Hauswirth & Sons Insurance

Welcome to the 2012 Hurricane Season!

Doesn’t it seem like just yesterday that the flood insurance program was  expiring yet again and at the 11th hour Congress agreed to extend it to May 31st? Well you would be correct on that one.

Except that the National Flood Insurance program will expire on May 31, 2012 just one day before the beginning of the hurricane season.

 The flood insurance program is still carrying a huge debt load in the wake of Hurricane Katrina from the year 2005. There is a lot of push on the part of Congress to reform the program so that they will be on a sound financial basis except that this is a presidential election year which means that nobody is going to do anything on this until probably December.

While existing flood policies that are currently in force will be unaffected and will renew as they usually will do, any lapse in the flood insurance program means owners will be unable to purchase new flood insurance in order to complete the purchase of a property as well as a mortgage transaction.

 Federal law requires that homes in a flood hazard area must have flood insurance before a mortgage can be completed and in the event of a collapse in the program home transactions cannot close. The National Association of Realtors says that as many as 1,300 real estate closing a day could be affected by a lapse in the program.

 So stay tuned boys and girls for more news as the May 31st deadline approaches.

I’m sure there will be a lot more name calling and threats by both sides of the congressional aisle.

Margareth, Gregory, & I at the swearing-in ceremony in Delaware.

Margareth and I recently attended the swearing-in ceremony of our son Gregory Hauswirth before the Supreme Court of the state of Delaware.

Gregory is a practicing bankruptcy attorney in Pittsburgh at the law firm of Thorp, Reed and Armstrong.  Last year,  Greg’s firm asked him to take the bar exam for the state of Delaware. Gregory explained to me that this was probably the hardest test in the country and he is already licensed in the state of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. In addition to passing the bar exam, Gregory was required to spend five months living and working in the state of Delaware prior to being admitted to the Delaware Bar. He commuted from his apartment in Wilmington back home in Pittsburgh on weekends.

We were very excited as we walked into the courthouse and found several plaques on the wall indicating the names of every man or woman that has been admitted to practice law in Delaware going back to the 1700’s where the first attorney was Caesar Rodney, a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Since that time every attorney who has been admitted to practice law in Delaware has been given a consecutive number. On January 25, 2011, Gregory William Hauswirth was given the number of 5678. This means that since the early 1700s there has only been 5,678 attorneys to practice law in Delaware.

While Delaware is our smallest state, they stand very tall and proud with some of the finest corporate attorneys in the country and now our son is one of them.

Rich Hauswirth - No snow shoveling this winter!

It seems the weather has changed slightly from December of 2009 when we were plummeted with tons of snow. I know, because in that two week period duringn late December of 2009, I had the unfortunate occasion of falling twice on my left shoulder in the ice and snow.

This precipitated a visit to the hospital in the summer of 2010 to have my left shoulder muscles reattached to the bone. A procedure I would not suggest to anyone with a weak heart! So in December of 2010 when we started to see the little white stuff coming down, Margareth decided it was in my best interest to not let me go out and play. Instead, we relied on a contractor to come into our little driveway with his F-250 pickup truck and attached plow to remove the snow. However, in the process, he scraped into our brick pavers that are in our driveway (I guess you know where I’m going with this).

So this past fall, with Margareth’s approval, she allowed me to purchase a state-of-the-art snow blower. This baby is an absolute gem! It has headlights; it has heated handles so that when you are plowing your hands will stay warm. It has an electric starter, that only needs to be plugged in for a few minutes to get it going and then she hums beautifully. I spent over $1000 on this baby, and it sits in my garage smiling at me because it knows that now that I purchased it, it will not snow for the rest of this year.

I guess I should be thankful that Margareth let me buy this thing. As she has advised me however, that she will not let me operate it for fear that I will get hurt again. So in the remote chance that we do see some solid precipitation, there is a young man down the street who will gleefully come over to my home turn on this little puppy and plow to his hearts’ content in my yard and I will pay him for that privilege. I guess this is the price I pay for being over the age of 60!

Of course I still have the joy of knowing that I have a tool in my garage that I can use when my hands get cold, I simply plug this baby in, turn it on and warm my hands within minutes!

I was considering the purchase of a new Ford F-250 pickup truck with a plow kit, but with my luck I would change the entire weather pattern for North America.

Let’s all try to stay happy and healthy and warm this winter!

We are giving away a FREE Apple iPad 2 to the winner of our end-of-the-year Facebook Contest. The rules are simple and it’s so easy to win. PLUS, at the end of December, we will send a check in the amount of the total number of Facebook likes to the Lacey Township Food Bank!!

There are two simple steps to enter:

1. Hit the “Like” button at the top of the Hauswirth & Sons Insurance Consultants Page on Facebook
2. Leave us a comment on our wall (we’re looking for testimonials about our agency, staff, services, newsletter, anything)

That’s it — it’s that easy! Once you complete those two steps you’re automatically entered to win. Plus, if you already like us on Facebook, you’re halfway there!

Tell your friends and family how to enter – they can win too! This contest is open to everyone; you do not need to be a client to enter and there is no purchase necessary to win. This offer is not in connection with, or inducement to buy any insurance product from Hauswirth & Sons Insurance.

The contest starts November 15th and ends December 15th. Don’t wait until the last minute — complete the two easy steps (Like & Comment here) and enter to win today!

If you’re still not convinced, stay tuned for some more reasons why you should like us on Facebook!

Rich Hauswirth, Insurance Champion

I’m fortunate enough to have many close friends who are owners of insurance agencies around the country as well as in Canada.  We’re members of different agents associations and meet more frequently than Margareth would like me to.  We meet to discuss the challenges and opportunities we each face on a daily basis and to compare notes on what is happening in the insurance markets and in risk management overall.

One of my broker friends’ told me recently how he helped to resolve an issue with a business client who was dealing with some excessive claims and associated costs.  He became the clients’ “Champion”.  He reviewed the problems associated with the business made some recommendations and was able to mitigate the amount of the claims.  He was the hero of the hour; he saved his client literally thousands of dollars.

When I think about it, that’s what we do for our customers at Hauswirth & Sons Insurance, each and every day.  We help resolve problems our clients have with what they want to protect.

Each and every day, the computer animated lizard or Flo the grocery girl tells you how much you can save on your car insurance.  Financier Warren Buffet the Chairman of Berkshire-Hathaway, owns Geico Insurance.  Do you really think that Buffet doesn’t have a “team” of risk managers or “Champions” helping him and his company to manage what they own? Of course he does.

All of our protection team members hold a New Jersey Insurance license.  We are obliged by law to attend a minimum of 12 classroom hours of continuing education per year.  Rest assured we attend much more than 12 hours just to stay current.

Unlike the 1-800 Insurance people, Hauswirth & Sons are experienced to help you and your family navigate the confusing maze of today’s insurance jungle.  As your Champion, our staff can transform confusing, frustrating insurance related problems into workable, affordable solutions for you and your loved ones.

We hope that we can show you that we will go that extra mile to earn and keep your business, help you to choose the right insurance product and assist you in understanding complex and confusing insurance information.

How can the Protection team at Hauswirth & Sons Insurance help you today?

I feel bad that we have so many friends in town that share the same name as a recent Hurricane that stopped by the east coast on her way north, but….I did not name that now infamous lady!

So let me first say to my clients and friends also named Irene that any reference to the recent hurricane is purely coincidental.

At last count, the Insurance Information Institute put the insured damages from Hurricane Irene at over $3 Billion dollars.  And in today’s news, the Governor of Vermont said his state’s damages alone were $1 Billion!  But this is nothing when you read from other sources that the total damage from the storm was actually in the $5-6 Billion range which means $2-3 Billion in damages were uninsured or underinsured!

Every month for the past 5 years, we have published The Hauswirth Report, a newsletter to our clients and friends where we educate, cajole, advise, and make jokes about the subject of insurance.  My protection team and I have written many articles through the years about properly insuring your home, auto, and business.

 Today, more than ever, there is a need to purchase and maintain a  flood insurance policy.  The recent storm activity should be a firm reminder of the need to purchase flood insurance.  This is not just for hurricane season, as flooding can occur with winter nor’easters, melting snow and water backup.

 The most frequent call we receive about flood insurance is usually 3-4 days before a major storm, when I have to advise the public that there is a 30 day waiting period in order to obtain flood coverage. All of our carriers do shut us down for new business and increases in coverage before a major storm.

 The other unfortunate result of a storm of this magnitude is how many folks do not keep us in the loop with changes in their lives.  Several of our clients had chosen to install additions to their homes, purchased a new boat or a new home and did not tell us of the change.  With carriers anticipating that Irene would show us all her glory, the only suggestion we made was to “batten down the hatches, secure all windows and doors and we’ll insure your possessions after the storm”.

Rich & Margareth Hauswirth on Insuring an In-Home Business

It has been estimated that over 300 entrepreneurs are operating an in–home business in Lacey Township alone. An in-home business can be a source of considerable pride, not to mention that it is convenient – the commute is wonderful –   and you get to work for the best boss one could have, yourself.

As a major source of financial security for you and your family, the business  can be one of your greatest assets. Unfortunately, there are risks to working from home.  While you don’t work in a traditional office, the business you run out of your home is really no different than any other business.  Your in-home business faces no shortage of potential disasters: fire, flood, theft, equipment breakdown as well as lawsuits from disgruntled or injured customers and     possibly employees.

First you need to know something a lot of people don’t know about operating this type of business.  Your homeowners insurance does NOT provide coverage for the potential disasters that could impair or shut down your business. Yes, your homeowner’s policy may provide some coverage for computer equipment in your home, usually a maximum of $2,500.  However, if you are sued because of your home based business activities, your homeowner’s policy will NOT protect you.

When some entrepreneurs think about how to start home businesses, the last thing they think of is “Am I insured for this?”

At  Hauswirth and Sons  Insurance we have a special policy for insuring an  in-home business—including tutors, teachers, bookkeeping services, car detailers, party planners, travel agents, adjusters, and more.

A  Home Business Insurance policy includes:

• Coverage for theft or damage to your business property (inventory and equipment!)
• Liability coverage for clients visiting your home on business.
• Liability coverage away from home if others’ property is damaged.
• Liability coverage at a an exhibition or show.
• Up to $1,000,000 in business general liability coverage, both on and off the residence premises.
• Up to $100,000 in business personal property (BPP) limits for protection at home and while temporarily off premises. (up to $50,000 BPP in other states).
• A standard $250 deductible.
• Up to $5,000 per person for medical payments to customers or vendors injured on your premises.
• Optional coverage’s for money and securities.
• Premiums starting at just  $150 for certain  classes of business.

If you  have an in home business or are considering starting one, make sure you call us to help you protect your home and business.

Call us for a Free Quote – 877-329-3261

Visit us Online

Rich Hauswirth - Agent for Plymouth Rock Assurance Co.

Plymouth Rock Assurance Company (formerly Palisades Insurance) has added a new feature for all of their personal auto insurance policyholders.

The Get Home Safe Program is a new addition to their policies at no cost to the policy holder. In short, policyholders may be reimbursed up to $50 for cab service fees when utilized for transportation if they find themselves in a situation where it would be unsafe to operate their vehicle.  This will be a free service that can be used once per year for a cab ride up to a maximum of $50.  The policyholder must have a written receipt for the expense.

Many times, you may find yourself in a situation where you just don’t feel up to driving and this free service for Plymouth Rock customers will give you that extra option to not get behind the wheel of the car.

We’re proud to be agents for Plymouth Rock (formally Palisades) and if you’re not a Plymouth Rock customer, why not stop by our web site or call our office (877-329-3261) and let us show you what other great services we have to offer!

Rich Hauswirth - No More Texting!

This past weekend, Margareth and I attended a wedding in a small Monmouth County town. While driving up Route 71, the municipality had a very large flashing sign which showed six words: 

You Talk -  You Text – You Pay!

What I have since learned is that in addition to state laws on texting and talking while driving, several municipalities have also started enacting local ordinances banning the practice of using a cell phone while driving.

Several states now prohibit motorists from using hand-held cell phones while driving—and 19 states prohibit text messaging while driving. Many more, like Connecticut, have restrictions on the use of hand-held devices by teenage drivers. These are common-sense precautions, but until this weekend I did not know that local governments are also getting in the act.

Take it from one who got “caught” last year talking on the cell while driving on the Garden State Parkway.  I was not paying attention to what I should have been doing and I paid a hefty price for that action.

Rich & Margareth Hauswirth

Summer officially started June 21st, but I think it started a little sooner this year because it feels like everyday has been above 70 degrees and now temperatures are consistently in the 90′s. Fortunately for us  living close to the shore, we have the option to cool off with trips to the beach and and enjoying the weather with barbeques all for the next eight weeks. With all the snow we had this past winter, we could all use the warm and sunny days brought to us by mother nature.

Here’s some tips to beat that summer heat.

The most important thing to remember is to keep your body hydrated all day long. Happy hour by the pool is everyone’s ideal summer day; but, make sure you have had enough water and food to keep your body from dehydrating. If your       planning on being outdoors for the majority of the day, wear sunscreen that will protect you for the full amount of time you will be in the sun. Bring a hat and sunglasses with you, UV rays can cause damage to your eyes and skin that is irreversible. Wear light   colored, loose fitting, cotton clothing. Try to avoid the hottest part of the day,  generally from 10 – 3.

Outdoor Exercise

If you enjoy exercising   outdoors, there is no reason to give it up when the  weatherman is predicting a heat wave. You do however, need to take some precautions. Follow these guidelines when exercising this summer.

You should acclimate your body to increases in temperature gradually. Cut back on your regular routine and then gradually increase the amount of exercise you do over the next few weeks. It is not safe to exercise  during extreme heat and/or humidity. You should drink plenty of water before,    during, and after exercise in warm weather. Your body can lose up to a quart of  water an hour. It is possible to over-hydrate, so don’t overload your body on    fluids. But you will need about one to two cups of fluid every 20 to 30 minutes of exercise, depending on the heat and your level of activity.

If you begin to feel weak, dizzy, or nauseous, you may have the first signs of heat exhaustion. You may also get a headache, notice that sweating stops, or feel overheated. At the first sign of any of these symptoms, stop exercising, move to a cooler location, and drink some water. If the symptoms persist, see a  doctor immediately. And if you have any pets, do not forget to fill their water bowls and always make sure they have a place to cool down.

Opening your home to the Fresh Summer Air

Let in that fresh summer air and as you start or finish spring cleaning, we have reminders for homeowners. Now is it a great time to check for any issues that may have arisen from this past winter. Roofs can be missing shingles, gutters may be damaged, and the danger of bugs invading your home are all possible.  If you have any questions, call us at 609 – 693 – 3123.