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Thursday, 26 April 2012

Over 50s life insurance

Over 50s life insurance

None of us likes to think about getting older, but while some things improve with age, life insurance premiums are definitely not one of them.
As you get closer to retirement, the life insurers assess you as a higher risk to them because, quite frankly, there is a greater chance that they will be paying out on the policy sooner than they would if you were in your 30s. Yet life expectancy has improved significantly in the last 50 years, thanks to advances in medical science and for many of us, better diets.
Specific policies for the over 50s are designed to take into account that you are older and may have had some problems, including health problems, in earlier years. They also have some add-ons that are particularly useful for the over 50s age group.

Advantages of over 50s life insurance

Over 50s life insurance is sold as a whole of life policy – it will cover you until you die, unlike the term policies that are available which will only cover you if you die within a specific period of time while the policy is in force.
There is the option of getting a standard term assurance policy, which will cover you if you die within a specific amount of time, but this will not necessarily have the benefits available to you that you would get from the over 50s life cover policy.
These policies will give you some additional benefits that are not offered within general policies that can be taken out by people of any age. For example, many policies will offer guaranteed acceptance, which can be a blessing if you have had any health issues. You can also get policies without answering medical questions, or divulging your medical history.
Over 50s life insurance can also have fixed premiums, so you do not have to worry about the policy getting more expensive as you get older. But this will mean your payout will not rise in line with inflation either, so it could leave your family worse off.
They often also offer funeral benefits which will provide at least some money to help cover the cost of your funeral. Given that the cost of funerals has now soared to more than £7,000, according to research from Sun Life Direct, any help is welcome.
You may also get free life cover after you reach 90 years of age, depending on the life insurer. However, you must check the terms and conditions carefully. Some insurers will only pay out if you die from an accident in the first couple of year, as the insurer does not want to encourage those who have an existing condition to take out a policy that is then claimed on immediately. Check the terms and conditions to see how long this period lasts, and only sign up to a policy you are happy with.

Wednesday, 25 April 2012

payment protection insurance

Understanding payment protection insurance

If you have debt repayments or other regular commitments that you would struggle to meet if you lost your job or couldn't work for health reasons, then taking out payment protection insurance (PPI) could be a sensible financial decision.
A PPI policy will usually agree to help you meet repayments for a fixed period, usually 12 months, in the event that you fall ill, have an accident, or become unemployed through no fault of your own, depending on your policy.

Policies vary but most will agree to help you meet the monthly repayments of a loan or to repay a fixed percentage of your income each month.
This kind of product is often referred to as accident, sickness and unemployment insurance, which is a wider umbrella term that also includes mortgage payment protection insurance (MPPI) and payment protection insurance.

PPI mis-selling

While this type of product can provide valuable peace of mind, due to widespread mis-selling in the past, there has been some extremely negative publicity surrounding PPI.
Many lenders were found to have been selling PPI to borrowers who did not actually qualify for the payouts, for example, because they were not in work at the time. Some people complained that they had been pressured into paying a vast amount of money for their policies.
Because of that, some people who could really benefit from this type of protection may have been put off.
However, if you're worried about how you might manage to repay an outstanding debt or other regular commitments if you were unable to work then this could well be a useful product to consider. You just need to be sure you have the right cover in place. PPI providers have now agreed to a minimum set of standards that they will adhere to, giving you peace of mind.

Buying PPI alongside a loan

When you take out a loan, credit card or store credit agreement, you may well be offered PPI cover alongside the debt. However, that may not be the most appropriate cover for you and it's unlikely to be the best price. In fact, the Competition Commission and the Financial Service Authority (FSA) have decided to ban this type of sale of PPI from April 2012.
It is not compulsory to take on such protection alongside your agreement and it isn't allowed to affect the lender's willingness to offer you credit. So, you may prefer to compare PPI cover online instead and find a policy you're really happy with.
Taking the time to shop around can save you money and help you find a more inclusive policy.
However, if you do decide to accept PPI from the lender, make sure you read all the information carefully, so you understand how long it lasts and what's excluded. If you're at all unclear, ask the salesperson to explain it in detail.

Things to consider with a PPI policy

With any insurance policy, it's important to carefully read the policy documents so that you know exactly what is covered and what is not. You don't want to rely on cover only to find out too late that your particular circumstances are excluded.
Be aware that PPI will usually only pay out for a fixed period, often around a year. It can also take up to a few months of unemployment or sick leave before your payments kick in, so you should also aim to have savings in place to cover that period or be prepared to pay slightly more for a 'Back to Day 1' policy.
Some policies require you to have been in continuous employment with the same company for a fixed period before you qualify, so double check if that's the case for you.
Finally, many policies will not protect against certain issues, such as stress - even if you are forced to take time off work. If you've had a certain illness before and it reoccurs, the insurer may consider that to be a pre-existing condition, meaning you wouldn't be protected for that condition.
Also, if you know redundancy is on the cards before you take out cover, you won't be eligible to claim.

Is PPI always right for you?

There are other financial products that can protect against a loss of income and payment protection insurance may not always be the most appropriate.
For example, depending on your circumstances, it may be more appropriate to consider income protection, critical illness cover or a life assurance policy, that would pay out to cover your wider living costs in the event you became unwell (income protection), seriously ill (critical illness cover) or died (life assurance)

Caravan Insurance

      

Caravan Insurance                                         

If you own, or are looking to buy a caravan, motorhome or similar, it is important to make sure you are covered for a variety of eventualities when it comes to choosing a caravan insurance policy.
Purchasing caravan cover needn't be difficult, please browse our list of insurers below to help you find a policy to meet your requirements and give you peace of mind in the process.

Why Do I Need Caravan Insurance?


As with any other vehicle on the roads, you'll need to ensure you have cover in place for your caravan or motor home to comply with UK laws and regulations.
Should you be involved in an accident where you damage the vehicle of a 3rd party, you could find yourself liable for the cost of repair and compensation.  Similarly, if your caravan is damaged in the process, then you'd have to foot the bill for repair, or replacement in the case of it being written off.
Caravan insurance can help in this situation, as it provides financial recompense in the event of such incidents, giving you peace of mind and saving you money.

What Cover Options Are There?


Caravan insurance is usually split into 3 main categories: Touring caravan, static caravan and trailer tent/folding camper.  Motor home insurance is also offered by many of the same insurers and features similar cover. 
Let's take a brief look at each category to help you understand what is included:
Touring caravan insurance: Covers you for a caravan towed behind your vehicle and usually features new for old replacement, 3rd party/public liability cover, contents & equipment, European cover and a variety of differing covers depending on each insurer.
Static caravan insurance: Provides cover for a caravan that is located in a fixed place such as a caravan site or holiday park.  Cover is similar to that of touring caravan insurance but you will usually find that you are not covered to use the caravan as a permanent place of residence.
Trailer tent insurance: Covers you for a trailer tent or folding camper that is pulled behind your vehicle.  Typical cover is similar to touring caravan but with the common exclusions being, vermin/mildew damage and theft of personal possessions.
Motor home insurance: You will usually find that this provides similar cover to a touring caravan policy in most aspects but is similar to car insurance in structure.  You should be able to choose between 3rd party only cover, 3rd party fire and theft, and fully comprehensive cover.

Guide to Caravan Insurance


To find out more about insurance for your caravan, motor home or trailer tent, please visit our guide to caravan insurance which contains top tips and advice to help you find the right policy.
Alternatively, to search for cheap cover for your caravan, why not visit one of the insurers in the directory above to get a caravan insurance quote.

Important Information


Please read the following information about our service and print copies for your own records.

Tuesday, 24 April 2012

Motorbike Insurance Quotes

Take advantage of our bike insurance guides

Are you struggling to find a cheap motorbike insurance policy? Then read our informative motorcycle insurance guide which gives details on how you can find a low cost bike insurance deal which meets your own personal requirements. Our guides show you how to select the correct policy and could help you get a cheaper motorcycle insurance deal.

Motorbike Insurance Guide

Whether you chose to invest in a classic Triumph, enjoy a cruise through the city on a nifty Scooter or drive your Ducati on the open road you need to make sure your bike insurance covers you for every eventuality.
The recent hike in fuel costs coupled with an increase in premiums for motorbike insurance has led to higher expenses in running your vehicle. Premiums have increased as insurers endeavor to recover their costs of uninsured drivers, and it seems advisable to research the motorcycle insurance market for quotes to ensure you get the best value deal on your policy. At Money Super market.com, we provide the specialist tools and aim to help you find the best bike insurance quotes without wasting time.
With the introduction of the new CIE legislation you will be liable for a fine if you do not insure your bike with the minimum of a third party insurance cover unless you have made a Statutory Off-Road Notification (SORN) which declares your vehicle as off-road. Exceptions to this new law are if the vehicle has been recorded as sold, stolen and not recovered, scrapped or in between registered owners.

How to get the best bike insurance deal

To get the best motorcycle insurance deal, it is a good idea to plan ahead and find out what type as well as the level of cover you need before you compare the policies available on the market. There are three kinds of motorbike insurance policy type available in the UK which are fully comprehensive, third party and third party, fire and theft.
The level of bike insurance you chose will depend on the how much you are willing to pay. If you chose a motorcycle insurance that will fully protect you for any type of eventuality then it will inevitably cost you more than an insurance policy which offers the basic minimum cover.
Fully comprehensive insurance: Fully comprehensive motorbike insurance is the most expensive level of insurance cover since this cover provides protection for damage to the bike, property and yourself even if the liability for damage lies with you. It is worth noting that with this type of cover even though it offers a higher level of protection, it may not cover you for every eventuality which can include if your vehicle breakdowns.
Third party cover: Third party motorcycle insurance is the least expensive of the three levels of bike insurance and is the basic minimum cover allowed by UK law. Third party motorcycle insurance is available at a cheap cost which can be useful if you don’t have the cash to pay for a greater level of cover or if the motorbike which you insure is not worth a lot of money.
In comparison to fully comprehensive insurance, this policy will pay out for any damage to the victim who is involved in the accident. However, you will be liable for the costs of replacing or fixing your motorbike in the event of damage to your bike in an accident or theft of your vehicle.
As this level of cover is the cheapest bike insurance and only provides the absolute basic minimum of protection, it could be advisable to opt for a higher level of motorcycle insurance such as fully comprehensive or third party, fire and theft to minimize your risk.
Third party fire and theft: Third party, fire and theft bike insurance is the next policy level up from third party bike insurance and offers you protection if your motorbike is stolen or damaged in a fire. This type of insurance covers you in the event of an accident that was your responsibility. You will be covered for the damage you caused to another vehicle, their property, or if they are injured as a result and need to pay for medical treatment. For peace of mind when leaving your bike unattended, this level of cover will also protect you from theft.
With this level of motorbike insurance, it is worth noting that if your bike is stolen then the insurer will expect you to pay out the first amount of any claim you place. This is known as your excess and if the present value your bike is nearly the same amount as your excess then you may not need to pay for the extra cover. As with all levels of bike insurance you will be expected to pay out for the initial part of your claim.
When you are shopping around using the price comparison site to compare quotes, it is possible to improve your level of cover without it costing you too much. It is also important that you consider there are different types of motorbike insurances available on the market. Money Supermarket.com acknowledges that you may need an individual policy to suit your particular needs.

Specialist bike insurance cover

Our team at Money Supermarket.com offers specialist comparison pages so that our customers stand the best chance of finding a deal which is directly applicable to their situation. The kind of specialist bike insurance areas our channel covers includes:

Motorbike insurance for women

Women are statistically safer riding on two wheels than their male counterparts and less likely to be involved in an accident which results in minimal risk to the motorcycle insurance provider and hence cheap insurance premiums.
As a woman if you chose to take an advanced training qualification then this will allow you to save extra money on the total cost of your premiums. Before you surf our Money Supermarket.com price comparison site for cheap quotes and the best value cover, it is worth reading up about motorbike insurance for women on our dedicated page.

Motorbike insurance for young riders

You can chose to ride a moped at the age of 16 in the UK and as a young person this can provide a more affordable means of transport. Statistics show that as a younger rider, you are more likely to be involved in an accident which will result in a claim.
Motorbike insurance for young riders under-25s therefore tend to be higher than for older, experienced riders and it pays to compare specialist insurance companies and quotes where you could pick up a cheap deal to ensure your personal safety on the roads. To cut the costs of your premiums some insurance companies may reduce their premiums if you have taken an additional accredited rider’s training qualification.

What if I have points on my license?

If you have any previous motoring of fences or convictions then by using an insurer that specializes in motorbike insurance for convicted riders could slash the costs of your premiums in comparison to taking out a policy with a standard insurance company.
When applying for a bike insurance policy, providers will ask you to disclose any previous motoring convictions including any history of car offenses which you may have incurred. It could pay to shop around for quotes from insurers who specialist in this area to reduce your premiums and on a comparison site; you could save time and cut your costs.

Classic bike insurance

If you have chosen to invest in a classic Triumph or a Harley Davidson model then by using a classic bike insurance specialist could dramatically lower your premiums. If you have paid out a hefty sum for your classic two wheels then it could pay to adequately protect your investment. Specialist classic bike insurance companies tend to view classic motorbikes as less prone to theft due to the difficulty in selling them on. Classic owners tend to be viewed by specialist providers as light users who are more likely to use their bikes to exhibit at shows or socially as opposed to everyday use.
Spare parts may be more expensive for certain types of models and the higher premium price may reflect this accordingly. The criteria of what qualifies a bike to be classed as a classic may vary from company to company so it is worth bearing this in mind as you compare quotes.

Scooter insurance

As a Scooter owner, you may have chosen to invest in this model due to the savings on fuel costs, the use of a lighter engine, exemption from congestion charges and cheaper running costs. Many cheap deals from standard motorcycle insurance providers do not offer the specialist bike insurance that as a Scooter owner you may need to cover your specific requirements.
Premiums tend to be lower than standard motorbike insurance as Scooters cost less to fix, have cheaper spare parts to replace if a claim is placed. At Money supermarket.com, we have scoured the market in an attempt to offer you the best value scooter insurance deals on our comparison site.

Moped insurance

With a moped being the lightest model of road vehicle your premiums will be considerably lower than a standard motorbike due to cheaper repair costs, and a specialist moped insurance provider can cater to your individual policy needs.
Classed as a less powerful road vehicle, specialist providers can offer cheap deals for all levels of cover. Specialist moped insurance companies will take into account the type of moped you own, how the rider’s needs differ from those of a motorbike owner and whether you have a classic or modified model. At Money supermarket.com, we will aim to provide you with some of the most comprehensive and competitive moped insurance deals available on the market.

Additional cover

On all levels of insurance, there are a number of additional bike insurance add-ons and extras that you can pay for to include in your policy to ensure you are fully protected. You should be aware that some of these may be included by your chosen insurer at no extra cost, so it is worth re-checking your policy for any duplication. It is important to note that exclusions within your motorbike insurance can sometimes prevent you from placing an insurance claim.
If you chose to purchase bike insurance add-ons then you should be aware that these will increase the price of your premiums. Additional add-ons may include motorcycle breakdown cover with roadside assistance, personal accident to compensate you for loss of wages and medical fees, and legal expenses which can cover you against the cost of expenses incurred in the event of a road accident.
Once you have decided upon the level and coverage you require then you can use a comparison site to shop online and compare cheap quotes for the type of motorbike insurance you need.

Factors that affect the price you pay

Different key factors can affect your motorcycle insurance quotes and the cost of your premiums. Before deciding on which policy you should know what could affect the price of the bike insurance you chose to take out.
Bike insurance providers will take into account your age as this can present a risk if you are under 25 and your profession because if your occupation is as a sportsman then your premiums may be higher. Other factors include your gender as a woman rider presents a safer rider in comparison to a male counterpart and this can lower your premiums. Where you live can be factored into consideration by insurers as busy areas could increase the risk of an accident and present a higher risk to insurers. Some postcodes in the UK have higher premiums than other areas due to the increase in traffic or crime rates within the area.
If you have made a claim in the past five years or have unspent motor convictions then your insurance premiums will be higher. Bike insurance companies will consider the model and make of your bike when evaluating your application to determine your premiums. If your motorbike has a powerful engine then insurers consider it likely to be a higher risk of being involved in an accident as higher speeds can be achieved on the road. The higher the value of the bike then the more it could cost the motorcycle insurance company to replace or repair. Both these factors can increase your insurance premiums.
Other elements which bike insurance companies use to calculate your premium price are the frequency in which you ride your bike as an increased mileage can result in a higher risk in the event of an accident. The security of your bike is a consideration by insurers when calculating your premiums. Your insurer will also want you disclose named riders prior to assessing quotes for your cover.

Tips to keep costs down

In order to get cheap quotes from your bike insurance provider there are a number of essential tips which Money supermarket.com offers to help you secure the best value deal. You can reduce the cost of your insurance premiums by shopping around on our comparison site to compare the best quotes for the type of cover you want.
Other ways to lower your premiums from your bike insurance company are to consider reducing the yearly mileage on your bike by using it only on social occasions rather than commuting. If you are considering purchasing a motorbike then it could pay to invest in a cheaper model with a lower spec which will reduce the cost of your cover as it will be cheap for the insurer to repair or replace.
To reduce your premiums further it is advisable to invest in anti-theft measures such as security locks to apply to your motorbike. Immobilisers and bike locks purchased from accredited companies or by securing your motorcycle in a locked garage you will stand a much better chance of finding cheap bike insurance quotes.
It is worth bearing in mind if you decide to add a named driver as this can increase your premiums if the driver is younger, male or a learner rider. By investing in an additional, accredited training course could cut the cost of your motorcycle insurance premiums. If you opt for paying for a higher voluntary excess this could also lower the cost of your cover as would choosing to pay yearly installments as opposed to monthly payments.
In the event of an accident where your repairs or parts are lower than your excess then it makes sense for you to pay rather than file a claim and push up the cost of premiums.
It pays for you to remain alert to the bike insurance provider’s small print when you compare quotes. At Money supermarket.com, we aim to help to make you an easy rider by providing you with a wide range of insurers that can offer you competitive quotes and the best-value comparison deals on the market today.
For more ideas on how to keep costs down, take advantage of our bike insurance money saving tips page.

Making a claim

If you file a claim with your bike insurance provider it should be straight forward but there are several key points you should consider. You need to inform the police immediately if you consider that your claim could be a criminal matter such as if your bike was involved in an accident where a party was injured or if your bike was vandalized or stolen and make a written note of the crime reference number. If you can then you should take photographs of the event and take notes on your location to support your claim when you file it with your insurer.
Make certain that you obtain written proof if possible of what has happened and note down contact and insurance details of all parties involved in the event of an accident or any witnesses. You should then contact your motorbike insurance company to report this matter and enquirer whether they require further information or have additional advice on what you have to do.
Your claim report details should remain consistent with your bike insurance company and the police. You must keep records of the phone calls, the person you are speaking with and any other details during the progression of your claim.
Do not take your motorcycle to get repaired at the garage of your choice as it is highly unlikely you will be able to claim any costs back as your insurer will usually have a particular garage in mind within your area that handles their claims. You should wait until the bike insurance company gives you authorization to carry out repairs and check your policy to see if you could be entitled to a courtesy motorbike.

Landlords Insurance

The importance of landlords insurance


As a landlord, a simple home insurance policy will not offer the level of coverage you need. Your investment will need specialist cover to protect both the structure and the rental income you will earn from being a landlord.
moneysupermarket.com has teamed up with a number of landlords insurance providers to help protect your investment from the unexpected. With additional extras such as public liability insurance and legal expenses cover available, you will never have to worry about the pitfalls of being a landlord.

Main features of a landlord insurance policy


A cheap landlord insurance policy is within reach for many, however simply opting for the cheapest policy can sometimes prove to be a false economy. You need to pick a policy that is right for you and your investment.
A simple landlords insurance policy will cover only the basics. With additional extras you can protect so much more. Public liability insurance, rent guarantee insurance, legal expenses cover and more are available at an addition cost.

The advantages of landlord insurance


As with any insurance, it is there to protect you from the unexpected. There are many pitfalls that are associated with being a landlord such as tenants refusing to pay rent, taking tenants to court, structural or contents damage and many more.
With the right landlord insurance policy at your side, your life in the buy to let market will be made much easier and you will have the piece of mind knowing that your investment and your income from the property is in safe hands.

Guide to landlord insurance


Finding a cheap landlord insurance policy is one thing, however finding the right policy for your properties and your own individual needs can be a little more difficult. Take a look at our landlord insurance guide to make sure your policy covers all the bases.

Important Information


Please read the following information about our service and print copies for your own records.

Thursday, 19 April 2012

Home Appliance Warranty

Can you imagine life without a fridge freezer or a washing machine? Most modern homes rely on a range of household items to get through each day, but what happens if something goes wrong - and things can go wrong. Who hasn't come home to find lights flashing ominously on the dishwasher, or water seeping out of the washing machine?

If your appliance breaks down within one year, it is usually covered by the manufacturer's guarantee, so you should not have to pay for any repairs or replacement.
But what if the breakdown occurs in the second or third year? You might not be able to function without your fridge, but could you afford to pay for any repairs?  It can be expensive to fix a household appliance - think of the cost of call out, parts and labor. And if you have to buy a new tumble dryer or television, the bill could run into hundreds of pounds or more.  

What is an extended warranty?

An extended warranty is a type of insurance policy that covers your household appliances beyond the manufacturer's guarantee. If, for example, your washing machine breaks down due to a mechanical or electrical failure, the home appliance warranty will pay for repairs or a replacement. 

Extended warranties do not usually cover accidental damage. There might also be restrictions on the age and value of a single item. Warranty Direct, for example, covers appliances up to eight years old, with a single item limit of £2000. You can often insure more than one appliance on the same policy, though the more appliances the bigger the premium.

Where can I buy a home appliances warranty?

Many people are persuaded to buy an extended warranty for their home appliances by the retailer at the point of sale. But you do not have to buy a warranty from the retailer - and you can often find cheaper cover if you shop around for competitive quotes.

  Money Supermarket has teamed up with Warranty Direct, the UK's leading warranty firm, to offer Money Supermarket customers comprehensive cover for their household appliances.

A multy appliance warranty allows you to insure up to eight appliances of your choice on one policy. And it doesn't have to blow the budget. You can cover two household appliances for about £10 a month, which isn't a lot to pay for peace of mind.

Simply visit Warranty Direct here to see how much you could save. A no obligation quote is free, quick and easy.

Home Protection Plan vs. Homeowner Insurance

No matter how hard we all try to prevent it, the appliances and home system components around our homes eventually break down. We'll help you get it repaired or replaced by a qualified service contractor.
Home Protection Plan vs. Homeowner Insurance
A home protection plan is simple. It's a one year service contract that covers the repair or replacement of many of the home system components and appliances that typically break down over time.
Homeowner or hazard insurance covers private homes. This type of policy combines various personal insurance protections, which can include losses occurring to one's home and its contents.
To put it more plainly, unlike homeowners insurance, a home protection plan covers your major systems and appliances when they break down.
For more information about our plans, use the links the below:

Home Appliances Insurance

Plans and Pricing

Our home protection plans provide confidence that if a covered item breaks, you may not feel the sudden pinch that comes with appliance and system repairs or replacements - not to mention the stress that comes with finding a qualified service contractor. You just get the confidence that comes with knowing that you've covered this one in advance.
Here are a few key things to remember:

  • You do not pay for the actual repair or replacement cost for covered items.
  • Your contract will cover repairs or replacements of covered items, regardless of age, make, or model.
Combo Plan
This plan provides coverage for many of the primary systems and appliances in your home. You will also save an average of $14 a month over purchasing the Appliances plan and the Systems plan separately.

    Systems:
  • Air Conditioning, including ductwork
  • Heating, including ductwork
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Water Heaters
  • Garbage Disposals
  • Instant Hot/Cold Water Dispensers
  • Central Vacuums
  • Smoke Detectors
  • Doorbells
  • Ceiling Fans
    Appliances:
  • Refrigerators
  • Dishwashers
  • Clothes Dryers
  • Clothes Washers
  • Ranges/Ovens/Cooktops
  • Built-In Microwave Ovens
  • Free-standing Ice Makers
  • Trash Compactors
  • Garage Door Openers
  • Built-In Food Processors

Build Your Own Plan
Customize coverage to meet your needs with this flexible option. Simply select 10 or more items from our list of covered items in your home and get the coverage that is most important to you, without paying for protection you might not need.
Systems Plan
Who wants to deal with faulty plumbing or an a/c unit on the fritz. This plan covers the replacement or repair of the components of these key home systems.

  • Air Conditioning, including ductwork
  • Heating, including ductwork
  • Electrical
  • Plumbing
  • Water Heaters
  • Garbage Disposals
  • Instant Hot/Cold Water Dispensers
  • Central Vacuums
  • Smoke Detectors
  • Doorbells
  • Ceiling Fans
Appliances
You know better than anyone the kind of toll your appliances take from everyday use. Choose this plan to cover the repair or replacement of all of these:

  • Refrigerators
  • Dishwashers
  • Clothes Dryers
  • Clothes Washers
  • Ranges/Ovens/Cooktops
  • Built-In Microwave Ovens
  • Free-standing Ice Makers
  • Trash Compactors
  • Garage Door Openers
  • Built-In Food Processors
Optional Add-Ons
Didn't see something specific on the lists above? Don't worry. You can always add coverage for each of the following to your plan (additional cost per item):

  • Pool/Spa
  • Water Softener
  • Well Pump
  • Septic Pumping
Trade Service Call Fee
For your convenience, we offer multiple options with 4 coverage plans and 3 trade service call fee levels:
$75 $100 $125
That way you can choose the right combination for your home and budget. You can also build your own plan customized to your specific needs.
Average repair costs
Don't worry; this isn't what you'll need to pay when something breaks and you have a home protection plan. This is just a simple summary of the average replacement and repair costs for some of the most common items found in your home.

Household ItemReplacement Costs*Repair Costs*
Clothes Dryer$646$88
Clothes Washer$571$98
Dishwasher$502$171
Oven/Range$706$170
Refrigerator$1,088$209
Air Conditioner$2,390$332
Furnace$2,442$316
Water Heater$767$140
Main Electrical Panel$651$210
Prices reflect national average.

Wednesday, 18 April 2012

Jewellary Insurance

Jewellery Insurance

What is Jewellery Insurance? 

The insurance is specifically designed around the risk of the piece, although most personal lines products covers this in the market today, it does appear that these pieces are added to your normal day to day all risk cover with the exact same limitations and excess. One can not equally compare a designer jewellery piece to a set of golf clubs for example.

Who needs Jewellery Insurance? 

Any and all people who have existing jewellery pieces. If are in the market of obtaining or purchasing jewellery from engagement to wedding bands to necklaces to earrings, you will need this cover. You will need this cover if you own any completed manufactured jewellery or designer jewellery with the exception of raw materials, gems or gold bars.

Why should you take out Jewellery Insurance? 

Any completed manufactured jewellery or designer jewellery (except for raw materials such as gold bars and gems) does not only have its own value but also has its own personal value. Should an incident arise where your priced designer pieces are damaged or stolen, one would prefer the claim to be handled and settled in the most professional manner. 

How much does Jewellery Insurance cost?  

The cost implications for the absolute cover and piece of mind depends on the individual jewellery pieces. The rates are calculated on the value which is accompanied by the valuation certificates.

Typical claims incurred on Jewellery Insurance

The most common and expensive claims are in accidental damages as well as where pieces have been stolen either in a house roberry or in a hi-jacking (normally the unfortunate clients have been forced to surrender all the jewellery they have on them.)

 

 Jewelers Mutual Personal Jewelry Insurance Program

Purchasing jewelry insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. With Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company, you can get your jewelry insurance quote instantly and apply immediately.
White flash has arranged for Jewelers Mutual to provide information about the benefits of jewelry insurance.

About Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company

  • Established in 1913
  • A+ Superior rating from A.M. Best Company
  • $3 billion of individuals’ personal jewelry insured
  • GIA Graduate Gemologists on staff
  • Exclusively endorsed by the American Gem Society and Jewelers of America
  • Dedicated to preventing jewelry theft with loss prevention education

Expect superior service

When you call Jewelers Mutual, you’ll speak directly to one of our customer service representatives, each of whom is a licensed insurance agent who specializes in jewelry insurance. What’s more, we have both GIA Graduate Gemologists and American Gem Society Certified Sales Associates on site to answer your specific questions about jewelry insurance.
Take advantage of Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company’s trusted experts. They can offer you free advice about preventing losses and caring for your jewelry, as well as answer any general questions you may have about jewelry insurance.
Jewelers Mutual offers jewelry insurance for many types of jewelry, including items you might find on Whiteflash, such as diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, diamond earrings, diamond bracelets and pendants.

Friday, 23 December 2011

COVERAGES FOR HOTEL & MOTEL INSURANCE

Insurance for your hotel 
that treats you just as well as you treat your customers.

Your job is based around taking care of other people and making sure they have an excellent experience while staying on your property. Our job is taking care of you and making sure your insurance coverage protects your hotel or motel from the hazards unique to your industry. Hospitality Insurance Agency brings you 100 plus combined years of experience to give you insurance coverage that will serve your hotel or motel well. As a true member of your team, we’ll make sure you understand exactly what you need, and then we’ll get it for you. It’s so easy, you might just feel like you’re on vacation.

KEY AVAILABLE COVERAGES FOR HOTEL & MOTEL INSURANCE

                 Property Coverage for Hotels and Motels


  • Blanket/Agreed Amount Options
  • Business Income
  • Ordinance or Law Coverage
  • Data Processing Equipment/Media
    - Newly Acquired Equipment
    - Newly Acquired Data/Media
    - Duplicate Data and Media
  • - Computer Virus Extraction Expense
  • Utility Services
  • Flood and Earthquake
  • Outdoor Property
  • Appurtenant Buildings and Structures
  • Electronic Vandalism Sub-limit
  • Equipment Breakdown

Auto Coverage for Hotels and Motels

  • Liability and Physical Damage
  • Scheduled Rated
  • Rental Reimbursement
  • Business Auto Coverage Extension
    - Broad Form Named Insured
    - Blanket Waiver of Subrogation
    - Employees as Insureds
    - Hired Car — Worldwide Coverage
    - Unintentional Errors and Omissions

General Liability Insurance for Hotels and Motels

  • Premises/Operations and Products Completed Operations
  • Limited Worldwide Coverage

Industry-Specific Coverage for Hotels and Motels

  • Hospitality Errors and Omissions
  • Personal Grooming Services Liability
  • Guest’s Property
  • Restaurant Wine Stock Endorsement

Workers Compensation Insurance for Hotels and Motels

  • Combining state-of-the-art technology with co-located claim and medical professionals. Highlights include:
    - Extensive Preferred Provider Networks with a presence in all 50 states
    - Pharmacy Network
    - Focus on Early Intervention
    - Medical Case Management
    - Return-to-Work Programs
    - Medical Cost Containment

Umbrella/Excess Liability Insurance for Hotels and Motels

  • Providing excess layers of protection over your liability coverages
  • Flexible and substantial limits capacity
  • Built-in coverages including:
    - Worldwide Territory
    - Insured Status for Employed Health Professionals
    - Follow Form Fellow Employee Coverage

Crime Insurance for Hotels and Motels

  • Employee Dishonesty
  • Forgery and Alteration
  • Theft, Disappearance and Destruction
  • Robbery and Safe Burglary
  • Computer Fraud
  • Kidnap & Ransom
  • Identity Fraud Expense Reimbursement

Management Liability Insurance for Hotels and Motels

  • Employment Practices Liability
    - Protection against employee lawsuits alleging discrimination, sexual harassment and more.
    - Broad definition of Wrongful Employment Practice
    - Broad definition of Insured
  • Risk Management Service for Employment Practices
    - Directors and Officers Liability
    - Protection against shareholder and creditor lawsuits
    - Worldwide Coverage
    - Broad definition of Wrongful Acts
    - General Partnership Liability Coverage available
  • Fiduciary Liability
    - Protection against ERISA lawsuits alleging breach of fiduciary duty
    - Definition of Insured includes pension and welfare plan trustees
    - IRS and Department of Labor (DOL) voluntary settlement program coverage

Internet Liability Insurance for Hotels and Motels

  • Internet Liability coverage that can be designed to protect against the following wrongful acts:
    - Failure to protect private or confidential information of others from unauthorized access on or through the Internet
    - Failure to prevent the transmission of a computer virus to authorized users of the insured’s Web site on or through the Internet
    - Failure to provide access to authorized users of the insured’s Web site on or through the Internet
    - Infringement of copyright, trademark, trade name, or service mark, but only in the insured’s material on or through the Internet

Hotel Insurance


Obtaining a hotel insurance quote is one of the main considerations before you start running your hotel business. Insurance for a hotel should be one of your most important business considerations to ensure adequate protection for your livelihood. If you are running a hotel of what ever size or description, you will certainly need a range of insurance policies to protect your business. The good news is that, most of these covers can now be purchased under a 'Hoteliers Combined' insurance contract. A modern hotel insurance policy will cover various different contingencies and will be arranged in different sections.
The insurer issuing the policy will require a certain number of minimum sections to be purchased. Whilst many of these sections will be a matter of personal choice and budget, some will be compulsory to enable you to trade legally. If you have any employees, you will need employers liability insurance as this is a requirement of the Employers Liability Protection Act 1969. If you have purchased the building of your hotel on a mortgage or other type of bank loan, then the lender will want you to effect building insurance, with their name mention on the policy, thus protecting their interest. When starting any new business, cash flow is a major consideration and there may be a tendency to cut down on the number of sections of the hotel Insurance policy taken out to make it as cheap as possible.
However, if you are to fully protect your business, it's worth while taking a moment to fully understand each section of the policy and what it has to offer in terms of protection for your hotel business. As mention above, most policies are now arranged on a package basis as is the norm with business insurance polices, this makes them easier to administer for both the policyholder and the insurer, if you are looking for a cheap hotel insurance policy with a wide variety of covers, buying on this basis could help to keep the cost down. Briefly, the sections covered on a hotels insurance policy, will include the following:-
1) Hotels Insurance for Buildings - if you own the property, insuring the hotel buildings will be one of the core necessary policy sections for you. If you have a mortgage on the property, the lenders will probably want their interest noted on the schedule and will provide you with a list of perils that must be included under the cover. You will need to provide an accurate sum insured for rebuilding costs, your lender may be able to help you with this, particularly if they carried out a survey on the premises. If they didn't, then you should obtain professional help, it's not worth having a guess at it which could end up having some severe consequences. It is essential that this sum insured is adequate for your needs as it is the maximum amount that the insurance company will pay and in some cases, if the sum insured is not adequate, compensation for an incident may be reduced. The building sum insured should also include all the fixtures and fittings, walls, fences & gates and the piping & cabling belonging to the hotel or for which it is responsible. The perils insured are fairly similar to a standard building insurance policy although there is no section for loss of rent or alternative accommodation. If you are an owner occupier, then you will need to effect the business interruption section of the policy to protect you against loss of income following an insured event. If you are a landlord, looking for buildings insurance, that has been rented to a hotelier, then you should be able to include loss of rent cover but the building may be better covered under a different form of policy. 
2) Stock, Trade Contents & Tenants Improvements - this section of the policy will cover you against material damage from a wide range of hotels insurance perils, such as fires, floods thefts etc. The three sections are as follows; Stock, which is defined as stock and materials in trade ( such as foods or foods to be prepared, wines & spirits etc) or stock which is being held in trust for which you are responsible. Contents relates to all contents within the hotel, such as tables, chairs, beds, including machinery & plant, equipment, fittings, frontage & signs & blinds. In many cases, where the hotel is rented from a landlord, the proprietor will be responsible for signs & glass etc as the insurers of the building may not cover them. Glass in the property, should be included in the glass section of the policy, again in you rent your hotel, you may be responsible to insure the glass. Tenants improvements relate to any improvements and internal decorations which are your responsibility or which you own, again this applies if you are renting the hotel from a landlord. The range of perils is quite wide, but with regard to damage to Stock, 'spoilage' can be covered to refrigerated stock in another section of the policy. Before requesting your quotation, you may need to spend some time calculating the replacement amounts of the above as these figurers will be required by the insurers in order to calculate a premium. 
3) Business Interruption (Loss of Income) - this a very important section of the hotels insurance policy and one that is sometimes overlooked by many persons buying insurance, especially if it is being sold on a non package basis or it may be an optional add on. In essence, this section of the hotel insurance policy will cover you in the event of a loss occurring at your property that interrupts your trade, resulting in a loss of income for you. Whilst the above sections will cover you for material property damage, it is this section of the policy that will protect your livelihood, whilst the insurance company are reinstating your property. In many cases, particularly following a serious event, it may not possible to run your business for several months which could result in a loss of bookings, especially if the loss occurs within your peak season. In other cases, you may be able to keep trading but with a smaller turnover. There are a number of ways of calculating a sum insured for this section of the policy. The easiest way is if the insurance company selects a sum insured for you, in most cases, this is a sum far in excess of what is actually needed and is ideal for a small business. For larger concerns, insurers may want to know the gross profit of the business and they will base there premium on this amount.A simple way to calculate gross profit for a business is as follows: Sales (turnover) + Closing Stock - Purchases & Opening Stock . So if you turnover over £250000 per annum (the amount you take in return for accommodation, food beverages etc) and at the end of your twelve month trading period you have £1000 stock remaining you subtract the amount you have spent on buying your stock say £50000 and the stock you had at the start of the year ( say £2000). This will give you a gross profit of £199,000. This is probably the safest way of calculating gross profit as it leaves in the equation, fixed costs that may or may not reduce in the event of a serious loss. You can insure for a period of up to 12 months but this sometimes can be extended for up to 36 months. There are some useful extensions to this section which include: denial of access ( in case you are effected by a problem occurring in the vicinity of your property, which prevents access to your hotel premises) murder, disease or public health closure, or failure of public utilities.
4) Loss of Money - business money can be covered under the policy and there are usually pre set limits on the policy which you may have the option to extend. Money will be covered on the premises and in transit to the bank. One notable exclusion is theft from unattended motor vehicles, any theft by employees must be reported with in seven days of the occurrence. The insurance company will usually choose the sum insured for you. In most cases, this is perfectly adequate although larger concerns will need to consider the amounts on offer carefully.

Wednesday, 21 December 2011

Restaurant Insurance


Great insurance for restaurants is as important to the future of your business as an irresistible menu and good customer reviews. But if your policy is outdated or inadequate, you could be risking everything. As your business changes, so too should your insurance. New equipment, new locations, new services — they can all impact your coverage. If a fire destroys your kitchen, or a customer slips and falls, will your insurance help keep your doors open?
We know that thinking about your restaurant insurance is probably on the back burner. So Nationwide makes it easy for you. We understand your risks and challenges, and will help create the policy you need so you can stay focused on the food with insurance for restaurants.

A recipe for the perfect restaurant insurance quote

Nationwide’s Premier Businessowners Policy (BOP) for restaurants includes essential insurance ingredients such as business property insurance and business general liability insurance. Additional coverage options can then be added to your policy to match your specific needs. From sushi to salad bars, we’ll help you get the coverage you want.

Options for customized insurance for restaurants

Because restaurants vary dramatically depending on size, location and style, your businessowner’s policy may be customized with affordable options, such as:
  • Liquor Liability Coverage
  • Food Contamination Coverage
  • Equipment Breakdown Coverage
  • Business Income Coverage
  • Business Umbrella Insurance

Restaurant insurance choices

Chances are good you have questions about the insurance you need. Here are more details about restaurant coverage, and why Nationwide is such a smart choice for protecting your business.

Let’s face it, accidents in restaurants happen. Most commonly an employee might slip and fall, but that is why most restaurants require non-slip soles for waiters, waitresses, and the rest of the house. But what about the people who visit your restaurant in stiletto heels or worse, wheel-bottomed Heelys

Customer slip and fall accidents have been on the rise in many restaurants across the United States. Kurt Leisure, director of risk management for the Cheesecake Factory based in Calabasas, California, believes customer accidents should be more carefully watched by everyone working in the restaurant.

"I think it is important that restaurant companies empower their employees with the idea that a slip-or-fall hazard is everybody's problem, not just the servers' or managers'. But everybody in the front-of-the-house has a stake in it,”says Leisure. 

Some tips Leisure has put in place at the Cheesecake Factory restaurants could be useful in others as well.
  • Keep collapsible wet floor signs hidden on the restaurant floor behind plants and other fixtures, so if a sudden spill occurs, the sign can be grabbed quickly making customers and other employees aware of the hazard.
  • If there is a wet spot or spill and no sign near, have a manager or hostess stand over the spot until a busser is notified and can make the area safe.
  • Make a system. Inform your staff any time there is a spill how to go about taking care of it and keeping the customers safe and your co-workers safe.
Employee slips and falls can easily be eliminated says Leisure. "The key is that you've got to have a slip-resistant shoe program, and it has to be rolled out correctly. It's the No. 1 defense against employee injury,” says Leisure as he has reduced the amount of slips and falls by 87% among the chain.” 

Cuts, burns, and scrapes are the most common California workers compensation claims reported since they generally cause missed work based on the injury. Perhaps surprisingly, the cause of such happenings are usually related to slipping and falling and trying to catch yourself on the way down. 

Making sure your employees are safe is important; keeping your customers safe should be a priority. Having the correct workers compensation plan in your business is important, but having general liability insurance in the case that a customer is injured should be a main concern as well.