Kelley Insurance Blog

Six Overlooked Items You Should Add to Your Home Inventory

Mon, 04 Aug 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Creating a home inventory is one of the smartest steps you can take to prepare for the possibility of a future insurance claim. If your belongings are damaged or stolen, a detailed list makes it easier to verify losses and can speed up the claims process. While most people remember to include furniture, electronics, and appliances, there are a few often-overlooked items that can make a big difference.

Here are six things you might be forgetting in your home inventory, and why you should add them now.

1. Clothing and Accessories

Most people underestimate how much their wardrobe is worth. Coats, suits, shoes, handbags, and even everyday clothing can add up quickly. High-end or designer items may even need to be scheduled separately for proper coverage. Be sure to include seasonal clothing, like winter gear stored in the basement or garage, and take photos of anything of significant value.

2. Tools and Lawn Equipment

Power tools, lawnmowers, snow blowers, and garden tools are easy to forget, especially if they’re stored in the garage or shed. These items can be expensive to replace and are often targeted in thefts. Include any major outdoor equipment in your inventory, and don’t forget about toolboxes and specialty gear you’ve collected over time.

3. Kitchenware and Small Appliances

From stand mixers and espresso machines to cast iron pans and chef’s knives, kitchen items can be surprisingly costly to replace. Smaller appliances like toasters, air fryers, or blenders often get overlooked but should be included, especially if they’re high-end brands. Also consider specialty utensils, dinnerware sets, fine china, and bakeware collections that have accumulated over the years.

4. Hobby Equipment

Whether it’s photography gear, musical instruments, crafting tools, or sports equipment, hobby-related items can be worth hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Make sure to document these, including make, model, and serial numbers where applicable. Items like bicycles, golf clubs, or camping gear are also commonly stored out of sight but shouldn’t be forgotten.

5. Jewelry and Collectibles

While high-value jewelry is often separately insured, everyday pieces and keepsakes are sometimes left off inventories. The same goes for collectibles, whether it’s comic books, records, figurines, or family heirlooms. These items may not always be replaceable, but documenting them helps support your claim if damage or theft occurs.

6. Electronics and Entertainment Gear

Electronics are some of the most valuable items in a home, but they’re often under-documented in home inventories. Computers, tablets, speakers, gaming consoles, and streaming devices can quickly add up in value, especially when you include accessories like monitors, external hard drives, and controllers.

Be sure to record make, model, and serial numbers whenever possible, and take clear photos of each item. Don’t forget smart home devices like thermostats, doorbell cameras, or voice assistants, which may be mounted or tucked into corners.

Update Your Inventory Before You Need It

A complete and up-to-date home inventory can make filing a claim faster, easier, and more accurate. Walk through your home with a camera and notebook, and store your inventory in a secure digital location. Contact us today for an insurance policy review to ensure your belongings are properly covered, especially the ones you might have overlooked.

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Here are six things you might be forgetting in your home inventory, and why you should add them now.

1. Clothing and Accessories

2. Tools and Lawn Equipment

3. Kitchenware and Small Appliances

4. Hobby Equipment

5. Jewelry and Collectibles

6. Electronics and Entertainment Gear

Update Your Inventory Before You Need It

How to Choose Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 21:49:09 GMT

Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for any home, so you should ensure that your house is equipped with them. You should have detectors in the main living areas on each floor, including in every bedroom and the kitchen. This way, you'll be able to identify problems in the most important areas as quickly as possible. However, not all detectors are the same. Here's what you need to know to pick appropriate ones for your home.

Types of Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

First, you'll need to choose between individual and combination devices. With individual devices, you'll have separate detectors for smoke and carbon monoxide. As you might have guessed, combination devices can detect both smoke and carbon monoxide from a single device. While combo options can be a bit more costly, they'll take up less space on your ceiling, keeping the overall look clean and uncluttered.

You'll also have to choose between wired and battery-powered options. In general, battery-powered detectors are cheaper and easier to install, though you'll need to replace the batteries periodically. It is also a smart idea to test them frequently to ensure they are working properly. If you opt for wired detectors, consider choosing the kind with backup batteries to ensure they continue working in the event of a power failure.

Finally, modern smoke and carbon monoxide detectors also come in smart versions. These devices connect to your home's internet connection, enabling you to monitor them from your smartphone or other mobile device. This way, you can check on your home while you are at work or out of town to ensure everything is safe. These devices tend to be the most expensive, but they'll also give you the greatest peace of mind, especially if you travel frequently.

Adding Sprinkler Systems

If you live in an area that is prone to fires, you may wish to add overhead sprinklers to your home as well. In fact, some jurisdictions actually require them, so be sure to check the laws in your area. Modern sprinkler systems can sync with your smoke detectors, activating the sprinklers in case of fire.

Upgrade Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Even if your home already has detectors in place, you may wish to upgrade them to more modern versions. This will give you the greatest amount of protection for both your home and your loved ones. You may even be able to save a bit of money on your home insurance. Get in touch with us to learn more.

How to Prepare Your Business for a Natural Disaster

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 07:00:00 GMT

Natural disasters can disrupt your operations, damage property, and cause long-term setbacks for your business. Whether you’re facing hurricanes, wildfires, floods, or severe winter storms, it’s essential to have a plan in place before an event occurs, not after.

While disasters can’t be avoided, smart preparation can help minimize the impact, reduce downtime, and speed up your recovery.

Reduce Property Vulnerabilities

Physical property is often the most vulnerable during a disaster, so it’s important to identify and address potential weak spots before they become problems. Start by walking through your building and looking for risks, like unsecured signage, overgrown trees, low-lying areas that could flood, or exterior materials that might not withstand high winds.

Simple steps like anchoring outdoor items, elevating sensitive equipment, and reinforcing windows can go a long way toward minimizing damage. If your business relies on expensive machinery, inventory, or specialized tools, consider how you might temporarily relocate them or shield them from harm in the event of a storm or fire.

Back Up Data and Key Records

Data loss is a hidden, but serious, consequence of many disasters. Damage to computers or servers can wipe out years of customer information, billing history, and other critical records. That’s why secure data backup is essential. Cloud-based storage is a smart, scalable solution that gives you access to your files even if your physical office is inaccessible. Make sure key employees know how to retrieve important data remotely, and test your backup systems periodically to confirm they’re working as expected.

Review and Understand Your Insurance Coverage

Your insurance policies play a major role in how well your business can recover from a disaster. Take time to review your current business insurance coverage and make sure it reflects your building’s value, your equipment, and your current business operations. As your company grows or changes, your policy should evolve as well.

It’s also important to understand what your policy does and does not include. Some standard commercial property insurance policies exclude flood or earthquake damage. If your area is at risk, you may want to consider a separate policy or endorsement. Documenting your assets with photos or video can also make the claims process much smoother if a loss occurs.

Create a Business Continuity Plan

A business continuity plan is your first line of defense against operational disruption. It outlines how your company will function during and after a disaster. This should include how you’ll communicate with employees, vendors, and customers; how and where work will continue if your physical location is inaccessible or unusable; and who will make critical decisions in an emergency.

Your plan should also cover how to access key systems remotely, how to handle payroll and billing interruptions, and where important records, like insurance policies, are stored. It’s important to train your team on the plan and review it regularly, particularly ahead of peak storm or wildfire seasons. A well-practiced plan can significantly reduce confusion when an emergency hits.

Don’t Forget About People

While protecting your property and operations is crucial, keeping your employees and customers safe should be the top priority. Make sure your team knows how to respond in an emergency, whether that means evacuating the building or sheltering in place. Assign roles to specific employees; for example, appoint someone to check restrooms or lead guests out and make sure your emergency supplies are stocked and easy to find.

Items like flashlights, first aid kits, bottled water, and extra phone chargers can make a real difference during a power outage or shelter-in-place situation. If you’re in an area that experiences frequent weather events, consider keeping a few days’ worth of non-perishable supplies on hand just in case.

Start Preparing Today

You can’t control when or where a natural disaster will occur, but you can take meaningful steps to lessen the impact on your business in case one does impact your business. With the right plans, systems, and business insurance in place, you’ll be better equipped to recover quickly and limit financial loss.

Simple Household Pest Control Methods

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 21:49:09 GMT

No one likes the thought of having pests in their home, whether they be rodents, cockroaches, ants, or any other common household pests. If pest activity is common in your area, it is important to take steps to prevent them from infesting your home. Try these tips to help keep pests at bay over the years.

Seal Off Access Points

The best way to prevent pest infestations is to stop the pests from ever getting inside your house in the first place. To do this, you'll need to ensure there is no way for them to gain access. Check the weather stripping around your doors and windows, and ensure all vents are covered with screens. This includes in the eaves around your roof, as attics are common homes for pests.

Store Food Properly

Pests typically come inside looking for sources of food, so your goal is to make that task as challenging for them as possible. Once you have opened a package of food, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container rather than leaving it in the package. Pantries are the most common areas for pests to look for food, so make sure everything is sealed up tightly. The same goes for pet food. Invest in a storage container or choose pet food that comes in a resealable bag. If possible, keep it inside the house rather than in the garage.

Use Natural Deterrents

Before you resort to chemical pest control substances, try planting some natural pest deterrents, such as mint, basil, and lavender. Your local nursery or garden store can help you select varieties that are appropriate to the climate in your area, so don't be shy about asking. They can also advise you as to how to properly care for the plants to maximize their pest-deterring properties.

Know When to Call in the Professionals

Despite your best efforts, you may still end up with pests in your home. Particularly with wood borers, such as termites and carpenter ants, time is of the essence in getting rid of them to prevent damage. You generally won't be able to get rid of these types of pests on your own, so be sure to call in a pest control expert right away if you suspect you have an infestation. Regular visits from your pest control service can help keep most other common pests away as well, so you may wish to consider investing in an ongoing service if pests are a constant problem in your home.

Backyard Safety Tips for Fire, Water, and Everything in Between

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 15:44:42 GMT

Flipping burgers on a grill by RDNE Stock project

Summer is the perfect season for outdoor entertaining, family cookouts, and poolside relaxation. With more time spent outside comes more exposure to risks that could lead to accidents and insurance claims. From fire pits and pools to trampolines and grills, backyard features should be enjoyed responsibly. Here are practical tips to help keep your home and guests safe, while protecting your investment in the process.

Fire Pit Safety

Fire pits create a cozy outdoor atmosphere, but they can also pose serious hazards if not used with caution. Always place fire pits on a stable, non-combustible surface like stone or concrete, never directly on grass or a wooden deck. Position them at least 10 feet away from your home, fencing, or other structures.

Make sure flames are kept low and manageable, especially on windy nights. Keep children and pets at a safe distance and never leave a fire unattended. A bucket of water, a garden hose, or a fire extinguisher should always be within reach in case of emergencies. After the fun ends, extinguish the fire fully using water, and stir the ashes to ensure no embers remain.

Grill Safety

Grilling is a summer tradition, but it’s also one of the most common sources of outdoor home fires. Place your grill in an open area, away from siding, overhangs, and flammable materials. Regularly clean the grill to prevent grease buildup, which is a major fire hazard. For gas grills, inspect the hose and connections before each use to detect leaks or damage.

Avoid lighting the grill with the lid closed, and never leave it unattended while cooking. Use long-handled tools to minimize the risk of burns, and designate a child-free zone around the grill that’s at least three feet wide. After cooking, ensure coals are completely cooled before disposing of them.

Pool Safety

Pools offer fun and relief from the heat, but they also come with increased liability. Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury death in children, so constant supervision is key. The best way to keep unsupervised children from accessing your pool is to install a four-sided fence at least four feet high with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Always watch children and pets near water, and consider installing a pet-safe pool ramp or teaching your pets how to find the steps.

Keep lifesaving devices like floatation rings and a reaching pole nearby. Teach children to swim, and consider enrolling in CPR certification courses. Also, don’t overlook chemical storage; keep pool cleaning supplies locked up and away from kids and pets. Finally, check your homeowners insurance policy to confirm that your pool and liability limits are adequate.

Trampoline Safety

Trampolines are a popular source of backyard fun, but they also account for thousands of ER visits each year. Always use a safety net enclosure and soft padding to reduce injury risk. Only allow one jumper at a time and prohibit dangerous stunts that could result in head, neck, and other injuries. Make sure the trampoline is on level ground and placed far away from trees, fences, and other obstacles. Regularly inspect it for worn springs, holes in the mat, and rust on the frame.

Make Safety Part of the Summer Routine

Your backyard should be a place for relaxation, not regret. With a little planning and awareness, you can reduce the risk of injury, protect your home, and avoid costly insurance claims. Safety doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fun, it just means being prepared. Contact us today for an insurance review and make sure your coverage matches your backyard lifestyle.

Keep your Home Safe While You're Away with These 5 Tips

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 21:49:09 GMT

Are you planning your next big family vacation? Maybe you’re traveling for business, or need to be away from home for a few days. Although we don't like to think about the possibility of our home being damaged or burglarized while we're away, it's something to consider to ensure that it stays safe - and in one piece for your return.

Check out our five tips for ensuring that your home is safe while you're away.

Be sure to check all outlets before you leave. This may sound like a no-brainer, but checking all of the electrical outlets before you leave your home is a must. If you leave something that creates heat plugged in, like a curling iron or coffee pot, it could result in a fire. Taking a few minutes to do a once-over before you leave to ensure that all appliances are unplugged before you leave will give you peace of mind.
Lock all doors and all windows, even the ones that you don't think are easily accessible. One of the biggest mistakes that homeowners make is not checking all of their doors and windows before they leave. You want to be sure to check even the doors that you don't think are accessible from the outside - like the doors to your home from your attached garage, and other internal entrance points, like from your basement to your main level. This will ensure that you have various levels of protection in the event of a break in.
If you normally leave the blinds open, do so. You want to leave things looking as normal as possible, and not leave any reason for passersby to think that you're gone. Keep your home safe by leaving some blinds open to give people the impression that someone is still in the home.
Stop the mail for the time period that you're gone. Like we mentioned in the previous tip, you want to give the impression that you're still home. If passersby see that your mailbox is bursting at the seams, they might get the idea that you're gone, which is exactly what you want to avoid. Stop your mail delivery for the time period that you're gone, so that you don't have to worry about people becoming suspicious.
Insure your home properly. With proper home insurance, you can travel in peace. Be sure to talk with Kelley Insurance about the right coverage for your home.

Now go enjoy a much-needed vacation!

4 Valuable Tips for Traveling Safely With Your Pets

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 21:49:09 GMT

For many people, pets are just as much a part of the family as humans! Since our pets are valued family members, it's important to consider their safety while traveling. Whether they're traveling with you to the in-laws for the next holiday, or just traveling to the vet, we have a few important tips to help you travel safely with your pets. After all, they are precious cargo!

Keep your pets safe and secure during the drive. Although their pitiful stares are enough to make you want to let them out of their crate, the risk isn't worth the reward. When traveling, you should always be sure to keep your pet safe in their crate to ensure that disaster doesn't strike if you were to be in an accident. If your pet is small enough for a crate, you should choose one with plenty of ventilation and an open spot for them to keep eye contact with you. This will help to keep them calm during their ride!
Never leave your animal alone in the car - no matter how long you plan on being gone. Just a few minutes in a hot parked car is enough to make your pet sick, or worse, kill them. Hot cars are no place for your animal, and if you park and exit your vehicle at any time, your pet should come with you. You can never know exactly how long you'll be gone, and it's not worth the risk to leave them alone.
Prep your vehicle with everything it needs. You should be sure to keep your vehicle fully stocked with your pet's important supplies any time you go on a road trip. Items to consider include a food dish, a water dish, extra food, a bottle or two of water, a waste scoop, bags for cleanup, and first aid. These items will help you stay calm and provide for your pet if you were to have an unexpected detour or have to make a food or waste stop along the way. You should also be sure that your vehicle is insured properly in case of an accident.
Prepare your pet for the car. Before your road trip, try preparing your pet by taking them on a few shorter trips. This will get them used to the sound of your vehicle, the sound of the road, and the feeling of movement.

With these four tips, you're sure to keep your pet safe on your next road trip! When you know they're safe, you can relax, which makes the drive more enjoyable for everyone involved. Now get out there and travel with your four-legged best friend!

Common Commercial Insurance Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Mon, 16 Jun 2025 15:23:08 GMT

Computer desk with office equipment by Lisa from Pexels

Running a business comes with plenty of challenges, and insurance is one area where mistakes can be costly. From underinsuring key assets to misunderstanding policy exclusions, commercial insurance missteps can leave your business exposed to financial loss. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just getting started, here are some of the most common insurance mistakes along with tips to avoid them.

1. Underinsuring Your Business Property

Many businesses only insure property based on purchase price or outdated estimates. But construction costs, equipment prices, and inventory values can rise over time. If you suffer a loss and your coverage doesn’t reflect your property’s true value, you may be left paying out of pocket.

How to avoid it: Make sure your property is insured at replacement cost, not actual cash value. Conduct regular reviews to update building, contents, and inventory limits.

2. Choosing the Wrong Deductible

It’s tempting to choose a higher deductible to lower your premium, but that can backfire in the event of a claim. If the deductible is more than your business can comfortably pay, you might delay repairs or go without needed replacements.

How to avoid it: Select a deductible that balances affordability with financial protection. We can help explore different options to find the right fit.

3. Overlooking Liability Exposures

Not all liability is covered by a standard general liability policy. For example, professional services, cyber threats, and employee-related claims may require separate coverage.

How to avoid it: Identify all potential exposures, including cyber, employment practices, and professional errors. Talk with one of our agents to help identify any coverage gaps.

4. Failing to Update Policies After Business Changes

Growing your team, expanding your services, or purchasing new equipment all affect your risk profile. If you don’t update your policy to reflect these changes, your coverage may fall short when you need it most.

How to avoid it: Schedule annual policy reviews and reach out anytime your business undergoes a major change, we’ll help ensure your coverage keeps up.

5. Assuming Home-Based Businesses Are Covered by Homeowners Insurance

If you run your business from home, don’t assume your homeowners policy covers business-related losses. In many cases, it doesn’t.

How to avoid it: Ask about a home-based business endorsement or a standalone business policy that protects your equipment, liability, and income.

6. Not Getting Proof of Insurance from Vendors or Subcontractors

If a subcontractor causes damage or injury, your business could be held liable if that subcontractor is not properly insured.

How to avoid it: Always request a certificate of insurance from vendors or subcontractors and ensure it includes sufficient limits and the appropriate coverage types.

Protect Your Business the Right Way

Avoiding these common mistakes starts with a clear understanding of your risks and an insurance policy tailored to your business. The right coverage can give you peace of mind and empower you to grow with confidence. Contact us today for a business insurance review, and let’s make sure your business is insured where it counts.

Insurance Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 14:12:06 GMT

Aerial view of a neighborhood by David McBee

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a learning curve, especially when it comes to homeowners insurance. With so many options and coverages to consider, it’s important to understand what you're buying and how to make sure your new investment is properly protected.

Here are a few tips every first-time homebuyer should know when shopping for homeowners insurance.

Know What Your Policy Actually Covers

Many standard homeowners insurance policies include four main types of protection: your home’s structure (the dwelling), personal belongings, liability coverage, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss. However, every policy has exclusions and limitations.

For instance, damage from floods or earthquakes usually requires separate coverage. And your personal property coverage may have sub-limits for high-value items like jewelry, artwork, or electronics. Review the policy in detail and ask questions about what’s included, and what isn’t. Knowing your coverage ahead of time prevents surprises when you file a claim.

Don’t Just Focus on Price

While budget is always a factor, choosing the lowest premium shouldn’t be your only consideration. A cheaper policy may come with higher deductibles, less comprehensive coverage, or lower limits, leaving you vulnerable when it matters most. Instead, you may want to look for a policy that provides replacement cost coverage (not actual cash value), so you’re reimbursed for the full cost to repair or replace items without depreciation.

Ask About Additional Coverage Options

If your home is in a flood zone or earthquake-prone area, you’ll likely need an additional flood insurance policy for that type of coverage. You may also want to consider endorsements or riders (additions to your policy) for things like sewer backup, identity theft protection, or extended replacement cost coverage. Optional add-ons vary by insurer, so it’s worth discussing your home’s unique needs with your agent to ensure you're not leaving gaps in coverage.

Update Your Policy as Your Life Changes

Your homeowners insurance policy should evolve with you. If you make upgrades to your home, like finishing a basement, remodeling a kitchen, or adding a deck, you may need to adjust your dwelling coverage to reflect the increased value.

Likewise, buying new furniture, electronics, or valuables might require increasing your personal property limits. An annual insurance review can help ensure you’re properly insured if something unexpected happens.

We’re Here to Help You Start Off Right

As a first-time homebuyer, understanding your insurance coverage can help you avoid costly gaps in protection. With the right coverage in place, you can enjoy your new home with peace of mind. Contact us today for a personalized home insurance review and get the protection you need as you step into homeownership.

How Regular Equipment Maintenance Can Help Prevent Costly Claims

Wed, 21 May 2025 19:34:17 GMT

Front-end loader in front of rocks by Pixabay

For many businesses, equipment is the engine that keeps operations running. Whether it’s commercial HVAC units, manufacturing machinery, kitchen appliances, or company vehicles, equipment failures can bring work to a halt, and in some cases, trigger insurance claims with potentially high deductibles. That’s why regular equipment maintenance is about more than efficiency. It’s a key risk management strategy that can protect your bottom line.

Maintenance and Risk Reduction Go Hand in Hand

Not all equipment is created equal, and neither are maintenance needs. A restaurant's refrigeration systems require different care than a contractor’s power tools or a retail store’s security system. That’s why it’s important to create a maintenance plan tailored to the specific demands of your business. Work with your vendors, technicians, or facilities team to develop a schedule that aligns with manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices. Customizing your approach ensures you’re focusing attention where it matters most, and minimizing the risk of operational disruptions and insurance claims related to neglected assets.

Well-maintained equipment is less likely to fail unexpectedly, cause injury, or lead to property damage. For example, a neglected air conditioning unit might leak and cause water damage, or an unmaintained forklift might malfunction and injure an employee. These kinds of preventable incidents are not only costly, but can impact your insurance. Routine maintenance allows you to catch small problems before they become major issues. Scheduling regular inspections and tune-ups for essential systems ensures your equipment stays in compliance, performs reliably, and poses less of a risk to your operations.

Boost Safety and Productivity

Beyond protecting your insurance record, proactive maintenance also improves workplace safety and operational uptime. Employees who rely on faulty tools or machinery are more likely to experience injuries. On the flip side, dependable equipment keeps productivity on track and reduces the likelihood of last-minute shutdowns. Businesses with fewer incidents and better loss histories may also qualify for lower insurance rates over time.

Protect Your Investment, Reduce Your Risk

Staying on top of equipment maintenance isn’t just good business, it’s a vital part of your risk management strategy. Don’t wait for a breakdown or accident to evaluate your coverage. Contact us today for a commercial insurance review and learn how to better protect your business from avoidable losses.