Signs Of A Sinkhole on Your Property and Damage Control

Sinkholes are common in Florida, in fact Florida has more sinkholes than any other state. Sinkholes are depressions in the ground, but the ones that appear suddenly, called Collapse Sinkholes, can cause damage to homes, roads, property and to people.

Collapse Sinkholes occur when the water table changes – either too much rain, or not enough rain can cause the ground to cave in on itself. There may be warning signs of sinkhole activity and it is important to keep an eye out for these.

• Cracks in the floor, walls or pavement – check both inside and outside your home. The cracks may start out small so write down where they are and the measurements. If they continue to grow, it’s time to have your house inspected.
• Windows or doors not closing properly – you feel that it is harder to close a door or window, which can mean structural shifting.
• Depressions in your yard or your neighbor’s yard – one easy sign is a hole in the ground that wasn’t there before. Also look for fencing or large items such as playground equipment that has shifted.
• Sediment in your water
• A neighbor’s sinkhole activity

Some people fear calling their Homeowners Insurance if they suspect a sinkhole thinking that their rates may go up, but its better to use the knowledge of their inspection services than for a sinkhole to happen suddenly. Most often, if nothing is found, your rate will not be raised.

Inspect regularly for sinkholes and keep track of any signs that you may find. If sinkhole activity is found close to your home, be even more diligent with your inspections.

Get more information about sinkholes. See this article “How Sinkholes Work” by How Stuff Works, Here 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Why Additional Living Expenses on Homeowners Insurance Coverage is so Important

Should you be faced with a fire, or a devastating storm that destroys your home, you will not be enjoying the comforts of your home and you need to be prepared.

In your homeowner’s coverage you should not only be protected for your personal belongings but compensated for additional living expenses. While your house is being accessed, you may be in a hotel for a few days, need money for restaurants, clothing and other expenses that may occur.

You do not want to find out after the tragedy of damage or losing your home, that you are lacking coverage. You need to know what your limits or exclusions are ahead of time.

This is where your compensation for additional living expenses comes in. Some insurance companies may give you unlimited help with your expenses and others a percentage of your total homeowner’s coverage.

Not sure what exactly your coverage is? Call us today to get your questions answered. 863-453-3903 or visit our website budgetbirite.com fill out the form and we will have an agent contact you within 24 hours.

We offer home insurance to the following states – Florida, Minnesota, Georgia, Texas, Maryland, South Carolina, North Carolina, Indiana and Pennsylvania.

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What Insurance Do You Need For A Houseboat

House Boats can be quite luxurious with larger rooms for sleeping and dining as well more fully equipped kitchens. Want to put a big screen TV in the living area, that can be accommodated as well.

If you love the water and like to travel, there are popular spots to dock your home while you enjoy a new exciting place and people. House boats are bulky and move at a slower pace than most boats and learning to navigate these homes is essential as accidents can happen, causing damage to both property and individuals.

Whether you are looking to buy or already own a houseboat, just like owning a home on land, home insurance is required and necessary. You are making an investment on your houseboat, and you want to be sure that your covered for any possibility of damage, sinking and your personal finances.

Check to see what your houseboat is classified under. Many insurance companies have them under the same classification as pleasure boats, ski boats, sail boats, cabin cruisers and more. When your houseboat is taken under consideration for a policy, the insurance company may look at the size, age of houseboat, type and how much horsepower it has. Houseboats used in rivers of lakes may have different coverage then those used in the ocean or hurricane prone areas.

Insurance coverage can also be taken out for vandalism, storm damage, fire, theft, capsizing, living expenses for under repair and more. Another important option would be pollution coverage if case your boat leaks oil or fuel. Cleaning up after an accident or leak from a houseboat can be quite costly.

Houseboats can be enjoyed for many years with the proper upkeep and if the owner has the assurance of knowing that problems, if they arise, are covered.

 

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