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. 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…

Q&A with CIA’s Agency Manager Chris Walton  Flooding is one of the most common and costly natural disasters in the United States, yet many homeowners are surprised to learn that standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage.  To help homeowners better understand their risks and…

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…

Knowing when to shop for coverage and understanding key policy terms, like deductibles, can help you avoid stress, make informed choices, and protect your investment from day one.  When Should You Start Shopping for Homeowners Insurance?  If you’re purchasing a home, the ideal time to…

Buying a home is one of life’s biggest investments, and protecting your mortgage is critical. While Mortgage Protection Insurance (MPI) exists, term life insurance is often a smarter, more flexible, and affordable option for most homeowners.  How Term Life Insurance…

Builder’s Risk Insurance: What It Covers  This is the builder’s responsibility. It typically covers:  Important: This policy only lasts during construction and only protects the builder’s investment, not your personal property or liability.  Homeowners Insurance: When You Need It  You’ll…

Most people feel confident their homeowners or auto insurance has them covered — until life throws them a curveball. It’s not just major accidents or unexpected lawsuits that can put your savings at risk. Even small events can snowball into…

How Homes Become Underinsured   Several common scenarios can lead to underinsurance:   Why Mortgage-Required Coverage May Not Be Enough   Your lender may only require coverage equal to the outstanding mortgage balance. This is often far less than the amount needed to…

What Is Umbrella Insurance?  Umbrella insurance is a type of personal liability insurance that covers claims exceeding the limits of your other insurance policies. If you’re found liable in a lawsuit for damages or injuries, your underlying policy may only…