Storms, rain, wind, flooding... Roads washing out, trees falling over, power lines coming down... 

It's getting to be that time of the year again in the Northwest. Even though "that time of the year" is about nine months long, it's still necessary to double check and make sure we're prepared for the long, wet seasons ahead of us.

It's a good time to check on the condition of your sump pump, if you have a basement. It's definitely a good time to clear away any combustible materials from heat sources, and it's a great time to check on your insurance. You need the right insurance policies in place to protect you from the seasons that may well batter you, your home, or your businesses.

For businesses, Utility Service Coverage is often overlooked, but very important. It will protect your business against losses if the power goes out and you're unable to conduct business, if your water supply is cut off, or cover losses due to overhead communication lines being downed (overhead communication lines coverage is often overlooked and not added on business insurance policies - double check that you have this coverage on your policy). The last few years, we've had storms that knocked out all three utilities. For homes, it's one thing - you grit your teeth and bear it until services can be restored. But for businesses, it can mean a huge financial loss. Double check your business insurance policy to make sure this coverage is included, or call your business insurance agent and have them look.

For the average non-business-owning citizen and homeowner, getting a DIC policy (Difference in Conditions) may be the thing that saves your finances. The wet season is upon us, and it may be too late to get a Flood Insurance policy to add to your home insurance (it often takes more than 30 days for a flood insurance policy to become active), but a DIC policy can be attained quickly, and provides more coverage than a flood insurance policy alone.

A DIC policy is a combined insurance policy that includes landslide insurance, earthquake insurance, and flood insurance. Rainy season is here - flood insurance is a helpful coverage to have, and may be the only thing that ends up standing between you, a storm, and bankruptcy. We hope you never need it, but we want it to be there if you do.

Please contact us today to add Utility Service Coverage to your business insurance, or a DIC policy for your home or business. Help us protect you, your assets, and your family.