Tag: Deleski Insurance

Winter tips for keeping pipes from freezing

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Don’t Let the Cold Get to Your Pipes This Winter

It’s hard to think of a worse start to a winter day in Minnesota than turning on the faucet and … nothing. Maybe there’s a trickle of water, but it’s clear you have a frozen pipe. So, what now? Here are some smart tips to help you prevent or address what could easily become a very messy and expensive situation:

  • See to your outdoor water lines: Before cold weather arrives, drain water sprinkler and swimming pool supply lines, and remove, drain and store outdoor hoses. If possible, close inside valves supplying outdoor hose bibs, and open the outside hose bibs for draining. Keep them open so any remaining water can expand without breaking the pipe. If you can’t shut off the water from the inside, pick up some foam faucet covers.
  • Keep your home warm: Maintain an interior temperature of at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you’re sleeping or not at home. Seal any drafts and leave interior doors open to help keep an even temperature from room to room.
  • Tend to those pipes: Leave the cabinet doors open in the kitchen and bathroom so your pipes aren’t shut off from the warm air. You can also insulate your pipes with sleeves, heat tape or heat cable. Insulation is especially important in unheated areas, such as your attic, basement, garage or crawl space, and for pipes running along exterior walls. During severe cold spells, you may want to leave all faucets, both hot and cold, running at a slight trickle.
  • Call in a professional: Frozen water in your pipes can cause them to burst, meaning you’ll have a mess on your hands once that water unthaws. So, act quickly to shut off your main water supply, and call in a licensed plumber to see to the situation.

Finally, be sure to touch base with us at Deleski Insurance Agency to check what your homeowner’s insurance covers when it comes to frozen pipes.

Happy Holidays from Deleski Insurance!

Ridesharing Coverage

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Right now your current auto policy excludes the time you are in transit to pick someone up with UBER and LYFT!  Most people assume they are covered under their personal auto policy until they pick someone up and then the TNC or Transportation Network Company coverage kicks in when the person gets in their car.  Not so!  The personal auto insurance policy stops when the app is turned on and you are driving to pick someone up.  This gap can leave you uncovered if you have an accident on the way to pick someone up using UBER or LYFT.

Now there is an endorsement you can add to your personal auto policy to fill this gap.  It is called RideSharing Coverage and we, at Deleski Insurance, can make sure your policy includes this coverage or is added to your current policy.  So if you are using UBER or LYFT in St. Paul, Minneapolis, or any of the Twin Cities or Minnesota area, we would be happy to take a look at your coverage to make sure it is adequate.

Call Deleski Insurance 651-633-0400 to make sure RideSharing Coverage is added to your auto insurance policy today!

Don’t let appliance hoses sink you

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Should You Be Worried About Your Appliance Hoses?

There’s a ticking time bomb in your Minnesota home right now, waiting to strike when you least expect it. In fact, there might even be more than one. And each can cause thousands and thousands of dollars in damage.

We here at Deleski Insurance are talking about faulty appliance hoses, of course.

Consider your humble washing machine: According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), washing machine failures cost an average of more than $5,000, and faulty hoses are responsible for more than half of those failures.

You can take steps to defuse these ticking time bombs — or at least make them less likely to go off. Here are the common hoses and tubes you should be checking:

Washing Machine
Most washing machines come with rubber hoses that connect to your water supply — hoses that can wear out and eventually burst. The IBHS says to check frequently for blisters, worn tubing, stress cracks and loose connections. Even if there is no obvious wear, replace hoses every five years. Use a reinforced steel-braided hose, as they are less likely to fail.

Dryer
Although you should clean the lint trap in your dryer with every load, danger lurks behind the dryer as well. Flexible plastic or foil ducting can easily trap lint and increase the risk of fire, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The agency recommends the use of a rigid or semi-rigid metal duct instead. Whichever you use, be sure to disconnect and clean the ducting annually.

Refrigerator
If your refrigerator has an icemaker or water dispenser, it also has a hose connecting it to the water supply. Replace the standard hose with a steel-braided line for added security.

Dishwasher
Dishwasher leaks can easily go undetected, so it’s important to check these connections regularly as well. Make sure that hoses and lines have no kinks, and periodically remove and clean the filter in the dishwasher, which is designed to stop food pieces from making it into the drain hose.

Gas Grills
At least once a year (typically when you fire up the grill for the first time after winter), check the hose connecting the fuel source to the burners. Simply brush it with some soapy water, turn the gas on (do not light the grill) and check the hose for air bubbles. If you see any, replace the hose and fitting.

In addition to checking your hoses regularly and replacing them when needed, there are monitoring systems available now that can automatically shut off your water supply in the event of a failure. Some detect leaks with moisture indicators, while at least one new system actually checks your water meter for unusual activity.

To further protect you, your homeowners insurance may cover certain damage that results from appliance hose failures. But, it all depends on the circumstances of your situation and on your specific policy. You may find that an appliance hose failure is not covered by your insurance, so it’s best to maintain your appliances to avoid damage in the first place.  The rule of thumb is “sudden and accidental” for appliance hose losses and water damage.

If you have questions about your homeowners insurance coverage we here at Atlas Insurance Brokers – Deleski Agency are happy to help.  Keep an eye on those appliance hoses and save yourself a big headache later.

 

Fall home maintenance

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10 Things to Do to Prepare Your Home for Fall

Fall is a wonderful time in Minneapolis and Saint Paul — if your home is ready for it.

 

Yes, this is the time of year to fix small problems before they become big, and big ones before they become catastrophic. Here are 10 tips to help:

 

    1. Look up. Examine your roof closely. Remove moss, clear debris from your gutters and downspouts, and repair any damage.
    2. Look down. Check for signs of animals and insects around your home and garage, including in the basement and crawlspace. Bring in a professional to get rid of unwanted guests.
    3. Keep things warm. Heat escapes through leaks around windows and doors, so seal up any drafty areas. Outside, put covers over faucets before temperatures drop.
    4. Keep things dry. Drain outdoor hoses, faucets and irrigation systems. Look in the basement and crawlspace for wet spots. And, make sure your water heater or boiler isn’t leaking.
    5. Clear the air (or vents and filters, at least). When’s the last time you checked your dryer vent? You should take a look at attic vents and exhaust ducts, as well. And, change that furnace filter!
    6. Take a walk. Cracks in your driveway or walkways will only get bigger, so get them fixed soon. If your deck has signs of wear, make repairs now.
  • Get a tune-up. You or a professional should clean and tune your furnace, boiler and/or water heater, as well as your oven and range.

  • Don’t play with fire. Before building your first fireplace fire of the season, check for soot or creosote build-up.
  • Don’t play with fire extinguishers, either. But, check them to ensure they still have pressure. Don’t have fire extinguishers? Put them on your shopping list, ideally one for each floor.
  • Don’t forget those smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors. Replace batteries when needed, and test regularly that alarms are working.

 

 

Keeping your home insurance policy in tip-top condition is smart, too. Remember to check in with us at Deleski Insurance at least once a year to update your policy so you’re covered for your new remodel, additions, new roof, new furnace, or personal possessions.

Defensive Driver Discount – save 10% on your auto insurance!

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So You Need (or Want) to Take a Defensive Driving Course in Minnesota?
Are you 55 years of age and looking to save some money on your auto insurance?  Why not take a Defensive Driver course and save 10% for three years?

 

But, which is right for you? Here are some tips to help you decide:

 

  1. Search for Defensive Driver courses in your city online or ask your insurance professional to help you find one.  At Deleski Insurance, we are more than happy to help you find a course near you that works with your schedule.

 

  1. Check with your agent.  See if it’s time to take the course again or ask how much of a discount you’ll get if you take it for the first time.  Typically you will receive a 10% discount on your auto insurance for three years.  You may renew the discount again by taking a “refresher course”.

 

  1. Choose the type of course – there are online and classroom options, typically ranging from 4-8 hours depending on the course material. A first-time course will be eight hours, whereas the refresher course will be four hours.  The discount will last for three years from the date you took the course.

 

  1. Determine how much you want to spend.  Is it less expensive to take an online course?  Or do you prefer a classroom setting?  See which one works with your schedule and your budget.

 

Whether you are looking in Minneapolis, Roseville, Shoreview, or St. Paul, taking the Defensive Driver course will lower your premiums and help you remain the responsible driver we, at Atlas Insurance Brokers, know you are!

Dogs and Umbrella Insurance

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Love Bites—Get Umbrella Coverage

 

In today’s economy, everyone is pinching pennies. So why worry about umbrella coverage? Shouldn’t a home and auto policy leave you adequately covered?

 

Unfortunately, we live in a world of lawsuits. Large damages can be awarded, be extremely expensive and have long-term financial impact. Those lawsuits can come from unlikely sources, such as our furry friends.

 

Take Herschel for instance. Herschel is a much-loved, rather timid labradoodle who enjoys taking naps on the driveway while his owner mows the lawn.

 

Herschel watched from eight feet away as his neighbor, a 39 year old man, showed off his rollerblading skills to his kids. The man wiped out on the sidewalk in front of Herschel’s house and broke his leg. He required surgery, costing around $35,000 in medical costs and $18,000 in lost wages.

 

Fair or not, the man brought a lawsuit against Herschel’s owner, suing for $220,000 in damages. He alleged that Herschel had caused the accident by getting in his way, despite multiple witnesses to the contrary.

 

But Herschel’s owner was lucky–a jury vindicated Herschel. However, lawsuits such as these can easily exceed the limits on a homeowner’s policy, leaving the insured responsible for the remainder. An umbrella policy would prevent that, giving you an extra $1 million to $5 million in coverage.

 

Our furry friends can put your assets at risk in other ways as well.   According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 4.7 million people are bitten by dogs each year, with half of those occurring on the owner’s property. Dog bites, according to the Insurance Information Institute, account for about a third of all homeowner’s insurance claims, which only cover limited damages.

 

Protect what you love. Call us at Deleski Insurance to talk about your umbrella options.

Classic Car Show in St. Paul, MN

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Make the most of a classic car show

As the weather warms, you’re likely to start seeing announcements for a classic car show in Roseville, MN and Saint Paul, MN. These automotive events are a great way to kick start your weekend or vacation. Classic car shows are held all across the country, from small rural towns to large metropolitan areas, and they draw classic car enthusiasts from near and far.

 

Some people attend classic car shows as spectators to check out unique and rare vehicles. Others go to connect with fellow car buffs or to show off their prized possession. And some attend shows to shop or to sell.

 

Whether you’re planning to shop, sell, show, or just go, here are some tips for making the most of a classic car show.

 

  • Family fun. Larger classic car shows typically feature entertainment, food vendors, raffles and more. Bring the whole family for a day of fun.
  • Plan. Take note of the event schedule, plan before you go, and make sure you’re aware of the hours for check-in.
  • Be the early bird. If you’re entering your automobile in a competition, sign up early. Most are limited to a certain number of entries, and it’s usually first come, first served.
  • Know the value. If you are planning to sell or buy, you must be well versed on the value of the vehicle and the market conditions. Buying or selling a car—especially a classic—can be an emotion-driven experience. Knowing the facts is essential if you are to get the right deal.
  • Need parts? Some larger car shows also feature a swap meet. Before you go, research the show and take note of car accessories and parts you might need.
  • Get some rest. Larger car shows can sprawl for miles upon miles. Make sure you’re rested, hydrated, and fed so you have plenty of energy for a long day of roaming.
  • Pack a bag. Be prepared to get the most out of the day by bringing along what you might need for the weather – from coats to sunscreen – and for your basic needs – from water to snacks.

And most importantly, contact Deleski Insurance Agency at 651-633-0400 to make sure your classic car has the coverage it needs so you can enjoy yourself at the classic car shows.

Distracted Driving

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Avoiding distractions while driving could save your life

 

You’ve seen them on the roads; you might even know a few of them.

 

And you could be one yourself.

 

Distracted drivers in come in all shapes, sizes, ages and experience levels. Even if you’re not one today, you could become one at any moment — in the time it takes you to answer your cell phone or check the kids in the back seat when you’re driving through {neighborhoods}.

 

If you or someone else you know thinks you can drive just fine while talking on your phone, think about this: More than 450,000 people were injured in crashes that reportedly involved distracted driving in 2009, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. More than 5,000 of those people died.

 

Distractions on the road come in many forms, according to www.distraction.gov, a U.S. Department of Transportation website. There are three main kinds of distractions:

Visual – taking your eyes off the road

Manual –taking your hands off the wheel

Cognitive – taking your mind off what you’re doing

 

To help you avoid all three kinds of distractions the next time you’re behind the wheel of your car here are a few tips:

Put your phone in silent mode and store it away from the front seat or in a purse or bag. This helps reduce temptation.

Have a passenger answer your phone or return text messages for you.

If a call or a text can’t wait, pull over in a safe spot before using your phone.

This one seems obvious, but finish shaving or applying makeup before you get in the car!

If you’re emotional, wait until you’ve calmed down before hitting the road.

Avoid road rage. You’ll be happier and safer.  We at Deleski Insurance Agency want you to arrive safely at your destination.

Roseville, MN Home Safety

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Daylight Savings Time is also Daylight Safety Time.

 

We here at Deleski Insurance want to remind you that Daylight Savings Time is a great time to improve your family’s safety.

 

Be safe in your Roseville home

 

Health and safety agencies often use the approach of Daylight Savings Time to remind people to change the batteries in their smoke alarms. The American Red Cross suggests you test your smoke alarms and talk with your family about your fire escape plan. Whether you live in Minnesota or elsewhere, practice the plan too – at least twice a year.

 

Daylight Savings is a great time to check your emergency preparedness kit to make sure it’s fully stocked with fresh supplies.

 

Carbon Monoxide a concern too

 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 400 people die annually in the US from carbon monoxide poisoning. The CDC recommends changing the batteries in your CO detectors when moving your clocks forward this Sunday.

 

The CDC says the most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion.

 

See the CDC’s site for more ways to prevent carbon monoxide exposure.

 

We here at Deleski Insurance hope these tips help and that you’ll consider sharing them with the people you care about so they can live safer lives too.

Winter car accidents

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How to Stay Safe After a Winter Car Accident

The days are short. The air is cold. And, roads are often slick with rain, snow or ice.

 

It’s winter driving season in Minneapolis and St. Paul. And, while most people know what to do to try to avoid an accident, many don’t know what to do after one. It’s vital knowledge to have, because the aftermath of a crash can be just as dangerous as the crash itself — especially when it’s cold and snowy.

 

Here are five things to do (or not do) if you’re in an accident this winter to help keep yourself and others safe:

 

  • Make sure everyone’s OK — then get off the road if you can. The safety of everyone involved in a crash is the first concern, of course. So, check on the occupants of each vehicle and call for emergency assistance if it’s needed. Then, if the vehicles are drivable, get them off the road as soon – and as carefully – as possible.

  • Stay in your car if you can’t safely move away. If you can’t get your car off the road, but you can get off the road, wait until there’s no traffic around and then move well out of the way. Otherwise, stay in the car so you’re protected from other vehicles.
  • Stay visible — and warm. Turn on your hazard lights and put up road flares so other vehicles know something is wrong. And, grab your vehicle emergency kit (you have one, right?) for blankets and extra clothing. If you’ve run off the road and you’re still in your car, make sure nothing is blocking your exhaust pipe. Otherwise carbon monoxide may build up.
  • If you’re stranded, stay put. Running off the road in a remote area is scary, but resist the urge to try to walk for help. You risk getting lost, especially during a storm, if you set off on foot.
  • See a crash? Don’t always stop to help. Being a Good Samaritan could cause more problems than it solves. So, if those involved aren’t in immediate danger, call 911 and let the professionals help with medical aid and traffic control.

 

 

It’s not always easy, but keeping a cool head after an accident will do more than help everyone get through a stressful situation — it will help keep everyone safer, too.

 

And, remember, if something does happen on the road this winter, your agent from Deleski Insurance is here to help with your auto accident claim.