With the economy the way it is people are cutting back on lots of things like nights out, shopping trips, vacations, and homeowners insurance... wait, what? Yes. You heard right.
A recent news article from Florida's news 4 explains that many people who rent homes have not become subscribers on some form of renters insurance. When the rate of foreclosures rises, causing more people to move into rented homes and apartments, it makes sense that we would see a drop in the rate of homeowners policies. However, when that happens, the industry should also see a rise in the rate of renters insurance policies being taken out. The problem is, this hasn't occurred.
In order to save money, people being faced with foreclosures and the threat of bankruptcy, can choose to tighten their purse strings by not taking out renters insurance on their new residency.
This can get incredibly risky, especially with the storms that accompany the summer season.
The article quoted a homeowner from Florida, Faye Corbett who said, "I had a tree come down. It almost went into my pool and came about 10 feet from my bedroom window,It cost me and my landlord about $2,000 to get that removed and get everything done. It took down my privacy fence, fell across it. We had to have part of the roof put back on. It did quite a bit of damage."
Corbett confessed that right before this happened, she had ditched her renters insurance in order to save money. While renters may want to save that monthly payment, it's going to cost them a lot more to fix and restore damage incurred by a summer storm or flood.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Friday, June 24, 2011
An Inside Look at What We Do!
You've been following our posts for a while now, you know about our experts in the field of home restoration and repair. You must know that we use scientific methods and special equipment to dry wood, walls, and carpet. We have excellent drying methods that won't require demolition or reconstruction, and you probably know that we can effectively dry damaged areas in as little as three days, but have you seen us in action?Here's an inside look at what's going on behind the scenes and on the job at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast New Jersey!
We have an excellent team of trained and certified professionals, ready and waiting to help restore your home quickly and conveniently. Want to see us on the job? Check out the video below!
FEMA News
We've definitely gotten our share of rain, leading to a wave of flash flooding and water damage around the state of New Jersey this past week. However, if you've been following the news, you know that we're definitely not the only ones. Montana residents have been battling serious flooding and water damage recently as well.
According to Montana news channel KZBK 7, Members of the Federal Emergency Management Agency toured homes damaged by the recent flooding. They are now urging all residents to file claims with both their homeowners and flood insurers and the agency itself. This because, in order for a county to qualify for FEMA's aid, it must have 25 homes that have qualified as having major damages.
Duane Winslow, the Yellowstone County DES Director explained,"What to you may seem like a little bit may be a lot. I mean, if you have two feet of water that's a lot of water, but if it's (the claim) not detailed, they won't know that,"
Because some homeowners may be eligible for further aid, outside of what their insurance company can cover, they are advised to keep before and after pictures of the damage and receipts for any costs incurred in repairing the damage.
So I wonder how this impacts the victims of flooding in our own neighborhoods in New Jersey. It's obvious that while the Montana may not be right around the corner, the lesson is one that can span miles, file damages with your insurance agent, don't be afraid to ask about available federal aid, and record everything!
If you or someone you know has been a victim of Northern NJ flooding, contact the experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast NJ today!
According to Montana news channel KZBK 7, Members of the Federal Emergency Management Agency toured homes damaged by the recent flooding. They are now urging all residents to file claims with both their homeowners and flood insurers and the agency itself. This because, in order for a county to qualify for FEMA's aid, it must have 25 homes that have qualified as having major damages.
Duane Winslow, the Yellowstone County DES Director explained,"What to you may seem like a little bit may be a lot. I mean, if you have two feet of water that's a lot of water, but if it's (the claim) not detailed, they won't know that,"
Because some homeowners may be eligible for further aid, outside of what their insurance company can cover, they are advised to keep before and after pictures of the damage and receipts for any costs incurred in repairing the damage.
So I wonder how this impacts the victims of flooding in our own neighborhoods in New Jersey. It's obvious that while the Montana may not be right around the corner, the lesson is one that can span miles, file damages with your insurance agent, don't be afraid to ask about available federal aid, and record everything!
If you or someone you know has been a victim of Northern NJ flooding, contact the experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast NJ today!
Friday, June 17, 2011
Mold Growth and How It Could Impact Your Health
MSNBC recently released an article explaining the challenges that the summer months bring for mold growth in your home. The article explains that mold can grow anywhere in the home, including on insulation, cardboard, ceiling tiles, paper, even dust sources.
As we've explained in previous posts about mold and it's prevention, the most important element to preventing mold growth inside the home is controlling sources of moisture. Mold cannot grow without access to moisture, so identifying moisture sources and keeping your home clean and dry is key.
According to Moldunit.com, mold is, "not just an ugly sight that can ruin clothing or furniture; it is a health hazard that can seriously contaminate the air you breathe. Mold produces microscopic cells called "spores" that can be spread through air, water, or even on the bodies of insects." So you can understand why mold can pose a serious threat to your health. Mold can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks, as well as increase your risk for cold and flu and sinus infections. Those are just the mild risks.
Moldunit.com further explains, "Toxic Mold such as Stachybotrys and Memnoniella can cause serious and sometimes fatal health conditions." These conditions include, nasal congestion, irritation of the eyes and skin, breathlessness, fatigue, cough, sore throat, headaches, inflammation of the ears, bleeding lungs, nose bleeds, memory loss, and athralgia (pain in the joints with no sign of swelling).
The best way to protect yourself and your family from mold related health risks is to have your home checked by a mold removal specialist like NJ Restoration company, Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast NJ.
As we've explained in previous posts about mold and it's prevention, the most important element to preventing mold growth inside the home is controlling sources of moisture. Mold cannot grow without access to moisture, so identifying moisture sources and keeping your home clean and dry is key.
According to Moldunit.com, mold is, "not just an ugly sight that can ruin clothing or furniture; it is a health hazard that can seriously contaminate the air you breathe. Mold produces microscopic cells called "spores" that can be spread through air, water, or even on the bodies of insects." So you can understand why mold can pose a serious threat to your health. Mold can cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks, as well as increase your risk for cold and flu and sinus infections. Those are just the mild risks.
Moldunit.com further explains, "Toxic Mold such as Stachybotrys and Memnoniella can cause serious and sometimes fatal health conditions." These conditions include, nasal congestion, irritation of the eyes and skin, breathlessness, fatigue, cough, sore throat, headaches, inflammation of the ears, bleeding lungs, nose bleeds, memory loss, and athralgia (pain in the joints with no sign of swelling).
The best way to protect yourself and your family from mold related health risks is to have your home checked by a mold removal specialist like NJ Restoration company, Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast NJ.
5 Summer Home Improvement Projects That Pay You Back!
We've been talking a lot about the approaching warm weather, so if you're considering making changes to your home this summer season, why not make improvements that will pay you back and increase the real estate value of your home?
It's no secret that many home improvements can help increase your home's price tag, but if you're looking to up your payout, these are the areas to focus on:
Front Doors: It may sound silly, but most home buyers will "judge a book by it's cover". One of the first things potential buyers see from the curb are your front doors. This is an easy home improvement project to accomplish, so with that being said, upgrade your front doors to a high quality entry door, and you'll upgrade your home's value as well.
Add a Deck: This is a perfect project for early summer, not only because the warm weather provides the best time to build it, but if you finish it early enough, you'll still have time to enjoy it! Building a deck is inexpensive and increases your home's value by adding an extended luxury living space.
Change the Windows: Summertime is the best time to upgrade or change your windows. There are tons of energy tax credits and rebates available to you if you install new windows. These will be a major selling point to a potential buyer as well, as they will guarantee them lower energy bills.
Finish That Attic Bedroom: You've been promising your oldest their own room in the attic for years, but you've never got around to doing it... finish it up ASAP, because this is one of the home improvement projects that will pay you back the most. Obviously this makes a 4bedroom home a 5 bedroom that could be perfect for the family with the adult child looking for a new home.
Kitchen: Your kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home when it comes to attracting potential buyers. Updating your kitchen can help increase your value, even if you're not planning to remodel the entire room. Just freshening up by adding new counter tops, replacing appliances, or updating hardware can give your kitchen a new, clean, fresh feeling.
So what are you going to work on this summer? Call the experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast NJ today!
It's no secret that many home improvements can help increase your home's price tag, but if you're looking to up your payout, these are the areas to focus on:
Front Doors: It may sound silly, but most home buyers will "judge a book by it's cover". One of the first things potential buyers see from the curb are your front doors. This is an easy home improvement project to accomplish, so with that being said, upgrade your front doors to a high quality entry door, and you'll upgrade your home's value as well.
Add a Deck: This is a perfect project for early summer, not only because the warm weather provides the best time to build it, but if you finish it early enough, you'll still have time to enjoy it! Building a deck is inexpensive and increases your home's value by adding an extended luxury living space.
Change the Windows: Summertime is the best time to upgrade or change your windows. There are tons of energy tax credits and rebates available to you if you install new windows. These will be a major selling point to a potential buyer as well, as they will guarantee them lower energy bills.
Finish That Attic Bedroom: You've been promising your oldest their own room in the attic for years, but you've never got around to doing it... finish it up ASAP, because this is one of the home improvement projects that will pay you back the most. Obviously this makes a 4bedroom home a 5 bedroom that could be perfect for the family with the adult child looking for a new home.
Kitchen: Your kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home when it comes to attracting potential buyers. Updating your kitchen can help increase your value, even if you're not planning to remodel the entire room. Just freshening up by adding new counter tops, replacing appliances, or updating hardware can give your kitchen a new, clean, fresh feeling.
So what are you going to work on this summer? Call the experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast NJ today!
Friday, June 10, 2011
Thinking of Remodeling? How About Living In A Firehouse?
Ok, so that's probably not the most realistic idea we've ever had, however, I stumbled across these converted homes and their stories a few days ago and was compelled to share them with all of our wonderful readers!
Recently, due to NYC budget cuts, it was announced that 19 of the city's firehouses (including the one that served as the headquarters for Ghostbusters) would be vacated. New York City home buyers (Anderson Cooper among them) decided that this was an opportunity that couldn't be passed on, people started buying these up and converting them into beautiful, historic, character filled homes!
These homes carry with them a hefty price tag, but if you can afford one, they're such an innovative and creative remodel that who could resist?
Many of the buyers converted their firehouses by taking advantage of their spacious rooms, and drawing tons of attention to their high ceilings.
The firehouse pictured above is currently functioning as three separate condos. According to the listings description on Yahoo!, "That unit also has exclusive access to a landscaped yard with bluestone patio, first-floor 14-foot ceilings, marble counters, cherry cabinets, high-end appliances, hardwood floors, a cedar closet and lots of storage space." The coolest thing about all of this? Most of the houses have top floor look out posts that offer incredible views of the city!
So maybe you aren't looking to convert a firehouse, but are you looking to remodel? Contact the experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast New Jersey, a full service New Jersey Home Restoration Company!
Recently, due to NYC budget cuts, it was announced that 19 of the city's firehouses (including the one that served as the headquarters for Ghostbusters) would be vacated. New York City home buyers (Anderson Cooper among them) decided that this was an opportunity that couldn't be passed on, people started buying these up and converting them into beautiful, historic, character filled homes!
These homes carry with them a hefty price tag, but if you can afford one, they're such an innovative and creative remodel that who could resist?
Many of the buyers converted their firehouses by taking advantage of their spacious rooms, and drawing tons of attention to their high ceilings.
The firehouse pictured above is currently functioning as three separate condos. According to the listings description on Yahoo!, "That unit also has exclusive access to a landscaped yard with bluestone patio, first-floor 14-foot ceilings, marble counters, cherry cabinets, high-end appliances, hardwood floors, a cedar closet and lots of storage space." The coolest thing about all of this? Most of the houses have top floor look out posts that offer incredible views of the city!
So maybe you aren't looking to convert a firehouse, but are you looking to remodel? Contact the experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast New Jersey, a full service New Jersey Home Restoration Company!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Save Your Wood Floors From The Heatwave!
Summer has decided to rear its head a little early this year, here in New Jersey, we're seeing temperatures in the mid 90's. We all know to prepare our homes for radical winter temperatures, but did you know that one of your home furnishings requires preparation before being exposed to high humidity? Want to take a guess as to which one it is?...
Well, if you guessed that your wood flooring needs to be prepared for the summer heat and humidity, you guessed right! Because wood flooring is made from natural materials it can respond to changes in air temperature, humidity and moisture levels. A few easy steps can save your floors from damage- read on to find out how!
First things first, if you're thinking about installing wood floors, it's best to do this at the height of your regions humid season, this way you won't face problems with swelling and warping later on.
The first thing to do in order to prevent damage to your wood floors is install a dehumidifier in the rooms with wood flooring during the hot and humid seasons. This will help to filter and remove any moisture before wood begins to react to it, in turn reducing your chances for damage from cupping and swelling in the floors.
If you do notice issues in your hard wood flooring, as a result of humidity or heat damage, it's best to contact a New Jersey Restoration Company like the experts at Paul Davis Restoration to have it attended to as soon as possible.
Well, if you guessed that your wood flooring needs to be prepared for the summer heat and humidity, you guessed right! Because wood flooring is made from natural materials it can respond to changes in air temperature, humidity and moisture levels. A few easy steps can save your floors from damage- read on to find out how!
First things first, if you're thinking about installing wood floors, it's best to do this at the height of your regions humid season, this way you won't face problems with swelling and warping later on.
The first thing to do in order to prevent damage to your wood floors is install a dehumidifier in the rooms with wood flooring during the hot and humid seasons. This will help to filter and remove any moisture before wood begins to react to it, in turn reducing your chances for damage from cupping and swelling in the floors.
If you do notice issues in your hard wood flooring, as a result of humidity or heat damage, it's best to contact a New Jersey Restoration Company like the experts at Paul Davis Restoration to have it attended to as soon as possible.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Summer's Here- Make Home Maintenence Routine
Summer brings with it a multitude of home improvement projects and the like. This is the time to remodel that room, build that deck, re-do your landscaping. There's no two ways about it, summer home improvement will always require hours of work... but, what you can do is prepare and maintain so the work is routine rather than catastrophic.
By making home maintenance routine, you're insuring that your home is in good working order and won't need major repairs. This is the easiest way to save yourself time and money on repairs.
Most people spend their time focusing on the exterior of their homes when the weather is nice. Don't forget the interior. Problems inside can cause even bigger issues outside if left unattended.
There are few tasks that you can tend to each month to avoid this.
1. Inspect appliances such as dishwashers, washers and dryers, etc. for leaks, to help avoid water damage.
2. Check and clean your kitchen stove fans to prevent a potential fire hazard.
3. Check your bathroom faucets and shower heads to clean up potential clogging and avoid a hard water problem.
4. Check other appliances to ensure that they are up to date on necessary and routine maintenance. This will help you avoid malfunctioning that can become a fire hazard.
For more information on NJ home restoration and maintenance, contact the experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast NJ.
By making home maintenance routine, you're insuring that your home is in good working order and won't need major repairs. This is the easiest way to save yourself time and money on repairs.
Most people spend their time focusing on the exterior of their homes when the weather is nice. Don't forget the interior. Problems inside can cause even bigger issues outside if left unattended.
There are few tasks that you can tend to each month to avoid this.
1. Inspect appliances such as dishwashers, washers and dryers, etc. for leaks, to help avoid water damage.
2. Check and clean your kitchen stove fans to prevent a potential fire hazard.
3. Check your bathroom faucets and shower heads to clean up potential clogging and avoid a hard water problem.
4. Check other appliances to ensure that they are up to date on necessary and routine maintenance. This will help you avoid malfunctioning that can become a fire hazard.
For more information on NJ home restoration and maintenance, contact the experts at Paul Davis Restoration of Northeast NJ.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Attention Agents!
Need to complete continuing education credits? Paul Davis Restoration is here to help! We offer a number of excellent and informative NJ Insurance continuing education classes right in our offices- free of charge!
The course is an awesome way to complete your continuing education requirements, gain new and exciting knowledge that's applicable to our industries and network with other agents and a the staff of an incredibly reputable restoration company.
We offer two sessions- a morning workshop from 9 AM - 12 Noon which includes breakfast, and an afternoon workshop from 1 PM- 4PM, at which lunch is served. These classes provide a great opportunity in a conveniently located and beautiful facility. Classes are offered regularly throughout the course of the year, read on for upcoming dates and topics:
- Wednesday, June 8th, 2011- Annuities Features & Advantages: (#88890554)
-Wednesday, June 29th, 2011- Life Insurance & Essentials (#88890303)
-Wednesday, July 20th, 2011- Evaluating Claims & Settlement (#8890752)
So come check us out for a great time and a great opportunity to network!
The course is an awesome way to complete your continuing education requirements, gain new and exciting knowledge that's applicable to our industries and network with other agents and a the staff of an incredibly reputable restoration company.
We offer two sessions- a morning workshop from 9 AM - 12 Noon which includes breakfast, and an afternoon workshop from 1 PM- 4PM, at which lunch is served. These classes provide a great opportunity in a conveniently located and beautiful facility. Classes are offered regularly throughout the course of the year, read on for upcoming dates and topics:
- Wednesday, June 8th, 2011- Annuities Features & Advantages: (#88890554)
-Wednesday, June 29th, 2011- Life Insurance & Essentials (#88890303)
-Wednesday, July 20th, 2011- Evaluating Claims & Settlement (#8890752)
So come check us out for a great time and a great opportunity to network!
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