Financial advisers always recommend shopping around and comparing quotes before making an important buying decision. Before purchasing insurance, a prudent motorist asks his or her agent to seek a New Jersey auto insurance quote from a variety of competing carriers and identify the policy that provides best value.

In the wake of a severe weather incident like a hurricane or tropical storm, home owners need to take particular care when they assess quotes for emergency home repairs, to avoid being targeted by unscrupulous storm-chasers offering to undertake emergency building repairs. Some of the scams involve building contractors who seize on an emergency as an opportunity to charge excessive prices, while other frauds involve people who ask for upfront payments from homeowners then disappear without doing the repair work they have promised.

It’s essential to be alert to the potential for this fraudulent activity when seeking quotes for emergency repairs to your home. Be wary of contractors who approach you directly. Always obtain written quotes from at least three contractors and don’t accept the first bid you receive without carefully evaluating all the bids. Take time to check out a contractor before committing to a contract: a legitimate contractor should hold the proper license, carry property, liability and workers’ compensation insurance, and be willing to provide contact details of previous clients as a reference.

We know that when evaluating a quote for emergency home repairs you may be under much more pressure than when assessing a New Jersey auto insurance quote. Remember to keep your head, take your time and assess quotes carefully, so that you make an informed decision about which bid to accept.

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Are you considering adopting a puppy? As much as owning a dog may mean to your family, you should definitely consider the potential costs related to adding a pooch to your home, especially when it comes to your NJ liability insurance policy. Although many people adopt dogs to deter criminals, that same animal could lead to quite a burden.

Despite the fact that a burglar broke into your house to steal your possessions, should your dog defend the property by biting the individual, you could find yourself on the wrong end of a personal injury lawsuit. Home owners owe it to all visitors, invited or otherwise, to provide a safe environment. As the owner of the animal, you could be held liable for the injuries it causes. According to New Jersey law however, you may be able to avoid paying for the medical bills related to the dog bite if you are able to prove the trespasser had criminal intent, for example, if you discovered the person inside your home putting your prized DVD collection into a bag.

In addition, before you take on the title of dog owner, you should discuss the matter with your NJ liability insurance agent. Some insurers only cover incidents involving certain breeds while others may not pay for dog-related injuries at all. There is a lot to consider before adopting a canine. By making an appropriate choice of breed, training your pet and having appropriate insurance, you could help ensure your pup remains a beloved part of the family and not a burden.

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Block parties might be a great way to advertise your business and attract new customers during the summer. They also take a lot of money and planning. Unfortunately, there is a chance that all your hard work could be wasted should an illness or injury occur at your event. Before hosting such a large gathering, ensure your NJ liability insurance policy could cover the expenses related to accidents at block parties.  The following tips might be useful to keep in mind.

• Avoid stretching extension cords across pedestrian walkways.
• Provide weatherproof cover and protection for electrical equipment and generators in case of unexpected rain. Take all other necessary measures to prevent accidental electrocution.
• When serving food, make sure it is properly prepared and kept at the correct temperature.
• Assign certain staff to help control crowds, especially if you plan to give out freebies.
• Bouncy houses and other children’s amusement items should always be set up according to the manufacturer’s directions to reduce risk of injury; children should be well supervised.

To make your block party an even bigger success, consider joining up with other local businesses. With a bigger budget, you may be able to afford more attractions and advertisements. Whether you collaborate with nearby establishments or decide to go it alone, ensure you have the appropriate NJ liability insurance in place.

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No business should do without NJ liability insurance. Why is this? Liability claims have the potential of bankrupting your business, a risk that increases should a lawsuit be filed. What steps could you take to limit your exposure?

• Keep all aisles free of clutter. Make sure all walkways are wide enough for visitors to get through with ease.
• Do not allow customers in warehouses or stockrooms. Clearly label restricted areas.
• Keep the exterior of your business in good repair. Fix chipped stairs or cracked walkways immediately.
• Thoroughly test all products before releasing them to the general public. Make sure all instruction manuals are detailed and include warnings against misuse.
• Clean spills and other messes on the premises as soon as you are made aware of them.
• Never give professional advice off the record. Depending on your industry, having signed contracts from all clients is a must.
• Avoid having frenzy sales, like those that are common on Black Friday.

Are you lacking a proper NJ liability insurance policy? Do not delay in purchasing this essential coverage. One of our agents would be happy to assist you in the process. Contact our agency today to get started.

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