Laskowski Insurance Agency Blog

Keeping Your Commercial Property Prepared for Severe Weather

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Severe weather events like hurricanes, snowstorms, wildfires, hailstorms, or heavy rain can cause major damage to commercial properties and disrupt business operations. For property owners, facility managers, and tenants alike, being prepared ahead of time is key to minimizing risk and recovering more quickly if something goes wrong. Here are some steps you can take toward keeping your commercial property prepared for severe weather and helping ensure your commercial insurance coverage aligns with the potential risks.

Inspect and Maintain the Building Exterior and Interior

Start with the basics: your roof, siding, windows, and doors. These are your first line of defense against wind, rain, and flying debris. Make sure roofing materials are secure, gutters and drains are clear of debris, and windows are properly sealed. Reinforce doors, especially roll-up or glass entry doors, which are more vulnerable in high-wind events. If your property includes signage, fencing, or exterior lighting, ensure these elements are anchored firmly. Even small, loose items can become dangerous projectiles in a windstorm.

Trim trees and remove dead limbs around the building that could fall in high winds or under heavy snow. Secure loose outdoor furniture, dumpsters, pallets, or equipment that could shift or blow away. If flooding is a concern in your area and heavy rain is in the forecast, install sandbags, barriers, or water diversion systems near entry points. Be sure any exterior drainage systems are working properly and not blocked by landscaping or debris.

Protect Equipment and Interior Assets

Move sensitive equipment, electronics, and inventory away from windows or ground-level areas that could flood. If you have the option, store high-value items on higher floors or on raised platforms. Install surge protectors or backup power systems to protect against outages. For businesses with critical systems (like servers, refrigeration, or manufacturing equipment), having a power loss contingency plan is essential. This could include battery backups, generators, or pre-arranged service from emergency contractors.

Review Your Emergency Response Plan

Every commercial property should have an up-to-date emergency plan that outlines evacuation procedures, shutoff locations for utilities, key contacts, and roles for building staff or tenants. Share the plan with all occupants, and conduct seasonal reviews or drills to keep everyone informed and ready.

If your building has multiple tenants, coordinate with the others to ensure their emergency actions don’t conflict with yours, especially in shared areas like lobbies, elevators, or garages.

Check Your Insurance Coverage Before the Storm Hits

Severe weather often exposes gaps in insurance policies. Review your commercial property insurance to confirm your current limits, deductibles, and exclusions. Pay special attention to coverage for wind, hail, water damage, and business interruption. If your building is in a flood-prone area, remember that not all commercial property insurance policies cover flood damage. You may need to secure separate flood insurance to fill that gap.

A few proactive steps today can help prevent major losses tomorrow, and may even improve your chances of a smooth insurance claims process if something does go wrong. Contact us today for a commercial property insurance review and make sure your coverage aligns with the risks your property faces year-round.

How to Extend the Life of Your Roof with Regular Maintenance

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 17:40:04 GMT

Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, protecting you from the elements and keeping your family safe. However, it’s often an overlooked aspect of home maintenance. With proper care and attention, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your roof, saving money and avoiding costly repairs down the line. Here’s how to keep your roof in top shape.

Keep a Close Eye on Your Roof’s Condition

Regular inspections are key to catching problems early. Small issues like cracked or missing shingles can quickly escalate into bigger problems if left unchecked. Walk around your home periodically and look for visible signs of damage, such as sagging areas, discoloration, or loose shingles. After severe weather, take extra care to inspect your roof for damage caused by wind or hail.

Don’t forget the underside of your roof. Check your attic for signs of leaks or water stains, which can indicate problems that may not be visible from the outside. Regular checks can help address minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.

Focus on Proper Water Drainage

Water is one of your roof’s biggest enemies, and keeping your drainage system clear is essential. Clogged gutters can cause water to pool on your roof, leading to leaks, mold, and structural damage. Make it a habit to clean your gutters at least twice a year, particularly during the fall and spring when debris buildup is common. Installing gutter guards can save time and reduce the frequency of cleanings. Ensure downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation to prevent flooding and water damage.

Moss and algae can weaken roofing materials and lead to premature aging. If you notice green or black streaks forming on your roof, it’s time to take action. Use a gentle cleaning solution designed for roofs or consult a professional to safely remove these growths. Preventative measures are equally important. Zinc or copper strips installed along the roof’s ridge can help deter moss and algae by releasing small amounts of mineral that inhibit growth when it rains. Keeping your roof clear of organic debris like leaves will also reduce the likelihood of growth.

Prevent Damage from Nearby Trees

Overhanging tree branches can potentially damage your roof. They can scrape against shingles, cause physical damage during storms, and drop debris that clogs gutters. Trimming branches that are too close to your roof is a simple but effective way to protect it. For large or high branches, it’s best to contact a professional tree-trimming service to ensure the job is done safely and without risking injury or damage to your home. Professionals have the tools and expertise needed to handle these tasks efficiently.

Beyond trimming, consider the types of trees near your home. Trees that shed frequently, such as pines or oaks, may require more regular attention to keep your roof clear of debris. Regular maintenance in this area can go a long way in preventing unnecessary wear and tear.

Protect Your Investment with Home Insurance

Routine maintenance and attention to detail will ensure your roof stays in great shape for years to come. Whether it’s cleaning gutters, trimming trees, or scheduling professional inspections, consistent care pays off. For additional peace of mind, ensure your home insurance policy provides adequate coverage for roof damage. Contact us today to review tailored insurance solutions that protect your investment.

Quick Tips to Protect Your Vehicle from Thieves

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Car theft is a frustrating and costly experience that affects thousands of vehicle owners each year. While most modern cars come equipped with advanced anti-theft features, thieves are becoming more sophisticated, making it essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your vehicle. Here are some practical tips to protect your car from being stolen and how the right auto insurance policy can provide an added layer of protection in case you fall victim to auto theft.

Practical Tips to Prevent Car Theft

Lock Your Doors and Roll Up Windows

It may seem obvious, but a significant number of thefts occur because vehicles are left unlocked or windows are partially open. Always double-check that your car is secure before leaving it unattended.
Park Smart

Opt for well-lit, high-traffic areas when parking your car. Thieves are less likely to target a vehicle in a location where they can be easily seen. Whenever possible, use secured parking lots or garages.
Don’t Leave Valuables Visible

Items like electronics, bags, or even loose change can attract thieves. Keep valuables out of sight, preferably locked in the trunk or removed from the vehicle altogether.
Install a Car Alarm or Anti-Theft Device

Audible alarms and steering wheel locks serve as strong deterrents for thieves. For additional security, consider advanced anti-theft systems like immobilizers or GPS tracking devices that can help locate your car if stolen.
Use Technology to Your Advantage

Modern tools like dash cams and vehicle tracking apps can alert you to suspicious activity and help authorities recover your car faster.
Keep Your Keys Secure

Never leave spare keys inside the vehicle or in obvious hiding spots. For keyless entry systems, consider storing your fob in a signal-blocking pouch to prevent relay attacks. (A relay attack is a method of using a device near your key fob to receive its signal and then forwarding that signal to your car so it can unlock or even start.)
Remove Your Garage Opener

If you park outside, don’t leave your garage door opener in your car. It could tempt thieves to break into your car and give them easy access to your home.
Keep Your Registration and Title Out of the Car

Storing these documents in your vehicle can make it easier for thieves to sell or impersonate ownership. Keep them in a secure location outside your car.
Avoid Leaving Your Engine Running Unattended

Even if you’re stepping away for just a moment or warming up your vehicle in your driveway, always turn off your engine and take your keys when you leave the vehicle. An unattended running car is an easy target.

How Insurance Protects You Against Theft

Even with the best precautions, car theft can still happen. If it does, and if you have insurance coverage, it’s essential to contact your insurance provider promptly, file a police report, and gather documentation such as the vehicle title or registration.

In such a situation, having the right insurance policy in place can help provide not only financial protection but also peace of mind. Reviewing your insurance policy regularly ensures you understand your coverage and can make any necessary updates based on your needs or changing life circumstances. Contact Laskowski Insurance Agency for a review of your auto insurance policy. We’ll help you understand your options and will make sure your coverage meets your needs, so you can drive (and park) with confidence.

The Annual Business Insurance Checklist: Is Your Coverage Up to Date?

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 18:57:21 GMT

At the beginning of the year, many business owners take the time to reflect on their accomplishments and plan for the future. While preparing for the year ahead, it’s easy to overlook one critical aspect of business planning: your business insurance coverage. Whether your company experienced growth, faced new challenges, or maintained steady operations, your insurance needs may have changed. Taking the time to review and update your policies now can save you from unexpected headaches and ensure your business is ready for whatever comes next.

Why a Annual Insurance Review Matters

Business insurance isn’t just about protection – it’s about peace of mind. From protecting your employees and assets to ensuring continuity in the face of unforeseen events, the right coverage is an essential part of any company’s success. An annual insurance review provides an opportunity to evaluate your current policies, address gaps in coverage, and confirm that your business is properly protected for the year ahead.

Review Changes to Your Business
Consider how your business has evolved. Have you added new locations, hired additional employees, or expanded your services? These changes can impact your insurance needs, so it’s crucial to ensure your policies reflect your current operations.
Evaluate Liability Coverage
With legal risks always on the horizon, it’s important to confirm your liability coverage is adequate. This includes general liability, professional liability, and product liability insurance, depending on your industry. Ensure your coverage limits align with your business’s current risk exposure.
Assess Property Coverage
If you’ve invested in new equipment, upgraded technology, or relocated to a new office, your property insurance policy may need an update. Verify that your coverage includes replacement costs for all your physical assets and that your current policy reflects any significant changes.
Revisit Employee Coverage
Have you hired new employees or adjusted roles within your organization? Ensure your workers’ compensation and any other employee-related coverage accounts for these updates. This is also a good time to review employee benefits and liability policies.
Address Cyber Risks
As cyber threats continue to rise, it’s essential to evaluate whether your current cyber liability insurance is sufficient. Consider expanding your coverage if your business has increased its reliance on digital operations or experienced cybersecurity concerns this year.
Look for Coverage Gaps
Review all your policies for potential gaps in coverage. For example, are you protected against natural disasters or business interruptions? Addressing these gaps now can save you significant costs and stress later.
Plan for Growth
If your business plans to expand, add new services, or enter new markets, make sure your insurance coverage will grow with you. Proactively updating your policies can protect your company as you scale.

Start the New Year with Confidence

By conducting a thorough annual review of your business insurance, you can start the year with confidence, knowing your company is properly insured. If you’re unsure where to start, www.laskowskiinsurance.com is here to help. Contact us today to review your policies and ensure your coverage is up to date, comprehensive, and ready to meet your business’s evolving needs.

Avoiding Water Issues in Your Home

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 18:36:45 GMT

Water damage is one of the worst problems that homeowners can run into. Not only can it be incredibly expensive to repair, depending on the extent of the damage, but it can also create the potential for mold and mildew to form. This can pose a serious health risk to you and your loved ones, especially if anyone has allergies, asthma, or other breathing problems. Follow these helpful tips to minimize your risk of water issues in and around your home.

Know Where the Shutoff Valve Is

Everyone in your home should know where the water supply shutoff valve is located. In many homes, it is in the garage, in the basement, or along the side of the house towards the front of the property. Make sure that everyone knows how to operate it as well. This way, if you encounter a burst pipe or other complication, you'll be able to turn off the water supply as quickly as possible to minimize the extent of the damage.

Maintain Your Sprinkler System

As long as your plants and lawn are healthy, you probably don't give much thought to your sprinkler system. However, this is one of the most common areas for burst pipes, as plant and tree roots are often strong enough to puncture the pipes and hoses throughout your sprinkler system. When your system is running, take the time to inspect your yard, looking for any areas that are especially wet, as this could be a sign of an underground leak. Fixing the leak not only prevents the damage from spreading to your home but stops your water bills from skyrocketing as well.

Winterize All Outdoor Pipes and Faucets

If you live in an area that is prone to freezing in the winter, it is crucial that you winterize any exposed pipes. Water expands as it freezes, which can rupture the pipes, leading to a massive leak when the water thaws once again. Thermal wrappings for pipes are relatively inexpensive, but they don't last forever. Be sure to inspect them before the cold weather hits each year, replacing them as needed to keep your pipes protected.

The better you are able to keep watch on your water system, the easier it will be to spot any potential leaks before they can cause major damage to your property. So, stay vigilant throughout the year to keep your home safe!

Highway Driving Safety Tips to Keep You Safe on the Road

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 18:36:45 GMT

Highways are unavoidable - they help us get where we need to go, and quickly. However, without practicing proper highway driving safety, you could find yourself in an accident.

While driving on the highway, you're not the only one you have to worry about - there are also other drivers that you can't control. However, with our tips, you'll be able to prepare yourself to be as safe as possible while driving on the highway.

Obey posted speed limits. What may sound like a no-brainer is a rule that is typically broken. Although you may feel like the speed limit is too slow, keep in mind that those restrictions are there for a reason! You may not know the topography of the land, and the modest speed limit could be in place to protect you from a steep hill, a windy turn, or a traffic buildup.
Don't become distracted. Modern vehicles do a wonderful job of providing us with all the novelties and extra features that we might not need, but we love. Digital screens with custom temperature gauges, custom radio tuning, and so much more can distract us from the road while we're driving. It's important to tune everything out but the road when you're driving on the highway to prevent causing an accident. The most important distraction to avoid? Texting and driving. Try locking away your phone in the center console if you feel like it's a distraction while you're in the driver's seat.
Don't play your music too loud. Although it's great to drive around listening to your favorite tunes, it can be dangerous when you're on the highway. It could potentially prevent you from hearing important sounds that let you know danger is ahead. For example, if you have your music blasting and attempt to change lanes on the highway, you may not hear another vehicle honking their horn to warn you that they're in your blind spot. It can also make it hard to hear sirens from emergency vehicles.

These tips can help you get where you're going safely. Not only that, but you can rest assured that you're protecting others on the road as well!

Bonus tip — be sure that your car is properly insured by a trusted insurance agency like Laskowski Insurance Agency to ensure that you and your vehicle are covered in case of an accident.

Landscape Maintenance Tips for Your Yard

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 18:36:45 GMT

You've worked hard to create a beautiful garden for your yard, but there is more to yard maintenance than simply mowing the lawn and watering the plants. There are plenty of other tasks you'll need to complete in order to keep your yard looking its best over the years. Here are a few yard-care jobs you may have overlooked.

Trimming Large Trees
Pruning tall trees can be a daunting task, but it is an essential one. Whether you choose to do it yourself or hire someone to do it for you, it needs to be done each year. For most trees, fall is the best time to prune, as the trees will come back even stronger when the weather warms up again in the spring. In addition to keeping the trees as healthy as possible, this will also prevent wayward branches from scratching against the side of your house or top of your roof, potentially causing damage. Be sure to keep them away from power lines as well.
Cleaning Your Gutters
If your home is equipped with gutters, they'll need to be cleaned out periodically. This is especially true if you have large trees on your property, as their leaves can clog up your gutters. When your gutters are full of debris, they can't do their job of directing water away from your house properly. This can lead to water pooling in the gutters, which can cause damage to your eaves and roof over time. You should expect to clean your gutters at least once a year, though you may need to do so more often in heavily wooded areas. Check them a few times a year, and clear them out as needed.
Keeping Plants Away from Your House
When you first planted your bushes or shrubs, they were likely much smaller than they are now. Over time, they can grow and spread, bringing them closer and closer to your house. This can provide homes for rodents and other pests, and eventually, they may try to come inside. Keeping the plants at a safe distance will enable you to see any damage to the structure of your home so you can repair it as quickly as possible.
Keeping Your Yard Clutter-Free
Finally, piles of yard waste, old garden equipment, and other debris can also create homes for pests, so do your best to keep your yard as clean and tidy as possible. After all, you've done a lot of work to keep your plants looking great, and you don't want a bunch of clutter distracting from their beauty!

Preparation for Extreme Weather

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 17:36:45 GMT

Extreme weather events are becoming more common across the United States. These events can be a threat to your home and its inhabitants if you don’t take precautions. Follow these nine essential tips to stay safe and minimize the risk of danger to your residence when bad weather strikes.

Service Your HVAC System Regularly

In the spring and fall, have your HVAC system serviced professionally so it’s ready for the coming weather season. In the fall, check over the furnace and replace old filters. In the spring, make sure the air conditioning is working properly and trim back any plants encroaching on outdoor compressor units.

Prevent Burst Pipes

Burst pipes can result in huge plumbing expenses and interior water damage. You can prevent this by ensuring your pipes are properly insulated against freezing and by knowing what to do in a cold snap:

Apply insulation to pipes in cold areas of the home.
Use insulation in walls where pipes run.
Know the signs of pipes subject to freezing, such as condensation or frost on their exterior.
Open under-sink cabinet doors during deep freezes to allow room heat to warm pipes.
Never turn off the heat when temperatures approach freezing, even if you won’t be home.
If your power goes out and you worry about freezing pipes, open your taps to a slight drip to help keep them from freezing completely.

Sign Up for Power Outage and Other Emergency Alerts

Whenever possible, enroll in your area’s alert system for power outages and other emergencies. Many regions now have mobile device apps and alerts for when power will be cut due to fire risk, for example, or when a serious storm is approaching.

Keep Your Electronics Charged

During times when extreme weather is likely, it is a good idea to keep your devices and flashlights fully charged. Consider investing in a lithium battery pack to charge them when the power goes out. A battery-powered radio is also great to have around for emergency broadcasts.

Have a Safe Emergency Lighting Option

While candles used to be the old standby for power outages, there are safer options if you need light. The battery pack chargers mentioned above often come standard with an LED light, which you can supplement with flashlights. Most smartphones also have a bright flashlight feature. Electric candles and battery-powered camping lanterns are other smart choices.

Store Food, Water, and Essential Personal Items for Emergencies

Don’t forget to keep emergency supplies on hand for times when the power goes out. Stock up on these items in advance:

Nonperishable food items
Foods you can eat without cooking if you don’t have a gas stove you can light manually
An extra can opener
Batteries in the sizes you need
Drinking water, including enough for pets
Extra water for washing and cleaning (wipes and dry shampoo are handy, too)
Personal care and essential household items
Medications and first-aid supplies
Battery-powered fans and cooling bandanas
Emergency heat blankets or sleeping bags
Hand and foot warmer packs

Understand Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Risks

Every year, during extreme weather events, Americans suffer tragic deaths due to carbon monoxide poisoning. This is usually due to using things like using outdoor grills inside or trying to provide heat by turning on a gas stove, both of which are dangerous and should never be done.

Combustion of gas, wood, and charcoal without the proper ventilation can cause a buildup of carbon monoxide (CO) in the air, which can be fatal if inhaled, as it replaces oxygen in the bloodstream. Signs of CO poisoning include sleepiness, loss of consciousness, confusion, and blue hands, feet, and lips. Call 911 immediately if you or a family member experience these symptoms.

Never use outdoor grills or camp stoves indoors, and never use your oven for heat. Make sure your fireplace and chimney are clean before using them in cold weather. Buy a few carbon monoxide detectors for your home to alert you if dangerous levels of CO are present.

Make Sure Everyone in Your Family and Community Are Safe, Too

Remember to check in on family members and others in your community during extreme weather emergencies. People who are especially vulnerable include folks who live alone, seniors, families with babies, and those who are disabled.

Have an Emergency Plan If You Must Leave Your Home

Finally, develop an emergency plan in case staying in your home isn’t feasible due to extreme temperatures or storm damage. Know ahead of time where you can head for shelter and heating or cooling, such as public libraries, schools, and other facilities designated for assistance. When you plan in advance, you’ll stay safer and worry less, no matter when bad weather visits your town.