Did you know, not all water damage losses are covered by the homeowners policy? These losses can be very expensive. But, there are ways you can safeguard your home from water damage losses. Here are a few areas of your home to consider:

• Check your home’s drainage system to see if proper water drainage occurs. EXAMPLE: gutter downspouts should extend the proper distance from the foundation. Keep gutters clear of debris so water can drain properly.
• Is your yard properly graded to slope away from the home to allow surface water to adequately drain?
• If your basement is vulnerable to water collection, consider installing a sump pump system to keep unwanted water out of this part of your home.
• Washing machine hose failures cause millions of dollars of water losses each year. Check hoses periodically and replace at the first sign of wear. When replacing, many insurance adjusters recommend upgrading to the heavy-duty wire mesh or stainless steel hoses.
  

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Connecticut Insurance Exchange has recently begun receiving communications from its carriers regarding customer support efforts as we move together through the coronavirus situation.

Personal Auto Policyholders
All of our personal lines carriers are offering deferred payments and are waiving late fees. Most are also offering premium relief on personal auto policies as they have recognized a large number of these policyholders have sheltered in place and, therefore, are driving much less.

Please note: Even though each company is offering similar relief, there are slight differences. Your carrier will be sending out correspondence with the exact details within the next few weeks. Customers will not need to take any action to receive these benefits, as credits will be automatically applied.

Commercial Insurance Policyholders
For Commercial Insurance policyholders, most standard carriers are offering some form of billing leniency options and late-fee waivers. Regarding premium relief, you will be notified directly by your carrier if and when it becomes available.

For Commercial Clients with policies written on an adjustable basis, some Commercial Carriers may agree to a mid-term reduction of your general liability and workers' compensation payroll and sales estimates. However, as these policies remain subject to audit,  please contact your Commercial Agent to discuss your particular circumstance.

Based on a study by the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, dog bites cause over 800,000 injuries requiring immediate medical attention each year in the U.S. If your dog bites someone, you can be held legally liable. Fortunately, this loss is normally covered under your homeowner's policy. But, what if you can take steps to HELP PREVENT or reduce the chances of dog bites?

Ponder these suggestions:

• Carefully consider the breed when choosing a dog since some breeds can be more aggressive than others. A veterinarian can help you decide which breeds best suit your lifestyle. Also note: some insurers may not insure all breeds, so check your insurance policy for limitations.
  
• You may want to spay or neuter you dog since this often decreases aggressive tendencies.
• Socialize your dog from an early age to encourage and foster appropriate behavior.
  
• Never leave dogs alone with small children.
• Avoid playing aggressive games like tug-of-war with your puppy or dog.
• Do not place your dog in a situation where it can be teased or feel threatened.
• Train your dog to obey commands.

Another loss exposure to consider.
You may face liability claims if your dog gets out in the road and causes or contributes to an auto accident. Homeowners can be sued for violation of leash ordinances by allowing their dog to "run at large." Use a well-maintained and sturdy fence or other safeguards to reduce this exposure.