News relating to Personal and Business Insurance in New Jersey http://www.bhhgins.com/news.html en-us Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:02:23 -0400 Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:46:23 -0400 jthenry@bhhgins.com http://bhhgins.com/images/independent%20insurance%20agent%20116x82.gif http://www.bhhgins.com Bergen and Hudson County Independent Insurance Agents of NJ 134 138
The fact is, many business owners arent adequately protected against a catastrophic claim. One accident with a business vehicle or a slip on company property can result in expensive litigation. In many cases, your liability policy may not cover the entire loss. If this happens, your business could face a multi-million dollar expense. Can your business afford to make up the difference?
With an Umbrella Liability Policy you can protect your business in the event of a catastrophic claim. Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information.]]>

http://www.bhhgins.com/umbrella-insurance.html http://www.bhhgins.com/umbrella-insurance.html Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:30:00 -0400 New Jersey Seat Belt Law

Under the Law's provions, not wearing a seat belt qualifies as a secondary offense, meaning that in order to be stopped, a car would have to be violating a primary offense such as speeding. Each unrestrained, rear seat passenger, would be responsible for any fine imposed for not wearing a seat belt. What has changed from previous law? All passengers, regardless of age must now wear seat belts. In the past, all passengers under the age of 18 were required to wear seat belts, but adults 18 and over were not required to buckle up. What does this mean to you? Before putting your vehicle in "drive", check that all of your passengers have their seat belts on and inform them of the consequences of not buckling up!]]> http://www.bhhgins.com/seat-belt-law.html http://www.bhhgins.com/seat-belt-law.html Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:31:00 -0400
Is your vehicle ready for winter driving?

Proper maintenance for your automobile is always important, but this especially is true during the winter.

1. Check your coolant. Make sure the coolant level is correct and that it is mixed according to the manufacturer’s specifi cations.
2. Use a lighter weight engine oil, like 10W40 for easier starts.
3. Don’t let your gas tank drop below a quarter of a tank.
4. Keep your washer fl uid tank fi lled (store extra fluid in your trunk) and be sure the fluid is mixed with an antifreeze agent.
5. Inspect your wiper blades to be sure they are working properly.
6. Have your battery tested and replace it if it is not working at its peak. Cold weather can run down a battery quickly.
7. Make sure tire pressure (including the spare) meets manufacturer’s specifi cations and that tire treads are not worn excessively. ]]> http://www.bhhgins.com/winter-driving-pt1.html http://www.bhhgins.com/winter-driving-pt1.html Thu, 22 Dec 2011 15:45:00 -0400 How can I make my car ready each time I drive?

      Clear your entire vehicle of ice and snow before you drive. Th is includes all the windows, roof, hood and trunk. Debris that comes off your vehicle while driving can be hazardous to other drivers. In some states, it is illegal to drive your car in the winter without fully cleaning it off .
      Warm up your car before you drive in order to ensure it is completely defrosted. Do this in a wellventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. Have a towel on hand to wipe off lights should they become dirty or covered with snow.
     If you have any questions, please call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information.]]>

http://www.bhhgins.com/winter-driving-pt2.html http://www.bhhgins.com/winter-driving-pt2.html Thu, 29 Dec 2011 13:04:00 -0400 What precautions can I take during winter driving conditions?


1. First and foremost, if you don’t have to go out, don’t.
2. If you must drive during a winter storm, turn on your low beams, which provide better illumination in snow than high beams.
3. Do not use cruise control on slick, icy or wet roads.
4. Slow down. Posted speed limits are set for ideal driving conditions.
5. Go easy on starts, turns and stops.
6. Don’t brake hard in icy or snowy conditions. Use threshold braking by applying brakes firmly just short of wheel lockup then ease off the brake pedal slightly. Press down firmly again until you stop. Applying steady pressure is better than pumping the brakes. If your car has antilock brakes, the process is different. Press firmly and do not let up. Four-wheel drive vehicles can be safer in slippery conditions, but they don’t stop any faster than other cars.
7. Anticipate potential danger such as icy bridges or drifting snow. Remember, bridges tend to freeze before the roads do.
8. Leave more room between your car and other vehicles on the road.
9. If you go into a skid, do not panic. Ease off the accelerator and don’t lock up the brakes. Steer in the direction you want the car to go and then straighten the wheel when you feel the car grabbing or moving in the desired direction.

If you have any questions, please call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information.]]>

http://www.bhhgins.com/winter-driving-pt3.html http://www.bhhgins.com/winter-driving-pt3.html Wed, 4 Jan 2012 12:45:00 -0400 What should I do if my car breaks down?

      Because of the cold, winter breakdowns can be deadly, especially when traveling in remote areas. Consider carrying extra warm clothes, blankets or a sleeping bag, matches and a two-way radio or cell phone. A Flashlight or other form of signal light is always recommended, even in ideal conditions. Carrying non-perishable foods and water is also a good idea.
      We would like to thank you for viewing all 4 parts of our Winter Driving Tips series. We hope you have found the information useful. Stay safe and have a wonderful start to your 2012!
     Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information.
201-991-8700]]>

http://www.bhhgins.com/winter-driving-pt4.html http://www.bhhgins.com/winter-driving-pt4.html Thu, 5 Jan 2012 11:47:00 -0400
If you are witness or involved in an auto accident, here are things you need to do:


1. STOP immediately, but do not obstruct traffic.
2. ASSIST injured. Have someone call police. Repeat after 5 minutes
3. SECURE names, phone numbers, addresses of other drivers, witnesses, injured persons.
4. SECURE make, model, license numbers of all vehicles involved.
5. MAKE a rough drawing of scene, showing the position of all vehicles and other influential elements.
6. DON'T hastily accept claim settlements at the scene of an accident
7. REMAIN calm, courteous and consistent in your version of the accident.
8. NOTIFY your insurance agent as soon as possible.
9. PRINT a checklist and keep it in your vehicle!
Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]> http://www.bhhgins.com/Accident-Checklist.html http://www.bhhgins.com/Accident-Checklist.html Thu, 5 Jan 2012 14:21:00 -0400


What is business interruption insurance?
As we all witnessed on Sept. 11, 2001, catastrophes can happen suddenly. When the property of a business is destroyed, or access to business property is denied, there follow two potential consequences. One, business operations cannot resume, in whole or in part, until the property is restored. And, two, some or all of the operations can continue only by the acquisition of another location. Business interruption insurance is designed to help in both situations; "business income coverage" for lost income and the payment of continuing expenses if operations cease, and "extra expense coverage" if operations can continue at a substitute location.

What triggers business interruption insurance?
Standard insurance policies require that property located at the business premises be physically damaged by a covered cause of loss. The business owner selects the covered "causes of loss" from the perils offered by the insurer at the time the policy is written. If your policy does not provide coverage for terrorism, for example, there will be no coverage for business interruption due to terrorism. And, although damage may occur due to a covered cause of loss, if the damaged property is located somewhere other than on the insured’s premises, the business interruption loss is not insured under the basic coverage.

How are coverage limits established?
It is not a simple process, which is why you hear about inadequate coverage stories emerging from catastrophes like the Sept. 11 attack. In order to choose a limit for business income coverage, you must project future income and expenses one year in advance and identify the maximum length of time it will take to restore your property (called the "period of restoration"). For extra expense coverage, you will need to determine all the extraordinary costs that will be incurred to maintain operations at another location. Adequate financial records are necessary to establish these limits and properly support any claim presented under these coverages.

How do I recover lost income if civil authorities deny my customers and me access to the business premises, even though none of my property has been damaged?
The standard business interruption policy automatically covers four weeks of business income loss when access is prohibited by a civil authority. However, the damage that resulted in the civil authority action must occur within a one-mile radius of the insured business premises. For additional premium, the time limit can be extended up to 180 days; and some insurers also may extend the radius limit.

What if my property has not been damaged and I have not been denied access to it, but another business on which my business depends is damaged by a covered cause of loss?
Suppose you were a lower Manhattan restaurant that got 80 percent of its lunch business from the World Trade Center. If "dependent property coverage" were purchased, the restaurant would recover lost income from the disruption of its business. This same coverage could likewise apply to a supplier of products or services, or a purchaser of products or services, that a business depends upon for continued operations. The difficulty is that you must specifically identify by location, ahead of time, the premises that your business is dependent upon.

Our biggest concern is communications—what if our communications are disrupted by a covered cause of loss?
"Utility services coverage" can be purchased to protect your income, for example, in the event your phone lines are disrupted at your premises or in the event a specified supplier that you depend upon suffers a loss of power to its plant.

If the building my business leases was to be damaged right now, I would forfeit a very favorable lease. How can I protect against this loss?
There is available "leasehold interest coverage" that is designed specifically to recover much of the loss that can result from the termination of a favorable lease triggered by damage to the business premises.

What if I’m still losing income after my property has been restored?
On most policies, business income coverage automatically is extended 30 days after the property is restored (or should have been restored). For additional premium, this extension can be increased up to 730 days.

Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]> http://bhhgins.com/catastrophic-claims.html http://bhhgins.com/catastrophic-claims.html Thu, 12 Jan 2012 14:21:00 -0400


My pipes froze and burst, damaging my home. Do I have coverage?
Most homeowners insurance policies, except for the very basic ones, cover damage to the home resulting from broken pipes due to freezing. For example, your insurance company will pay to clean or pay the cost to replace the carpet, furniture and other property that has been damaged due to the water from the bursting pipes (less your deductible). For those with renters insurance, damage to your personal property from the water due to the burst pipes would be covered. If the damage is so extensive that you can’t stay in your apartment, your insurance company generally will pay for additional living expenses.

The frozen pipes broke in my business location. Is my office equipment covered?
Yes. The coverages are similar to those for homeowners and renters policies. Your insurance company will cover your business equipment losses, as well as the cost to repair the pipes and any other repairs associated with it (repair to walls, if necessary).

Am I also covered for snow and ice buildup that causes leaks in my roof?
This condition is known as an “ice dam.” To obtain coverage for this kind of leakage, not directly the result of damage to the roof by wind or the weight of snow, you would need an all-risks-not-excluded type of policy. It is often referred to as an HO-3 or special form policy.

How do I go about submitting a claim for such damages?
First, take immediate steps to prevent further damage and contact our agency. We will verify your coverage and give you instructions for preparing your claim. Generally, you’ll be asked for repair estimates for structural damage and a list of items that will need repair or replacement. Depending on the amount of damage, an appraiser from your insurance company may need to see the damage. As with any insurance claim, keep all receipts.

How can I prevent such damage in the first place?
Frozen pipes To avoid frozen pipes, wrap pipes that are at risk in insulated heat tape and keep the building heat at an adequate level throughout the winter. If you have a power loss, however, you’ll lose heat, too, so if you’re away from home more than a day or two, arrange for someone to check on things. It’s also a good idea to open cabinet doors to circulate warm air to pipes on outside walls. Also, if you’ll be away for an extended period of time, drain your pipes. If you’re going to be out of the home for even a short time, shut off the water supply. That way, if pipes do burst, the only water that will be released into the house will be what’s in the pipes. Water won’t continue to pump into the home, as often happens when pipes burst. If pipes freeze and burst, turn off the water supply before the house warms and the water in the pipes thaws, flooding the home.
Snow and ice buildup Using a longhandled snow puller, pull the snow from the roof, back just a few feet from the edge of the eaves before ice has a chance to form. By simply removing the snow along the edge of the roof, you will give melting water a chance to drain from the eaves and prevent the formation of ice dams that may damage your roof. Do not get on the roof to remove snow buildup. This is dangerous and you could easily damage the roofing material, resulting in leaks when it rains.

Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]> http://bhhgins.com/ice-snow-damage.html http://bhhgins.com/ice-snow-damage.html Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:23:00 -0400


Generally, how does my homeowners policy respond to storm damage to my property?
Your homeowners policy covers most losses that may occur to your dwelling and personal property. Commonly, losses resulting from theft, fire, wind, vehicles and vandalism are covered.

What if there is damage because of a storm?
A standard homeowners policy covers storm damage to the dwelling, its contents and other structures such as garages and fences, up to the policy limit. Such damage also acts as a trigger for coverage of other consequential losses and expenses including removal of debris and loss of use.

What if my family and I cannot live in our home because of the damage?
When storm damages make it necessary to leave your home temporarily, your homeowners policy covers the additional costs necessary to maintain your normal standard of living for such things as meals, lodging, laundry, transportation, entertainment, etc. You will need to present receipts for all of your expenses to be reimbursed.

What clean-up expenses can I expect to recover following a storm?
Your homeowners policy will cover costs for removal of debris when covered property is damaged. This includes the removal of trees that fall on covered structures, but this coverage for trees usually is limited to $1,000 for a single storm.

Am I covered for protecting my property from damage?
Your policy obligates you to protect your property from further damage following a loss as a condition to payment of your claim. You can expect your policy to pay for such expenses to board windows and make emergency repairs. Also, property removed from your home to protect it from an impending storm receives more comprehensive coverage than what is provided at your home—for a limited period of time, it covers flood, earthquake and any direct damage to your dislocated property without exclusions. However, the expenses to remove the property from harm’s way is not a covered expense.

What damages are not covered by my homeowners policy?
Trees, shrubs and gardens damaged or destroyed by the storm are not covered. The spoilage of food due to an inoperative refrigerator or freezer resulting from an off -premise power outage is not covered by many policies, unless the appliances are inoperative because the damage to power lines or other utility equipment occurred on your property; for example, lightning damage to your circuit box or a tree falling on power lines connected to your home. It is important to note that there is no coverage for any damage that is a direct result of flood, surface water or water that backs up through sewers or drains that is caused by an act of nature (a storm).

How can I find out what is covered in my specific circumstances?
The information provided here includes general guidelines for storm damage coverage. You should contact our agency for definite answers and further advice.

Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]> http://bhhgins.com/storm-damage.html http://bhhgins.com/storm-damage.html Fri, 13 Jan 2012 13:08:00 -0400


When a catastrophic event occurs, you no doubt will feel overwhelmed by the loss and the confusion that follows. Advance preparation is your first prescription for getting through the experience. But, now that you have suffered a loss, you will benefit from the kind of information that proceeds from questions asked by others who have endured similar events.

What is the most important thing to do first?
Your safety always is the most important concern. Do not return to your property until authorities have signaled it is safe to do so. When you approach the property, look for unsafe conditions, such as downed power lines, the smell of natural gas and unstable structural conditions. If it is safe to proceed, proactively shut off the utilities (electricity, natural gas, water, etc.) before inspecting the damage. Do not drink tap water (without boiling it for five minutes first) until you know the water is safe to drink.

Should I take pictures of the damage?
Yes. Take a liberal amount of pictures from different angles before you make emergency repairs to protect the property from further damage. You may use a video/digital camera for this purpose, as well.

My home is too damaged to reside in. What do I do?
Contact your relatives, friends and church affiliates to see if they may be able to accommodate you temporarily. You also may want to seek help from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Red Cross, the Salvation Army or any other disaster recovery service organization.

Your homeowners policy typically will pay your additional living expenses to reside at another location until repairs to your home can be completed. The typical homeowners policy covers events, such as fire, windstorm and tornado. Unfortunately, even if you have a flood insurance policy, your additional living expenses will not be paid when the damages are caused by flooding. Keep this in mind when you make your living arrangements.

What can I expect the adjuster to do when he or she arrives?
The adjuster will “scope” the damage, an important part of the claim process. An attempt will be made to determine the cause of damage—for example, was the damage caused by wind, flood or both? Next, the adjuster will itemize the property that has been damaged. You will want to make sure that nothing is overlooked. The placement of values on the damaged property will not occur at this time. Appraisals, repair estimates and inventories will be obtained later to establish values.

Often the adjuster will offer an advance payment on a covered claim so that restoration may begin and living arrangements can be made. Be sure to keep detailed records on how this money is spent.

Should I hire my own adjuster to assist me with my claim?
Public adjusters are paid a fee based upon a percentage of the claim settlement; typically, between 10 and 15 percent (state laws may apply). Consequently, you will need to decide whether the adjuster’s services are worth the discounting of your claim settlement. Some of the services public adjusters provide are preparing the scope of damage; preparing inventories; ensuring that coverage decisions are reasonable; obtaining repair or reconstruction estimates; assisting with the presentation of the claim; acting as appraisers; and assisting with negotiations.

Our agency will help you with coverage issues and provide assistance in the claim process. If your property values are out of the ordinary or the sheer volume of inventory is burdensome to you, you may want the assistance of a public adjuster.

What if I do not agree with the property values upon which the insurance company is basing the loss amount?
It may just be a need for additional documentation. When you obtain the evidence that substantiates the property value, go back to the adjuster and negotiate a better settlement. If the adjuster is being obstinate and unfair, you can request to talk to the supervising adjuster.

Our agency will advocate on your behalf to the extent possible. If you are unable to negotiate further with the adjuster, there is an “Appraisal” provision in your policy that specifies a procedure for resolving differences in the valuation of property losses. You and the insurance company each will get an appraiser at their own expense. Then those two appraisers will choose an umpire (whose fee is shared). An agreement by any two of the three appraisers will establish the amount payable. Any time you feel your insurance company is not treating you fairly, you may file a complaint with the Insurance Department.

Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]> http://bhhgins.com/catastrophic-property-loss.html http://bhhgins.com/catastrophic-property-loss.html Mon, 16 Jan 2012 13:52:00 -0400


December, January and February are the leading months for home fires and fire deaths in the United States. On average, more than one-third of home fire deaths in the United States occur during the winter months. Here are tips to help you protect your family and your home.

How can I heat my home safely?
According to a report from the National Fire Prevention Association, heating equipment fires are the second-leading cause of fire deaths in American homes and the biggest fire culprit December through February. According to the association, most fires could be avoided by taking simple safety precautions.

Select equipment that bears the mark of an independent testing laboratory.

Be sure the equipment is installed by a trained professional, in compliance with local fire and building codes.

Keep all portable heaters (whether powered by electricity or fuel) at least 36 inches from anything that can burn—including furniture, bedding, clothing, pets and people.

Run space heaters only when you are in the room and awake. And, supervise all children and pets when the heaters are in use.

If you are using a portable kerosene heater, use only the fuel recommended by the manufacturer. Store the kerosene away from heat or open flame in a container approved by your local fire department, and be sure it’s clearly marked with the fuel name.

Have your chimney inspected (and cleaned, if necessary) prior to the start of every heating season.

If using a wood stove, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for installation, use and maintenance.

When disposing of the ashes from your fireplace or wood stove, first make sure all embers are extinguished. Put water on them to be sure. Discard away from the home.

Also, be sure your homeowners insurance reflects the amount of coverage you need to replace your home and possessions. This could mean checking to be sure you have replacement cost coverage. Call our agency. We’ll be glad to review and explain your coverage to you.

Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]> http://bhhgins.com/winter-fire-safety.html http://bhhgins.com/winter-fire-safety.html Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:18:00 -0400
Are you aware of all the discounts and programs options offered by insurance companies?


Part of the value of using an independent insurance agent is we know all of the discounts and programs available to you.

A misconception often made is that an independent insurance agent costs extra and you can get a policy for less by shopping for yourself. FALSE! Contrary to that belief, insurance agents cost you nothing and provide unparalled value when finding your best policy options.

The danger of shopping for insurance on your own is you may wind up with higher deductibles and lower coverage limits without realizing it.

Here are a few of the programs that are currently offered:
1. Combining Home and Auto
2. Offering Payment Options - Upfront or Monthly
3. Get Home Safe Program - Free Taxi Service
4. Snapshot Discount - Up to 30% Savings

For full program details please call our agency at 201-991-8700 or email us your question to bhhg@bhhgins.com Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]> http://bhhgins.com/discount-programs.html http://bhhgins.com/discount-programs.html Mon, 23 Jan 2012 15:09:00 -0400 Protect Your Investments!

Whether your getting engaged or you're already engaged, there's nothing more important than protecting your investment.

It's not the first thing that comes to mind and rightfully so. You are excited, nervous, planning for the right moment....

Let us first say congratulations for getting ready for this important stage of your life. We wish you the best of luck and many great years together.

But we need to get serious for a moment. Imagine the consequences of not insuring your investment. It doesn't matter if you spent $1,000 or $100,000 on the ring. It's something you worked hard for and saved up money for months! Now the ring is accidentally lost and you didn't have the proper coverage.

Getting insured is very easy and relatively cheap. If you have a current homeowners policy or renters policy, an "endorsement" can be added to cover the ring in full; should it be lost, stolen or any other covered peril.

Each insurance carrier varies in cost so contact your Independent Insurance Agent for full details. If you live in New Jersey, please contact our office to speak to one of our expert agents.

For full program details please call our agency at 201-991-8700 or email us your question to bhhg@bhhgins.com Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]>

http://bhhgins.com/engagement-ring-insurance.html http://bhhgins.com/engagement-ring-insurance.html Mon, 6 Feb 2012 12:20:00 -0400 Are you doing the right things to protect your business?

Winter storms can bring a whole array of exposures to your buildings and operations. Some regions of the country have experienced record-breaking snowfalls in recent years, which in turn has increased the hazard of roof collapse. All properly built roofs need to be built to withstand snow and ice loads. Building codes and roof loads vary across the U.S. and are based on historical data, such as the expected frequency and severity of snowstorms in that particular region.

The full guide to risk control is provided by The Travelers Indemnity Company and can be found here
https://www.travelers.com/business-insurance/risk-control/protecting-your-business/Docs/Prevent-Roof-Collapse-A0425.aspx

Almost every building in North America is subject to severe winter weather, such as blizzard conditions, ice storms and severe cold (Arctic Freeze). This is true not only of facilities located in the central and northern portions of the continent, but also has occurred in areas as far south as Florida and Texas. Indeed, loss histories indicate the areas that are most vulnerable to damage are the southern portions of the country because they are not accustomed to long periods of prolonged cold.

For these reasons, it is important that every facility prepare in advance for the possibility of severe winter weather. The following checklist provides a starting point in developing a comprehensive plan to prevent unnecessary losses that can result from winter weather conditions.

You can find a valuable "Winter Weather Checklist" provided by The Travelers Indemnity Company at
https://www.travelers.com/business-insurance/risk-control/protecting-your-business/Docs/Winter-Weather-Checklist-269.aspx

Buildings being newly constructed or renovated are not exempt from the potential for property loss. This is especially true during the winter months when there can be an increase in the use of temporary heating devices, snow and ice accumulation on roofs, combustible or flammable materials being stored indoors and trespassers seeking shelter.

Tips for "Winter Property Preservation" provided by The Travelers Indemnity Company can be found by visiting
https://www.travelers.com/business-insurance/risk-control/protecting-your-business/Docs/Winter-Weather-Preservation.aspx

For business and commercial lines please call our agency at 201-991-8700 or email us your question to bhhg@bhhgins.com Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]>

http://www.bhhgins.com/ice-snow-roof-collapse.html http://www.bhhgins.com/ice-snow-roof-collapse.html Thu, 9 Feb 2012 16:11:30 -0400 When life changes, so do our insurance needs!

We all go through a lot of changes in our lives; some big, some small. Whenever our life changes our insurance needs can and usually do change with it.

For most, getting married is one of the first major changes that affect our insurance needs. Adjusting from being on your own to combining insurance policies is an easy process and should not be overlooked. It saves you money and simplifies the clutter of having seperate insurance policies.

Additional Life insurance should be purchased in the event of child birth to protect your loved ones in the event you can no longer provide for them.

Events like graduating college and/or moving out on your own will require you to aquire your own insurance policies. Make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision by cousulting with you local Independent Insurance Agent. For example; Auto Insurance is the first and foremost responsibility when moving out of your parents home. However, it is not the only insurance consideration. Other considerations include, but are not limited to Renters/Homeowners insurance and Life Insurance.

Another major change is opening a new business. This event requires Commercial (Business) Insurance Coverage, Workers Comp and we also recommend an Umbrella Policy to protect you in the event of a catastrophic liability claim.

Other Life changes also require adjustments to your existing insurance policies or new policies to protect yourself, your loved ones and your assets. If you are unsure if your life event needs additional insurance or adjustment, please contact us to speak to an expert agent. We will be happy to guide you through what is best for you!

For help deciding what you need please call our agency at 201-991-8700 or email us your question to bhhg@bhhgins.com Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]>

http://bhhgins.com/life-changes.html http://bhhgins.com/life-changes.html Mon, 14 Feb 2012 15:09:00 -0400 Most have personally witnessed family and friends who were caught completely unaware by a flood. They suffered terrible losses to their dwellings and personal property, due to lack of flood coverage. Learn from the mistakes and don't let it happen to you!


Fact #1 - Everyone Lives in a Flood Zone and everyone needs flood insurance.
You do not need to live near water to be flooded. Floods are caused by storms, melting snow, hurricanes, water backup due to inadequate or overloaded drainage systems, as well as broken water mains.

Fact #2 - Flood damage is not covered by Homeowners or Business Commercial policies!
Flood losses are NOT covered by Homeowners or Business Commercial policies. However, you can protect your home, business, and belongings with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. With the assistance of your independent insurance agency, you can insure your home with flood insurance up to $250,000 for the building and $100,000 for contents. (Non-residential buildings are eligible for more coverage, as shown in Fact #6)

Fact #3 - Flood insurance is affordable.
Close to 100 private insurance companies offer affordable flood insurance backed by the federal government. Call one of our agents!

Fact #4 - Flood Insurance is easy to get.
You can buy flood insurance through us! You can even use a credit card.

Fact #5 - Contents Coverage is available for renters to insure their belongings.
Up to $100,000 in contents coverage is available for renters as well as homeowners. Renters, Home Owners and Businesses should all have contents coverage. Contents is not automatically included with building coverage.

Fact #6 - Non-residential buildings and their contents are eligible for a higher coverage
Flood losses are NOT covered by Commercial & Business Policies. However, you can get flood insurance for up to $500,000 per building and $500,000 for the contents of each non-residential building.

Fact #7 - There is a 30 day waiting period before coverage goes into effect. Don't wait until it's too late!
Plan ahead so you are not caught without insurance when a flood happens. BUY NOW!

Fact #8 - Federal Disaster Relief will not help you
Federal Relief is only available is the president declares a disaster. Flood insurance pays regardless if it is a declared disaster or not.

For help deciding what you need please call our agency at 201-991-8700 or email us your question to bhhg@bhhgins.com Need Insurance? Or have questions about your current policies? Call a Borgos, Hanlon, Henry, and Garcia Agent today for more information. ]]>

http://bhhgins.com/Flood-Facts.html http://bhhgins.com/Flood-Facts.html Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:55:00 -0400