Why have insurance rates increased so much over the past few years?  Chris W: Insurance rates have risen largely due to increased claim costs. The cost of labor and materials has gone up significantly, and in the auto industry, access to parts has…

Between paperwork, moving, and setting up your space, insurance is often treated like a checkbox. And that’s where costly mistakes happen.  1. Mistaking Market Value for Replacement Cost  A common misconception is assuming your home should be insured for what you paid…

But the truth is, many fires, both wildfires and home fires, start with something small, preventable, and completely human.  A campfire that wasn’t fully extinguished. A cigarette tossed out too quickly. A grill left unattended on a windy day.  Fire risk isn’t just a natural disaster…

While the western U.S. continues to experience the most visible wildfire activity, below-average moisture levels in parts of the Midwest and South are also contributing to dry vegetation conditions. Even areas that are not traditionally considered wildfire-prone are seeing periods where…

An unusually early and intense heat wave has accelerated snowmelt in many mountainous regions, including parts of the Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountains. While this may seem like a seasonal shift, it has a very real impact on wildfire risk…

1. Does standard homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?  Walton: Standard homeowners insurance policies do cover wind-related damage from hurricanes, such as damage to the roof, siding, or windows. However, flooding caused by storm surges or rising waters is not covered and…

1. What disasters should homeowners realistically prepare for?  Walton: Homeowners face a variety of natural disasters depending on their location:  Because risks vary by location, disaster preparedness should be location-specific, and homeowners should work closely with their insurance agent to ensure…

Owning a rental property can be a great source of income, but it also comes with unique risks that standard homeowner insurance doesn’t fully cover.  That’s where landlord insurance comes in.  What Is Landlord Insurance?  Landlord insurance is a specialized policy designed for property owners who rent out…

Q&A with CIA’s Agency Manager Chris Walton  Many people assume they must wait until their insurance policy renews before making any changes. But in reality, homeowners and drivers often have more flexibility than they think.  To clarify how midterm policy changes work, we spoke…

Why Frozen Pipes Are a Problem  Top Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes  What to Do if Pipes Freeze  Preventing frozen pipes is easier (and cheaper) than repairing them. By taking these simple precautions, you can avoid water damage and protect…