Archive for the ‘Renter’s Insurance’ category

An Astonish Visit to Get Things Moving

September 15, 2010

Our Ross Team had the pleasure of being a part of Astonish Result’s Changing Faces of Insurance and Agency Culture Tour. Astonish Results has paired with Ross Insurance to maximize our sales efforts and most importantly encourage us to “fish where the fish are”. A few weeks ago, Astonish team members Nick Brown and Alicia Collins traveled from their Warwick Rhode Island location to include Ross Insurance in an ongoing look as to what makes the Insurance industry today as times continue to change. Ross Insurance has been around since 1925, and as the times are changing we are finding ourselves adapting to the environment around us.  We’d like to think that we are doing a great job breaking those stereo types as we move forward with new technology while still holding true to our tradition. Located right in Holyoke, Ma we were given the chance to show a side of insurance that most people do not get a chance to see. Come and see our Agency Culture Tour which gives you a look at Ross Insurance from a more human perspective.

You’ll also have the opportunity of meeting our Ross Insurance team member Marissa Cloutier, who is one of the newest Changing Faces of the Industry. She had the chance to talk with Nick Brown about what makes her a unique addition to the Ross Insurance team.

The Only Constant is Change

September 9, 2010

In the past few months has anything changed in your life that may affect your current auto policy? Are you using your vehicle in business? Has the garaging location changed? Is any one new using your car? These are all types of things that your insurance agent needs to be aware of. Simple mistakes like forgetting to add your young driver can lead to denied coverage. Also, if you forget to update which city or town your car is being garaged in and something were to happen to your vehicle your claim could be denied. For example, say that you currently reside in Holyoke, MA and your young driver takes the family car with them to school out in Boston. You would need to notify your insurance agent that the car will now be garaged in Boston. If something were to happen to the vehicle and it was known that your child routinely used the car while in Boston but it was listed that the car was garaged in Holyoke, they could deny a claim for false information. We are here to help our customers and notify them of the potential risks involved if their auto policy information is not accurate or up to date. The small changes that affect your auto policy are often overlooked, which is why we are here to offer help when you need it.  You can contact our office through our interactive office, or call any of our agents during our office hours and we would be glad to assist you in any changes that need to be made on your policy. In the event of an accident there are more important things to worry about than if your claim would be denied because your auto policy is not up to date, so remember to contact your agent with any changes.

The Do’s and Don’t of Insurance

September 9, 2010

When dealing with insurance, it’s important to remember a few “DOs and DONTs”. Whether you carry insurance for your homevehicle or boat it’s beneficial to know a few things when talking over insurance with your insurance agent. Explaining to your insurance agent what type of coverage you are looking for, and what you exactly need from that coverage narrows down the search of what is going to be best for you. Make sure you ask as many questions as you need to fully understand your coverage. Often times, people feel that asking too many questions is bothersome. At Ross Insurancewe couldn’t disagree more. It is our job to ensure that you understand as much as possible of your coverage so that you know what you are paying for. When seeking new coverage, make sure that you do not cancel your existing coverage before purchasing new coverage. This gap of time in between means that you will not be covered in the event of an accident, and could affect you negatively. It is also important to remember when your payments are due, and try not to fall behind on making these payments. Late fees and reinstatement costs can easily be prevented if you are aware of your payment dates. Some insurance companies are quick to send a notice of cancellation within 5 days of non-payment. A great way to remember to pay your bill is to mark it on your calendar, or you could also set up Electronic Funds Transfer. EFT will automatically deduct your payment from your account on a day that you choose is best for you and when you are certain that funds are going to be available. Keep these tips in mind and get the most out of your insurance. Contact our office today with any questions you may have and we will be ready to assist you in any way that we can.

We Care About Our Customers

July 15, 2010

When looking into insurance coverage it is important that you consider all of your options. We agree with this philosophy, but also encourage that you consider the benefits of purchasing coverage through an independent agency. We are all familiar with calling the 800 numbers just to find that we are automatically prompted to an automated voice message system. Even if you have the chance to talk to an actual sales representative, how many times is your call transferred to a different department where you have to explain your reason for calling all over again? This can be frustrating, especially when you are dealing with a problem with your coverage or filing a claim. Independent agents are local business’ that are located in your neighborhood. The same community where you live and work is where you can find affordable coverage and experienced and helpful sales help. With a quick call or visit into our office, you can walk away with your questions answered and a full range of insurance coverage, without having to deal with the hassle of long wait times. As a local independent insurance agency, we support your local community. When was the last time you saw Geico or Progressive contribute to a local fundraising event? By utilizing your local independent insurance agent, you can feel confident that you are getting the best coverage for the best price as we represent many insurance companies. Whether it is a discount offered to your homeowners policy for signing a non- smoking statement, or we help you to combine your homeowner and auto policies, we are dedicated to giving you the satisfaction that you deserve. Come and visit our office, or call and speak with any of our agents to see what deals are waiting for you and how you can save money on your insurance.

Grill Safely This Summer

June 24, 2010

Tis’ the season to be grilling as the heat gets turned up a notch and the air conditioner works its magic in your home. BBQ-ers around the country are gearing up to fire up the grill, but before you throw on the steaks reading over some helpful guidelines will help you to avoid homeowner’s claims this summer.

Dress the part– by wearing aprons and grilling gloves you avoid the risk of burning yourself.

Keep your distance– Grills, fryers and smokers should be kept at a safe distance from homes, garages and children. Also keep your grill equipment in a safe and designated location when not being used to prevent accidents or tampering.

Gas tanks– make sure that the cylinder for your gas is always stored outside and away from your home. Ensure that the valves are thoroughly turned off when not in use and check regularly for leaks to prevent gas from escaping.

Let it be– When you are done using your grill it takes a while for it to fully cool down. Make the grill a designated caution zone so that others know to be careful around it when it is heating up and cooling down.

By practicing safe grilling habits, you can avoid accidents and claims to your homeowners insurance policy. However, it is crucial that you secure a comprehensive homeowner’s insurance plan to protect you in case of an accident. Come visit our office, or call one of our agents today to make sure that you have proper insurance coverage whether it is on your home, condo or you are renting an apartment.

Garage Sale

June 15, 2010

Spring cleaning is in full swing as many people are cleaning out their closets, attics, garages and basements of things that they may no longer need. A great way to get rid of these unnecessary items is to participate or host your own Tag Sale/ Garage sale. Putting all of your items on display for cunning bargain shoppers will help you turn a profit out of accessories and appliances you no longer have room or use for. Whatever items are left after the sale, you can donate to your local thrift store. Check with your city or town as each have their own ordinance on how many tag sales you can have during the calendar year. Before slapping on a price tag, you should consider all possible scenarios such as if someone were to get hurt on your property. It is beneficial to review your homeowners, condo or rental insurance policy to ensure you have the proper liability coverage in case of an accident on your property. Most homeowner policies are likely to offer enough coverage if your sale is a one time event, but if you plan to make a business out of sales we advise that you talk about business owner’s insurance with one of our agents.  Claims are often denied when the owner is a known-yard-saler, so protect yourself in the event of an accident before it is too late