To your congregation, your religious organization is more than a place of worship – it’s the center of their community. At Preferred Mutual, we are committed to serving your organization’s unique needs with customizable coverage, ensuring that when the unexpected strikes, you can get right back to what matters most.

Your organization has an important responsibility to your community, and at Preferred Mutual, we, too, have a significant responsibility to help keep your house of worship and congregation protected while they look to you for spiritual direction.

Protecting Your Religious Organization

We provide tailored coverage, protecting everything from volunteers at a charitable event to your distinctive architecture. At Preferred Mutual, we understand the significance your institution holds within your community, and our coverage is as unique as your congregation which deserves the best protection.

Preferred Mutual Religious Organization Coverage features the following:

• Clergy personal property
• Employee/member dishonesty
• Loss of income, the actual loss sustained, up to 12 months
• Money and securities coverage
• Appurtenant structure
• Stained glass
• Building ordinance
• Full equipment breakdown, including altars, bells, and organs
• Lock replacement
• Personal property of others, off premise
• Preservation of property
• Valuable papers and records
• Coverage for outreach programs

We offer additional coverage for fine art and musical instruments and up to $1 million for critical liability coverage. For more information regarding Preferred Mutual’s Religious Institution Program, click here.

Your focus on the community and on your congregation is at the heart of your mission, and you’re at the heart of ours. Contact a Preferred Mutual agent today to discuss how we can help you continue to serve your community, enriching lives, and lifting spirits.

When dog owners go to secure homeowners insurance, some are surprised to learn that they cannot access coverage because their pet is deemed too risky to insure.

If you own a “risky” breed, understanding your insurance provider is key to obtaining the perfect insurance for your perfect pet.

Believe it or not, dog bites have an average settlement cost of $37,000, and 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).

Insurance providers deem certain breeds risky based on the frequency and severity of their bites. This data is general, which means your furry friend may not fit the statistic but is guilty by association. Frequency refers to how often bites occur from a specific breed of dog and severity denotes how serious the injuries stemming from a breed’s bite were.

• Akita
• Chow Chow
• Doberman Pinscher
• German Shepherd
• Pit Bull
• Presa Canario
• Rottweiler
• Siberian Husky
• Wolf breeds

Here are a few things you can do to deal with such a scenario.

1. Tell the truth about your dog. Don’t tell your insurance company that your Doberman is a Golden Retriever. If your pet does bite someone, your insurance company likely won’t entertain the idea of covering a penny of that claim.
2. Talk to your insurer about discounts. Some companies may be willing to work with you to bring premiums down, in the event your fur-child falls into a category they normally don’t cover. If your premium goes up due to your family pet, you may be able to subsidize it in other ways.
3. Talk about your dog’s training with your insurer. If you and your dog complete a recognized obedience class, your insurer may agree to cover your pup, too.
4. Look at standalone coverage. It may be easier to find a separate policy for your dog and exclude it from your homeowner's insurance altogether. Under no circumstances should you go without insurance for your dog, unless you are prepared to pay for any claims out of your own pocket.
5. Don’t let your dog bite anyone. This may sound obvious, and nobody expects their dog to bite, yet there is proof that they do and contribute to millions of incidents each year. Remember that any dog can cause a severe bite, regardless of breed, and a claim against your insurance will drive up future premiums. Socialize your dog at an early age, if possible, and keep your pup leashed and supervised at all times.

They’re fast, versatile and easy, but don’t let the popularity of pressure cookers ruin your holiday with improper use! Preferred Mutual encourages you to use precaution, or you might find the pressure is too great.

Today’s pressure cookers are extremely safe, but with the holidays right around the corner, you might find yourself utilizing this miraculous machine to create delicious dishes for your socially-distanced holiday plans. Follow these 7 simple safety tips to ensure you succeed under pressure!

Don’t Leave Your Pressure Cooker Unsupervised

It is normal to want to set it and forget it, but when you’re dealing with the physics behind pressure cookers, it is not advisable to leave the house when you’re using it.

Pressure Cookers Are Not Deep Fryers

Unless your machine has both settings, pressure cooking, and deep-frying should not be simultaneously done – which means, no oils!

Use the Proper Liquid to Maintain Pressure

Follow the manufacturers' instructions on liquid necessary in the pressure cooker to maintain proper pressure.

Don’t Overfill It

Do not fill the pressure cooker up more than halfway with rice, pasta, oats, and beans, etc. or it may spit them back out under pressure as they expand. There are markings on the inside of the pot, so ensure you are not overfilling.

Keep Your Face and Hands Away from Steam

This is not the kind of steam you want on any part of your body. Always tilt the lid away from yourself when opening and wear waterproof, heatproof oven mitts when handling the lid.

Do Not Lift Lid Until Pressure is Down

Under no circumstances, even if you want to ensure the cooker is properly pressurized, should you try to force open the pressure cooker’s lid! This can cause the lid to explode from the pot and can cause major injuries and damages.

Safely Maintain Your Pressure Cooker

You may wash the lid, clean the anti-block shield, and the inner pot after every use. Make sure the gasket is in good shape and that no food residue or liquid is stuck inside the machine before every use.

Did you know that over 12,500 people are sent to the emergency room every year because of holiday decorating, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission?

It’s time to start thinking about how you can better protect yourself and your family, as we begin our descent into the holiday season!

According to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 1000 home fires are caused by holiday decorations each year! Follow these steps to ensure you decorate your home with yuletide and safety in mind during the winter holidays.

Holiday Lighting and Ladder Safety

While Hollywood has made falling off a ladder and dangling by a stapled sleeve from a gutter a comedic accident, it really is no laughing matter. Accidents happen, but if you’re stringing lights around your home, pay attention to:

• Extension cords and electrical decorations are marked for proper use.
• Outdoor electric lights and decorations should be plugged into circuits protected by ground fault circuit interrupters.
• Inspect all lights, decorations and extension cords for damage before using.
• Exercise caution when decorating near power lines. Keep yourself and your equipment at least 10 feet away.
• Turn off all indoor and outdoor electrical decorations before leaving home or going to bed.
• Avoid overloading electrical outlets with too many decorations or electrical devices. They can overheat and cause a fire.
• Never decorate alone or in severe weather.
• Place your ladder on level ground.
• Keep both feet and ladder.
• Follow all warnings on your ladder, especially for weight-bearing specifications and how to properly lock your ladder while in use.

Prevention – The Gift That Keeps on Giving!

There’s no ignoring it! The twinkling light and tinsel troubles are all around!

• Keep decorations, or any other flammable items, at least 3ft away from open flame and heat sources.
• Ensure your smoke detectors work!
• Inspect all decorations to ensure they do not have any frayed or pinched wires. Discard worn decorations.
• Ensure multiple extension cords are never strung together or run under rugs, carpets, or furniture. Ensure shoe used outdoors are labeled as such.
• Never leave your space heater unattended and turn it off when leaving the room or going to sleep. Keep your children and pets safe, too, but ensuring they stay away.
• Never leave cooking equipment unattended, and turn burners off if you have to leave.
• Water your Christmas tree daily, and discard trees if they begin to drop too many needles and become dry and brittle!

This year, decorate your home in the right light by following these tips from Preferred Mutual so that you can live assured.

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

Moving can be exciting, stressful – and expensive! Once you factor in the movers, packing materials, truck rentals, gas, and more, those costs can creep their way to uncomfortable heights. Don’t break the bank with these 5 moving tips!

Whether you recently closed on a home, or you’re ready for a new space, a single move could cost you thousands of dollars.

Here are five ways you can keep a tight rein on your moving budget:

Shop Around for a Moving Company

Moving companies typically charge a couple of hundred dollars for services, plus extra for things like gas, mileage and larger items like pianos and furniture. If you’re going to hire a professional move, get quotes from at least three different companies, and double-check the line-item charges.

Does your quote include truck, all protective materials, gas, mileage and larger items?

Does it provide insurance coverage in case of damage while moving those items?

Typically, movers are busiest during the warmer months – so if you’re planning a move soon, aim for the fall months! You may also get a better deal.

Pro Tip: Consider checking out social media and their online presence to research consumer reviews! Websites are not a guarantee of a perfect experience, but they can help you with your decision.

Consider Moving Yourself

Depending upon on how much you have to move and how heavy or cumbersome the items are, you may want to consider forgoing professional movers if you believe you, some family and friends can handle packing, loading and transporting your items!

Sometimes a few pizzas are all the currency you need!

If you have larger items, consider renting a small truck.

Pro Tip: Plan so that you’re not moving during rush hour. Heavy stop-and-go traffic can drive up your fuel costs, as well as delay your move.

Only Move What You Need

Consider donating, selling or disposing away any items you no longer use, need or plan to use in the future.

This not only reduces your load, and, subsequently, your costs to move it. Additionally, you can put the extra funds from the items you sell towards your moving costs!

• Donate to The Salvation Army, Goodwill, or a local shelter.
• Host a garage sale.
• Sell items through social media.
• Sell books and media to used bookstores, or donate to your local library.

Get Creative with Your Packing

Buying boxes, bubble wrap, and tape can get expensive. Using blankets, towels, sheets and cloth napkins can help protect fragile items during the packing process.

Once you run out of these items, try one of these resources for free or low-cost boxes:

• Friends, family and neighbors.
• Local grocery and liquor stores.
• Big-box membership stores that sell bulk products.
• Go online to research not-for-profit organizations or a marketplace that provides used cardboard boxes, to find affordable options that will work for your budget and at the same time may help a worthy cause.
• Consider posting to your social media networks, or any neighborhood groups you might be a part of. There's a chance someone you know has recently moved and may be willing to give you their used boxes.

Pro tip: Start saving the plastic and paper bags from your shopping trips. These make good packing materials and can even be used to help protect fragile items.

Don’t Forget to Update Your Homeowners Insurance Policy.

Use your move as an opportunity to ensure all of your belongings, valuables and new property are protected. This Household Inventory Checklist can help you pack, as well as help us cover all of your belongings, in the event of an incident! Contact your insurance agent to learn more about how to improve your home insurance coverage and how Preferred Mutual can safeguard your new home and family!

Successful business owners assess all aspects of their business, from the product or services they sell, to employee health and safety, to business continuity, to risk assessment, and more.

Preferred Mutual takes a look at contractual risk transfer and why you might want to consider implementing this type of security for your business.

Making sure you’re not held responsible for mistakes or errors made by a service provider, subcontractor or other party can be critical to protecting your business. A contract that clearly and specifically spells out, for example, which party is responsible for certain aspects of a project before work begins could save your company both time and expenses in the event of an incident.

What is Contractual Risk Transfer?

Contractual risk transfer is a legally binding way to transfer risk to the party that may be in the best position to control the risks related to the service to be provided. This means that the party agrees to take responsibility for liabilities and related financial costs for that party’s services or products on behalf of your company.

When is Contractual Risk Transfer Used?

Contractual risk transfer is commonly used in subcontracting, supplier or sales agreements, lease agreements and other situations similar to these. For example, say your company manufactures machinery and you subcontract a company to install those machines at customer sites. To establish responsibility, you may want to consider entering into a contract that links the liability and risk to the subcontractor you use. Make sure the subcontractor has their own business owners policy or BOP, too!

Ways to Minimize Your Risk When Signing a Contract

You can help to minimize your risk by having an attorney trained in contractual risk transfer in the states that apply to your situation draft your contracts with vendors, suppliers, subcontractors, etc. The attorney can help craft the language to best fit your needs and protects your interests and assets.

If you are signing as the subcontractor in a risk transfer, it is imperative that you have a legal review and exercise proper due diligence beforehand!

Who Needs Contractual Risk Transfer Protection?

Contractual risk transfer is an important way for you to manage risks in your industry. It can be particularly helpful for manufacturing, professional services, real estate management and construction. Manufacturing and technology companies also use risk transfer language in their contracts for distribution and supplies as those contracts could affect the liability of your product!

It may be easier said than done, but the goal is to protect your interests by managing the risks your business faces and not taking on any unnecessary risks.

For more guidance on other risk management concerns, contact your Preferred Mutual insurance agent today!

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

Severe weather, including tornadoes, derechos and flash flooding can result in dangerous conditions throughout the late summer. Know the risks, prepare and Live Assured.

The average number of tornadoes decreases in August, compared to the active spring and early summer months, but they are still a risk through late summer.

Tornado Facts

• They can occur almost anywhere during the warmer months, but locations at higher tornado risk are farther north than in the spring due to the jet stream closer to the Canadian border.
• The areas at highest risk for tornadoes in August extend from the Northern and Central Plains into the southern Great Lakes region. There is also a higher risk area from portions of the mid-Atlantic into southwestern New England.
• Many August tornadoes develop due to tropical cyclones, and there is also a slight uptick in the Southwest because of the monsoon season.

Derecho Facts

• Derechos are large clusters of thunderstorms that can cause widespread destruction to trees, power lines and even structures.
• They are most common in late spring and summer, with a peak in May through July. However, they can still occur in August and are just as powerful.

A recent derecho traveled 770 miles in 14 hours, causing devastation across the Midwest!

• Derechos can cause wind speeds of 60 to 100 mph or higher.
• Derecho is Spanish for “straight” and these windstorms leave long areas of straight-lined wind damage in their wake.
• Derechos are most common in the Plains, Midwest and South

Flash Flood Facts

• While the monsoon season doesn’t have such severe activity in the northeast, the risk of potential flooding from any summer storm could potentially increase the amount of damage sustained.
• Just a few minutes of heavy rain could result in flash floods, but excessive rainfall over six hours will yield devastating results.
• The average number of annual deaths from flooding over the past 10 years is 104. That makes flooding, on average, more deadly than hurricanes and tornadoes.

The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November each year, but the peak arrives in late summer. This is the time of year when conditions are most favorable and thus producing powerful and destructive forces.

Hurricanes are known to also spawn tornadoes, so it is imperative that when weather reports indicate a hurricane of any magnitude that you prepare for all of the conditions sited above, as a precaution.

Preparation for a storm is your best line of defense, but Preferred Mutual provides peace of mind during hurricane season! Call your independent agent today to make sure you have the best protection in the event of a storm. Our promise is always to protect what matters most to you – and we call that Living Assured.

The consistent, loud booms and bright flashes of sparkling lights in the sky are a pastime of the summer season, especially as we celebrate Independence Day. However, the 4^th of July is one of the biggest days for pet stress of the year. Read these tips to help make sure your pets are safe and calm as you take your eyes to the sky this holiday weekend!

To dogs who are scared of thunderstorms, fireworks are the meaner, louder and bigger bully of an older brother. Fireworks can cause great stress for your animals, and July 4th is one of the largest celebrations that traditionally require fireworks.

While your pets will never be as big of a fan of fireworks as you are, use these tips to help calm your dog down, reduce anxiety during the display, and help you and your family!

If it’s not too hot out, make sure your pet gets a lot of exercise that day!

During the days leading up to, and even after, July 4^th, make sure your pet is getting lots of exercise and water to ensure that your pet is more likely to expend less energy when the fireworks start going off. Nervous energy, especially pent up, can increase and cause a lot more harm than good.

Provide a safe space with other noises.

Establishing a safe space to go when they get scared, whether that’s a crate or a closed room with some of their favorite toys can help create a trusting experience during the big booms and flashes. Experts suggest that if you are heading out to watch the fireworks that you leave a white noise machine on or your television to help block out the sound and reduce the impact of fireworks on your pets.

Another helpful tip would be to close the curtains, too. Animals are very perceptive to light/sudden changes, so closing the curtains can help reduce unwanted stimulation!

Consider having a pet sitter stay with your pet, if you’ll be out.

Making alternate arrangements for your pet can help eliminate the fear and anxiety of fireworks by simply having something there.

Distract with toys or treats.

If you will be home during the fireworks, act as normal as possible around your pets as animals have a keen sense of your energy. During the big booms and bright lights, get out their favorite toys and games! Distraction can be the best trainer for working through turbulence like thunderstorms and fireworks.

Reassuring your pets, speaking to them in a calm soothing voice while petting them will also help ease their anxiety.

Do not yell or tell them to quiet down during the fireworks show or thunderstorm; they need to feel protected and safe. Getting mad at them will only make the experience harder for them.

Use natural calming solutions!

Veterinarians recommend natural calming solutions that help pets feel protected, such as a calming wrap! There are several versions of this product sold at local pet stores or online. Calming wraps, like a ThunderShirt, apply gentle, constant pressure (like a hug) that calms and treats anxiety.

Also on the market are calming chews made of natural ingredients, such as melatonin and chamomile, which can aid in reducing the stresses caused by fireworks and thunderstorms.

 Before feeding anything to your pets, talk with your vet! They’ve likely seen extreme cases and can work with you and your pet, especially if the anxiety your pet feels results in destroying your home as a way to cope.

Make firework season enjoyable for everyone by taking a few minutes to think about this time from your pet’s perspective. In the end, your pets will thank you for thinking of them and making sure they are safe and happy during all the summertime festivities!

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

Spring and summer brings warmer weather, blooming gardens, and less than favorable visitors – pests. If you find your home being invaded by a variety of creepy crawlies, chances are strong you’re already thinking about how to get rid of them!

The good news is that pest control doesn’t have to mean harmful chemicals! Read on for natural ways to keep pests out of your home!

There are plenty of options for reclaiming your home with safe and natural pesticides. Often, pests find ways to inhabit your home without you realizing there is a problem until it is too late. Professional services that eliminate the pest problem will likely use harsh chemicals, so to better protect and preserve your home, while keeping your family and pets safe, try these natural remedies!

Citrus Peels

Citrus peels have a light and refreshing scent which makes them a great option for natural pest control, because they don’t leave unwanted odors behind like chemicals might. Citrus peels will keep away pests like spiders, ants and mosquitoes. All you have to do is rub the peels on any problem areas you have. Doorways, windowsills and bookshelves are examples of areas that can benefit from a quick citrus rub down!

An added bonus? Citrus peels actual make wonderful furniture polish for wood surfaces!

White Vinegar

After a barbeque filled with fun, food and laughter, remnants of food left behind from your gathering will likely attract all sorts of insects like ants. And they’ll keep coming, even after you’ve cleaned up! White vinegar is the perfect solution! When ants come through your home, they leave a trail of pheromones that alerts other ants.

The vinegar will destroy that chemical trail left behind! Clean the area where you’re finding the ants by spraying the area with vinegar. There is no additional work necessary! While the aroma of vinegar isn’t nearly as refreshing as citrus peels, the vinegar works best if left alone!

Herbs

Planting herbs such as mint, lemongrass, basil and lavender plants near the entrances to or inside your home will stop pests from ever getting inside! The scents repel them, causing them to find another place to invade!

These are easy to grow and maintain – plus, any home chef would love to have fresh herbs on hand!

Cinnamon

Cinnamon can also be used outside of your home around entrances to keep bugs from entering. Pests (especially ants) won’t cross the cinnamon line. You can use cinnamon inside, too, on counters and other surfaces to cover up scent trails left by ants. Just sprinkle in any problem areas, and you’ll naturally thwart those pesky ants!

Essential Oils

Eucalyptus and peppermint oil are absolute must-haves if you are plagued by flies and spiders! Applying oil to a small cloth, place the saturated cloth where flies and spiders frequent, and you’ll find not only a fresh scent, but your home will be protected and also safe for your family to enjoy!

Get Rid of Breeding Areas

The foundation of your home is the prefect area for bugs to multiply and serves as an entrance point for tiny critters. Mulch, leaves, grass clippings, and firewood stacks are great hiding places for pests.

Keeping it Clean

This isn’t a trick as much as it is the ultimate natural way to keep pests out of your home. By regularly wiping down surfaces where food has been, you’ll be keeping pests at bay. Patch up any holes from picture frames, or other dark holes where pests can create a secret lair. Natural cleaning products can pull double duty; keeping your house clean and repelling insects simultaneously!

Bugs are a part of nature, an ecosystem. While we often assume killing pests will prevent them from coming back, repelling them is a safer, easier, and less expensive way to keep your home pest-free. With a few natural pest control tricks, you’ll save yourself the hassle of a professional pest control service, and save your home from substantial damage that could also cost you thousands of dollars to repair!

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

While most regions are advancing towards opening back up, closures have undoubtedly affected how and when we hop in the car. With the prospect of these orders lasting a few more weeks, and potentially months in some areas, the lack of use of your vehicle can lead to problems. Read on for tips on how to care for your car during these times!

Today’s high-tech vehicles often have multiple computers that are always on and monitoring the car’s systems. These computers do absorb energy, and if a car is sitting and not recharging, the battery can actually die within two weeks! Even if you don’t have an elaborate computer system, your vehicle will still need care.

These automotive service experts help us understand what the biggest potential problems are and what steps we can take now to prevent them! Here’s what we’ve learned. 

Dead Batteries

To avoid a dead battery, you should start your car once a week and let it run for at least 10 minutes. Experts agree that driving it for those 10 minutes helps to recharge quicker and more efficiently. If your start your vehicle to let it run inside of your garage, be sure to open the garage door to ensure proper ventilation for the exhaust fumes.

Gasoline Degradation

Gasoline degrades over time, but modern sealed fuel systems help to minimize fuel oxidation and preserve fuel life. However, experts estimate that gas can last as long as 6 months before it goes bad in your gas tank and kills your vehicle.

If you’re especially concerned about a vehicle that has a tank of gas and you won’t be driving it much, you can treat it with a fuel stabilizer, which can extend the life of the fuel for up to two years. This also applies to your snow blower, lawn mower, or other gas-powered equipment.

Take a Brake!

When you’re not driving, rust can form on the brake rotors, especially if your vehicle is parked outside and is exposed to the elements. It doesn’t take long for a film or rust to start building up on them. When you drive your vehicle, this build-up of rust can line the brake-pad and result in that screeching noise, uneven braking, and brake-pedal pulsation. 

To help save your brakes, instead of starting the vehicle to save the battery, drive the vehicle for 10 minutes around your neighborhood and save your brakes and battery, simultaneously.

Under Pressure

Proper tire pressure is important, too. Maintaining proper tire pressure helps with the car’s performance, safety and gas mileage! Like anything that holds air, air will naturally escape from your tires so be sure to frequently check and maintain the manufacturer’s recommendations for tire pressure.

Don’t Delay Your Oil Change!

Driving less doesn’t necessarily mean you should prolong getting your oil changed. If your car is sitting and not being driven regularly, the oil can deteriorate due to temperature fluctuations.

Stay on your cycle of getting your oil changed, so long as your local mechanic is able to perform the service!

Among many other aspects of our lives, COVID-19 has certainly made 2020 a year to remember (or forget). Your vehicle may not be driven as often, but be sure to maintain it by following the above tips from the experts, and Live Assured.

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that over 50,000 children each year receive medical care as a result of accidents in the backyard! Follow these tips to make your backyard safe and secure this summer!

Every summer, the backyard is a hub for children and adults alike. Marshmallows by the fire pit, dips in the pool, hours spent on play sets, and grilling dinner in the evenings are all summer backyard favorites. Though your backyard may be your favorite place to be this summer, it is important to remember the hazards that are waiting outside, too!

Boundaries and Supervision

Keep children and pets safe with proper boundaries and supervision.

• Always supervise outdoor play: Young children should always have a responsible adult outside with them to supervise safe, outdoor play.
• Install a fence: Children and pets are safer inside of a fenced yard. They'll be less likely to run into the front yard, and it will keep them away from the street.
• Lock backyard gates: Keep children and pets in and deter intruders with a locking gate.
• Establish boundaries: If you don't have a fenced backyard, teach your child the boundaries in which they can play. Strictly enforce them.
• Lock pet doors: Pet doors are convenient for small animals -- and small children. Lock your pet doors to avoid letting small children crawl through them.

Plants and Landscaping

Whether you’re mowing the lawn or treating weeds, don’t forget about safety!

• Identify poisonous plants: Plants are a common cause of poisoning among young children. Identify all plants in your backyard and remove or fence in any that are poisonous to children or pets.
• Educate children on edible plants: Teach children not to pick and eat anything off of plants. Explain the difference between wild plants and a vegetable garden.
• Follow lawn care instructions carefully: If you use a pesticide, herbicide, or lawn service, be sure to read the instructions. Many recommend not allowing children to play on a treated lawn for two days or more. Always wear protective clothing and eye protection while applying pesticides and wash your hands afterward. Alternatively, consider fighting pests naturally.
• Clean up objects before mowing: Pick up rocks, toys, and other objects before mowing to avoid injury.
• Wear safe mowing shoes and clothing: Avoid open toes and heels when mowing. Ideally, you should wear boots or non slip shoes and long pants.
• Do not allow children outside while working on the yard: Lawn mowers, edgers, and other lawn care power tools can kick up debris that may injure children. It's best to keep children inside while mowing, edging, and weeding. Don't allow children to ride as passengers on a riding lawn mower.
• Waterproof your deck: Decks that have warped from a lack of waterproofing can be dangerous. Waterproof your deck every two to three years.
• Keep lawn care chemicals locked up: Always tightly replace lids of lawn care products, lock them up, and keep them out of sight and reach of children.
• Call before you dig: Before digging a hole in your yard, call your local utility company to identify underground gas and power lines.
• Safely store garden tools: Put rakes, shovels, hoses, and other garden tools away safely when you're done with them.
• Fill backyard holes: Inspect your yard and find hose, loose soil, and other trouble spots that can cause trips and twisted ankles. Fill them in immediately.
• Use the right ladder for the job: Avoid using a ladder that's too short for what you need to reach. You should be able to reach no more than four feet above the ladder you're using.

Grilling and Fire Pit Equipment

Grilling dinner or enjoying an evening around the fire pit? Be sure to use these tips to play it safe.

• Never place a grill or fire pit near flammables: Use and store your grill away from tree branches, the side of the house, and overhanging plants. The same goes for fire pits.
• Teach children not to touch grills: Explain to children that the grill is dangerous and hot, just like your stove or oven in the kitchen.
• Create grill barriers: Keep your grill screened so your child can't touch it, and store propane grills where your child can't reach the knobs.
• Always stick by the grill: Don't step away from your grill while it's on. Supervise it for flare ups that may be out of control.
• Protect your hands: Use long handled utensils and a long armed oven mitt when manning the grill.
• Never throw away hot or warm coals: Throwing away coals while the insides are still hot is a fire risk. You may still have a risk of fire even if charcoal feels cool to the touch. Soak coals in cold water, place them in a noncombustible metal can, and place it on a nonflammable surface until you're ready to throw them away.
• Never leave the fire unattended: Always have a responsible adult watching the fire just in case, and require adult supervision for children around the fire pit.
• Fully extinguish your fire pit: Use sand to fully extinguish your fire pit and let coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container.
• Never use your grill or fire pit in your garage or inside: Using your grill or fire pit in an enclosed area can cause a deadly gas buildup, not to mention the risk of fire. Never store your grill or fire pit indoors, even when you're done using it.
• Practice firework safety: Use fireworks only as directed with adult supervision.

Often, we purchase insurance policies because we are required by law to protect ourselves against potential risks, but how can you be confident in your coverage if you don’t know what you’re really getting? Preferred Mutual can help!

When you find an insurance policy rate no other insurance carrier can beat, there might be a reason.  Aside from the basic auto policy requirements, such as bodily injury liability, personal injury protection, collision, and property damage liability, different states have different mandates for auto insurance, and if you don’t understand what your policy covers, you might be liable to cover those expenses not covered in the policy if there is an event involving your vehicle.

What is comprehensive insurance?

When it relates to your auto policy, comprehensive insurance (also known as “other than collision” in some states) covers damage to your car caused by events that are out of your control. Collision coverage provides reimbursement for damages to your vehicle resulting from an accident with another vehicle or object.

Comprehensive insurance and collision coverage are often mixed up or combined by many policyholders. Comprehensive is different, and an additional (or optional) coverage for things like theft, vandalism, glass and windshield damage, fire, accidents involving animals, weather/acts of nature, etc.

However, take this scenario as an example as to why that insurance policy you bought on the cheap might leave you high and dry:

Let’s say a severe thunderstorm is brewing in the clouds as your car is parked safely in your driveway. With one gust of wind, a tree limb falls on your car. Your car sustains over $5,000 in damage. You call your insurance company, you know – the one that gave you that stellar deal, and you explain to the claims representative what happened. As they review your policy, they indicate that you don’t have comprehensive insurance coverage.

You’re now on the hook for paying for the damage, and your insurance company won’t be involved in any of it.

That’s a stroke of bad luck, but if you have comprehensive insurance, all you’d pay is your deductible, and your insurance company handles the rest.

What is a deductible, then?

It’s one of the most common car insurance questions! An auto insurance deductible is what you pay “out of pocket” on a claim. Health insurance is completely different! You don’t have to meet your deductible for your auto policy; you only need to pay it when your vehicle has sustained damage and needs to be repaired!*

While that sounds like a perfect scenario for you:

• Higher deductible = Lower car insurance rate and higher out of pocket costs.
• Lower deductible = Higher car insurance rate and lower out of pocket costs.

Let’s take the scenario from earlier regarding that tree limb falling on your vehicle. Let’s assume that we have comprehensive insurance and a $1,000 deductible:

If the damage to your vehicle from that fallen tree limb amounts to only $800, and your deductible is $1,000, your insurer will pay nothing towards the damage, because they only cover damages above the amount of your deductible.

If you have a $1,000 deductible, though, and the damage was $1,750, your insurance company will cover the $750 left after you pay your deductible.

So, choose an amount you are comfortable with! It’s important to always consider the value of your vehicle, where your car is parked overnight, where you work or travel during the day, how often you’re in your vehicle, how far you travel, the traffic you drive through, the seasonal weather and its severity, etc.

*Keep in mind that scenarios regarding collision and liability claims will be handled on a case by case basis by your insurance carrier, determined by the cause of the damage.

Remember, good auto insurance not only protects your vehicle, it protects your lifestyle. That’s why Preferred Mutual is committed to providing the best protection, with a host of options that meet the needs of you and your family.

Call your insurance agent today and Live Assured.

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

While we continue flattening the curve of COVID-19 as a nation, summer travel plans will be unlike any we’ve seen. Here’s what you should know as you plan your socially distanced summer vacation!

Memorial Day Weekend, 2019, saw 43 million Americans traveling, spending over $12 billion over three days, according to FOX Business News. This year was likely very different.

As our country slowly begins to reopen following federal and state-mandated closures, the traditional start to the summer travel season will likely see fewer cars on the road, as many families continue to adhere to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations for proper social distancing.

The CDC still recommends staying home as much as possible, however, those who wish to get away, even for a day trip, must plan ahead!

Interstate travel may be very different!

Many who plan to take to the open road may encounter checkpoints at state lines, remaining quarantine orders, closed welcome centers and rest areas, as well as fewer hotels and restaurants open to the public, or may be limiting the amount of people in them at one time.

Plan your entire route, mapping out where you will eat, sleep or visit before you leave the house! Check state department websites for the current status of the area you are visiting.

AAA has an interactive map that shows state-by-state restrictions that may affect road trippers.

The National Governors Association also has a state-by-state interactive map that shows coronavirus-related state restrictions and conditions travelers should know.

Bring your masks!

The whole family should have individual, CDC-approved face masks. Social distancing guidelines still remain in place, and travelers may be required to wear them when they stop for gas, groceries or other supplies.

Several states still require people to wear face coverings in public: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Michigan, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York and Rhode Island. Many others recommend it. 

Make reservations directly with hotels.

Often, websites that book hotel rooms at significant discounts may not have up-to-date information on the state of the hotel. If you do plan on staying overnight somewhere, be sure to book your room in advance, and with the hotel directly. Even hotels that remain open are limiting the number of rooms that are available for reservation to help stay atop of proper disinfecting and laundering.

Checkpoints and quarantines may still be on your route!

Rhode Island and Florida require drivers entering the state to check in. Other states may have roadside checkpoints on interstate roads to check for potential cases of COVID-19 among passengers. Drivers may be diverted to a rest area where they will be screened by state police.

Travelers may also find that cars that go through interstate tolls will be required to stop, as well.

Tolls that were once cashless during the height of the pandemic may now require payment, while other tolls may mail you a bill based on the license plate of your vehicle, too!

Lots of things have changed, and will remain this way for some time as the country continues to do its part to lower the risk of spreading COVID-19. One thing hasn’t changed, though; Preferred Mutual’s commitment to the health and safety of our customers, our agents, and our employees. Make sure before you take off on your summer road trip that you and your agent have reviewed your auto policy with us to ensure your vacation goes as smoothly as you planned it.

Live Assured isn’t just a tagline; it’s a promise to always be there when you need us most!

 This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

Spring is the time to get your boat ready for the season! Get those chores out of the way so you are ready to float into summer, instead of stumble!

As you prepped your boat for this past winter, you likely spent hours checking off every conceivable chore to make sure it was ready come spring. Or, maybe, like a lot of people, you did just enough to make sure the boat wouldn’t be damaged in storage but left a few tasks for spring.

Either way, you’re in the right place! Marine insurance claims files are full of what can happen when boaters, anxious to get out on the open water, forget to do some of the things they didn’t have time to do last winter. Here are a few things you’ll want to check before launching.

Check for deteriorated anodes.

Anodes can disintergrate over time, and can give a good indication of what would happen to vital underwater machinery if the anodes weren’t there. If they’re about half gone, replace them. Be sure to check the other metal underwater surfaces, too, to ensure they didn’t also suffer from galvanic corrosion such as outboards and sterndrives.

If you recently replaces these, anodes disappearing may indicate a problem with the boat’s electrical system!

Inspect props.

Look for dings, pitting and distortion that can create excessive vibration that can loosen everything keeping the boat intact. Make sure all pins are secure!

Preferred Mutual’s insurance claims files note instances of on-water towing because props fell off!

Inspect the hull for blisters and stress cracks.

Blisters are easier to see just after haulout, but if you see large blisters, be sure to bring it into a boat repair shop. Those problems may need to be addressed by a marine surveyor or repairer!

Check lower-unit lube.

If you didn’t drain and fill the lower unit lube before winter, be sure to check the level and condition it is in now. Milk-chocolate looking oil indicates a bad seal that has allowed water in!

Check bilge pump operation.

The best way to check the entire system is to put some water in the bilge so you can make sure the switch actuates and the pump begins getting the water out. If your boat came through winter with water already there, find the leaks and fix them! Bilge pumps are designed to remove nuisance water – not to save a sinking boat!

And check the fuel and electrical systems!

Inspect all fuel lines, including fill and vent hoses, for indications of softness or cracking. Any that are suspect should be replaced with a United States Coast Guard-approved fuel hose. Fuel fittings are also another source of dangerous leaks.

Be sure to clean and tighten electrical connections, especially both ends of battery cables, too!

Inspect your safety gear.

Check all fire extinguisher gauges for fullness and expiration dates. If they are expired, they must be replaced immediately. Take a careful look at where they are mounted, too. Are they easy to get to incase of an emergency? Keep an updated first aid kit aboard, too!

Enjoy smooth sailing with superior coverage.

Take to the open waters with confidence, knowing you have insurance coverage that includes personal liability, medical payments, uninsured boaters and miscellaneous property coverage for hulls, boat equipment and accessories, as well as personal property brought onto your boat.

For more information on adding insurance for your vessel to your current homeowners, auto or renter’s insurance policy, contact your independent agent today!

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

As the weather gets warmer, many of us have already fired up our grills! With all the other spring cleaning that takes place between now and the official start to summer, it can be easy to forget some of the most important parts of grilling: cleaning and maintenance!

Too hot to handle!! According to the U.S. Fire Administration, nearly 6,000 grill fires take place on residential property every year, most caused by malfunctioning gas grills. These fires cause an annual average of $37 million in damage, 100s of injuries and 10% of those injuries result in fatalities.

Whether you’ve been using your grill year-round or waiting until the spring-like weather has arrived, both dormant and active grills require a little love to keep them fired up through another season.

Don’t wait until the last minute!

Properly maintain and store your grill

Gas grills are generally safe if they are properly designed and constructed, properly maintained and regularly checked for leaks. Follow these safety tips when setting up at the start of each grilling season:

• Search the Consumer Product Safety Commission website to make sure there has not been a recall on your model grill.
• Check grill hoses for cracks, holes and brittleness.
• Check for blockages, especially in the Venturi tube that runs to the burners. These can be caused by food drippings, spiders or insects. Clear any blockages with a wire or pipe cleaner.
• Check for leaks by running a solution of one part liquid soap, one part water along hoses and on connections. Open the valve at your tank and check to make sure that gas isn’t escaping, which will be indicated by bubbles at the leaking points.
• Adjust hoses away from hot areas or where grease might drip on them.
• Cover your grill when cooled and not in use to help protect its parts from inclement weather, falling leaves, and insect activity.
• Store propane tanks outside, away from your house. Always check to make sure valves are firmly turned off.

Millions of Americans safely enjoy their outdoor grilling time, but accidents do happen. Ensure a trouble-free summer of cooking fun by maintaining your grill, using it safely, and knowing what to do in case of an emergencies.

Practice safe barbeque habits

When barbecuing, use common sense:

• Operate your barbecue on a level surface, away from your house, garage and landscaping.
• Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and let everyone know where it is and how to operate it.
• Don’t move the grill once it is lit.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill.
• Protect yourself—or whoever is doing the grilling—with a heavy apron and oven mitts that reach high on the forearm. Use very long-handled utensils designed for barbecuing.
• Use only lighter fluid designed for grilling when charcoal grilling. Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids, and never add more lighter fluid once the fire has started.
• Never grill indoors or in enclosed areas. Charcoal grills produce carbon monoxide (CO) fumes, which can be fatal in unventilated areas.
• Wait until the grill is cooled before storing or covering. When you’re done cooking, remember that the grill will remain hot for a while.
• Soak charcoal briquettes with water to ensure they are cool and inactive before throwing them away.

Know what to do in case of an accident

Despite all good efforts to prevent them, accidents do happen. Which is why they're called accidents—and why people have insurance! Here are steps to take if the worst should happen:

• In case of fire, get out the trusty fire extinguisher and, if the situation warrants, call 911. Fire spreads quickly and it's better to be safe with professional help than sorry.
• Address injuries immediately. Run cool water over minor burns, but do not cover injured areas with bandages, butter or salve. In the case of serious burns, take victims to the emergency room or an urgent care facility. Again, if needed or when in doubt, call 911.
• Assess your property damage. Once you have dealt with any injuries and the smoke clears, assess your property damage. If the situation calls for it, contact your insurance agent to discuss filing a claim.

The best way to enjoy a summer barbeque is to take proper steps to prevent accidents, and take fast action should any occur!

With Preferred Mutual’s Homeowners Insurance, that accidental grill fire is a covered peril! While we encourage you to enjoy your outdoor barbeques safely and take proper steps to prevent accidents, our promise at Preferred Mutual is to help you Live Assured, so if your cookout goes up in flames, we’ll cover it!

All descriptions of coverage are subject to the actual provisions of the policy, which should be consulted to determine whether any given loss is covered. This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

When vacation season rolls around, which it will, many of us will be itching to go anywhere but stay home! Preferred Mutual wants to remind you to stay vigilant while you’re enjoying the much-needed time away.

According to the Department of Justice, there are 10% more burglaries in the summertime than in the winter, which happens to be when most of us pack our bags and head out for a vacation.

Here are a few ways you can protect your home so you can live your vacation up to the fullest (you deserve it!):

Lock all windows and doors before you leave!

This might sound obvious, but over 30% of burglars enter a home through an unlocked window or door. Make sure that prior to your vacation that you check to make sure all doors and windows lock and shut properly – and make repairs as necessary!

Install a Home Security System.

In addition to reducing the chance of your home being burglarized by nearly 300% (now, that’s a big number), many leading systems offer remote access so you can check your home security from your phone. You can even use your device to unlock/lock your doors if you have pets at home in need of care. Preferred Mutual offers a discount for your home insurance premium when you install a security system!

Don’t Forget About Your Garage.

Remember to focus on buttoning up more than just the main body of your home, too. Securing the garage can be vital for protecting your home. Install motion detector lights on the corners of the garage, ensuring the garage service door is locked, and hide anything of real value. If you leave a car in the driveway, be sure to remove the garage door remote! A burglar won’t think twice about breaking into the car and using the remote to access the garage, and potentially, your home.

Tidy Up Your Yard Before Vacation.

Prepare your home for potential natural storms, such as floods or high winds. Things like grills, bikes, patio furniture and tools should be secured in a shed or garage. Not only will this protect the items from damage, but thieves scan the property to see if there is anything of value or to use to help them break into your home.

Consider a House Sitter or Neighborly Check-in!

Enlist the services of a house sitter or neighbor to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. He or she can pick up mail or packages left at the door, take garbage and recycling bins to the curb – all of these things are to help hide the fact you are not home!

Take Safety Precautions with Utilities, too.

Protecting your house from a break-in is important, but you also want to avoid problems with utilities, like electricity or water. Unplug appliances, turn off the water valves to all sinks, the dishwasher, and washing machine. Make sure to test your smoke detectors, too!

Remember, your home may be the biggest investment you ever make. The steps you take to better protect it, the more enjoyable your vacation will be! Preferred Mutual offers customizable insurance to meet your needs and your budget, too. From dwelling coverage, to valuable possessions, to liability coverage, Preferred Mutual gives you peace of mind. We call that living assured – It’s our promise to always protect what matters most to you!

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

Nothing says “summer” like a campfire or bonfire, but these fun activities also bring a fair number of safety hazards! Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can help protect yourself and your loves ones while still having a great time!

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, summer is the most dangerous season for fire-related injuries and fatalities. If you’ll be spending the summer camping or just toasting marshmallows in the backyard, take the time to educate yourself and your family about campfire safety!

Keep the following tips in mind:

Follow area rules.

Always follow the campfire rules for the area where you are camping or living. Some parks and towns prohibit fires, and these rules are there for a reason. Check the local regulations before you build your fire.

Know and teach “Stop, Drop and Roll.”

It is important to ensure that all members of your family and guests around the campfire know how to “Stop, Drop and Roll.” Should an article of clothing catch on fire, by following this simple technique, you will help protect yourself and others from injury.

Check your surroundings.

Choose a location for you campfire where it can’t spread. This means finding a clearing away from dry leaves, grass areas, or under overhanging tree branches. Clear away all shrubbery and vegetation from the area, dig a pit for the fire and surround it with rocks. This will help keep the fire contained.

Be smart about lighter fluid.

Do not store gasoline, liquid fire starter, or any other type of flammable liquid near the campfire. Stray flames can easily ignite these materials.

Keep your fire far from your tent.

If you are planning on camping this summer, be sure to place your campfire away from you tent. It should always be downwind from the tent, too. Only use tents made from flame-retardant materials!

Keep it under control.

While big bonfires are impressive, it’s much safer to keep fires small so they are easier to control

Don’t abandon your fire.

If your fire has lasted long through the night, don’t leave it burning as you get ready for bed. Always put the fire out. This means separating logs, using sand or dirt to extinguish flames, or even spraying water on embers still red.

Be prepared.

Never light a fire if you do not have the means to extinguish it! Always keep plenty of water and a shovel nearby.

Know how to put it out.

To extinguish a campfire, douse it with water, use a shovel to bury the fire with dirt, then douse the area with water. The water will produce a good amount of smoke, so be careful of how close you are!

Enjoy the summer! By knowing and practicing summer fire safety tips, you can enjoy many wonderful times in the great outdoors filled with laughter, happiness and safety.

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.

Spring means a fresh start! But a fresh start is a lot harder when you’re not sure where to begin. Preferred Mutual did some research for you, and found some cleaning tricks you’ll wish you’d known all along!

With your family home for the foreseeable future, now, more than ever, it is safe to say that cleaning has gotten harder and harder to stay on top of.

Get the family involved.

If you’re looking for an app to motivate your children to pick up some chores, look no further than OurHome (download for iOS or Android)! The app lets you reward your family for doing their share of the housework.

Set a deadline for when you want each chore finished, and once they’ve completed their tasks, the app will award points that they can cash in for a reward! The rewards can be anything, like additional allowance, a new toy, or a movie of their choice for family movie night!

Set reminders, send messages and view their progress when you sync your devices with the OurHome app!

What Snupps?

Organize every item in your life, and make money while doing so, with Snupps (downloadable through iOS or Android). This app helps you keep track of what you own. Upload pictures of your stuff, create virtual shelves and organize items by category like shoes, watches and cameras.

Your home inventory will change often, so having your inventory stored in your app will allow you the opportunity to instantly find duplicates of things. You could even use it as your digital yard sale and share with the community! This will encourage you to declutter your house of unnecessary items, and shop other users’ listed items, too!

Remember, a home inventory is more than a list! In the event of a total loss, it can provide a way you for you to give reasonable evidence of your loss, as well as help get your insurance claim settled faster. You can add additional protection for your valuables by adding Valuable Possessions Coverage to your Homeowner’s, Mobile Homeowner’s, Condo’s or Renter’s policy! Speak to your insurance agent today about adding our Inland Marine endorsement to your policy, and Live Assured!

Working from home has some definite advantages, but it also takes a little planning to do it effectively. While our nation faces a new, temporary way of life, Preferred Mutual has been offering remote opportunities for some time and we have a few tips to share.

Benefits to working remotely

• No commute! Saving you money, time, and mileage on your vehicle.
• Lunch is just a few feet away. 
• Time with your pets (which they love, and is a great stress reliever).
• A comfortable workspace.
• Less interruptions (unless you have kids).

Effective strategies and tools for remote work

1. Follow your regular office hours, if possible. You should still have a definite start and finish time to your day, even when you’re working from home. Let your colleagues, supervisor and coworkers know what those times will be if necessary.
2. Have background music or television on low, for ambient noise. It shouldn’t be something that breaks your concentration, or pulls you away from your responsibilities, but often a bit of background noise can help keep your focus.
3. Eat breakfast and lunch at the same times you would if you were in the office. 
4. Give your eyes and your body a break. Sometimes, it’s easy to get glued to your computer. Set a reminder to get up, walk around, and roll your shoulders, stretch. 
5. Set up your workspace in a quiet area of your home. For those with children also home with them, this might be easier said than done. 
6. Set boundaries with your school-aged children. Let them know when it is okay to interrupt (emergencies, for instance), and especially times when it isn’t okay. Ask them to respect the times when you may be on the phone or trying to meet a deadline. This is a learning experience for everyone, so be patient and realistic!
7. Set a schedule for homeschooling children. As schools continue to close, setting a daily schedule for your children allows you to balance your job and their education without overwhelming either party.
8. Throw that load of laundry in! It will give you a reason to get up, stretch, and then in an hour, do so again.
9. Appreciate the time, gas, parking, subway, train fares, tolls, and more you are saving! Put that money aside and use it to treat yourself at the end of the week or month. Pool your money with coworkers to give you something positive to look forward to when you return to the office!
10. If you manage staff, check in on them. It’s easy to get swept away in your own work, but if you manage staff, check in with them personally on how they’re adjusting. Working remotely can be difficult for employees who haven’t done it before.
11. Keep cybersecurity top of mind! Hackers are working overtime to access networks with open internet or poor password protection, and you want to protect everything coming to and from you!
12. Work with your IT department. They can help solve remote issues from their locations, too!
13. Keep confidential information confidential. If you have a full house at home, be careful about leaving confidential information around the house where children or others can see them. 

The Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are the most comprehensive small business assistance network in the United States.

With nearly 1,000 centers available to provide no-cost business consulting and low-cost training to new and existing businesses, small business owners, aspiring entrepreneurs, and Preferred Mutual are celebrating!

Business is constantly changing; how consumers buy, find, and use products are changing, which means small businesses need to keep up.  The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) network has been there throughout – helping small businesses succeed, and helping aspiring owners achieve their dreams!

Small businesses are the engine of our nation’s economic growth and it is important to continue to provide resources, training, and education to help improve the lives of owners, their consumers, and our free enterprise system. 

“Think BIG. Start Small.” 

The SBDC is celebrating its 40th anniversary and is still recognized for providing high-quality, effective assistance resulting in significant economic impact among small businesses and our nation.

One of the most important aspects of the SBDC is helping business owners create a business plan.

Every year, Americans start businesses with the hope of achieving financial success, independence, and personal fulfillment. Too many businesses believe marketing is their key to success, but having a solid plan combines all of the lifeblood and strategy of your business.

Protecting Your Personal Assets as a Business Owner

Whether you are just starting out or have been in business for years, the appropriate up-front planning can protect your personal assets. That means buying adequate insurance.

Preferred Mutual provides more than adequate coverage. In fact, with our Business Owner’s Policy (BOP), you can bundle coverages that most business owners need, including interruption insurance, property insurance, liability insurance, and crime insurance!

And it is as unique to your business needs as you need it to be.

That’s comprehensive coverage for your building and/or business property, business income coverage, and comprehensive general liability coverage, all of which can grow with you and your company.

If your business will have mechanical or electrical equipment, Preferred Mutual includes Equipment Breakdown coverage in your BOP which will cover the cost of repair or replacement and any other property damaged by the equipment breakdown. 

Tailored business insurance coverage with Preferred Mutual? That’s a good plan. That’s living assured. 

This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not legal advice and/or an authoritative guide.