Spring is a good time to check your property for tree damage.
Spring weather can be erratic, as we well know this year from our April sub-freezing temperatures and snow storms. Despite this, we can say with certainty, it will begin to warm up. As your yard becomes walk-able once again, we encourage you to take a trip around your property to look for any damage to your trees.
If you have a tree that falls on your property and it hits your home or your auto, you are protected for repairs under your homeowner’s insurance policy. If you have a tree that falls on a neighbor’s property, their homeowner’s policy should cover any damages. Some of these claims can get complicated, so we would encourage you to check with your office if you have any questions in this circumstance.
Typically, if you have a homeowner’s policy with a high deductible, the expense for a claim may cost more than the cost of the removal of a potentially hazardous tree. We encourage all of our homeowner clients to take steps towards prevention of damages each year, during the spring months. Inspect your property and look for any potential hazards (trees that are diseased, branches that are unstable, etc.). Do some trimming or tree removal when/if needed. Check with a local company to find out when their busy season is so that you can schedule for removal in the off-season when costs might be a bit lower.
A once a year property inspection can end up saving you headaches down the road and can save you money! If you have any questions about your homeowner’s policy or other insurance products, please call our offices in Cooperstown at 607-547-2951 or in Morris at 607-263-5170. We are happy to help you.
With just a little more than a month left for filing tax returns this year, it’s a good time to think about what things might qualify for an extra deduction. In addition to your mortgage and some loan interest payments, some of your 2015 household improvements might be deductible. 
The expenses associated with maintaining your fireplace and chimney each year are minimal in comparison with the costs of a fire. We urge all our clients, family and friends to take the steps necessary to assure safe operations. If you have questions about your insurance coverage in the event of a fire, please contact our team in Cooperstown at 547-2951 or in Morris at 263-5170.
We have been very fortunate in our region this year to have not had any significant snowfall so far this winter. But, as we all know – those days are coming! Our favorite snow-shoveling days are the ones where each morning, there is only a tiny layer of new snow – light and powdery enough that all you need is a once over with a broom to sweep it clear. If we are lucky, we will have more than a few of those kinds of snowfalls this winter. Inevitably though, as part of the winter mix, we will end up with some accumulations of wetter snow that will require actual shoveling. Keep in mind some of the following safety tips for when this occurs. 
We take this opportunity to welcome Santa and Mrs. Claus back to their cottage on Pioneer Park this year. Come enjoy the spirit of Christmas in Cooperstown!
If your child is leaving home to attend college, make sure you check with your auto insurance
