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?  Chris 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…

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…

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…

When it comes to insurance, location matters more than you might think. Whether you’re purchasing homeowners’ or auto insurance, insurers use a variety of geographic risk factors to determine your premium.   What Makes an Area High Risk?  Insurance companies rely…

How Disasters Influence Premiums  What You Can Do  Stay Prepared  Natural disasters are unpredictable, but your insurance coverage doesn’t have to be. Let Cornerstone Insurance Agency help you assess your risk and ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way. …

1. Regional Risks Certain areas face more natural disasters or environmental risks, which make insurers hesitant to provide coverage. For example:  2. Insurer Withdrawals Some insurance companies pull out of high-risk markets altogether. If several insurers exit a region, fewer…

  What Are Mudslides?  Mudslides are a type of landslide where masses of earth and debris rapidly slide down a slope. They often occur due to the destabilization of soil on a hillside, triggered by events like heavy rainfall, earthquakes,…

  Types of Water Damage  a. Clean Water Damage  This type of damage is caused by clean water sources, such as broken pipes, overflowing sinks, or rainwater. Clean water damage is typically the least harmful and can often be addressed…