Does my Homeowners' policy cover me for flood damage?
No, the standard Homeowner's policy specifically excludes damage caused by ground level water.  However, some companies allow you to "buy back" coverage, by offering endorsements that provide limited amounts for the failure of sump pumps to keep up with water back up of sewers and drains.  Ask your agent about including this coverage on your policy.

The only way to cover your home effectively in the event of a catastrophic flood loss in your area is to purchase a Flood Insurance Policy. Any area can be susceptible to the unrelenting and unpredictable force of water.  Even if you have no reason to believe your house is in a flood zone, the possibility of ground level water washing away your house is present.  Remember, over 70% of the earth's surface is water, and it will find a way through even the smallest of cracks.  That little brook in your back yard can swell to a river given the right conditions.  Inquire with your agent to find out what you will need to start a Flood Policy.  Also, visit Floodsmart.gov, the official site for the National Flood Insurance Program to educate yourself before the worst happens.

What credits am I eligible for?
Due to the new managed competition set forth in Massachsetts auto insurance in April of 2008 companies are now able to provide their own discounts rather than those mandated by the state. Our agency represents the top companies insuring cars in MA, and it is a great time for consumers to find new and improved ways to save.

In order to show their appreciation for customer loyalty, some companies have provided generous credits for staying with them over the years as well as insuring your home and auto together. Also new in 2008 are discounts for Good Students and Students Away at School, so before you throw that transcript up on the fridge, make a copy and send it in so your young drivers can be rewarded for their hard work. The old standards you have become accustomed remain available as well, you can save by being a member of Motor Clubs (i.e. AAA) or Alumni Associations, maintaining an alarm device, driving less than 7,500 miles per year, or using a T pass every month.

With homeowners' policies each company offers proprietary discounts.  Make sure your agent knows if there are no smokers in your home, when important renovations were made, or if you have a central station reporting alarm.  Again loyalty goes a long way, most companies offer credits for having your home and auto with the same company and staying with the same insurer year after year.

Deductibles are a great way to save money as well.  A deductible is the portion of a covered loss that you pay.  By taking more financial responsibility upon yourself, companies are able to offer more favorable rates.  Ask for the options available.

Is debris removal covered?
Debris removal is covered on a homeowners' policy, but on a limited basis.  For a full description of what is provided, consult your policy and refer any questions or concerns to your agent.  In many cases increased provisions for debris removal can be added to your policy for an additional premium.  Feel free to consult your agent on this topic.

 I'm buying a car, how do I know if I'm getting a fair deal?
The "National Automobile Dealers Association" or the N.A.D.A provides consumers with helpful tools to use when purchasing a car.  Visit the N.A.D.A. Guide Online to check values for new and used vehicles, compare prices and get informed before you buy.

The N.A.D.A Guide is for educational and information gathering purposes.  The information found on this guide does not guarantee a sale price.  Use this guide to arm yourself with knowledge before you buy your next car.

Check auto values here:

I just moved, how do I notify the registry of my new address?
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles is online, and now you can update personal information, renew your license and registration, and more.

RMV online is also a great place to check on Registry procedures and printout available forms that you might need.  You can even visit the RMV website to check on branch hours and wait times.

My teenager is getting their learners' permit should I add them to my policy?
Not yet.  A new driver can not be added to your policy until they are issued a Massachusetts drivers' license.  While they are learning on their permit they are covered to drive your vehicle subject to the rules of MA State Law.  Details of MA State Law can be found on the Junior Operator & Permit FAQ's section of the RMV online.

Many people have concerns about adding young drivers to their policy.  Watching our children drive away for the first time can be an emotional experience, so make sure they are prepared.  In Control is the advanded driver training course in Massachusetts, and not only does it prepare new drivers for the "mean streets" of Mass driving, sending them to this experience based program benefits your insurance premium as well. Auto insurance companies are offering discounts for young drivers succesfully completing the In Control course.

Since the new MA auto rule changes took place in April 2008 discounts are now available for younger drivers with good grades and while they are away at school starting. Talk to your agent about what it takes to qualify for these discounts.

For more helpful hints visit the Insurance Information Institute, about how to get your teenagers ready for the great responsibility of driving.

Ask a professional 

The form below is for your convenience.  If you have any questions not answered above feel free to submit them below, and one of our customer representatives will get back to you.

You may also submit a claim using this form.  However, please keep in mind for the most prompt response please report claims to the company using the methods described in your policy. Each company handles claims differently so feel free to call us if you have a question. You can also find some helpful information on our Contact page.

When submitting a claim please be sure to fill-in all of your contact information.  Especially your name and phone number so we can get back to you promptly. Be as descriptive as possible about what happened.