mores issues could arise, fewer insurers are willing to take on the risk. And those that are will charge you more for homeowners insurance. Luckily, you have some options for getting insurance on your fixer-upper, even if it’s in terrible condition. What are your options? h3

Before you even call to ask about homeowners insurance, get an inspection. You’ll need one to get a loan on the home anyway, and an inspection will tell an insurance company how much work needs to be done on the home.

Then call an independent insurance agent. Explain your home’s condition, and ask about the following types of homeowners insurance:

1. Conventional insurance. If the home simply needs some basic repairs, and you’ll be able to complete repairs and move in within 30 days of closing, you can likely get a conventional insurance policy through a traditional insurance company.
   
   But what if the home is in really bad shape? What if you won’t move into it for months? Or even if you do move in quickly, what if some of the major repairs (like exterior siding and/or gutter repairs) will take a few months to complete?
   
   In this case, the traditional insurance company will likely recommend another type of insurance, specifically formulated for higher-risk situations like yours. (Empty and under-construction homes are particularly high risk for insurance companies.) Some insurers will still write the policy themselves, while others will refer you to a third-party insurer that specializes in higher-risk policies.
2. Builder’s risk. This is the most common type of renovation or new construction homeowners insurance. This policy usually starts with lower costs, and as you get the home into better condition, the costs rise because the home becomes more valuable. Builder’s risk policies are easiest to get if you have a solid, timely plan to finish the reconstruction.
3. Vacant dwelling. If your home mostly needs cosmetic work but will sit empty while the work is being done, a vacant dwelling policy is possible. These basic policies will protect a home against most physical losses, but they don’t usually cover theft. Keep in mind that depending on where the home is located, theft could be a huge problem, especially if the home contains valuable appliances, tools or copper wiring and piping.
4. HO-8. An HO-8 policy is an insurance policy designed for an older home. Unlike more common HO-2 and HO-3 policies, an HO-8 policy wouldn’t cover replacement costs of your home if you lose everything. An HO-8 policy is suitable if your home isn’t in terrible condition, and if you plan to live in it while it’s under construction.
5. FAIR plans. What if you’re in an unusual situation in which your repairs will take a long time (such as if you’re doing the renovation yourself or using cash to repair as you go)? In this case, you may have trouble getting an insurer to underwrite even one of the above insurance policies.

If this is your situation, look into your state’s Fair Access to Insurance Requirements plan. These plans, which are available in most states, are specifically for situations like yours. FAIR plans offer a very basic level of insurance, but it’s better than nothing.

Moving back to conventional insurance

Most of these insurance plans will be more expensive and/or offer less coverage than your conventional HO-2 or HO-3 policy. So as soon as your repairs are done, shop around for insurance again. Move to a conventional policy with proper coverage as soon as you can, and you’ll save money and have better protection for your home.

For more information on home insurance for fixer uppers, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Money- US News

Give your home more protection, so you have peace-of-mind. For many homeowners, flood insurance is an essential extra layer of protection.

Adding flood insurance to your insurance package means you're covered if groundwater rises and floods your home—a situation that isn't usually covered by home policies.

Why flood insurance might be a must-have

Everyone should have flood insurance, especially if you're in an area that has a high flood risk. You might even be required to have it if you're at high risk.

Below is why the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) recommends flood insurance to everyone:

The situations that cause flooding—heavy rain, melting snow, severe coastal weather—can happen anywhere. In fact, one in five flood insurance claims comes from someone in a low—or medium-risk area.

Most of your house is covered; what isn't?

Generally, most of your house is covered by flood insurance.

Specifically, the core parts of your home—like the foundation and the systems that keep it running—are covered. So are appliances.

Carpeting and personal belongings are generally covered, too, unless they're in the basement.

Flood insurance: One price, wherever you go

Unlike most other insurance coverages, your flood insurance policy will cost you the same, no matter where you get it.

The reason flood insurance costs you the same is that it's a national program backed by the federal government (via the National Flood Insurance Program). So, however you buy it, it's ultimately coming from the same place.

For more information on flood insurance, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

MAIA's most recent economic impact survey has found that local independent insurance agencies contributed an astounding $1.022 billion to the Massachusetts economy in 2017.

The study sheds light on the substantial role played by the nearly 1,200 MAIA member agencies in the state as employers, consumers, taxpayers, and active participants of their local communities.

Employment Numbers and Tax Revenue

In 2017, MAIA members employed an estimated 9,050 full time workers in Massachusetts, with the average agency employing 12 individuals. Over that same period of time, these agencies combined to pay their workers over $714 million in salary and over $107 million in additional benefits such as health insurance, pensions, profit sharing, and training costs. Independent insurance agencies also contributed over $80 million in state and local taxes in 2017.

This commitment to Massachusetts as both employers and taxpayers is something that MAIA believes separates local independent agencies from online direct writers and other companies with little or no physical presence in the Bay State.

Our members’ agencies have deep ties in their communities. They employ local people, support local businesses, and generate substantial tax revenue, all while serving consumers’ interests first. Conversely, online direct writers often have little presence in the state aside from their websites and advertising campaigns, and are focused on how quickly they can generate the next sale, irrespective of the needs of the consumer.”

Rental Income and Consumer Spending

Two other revenue streams independent insurance agencies bring to Massachusetts are rental income and consumer spending. Total agency rental spending topped $36 million in 2017. These agencies also spent over $73 million on other expenses, such as technology, office furnishings, supplies, equipment, advertising, legal and accounting services, repairs, maintenance, security and construction, over that same period of time.

Ingrained in the Community

Further reinforcing the notion that independent agents are committed to their home state and communities, the study found that 11% of local agencies have been doing business in Massachusetts for over 100 years, while 37% of agencies are between 51-100 years old. MAIA members contributed a total of $8.6 million to charities in 2017 in addition to countless hours of volunteer work that they perform on behalf of local civic, cultural, and religious organizations. (See some of our members good works this year in our monthly "Good You Do" feature.)

Thank you to the members who took the time to complete the survey, which was distributed this May. The survey is an invaluable resource in our representation of the independent insurance agency community in Massachusetts.

For an insurance policy review or for a quote, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

Source: www2.massagent.com

If you have been identified as an intrastate motor carrier by the Massachusetts State Police, Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Section, please be aware that as of September 1, 2018, you will be required to obtain and display a USDOT number per 540 CMR 2.22, the Commercial Marking section of the Registry of Motor Vehicles regulations.

This applies to motor carriers operating the following motor vehicles:

• Engaged in intrastate commerce having a gross vehicle weight rating or gross combination weight rating of 10,001 or more pounds; or
• Used in the transportation of hazardous materials in a quantity requiring placarding; or
• Designed to transport more than 15 passengers, including the driver, used in intrastate commerce in Massachusetts.

If your company operates this type of vehicle it must be permanently marked with a USDOT number that conforms to the provisions of 49 CFR 390.21.

To obtain a USDOT Number, we urge you to click here. There, you may follow the Registrations links that will enable you to obtain an intrastate USDOT number. Your company will be issued a USDOT number that will be displayed on all CMV s as defined above that your company operates, including leased vehicles. There is no charge to obtain this number from the USDOT-FMCSA.

After September 1, 2018, failure to obtain and display a USDOT Number on your vehicles may result in a civil fine and/or placing your CMVs Out of Service until such time as your company obtains a USDOT Number.

Whether your company operates intrastate, meaning you conduct business solely within Massachusetts or operates interstate, conducting business in other states; you must obtain your DOT number directly on­ line.

If you have questions regarding the federal website, you may call the FMCSA at 1-800-832-5660.

Legal Business Name - This is the legal name of the business entity that owns/controls the Motor Carrier operation. The name should be the full legal business name (the name on the incorporation certificate, partnership agreement, tax records, etc.). For example, if the company is a:

• Sole Proprietorship/Individual, enter the legal name, e.g., “John A. Doe”
• Partnership, enter the legal names of all partners, e.g., "John A. Doe and Jane B. Smith”
• Corporation, enter the name on the incorporation certificate (this name must include the type of corporation), e.g., “John Doe INC”, “John Doe LLC”.
• Doing Business AS (DBA) Name — When the company's trade name is different from the company's official legal business name. For example, if “John A. Doe" is the company's official business name, but the trade name, or “Doing Business As" name, is "John's Trucking Company.

Principal Place of Business — Enter the physical address of where the company is engaged in business operations related to the transportation of persons or property and where safety records are regularly maintained. A Post Office (P.O.) Box is Not accepted for Principal Place of Business Address.

How do I update my Intrastate or Interstate DOT Number? You must update your information online here.

How do I re-activate my existing DOT number? You must update your information here

What is the difference between interstate commerce and intrastate commerce? - If you perform trade, traffic, or transportation exclusively in your business's domicile state, this is considered intrastate commerce.

If your trade, traffic, or transportation is one of the following, this is considered interstate commerce.

• Between a place in a state and a place outside of such state (including a place outside of the United States)
• Between two places in a state through another state or a place outside of the United States
• Between two places in a state as part of trade, traffic, or transportation originating or terminating outside the state or the United States

Should each terminal operation or branch of a corporation register for a USDOT number? - A USDOT number usually applies to the company, not a particular branch office or vehicle. Generally, the corporate office or headquarters should register the company, and should inform its branches of the USDOT number.

Unified Carrier Registration (UCR) - Commercial vehicle motor carriers that conduct interstate commerce are required to pay unified carrier registration (UCR) filing fees annually based upon their fleet size and can register online here. (link www.ucr.in.gov no follow, target new page ).

Department of Public Utilities (DPU) - Companies for hire that move passengers, household goods, or conduct police ordered or trespass tows are regulated by the DPU and information on DPU authority can be found here.

For more information on commercial vehicles insurance or requirements, contact Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

College is expensive enough without the added cost of unexpected accidents or theft, not covered by your insurance policy. If you have a student heading away to school, below are a few tips to help you get the most out of your coverage.

HOMEOWNERS (varies by state)

Items such as jewelry or expensive electronics, require special coverage and may not covered by the parents’ homeowner policy. Renter's insurance is strongly recommended for college students.

Liability Coverage: General damage to a dorm room or apartment is not usually covered.

Documentation: Creating an inventory of the items your child is taking to school is a good idea. Use photographs and keep receipts.

AUTO (varies by state)

Car Stays Home: Keep your child listed on your auto policy if they will still drive your car while at home on school breaks.

Car at School: Make sure to notify us if your child will be taking a car away to school. In most cases, if the car is registered to you and listed on your policy, it will be covered.

Driving a Friend’s Car: Students are generally covered if they are listed on their parent’s policy and are not regularly using the vehicle. The coverage would be secondary. The insurance for the friend’s vehicle would be the primary coverage.

Discounts: A full-time student meeting certain academic requirements can qualify for a good student discount. Distant student discounts may also be available. Drivers under 21 who have completed driver’s education may also get a discount.

Before your child leaves for school, call Lallis & Higgins Insurance or contact us here. We can walk you through the steps to ensure you have the right coverage. We’re here to help!

College students can take simple steps to protect their belongings from theft and loss when heading to school this fall.

For a college student, experiencing the loss of a bike, laptop or mobile phone is not only an inconvenience, but can be a big hit to the pocketbook. Taking basic precautions can help prevent theft or loss and help students avoid unnecessary stress while away at school.

According to the U.S. Department of Education's campus safety and security analysis tool, burglary is a top criminal offense at colleges and universities.

If you're a victim of theft or your apartment is damaged in a fire, your landlord is likely not responsible for replacing your belongings. If you live in on- campus housing, your belongings may be covered under your parent's homeowners or renters policy but it's a best to check with your insurance representative to see what is covered.

A typical renter's insurance policy will cover personal belongings in the event of an unexpected loss such as a burglary or fire. Some policies also cover part of the expense for living in another location if the apartment were to become inhabitable due to a covered loss. In addition, liability coverage may protect a renter if a visitor were to injure themselves in the apartment or the renter accidentally damages property.

Renter's insurance on average costs $240 per year. Policies are frequently added to auto or homeowners policies. Students' parents may be able to add a renters insurance policy to their homeowners or auto policy to cover a full-time student.

Students should start by taking an inventory of their possessions to determine the value of their personal property. Take photos or video to get a record. The value of items like electronics, bikes, jewelry etc. can add up quickly. It's best to be pro-active than to look back and say "I should've done that."

5 Simple Steps to Protect Your Belongings While at College

1. Create a list of your valuables with photos and serial numbers. Give a copy to your parents and save a copy in the cloud.
2. Register your valuable with campus police. Many schools let you register your laptop, tablet or bicycle to deter thieves and identify your stolen property if it is recovered.
3. Don't leave your valuables unattended in public areas. If you're studying at the library or a coffee shop bring your laptop with you if have to step away.
4. Always lock your doors and windows and make sure your roommates do the same. Consider keeping a safe for your room for extra protection.
5. Leave your prized possessions at home. If it can't be replaced or has sentimental value, it's best not to bring it in the first place.

To learn more about protecting your stuff, visit Lallis & Higgins Insurance.

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