Skirting Inspection and Repair:

The skirting, the protective barrier that encloses the bottom of your manufactured home, serves as a vital line of defense against pests and moisture. Regularly inspect the skirting for any damage, holes, or gaps that might allow unwanted guests or moisture to enter. Keeping your skirting in good condition is essential for the overall well-being of your home.

Weatherproofing and Insulation:

Manufactured homes may have different insulation needs than traditional homes. Make sure your insulation is in good condition and replace any damaged or missing insulation promptly. Additionally, seal any gaps or cracks around doors, windows, and other openings to prevent drafts and save on energy costs.

Roof Maintenance:

The roof is one of the most critical components of your manufactured home. Inspect it regularly for signs of damage or wear, paying close attention to seams and seals. To prevent clogs and water pooling, clear debris, leaves, and branches from the roof regularly. Address any roofing issues promptly to avoid costly repairs down the road.

Anchoring and Leveling:

Proper anchoring and leveling are crucial for the structural integrity of your manufactured home. Ensure that your home is securely anchored to its foundation or supports as required by local regulations and manufacturer recommendations. Periodically check for signs of settling or unevenness and adjust the home’s leveling as needed.

Underbelly Inspection:

Some manufactured homes have an underbelly covering that protects pipes and insulation. Regularly inspect and repair any damage to the underbelly. Ensure that heating ducts and plumbing pipes are adequately insulated, especially in colder climates, to prevent freezing and potential damage.

Plumbing and Electrical Maintenance:

Plumbing and electrical systems in manufactured homes require routine inspections. Look for leaks in the plumbing and ensure water pipes are well-insulated in colder weather. Likewise, have your electrical systems checked by a qualified electrician periodically to maintain safety and functionality.

Ventilation:

Proper ventilation is essential to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew issues. Ensure that your home’s ventilation system, including vents and fans, is functioning correctly to maintain a healthy indoor environment.

Get the Right Coverage:

Taking these essential maintenance steps will go a long way in preserving the value and longevity of your manufactured home in Oklahoma. To provide complete protection for your investment, don’t forget to reach out to our experienced agents at Statewide Insurance Agency for the best rates on Manufactured Home Insurance. Our experts are here to help you find the perfect coverage to ensure your home and possessions are secure, giving you peace of mind for years to come. Contact us today to get started! Your manufactured home deserves the best insurance protection available.

The post Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Manufactured Home first appeared on Statewide Insurance Agency.

Chimney Maintenance:

• Regular Inspections: Schedule annual chimney inspections by a certified professional. They will ensure the chimney is free of obstructions, cracks, or creosote buildup.

• Creosote Removal: Creosote, a highly flammable substance, accumulates in chimneys. Regular cleaning is essential to prevent chimney fires. It’s recommended to clean your chimney professionally once a year.

• Cap and Screen Installation: Install a chimney cap and spark screen to prevent debris, animals, and sparks from escaping the chimney.

Firewood Selection:

• Seasoned Firewood: Use well-seasoned hardwood like oak, maple, or hickory. Seasoned wood has lower moisture content, resulting in cleaner and safer burning.

• Avoid Softwoods: Avoid burning softwoods like pine or cedar, as they contain higher moisture levels and can lead to creosote buildup.

• Proper Storage: Store firewood outdoors, away from the house, to prevent pests and moisture infiltration.

Child Safety:

• Use Safety Screens: Install a sturdy fireplace screen or gate to keep children and pets at a safe distance from the fire.

• Educate and Supervise: Teach children about the dangers of fire and the importance of keeping a safe distance. Always supervise them around the fireplace.

• Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure family members know how to use it in case of emergencies.

Additional Tips:

• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, especially near the fireplace, to detect any CO leaks.

• Clean Ashes Safely: Dispose of ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid, and store it away from flammable materials.

• Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in the room with the fireplace to reduce the risk of smoke buildup.

A well-maintained fireplace can provide warmth and comfort for your family, but safety should always be a priority. Regular chimney inspections, proper firewood selection, and child safety measures are key to enjoying the fireplace without worry. At Statewide Insurance Agency, we emphasize the importance of home safety. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for any unforeseen incidents. Your safety and peace of mind are our top concerns.

The post Keeping the Hearth Safe: A Guide to Chimney and Home Fireplace Safety first appeared on Statewide Insurance Agency.

The Rising Tide of Construction Prices

Construction prices have been on a steady rise in recent times, affecting various sectors of the economy. Whether it’s building materials, labor costs, or other related expenses, the construction industry has experienced significant inflationary pressures. This surge in prices is primarily attributed to factors such as increased demand, supply chain disruptions, and rising wages. As a consequence, the replacement cost of homes, commercial properties, and infrastructure projects has escalated considerably.

Inflation: A Steady Erosion of Value

Inflation, the general increase in prices and decrease in purchasing power, has a far-reaching impact on the economy. As prices rise across multiple sectors, insurance companies face the challenge of keeping pace with the changing market dynamics. The cost of settling claims, repairs, and replacements increases due to the inflated prices of goods and services. To mitigate their own financial risks, insurers adjust their premiums to align with the rising costs, passing a portion of the burden onto policyholders.

The Knock-On Effect: Insurance Premiums on the Rise

The combination of rising construction prices and inflation creates a domino effect on insurance premiums. Insurance companies must reevaluate their pricing models to ensure they remain financially viable and can cover potential claims. The increased costs associated with repairs, replacements, and rebuilding necessitate a corresponding increase in premiums. Consequently, policyholders are left grappling with higher insurance costs, often without fully understanding the reasons behind the surge.

Taking Control: A Call to Action

While insurance costs may seem like an insurmountable challenge, there are steps you can take to regain control over your coverage and potentially reduce your premiums. The first proactive measure is to review your insurance policy and ensure it accurately reflects the current value of your property. Outdated or undervalued coverage could leave you exposed in the event of a claim. By contacting Statewide Insurance Agency, you gain access to a team of experienced agents who can guide you through the process of adjusting your coverage to match the present-day reality.

Statewide Insurance Agency: Your Partner in Insurance Solutions

At Statewide Insurance Agency, we understand the complexities of the insurance industry and the challenges policyholders face. Our dedicated team of agents is committed to providing personalized assistance tailored to your specific needs. We collaborate with multiple insurance companies, enabling us to seek competitive quotes on your behalf. By leveraging our extensive network, we ensure that you receive comprehensive coverage at a competitive price.

As construction prices continue to rise and inflation erodes purchasing power, insurance costs have become an increasing concern for individuals and businesses. Understanding the underlying factors driving these escalating premiums is the first step towards taking control of your coverage. By partnering with Statewide Insurance Agency, you gain access to experienced agents who can help you navigate this complex landscape. Don’t let rising insurance costs overwhelm you; contact Statewide Insurance Agency today to explore your options, adjust your coverage, and seek competitive quotes from multiple insurance companies. Take charge of your insurance needs and secure the protection you deserve.

The post Understanding the rising cost of home insurance and the way out from under it. first appeared on Statewide Insurance Agency.

January 8th, 2023

Home insurance cost in Oklahoma started rising dramatically in the early part of 2022.  I have to stress that no one company is best for all consumers and that is why an Independent Insurance Agent representing multiple companies has the best chance of saving you money without sacrificing quality coverage.  With that said, here is my current ranking of home insurance companies in Oklahoma.

#1:  United Home Insurance Company (UHIC).  UHIC is a smaller, regional company out of Arkansas that has been around for over 100 years.  They do an excellent job with claims and they are an excellent solution for homes built after 1970 and Dwelling Coverages under $600,000.  UHIC oftentimes has great car insurance rates to go with their good home rates.

#2: “Openly” aka Rock Ridge Insurance Company.  This is a relatively new company; however, they have very strong financial backing, their coverage’s are superior to almost all other companies and, oftentimes,  they have the best rate.  It would be fair to question the long term ability of Openly to price this competitively; however, all companies seem to have this struggle in Oklahoma with regard to home insurance.  Openly likes high value homes and they are sometimes an excellent solution for homes that are over 2500 s.f.  They are very particular on who they insure so they are not a solution for everyone.

#3:  Travelers Insurance

#4:  State Farm

#5:  AAA Insurance

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January 17, 2022

Here is my latest assessment of home insurance in Oklahoma…

1.  I am staying with Safeco as #1 for the reasons stated below.
2. “Openly” aka Rock Ridge Insurance Company.  This is a relatively new company; however, they have very strong financial backing, their coverage’s are superior to almost all other companies and, oftentimes,  they have the best rate.  It would be fair to question the long term ability of Openly to price this competitively; however, all companies seem to have this struggle in Oklahoma with regard to home insurance.
3.  Allstate
4. Travelers
5. AAA
6. State Farm
7. Farmers

We represent Safeco, Openly, Allstate and Travelers but not AAA, State Farm or Farmers

Homeowners Insurance in Oklahoma Update:  January 10, 2021

Here is my latest assessment of homeowners insurance in Oklahoma…

1.  Safeco Insurance:  I’m leaving Safeco at #1 for preferred auto and home bundled packages.  Their home price/coverage is excellent and their car insurance is good.  Their claim service is outstanding.
2. United Home Insurance:  They are new to my list…they offer excellent coverage and an excellent price.  The downside is that they are a much smaller, regional company.  Historically, I have felt that smaller companies were more prone to have unstable rates on a long-term basis; however, we are seeing instability from all the big companies so this “downside” may be more in my head than it is a reality!  The other downside is that United Home’s car insurance usually is not real competitive.  This is overcome by the fact that I have many other companies that would love to do your car insurance and with very good pricing.  As a result, based upon great rates and solid coverage, I place United Home at #2.  Also, United Home’s maximum dwelling coverage is $500,000.
3. Allstate Insurance:  They have aggressive growth strategies in Oklahoma and so their pricing is good in some areas for some consumers…I’m not sure about their rate stability and consumers should ask about discounts that diminish or totally go away after the first year!
4. State Farm Insurance:  I’m lowering State Farm just because I think, most of the time, you are paying more than you need to just for the name.  It seems like many State Farm customers are with them because they think other companies are not going to pay their claims as they should and this just isn’t true.   They offer excellent service and good long term value for some consumers.  Their pricing varies quite a bit but they are worthy of consideration.
5. AAA Insurance:  Their pricing and coverage are worth of consideration.  The downside is that you usually be dealing with an 800 number after you purchase the coverage and they will probably never review your renewal offer in later years.

Von Nix

Statewide Insurance Agency dba Okhomeinsurance.com

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Oklahoma Home Insurance Cost Update:  August 4, 2020

Two very important things have happened in the last 60 days.  First Safeco Insurance has introduced lower pricing on their home insurance and second, Progressive Insurance implemented a fairly large rate increase.  As a result, this is the way I now view the competitive position of home insurance companies in Oklahoma…

1.  Safeco Insurance:  Strong home insurance price, excellent coverages and their claim service is doing great.  The Safeco car insurance is competitive also so bundled deals are good.
2. State Farm Insurance:  They offer excellent service and good long term value for some consumers.  Their pricing varies quite a bit but they are worthy of consideration.
3. Allstate Insurance:  They have aggressive growth strategies in Oklahoma and so their pricing is good in some areas for some consumers…I’m not sure about their rate stability and consumers should ask about discounts that diminish or totally go away after the first year!
4. Progressive Insurance:  They will still be the best on a few home insurance deals and their car insurance is usually the best for drivers with excellent records!
5. Travelers Insurance:  They have excellent coverages and claim service and are competitive on many home and car insurance bundles in Oklahoma.

• Disclosure – Statewide Insurance Agency represents Progressive, Safeco and Travelers but not State Farm or Allstate.

Update: February 23, 2020

Here is my latest update for home insurance in Oklahoma….*

1.  Progressive Insurance:  They still offer an excellent value and are a good long term choice for many consumers
2. Safeco Insurance (a Liberty Mutual Company):  This is, by far, the biggest change on my update.  Bundling discounts with Safeco pretty much require you to place your home and car insurance with them; however, their package is going to be very strong for consumers with good credit and good loss history.
3. State Farm Insurance:  They offer excellent service and good long term value for some consumers.  Their pricing varies quite a bit but they are worthy of consideration.
4. Allstate Insurance:  They have aggressive growth strategies in Oklahoma and so their pricing is good in some areas for some consumers…I’m not sure about their rate stability and consumers should ask about discounts that diminish or totally go away after the first year!
5. Encompass Insurance (an Allstate Insurance Company):  For many years Encompass was the “high value home” solution offered by Allstate.  Now Encompass is available for dwelling coverage as low as $150,000 and as high as $3M.  They have excellent coverages and they are becoming increasingly competitive.

• Disclosure – Statewide Insurance Agency represents Progressive, Safeco and Encompass but not State Farm or Allstate.

Update:  November 15, 2019

Keep in mind that no one company is the best for all consumers and that is why we represent multiple name brand insurance companies.  HOWEVER, with that said, I will also tell you that Progressive Insurance is dominating new business sales for Oklahoma homeowners insurance and Oklahoma car insurance.  They are the best solution for about 65% of our new policies.  Furthermore, they are strong in car insurance as well as home insurance.  Progressive is also very conservative in their underwriting which gives us confidence that they will be competitive provider long term for preferred customers.  10 years ago, many consumers saw Progressive as a “high risk” company….that has changed in the last 5 to 10 years and they are focused on the preferred home and car insurance markets in Oklahoma and across the U.S.

Update: 1-12-2019

The Oklahoma homeowners insurance market continues to change in Oklahoma so I’m going to revise my ranking of companies….

1. Progressive Insurance:  They still offer an excellent value and are a good long term choice for many consumers.
2. Travelers Insurance:  Conservative underwriting practices has resulted in fewer rate increases relative to their competition….stable and committed to Oklahoma.
3. Allstate Insurance:  They have aggressive growth strategies in Oklahoma and so their pricing is good in some areas for some consumers…I’m not sure about their rate stability.
4. State Farm Insurance:  They offer excellent service and good long term value for some consumers.  Their pricing varies quite a bit but they are worthy of consideration.
5. Safeco Insurance ( a Liberty Mutual Company):  They offer excellent claim service and they are very friendly to do business with.  Some of their pricing on new policies is a challenge;  however, Safeco’s car insurance is sometimes tough to beat.  As a result, auto and home bundles can still be very competitive with Safeco Insurance.

Oklahoma home insurance rates increased roughly 30% during a 5 year period ending in 2017 despite the fact that our weather was pretty good in 2014 – 2017.

cheap home insurance edmond

These increases have Oklahoma homeowners scrambling to find quality home insurance with stable companies without the high cost that many insurers are still trying to charge.

In our opinion, the following 5 companies offer the greatest home insurance value in Oklahoma and, in our opinion, these companies will have the best chance of saving Oklahoma consumers money as you seek quotes for your homeowners insurance needs. All  5 of these companies offer outstanding coverage, excellent claims service,  they usually have a lower cost than competitors and they offer good rates on car and home insurance bundles.  

     1.  Progressive Insurance

     2.  Safeco Insurance ( a Liberty Mutual Company)

     3.  Travelers Insurance

     4.  State Farm Insurance

     5. Allstate Insurance   

Statewide Insurance Agency represents Progressive, Safeco and Travelers Insurance but not State Farm or Allstate.  

Statewide Insurance Agency

okstatewide.com

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Homeowners coverage provides financial protection against loss due to disasters, theft and accidents. Most standard policies include four essential types of coverage: Coverage for the structure of your home; Coverage for your personal belongings; Liability protection; Coverage for Additional Living Expenses

The post What does your home insurance cover? first appeared on Statewide Insurance Agency.

Travelers, Safeco and Progressive Insurance are 3 of our favorite homeowners insurance and automobile insurance providers to quote and sell in Oklahoma because…..

1. they offer excellent coverages

2. their claim service is what you expect it to be and

3. they offer rate stability….they don’t price gouge you on your renewal.

You can always get a quote easily on our website. Click here to get one now.

Most Independent Insurance Agents represent 10 or more companies homeowner insurance companies in Oklahoma and they are usually willing to quote any of them.  That is where Statewide Insurance Agency is different….we only quote products of companies with proven track records of price,  coverage and service stability.

Furthermore, you do not have to ask us to review your home insurance policy when it renews…..we do it automatically as one of the agencies most important processes.

Please consider Statewide Insurance Agency the next time you need a quote on your home or car insurance in Oklahoma.

The post Compare Home Insurance Quotes in Oklahoma City first appeared on Statewide Insurance Agency.

Request a Home Insurance Quote Now..
https://okstatewide.com/get-a-quote/home/

The post Request a Home and/or Auto Insurance Quote Now! first appeared on Statewide Insurance Agency.

Even a small leak can become a major problem, so knowing what you’re covered for and how to prevent water damage are equally important.  The below tips should help uncover any potential water problems down the road and keep your property dry this summer.

• Check appliance hoses.
  • Standard hoses are not as durable as they used to be. 
  • Replace rubber hoses with steel-braided hoses.
  • This is a low cost fix that can save thousands in water damage. 
• Broken tiles in the shower can allow water to leak into the walls or on the floor.
  • Replace cracked tiles and re-grout when needed. 
• Run dishwasher and washing machine only when you are home. 
  • If a leak occurs, you can turn the appliance off right away. 
• When on vacation, turn off the main water supply to your house. 
• Keep storm drains near your house clear of leaves. 
• Install a gutter guard.
  • This can prevent a rooftop disaster caused by drain clogs, and also prevents flooding by water that isn’t carried away from the house. 
• Install a water pressure gauge.
  • An inexpensive gauge can prevent damage caused by water pressure that’s too high. 
  • Pressure should be between 60 and 80 PSI. 
• Have the correct insurance coverage.
  • We currently represent and offer free Home, Auto & Renters insurance quotes from over 10 different companies!
  • By doing so, we are able to find the company that is best for you.

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