When is it time to update my insurance coverage? | General FAQ

Read our blog post, Ice Dams: A Winter Challenge for Homeowners for some great tips on preventing ice dams and what to do in the case of ice dams on your roof. Ice dams are more than just an inconvenience—they can cause significant damage to your home. While prevention is the best strategy, ice dams can still form despite your efforts, so having a response plan is crucial. Ice dams occur when attic air warms to above freezing, causing snow on the roof to melt. As the water runs down the roof and reaches the colder edges, it refreezes, creating an ice dam. These dams block water from draining off the roof, causing it to pool and seep under shingles, into the attic, or along exterior walls.

The beginning of a new year is the perfect opportunity to reassess your business insurance policies. Here are 10 practical tips to optimize your business insurance and start the year on the right foot.

While it’s easy to get caught up in the fun, taking some simple precautions can prevent mishaps and protect you from unexpected situations. Here are some practical tips for hosting a safe and successful holiday party, with a focus on being prepared.

From frozen pipes to roof collapses, the risks of winter property damage are real for both residential and commercial property owners. The good news? Many of these issues can be avoided with proactive steps that save you money and help keep your insurance premiums manageable.

No one ever plans to experience a vehicle breakdown. That’s why it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared in order to handle such a situation safely. Implement the following guidance to ensure you remain safe and injury-free in the event that you get stuck on the road.

Daylight savings time is a perfect opportunity to keep your home safe by checking your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Time change days are memorable markers, making it easy to establish this habit without any extra reminders.

The Department of Industrial Accidents (DIA) has revised the Notice to Employees and has established new notice requirements. On or before September 16, 2024, all employers must utilize and repost the revised Notice to Employees poster.

As more of our daily lives move into cyberspace, hackers, cybercriminals and spam bots may lurk behind every new message that shows up in your inbox. Even robust spam filters may not be able to catch every unwelcome email. Fortunately, you can act as an additional line of defense for yourself and your electronic devices by understanding the warning signs of spam and phishing emails.

If your teen is approaching driving age, it may be time to start thinking about your plan for adding them to your auto insurance policy. Here are five tips to consider when adding a teen to your auto insurance policy.

Cyber incidents have become increasingly prevalent, impacting organizations of all sizes and industries. As these incidents continue to rise in both cost and frequency, organizations must take steps to address their cyber exposures and bolster their digital security defenses.

Employers should regularly review their compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws. Here are some areas to keep in mind during 2024.

As you tackle spring cleaning tasks, consider reviewing your insurance policies for any necessary updates. Ensuring your coverage is current and aligned with your needs offers peace of mind as you welcome the warmer seasons ahead.

Standard property insurance provides coverage for physical damage and losses such as fire-damaged furniture or stolen equipment. It assists in covering the expenses associated with rebuilding or replacing damaged property.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, recognized by the National Safety Council. It aims to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving and urges motorists to minimize distractions while driving.

When purchasing car insurance, it's common to prioritize coverage for personal and property damage as well as liability. However, it's equally important to consider coverage for scenarios where another party is at fault, as their insurance might not adequately cover damages or injuries, leaving you financially vulnerable.

Regardless of your financial status, legal actions can incur substantial defense costs, potentially causing financial strain, irrespective of the lawsuit's outcome. Being sued, even without liability, can lead to significant financial burdens.

If you're running a business from home, it's crucial to assess your risks and determine your insurance needs, whether it's a part-time, seasonal, or full-time operation. Starting a business from home can be challenging, but having the right insurance gives you a safety net and lets you breathe easily amidst the challenges.

Adequate homeowners insurance is essential for rebuilding your home, replacing belongings, living expenses during displacement, and safeguarding against liability. Use these guidelines to assess necessary coverage and amounts for your protection.

Having a Home Inventory is essential for every individual in a world of unforeseen events. Break down the process into manageable steps, enlist help if needed, and utilize technology to create a comprehensive list of your possessions. This will ensure peace of mind and financial security in the face of adversity.

Shielding your loved ones is a straightforward choice, but the dilemma often arises when deciding between term or permanent insurance. Your decision should reflect the specific goals you wish to achieve for the individuals you're safeguarding.

Identity theft involves stealing personal information to impersonate victims, leading to fraudulent activities such as draining bank accounts or obtaining unauthorized loans. Criminals may even secure employment or housing using the victim's identity.

There are lots of things you can do to reduce the risk of winter related losses such as frozen pipes. However, if temperatures are extremely cold and you turn on your tap to find a trickle or nothing instead of a steady flow, you probably have frozen pipes somewhere in your home. Water expands when frozen, but pipes do not, which can cause a pipe to burst. If you discover you have frozen pipes, act quickly...don't wait for them to burst.

Snow, sleet, ice and below freezing temperatures all have an effect on driving conditions. During winter, safety depends on driver performance in winter hazards, good vehicle maintenance—and common sense. These tips will help you and your car weather the winter.

Having Life Insurance coverage is important and will give you peace of mind knowing those you hold most dear have a financial safety net in the event of an unexpected tragedy. Speak with an insurance professional about life insurance to discuss options of a policy that fits your budget and your needs….Don’t wait until it’s too late! Reach out to us at Murphy Insurance so that we may give you the information you need to make an informed decision.

During the holidays, Christmas trees stand as central pieces of festive decoration, sourced through cutting, roadside purchases, or artificial alternatives. Yet, their beauty doesn't negate the fire risks they pose, emphasizing the need for safety precautions to ensure a joyful and accident-free celebration.

As Thanksgiving weekend approaches, many embark on journeys, making it one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Whether driving to see loved ones or exploring new destinations, exercising extra caution on the road is paramount during this holiday season. By adhering to safety guidelines not only during Thanksgiving but also year-round, we can all contribute to safer travels for ourselves and fellow road users.

For those involved in snow plowing, whether as a primary business or side venture, it's crucial to ensure adequate liability coverage, especially for completed operations, alongside comprehensive auto insurance. Recent amendments to Massachusetts laws in 2010 have heightened liability risks for property owners and snow plow contractors, underscoring the necessity of having appropriate protection measures in place.

When adjusting the clocks for Daylight Saving Time changes, remember to ensure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly, as advised by fire safety officials.

Prepare for New England's unpredictable winters to ensure smooth and safe business operations. Taking steps to address common winter-related property damage can mitigate risks and keep your business running seamlessly throughout the season.

When purchasing or leasing a new vehicle, it immediately depreciates in value once driven off the lot, a factor covered by standard auto insurance policies. With minimal down payments on financed purchases, the loan amount may surpass the vehicle's market worth in the initial years of ownership.

Distinguishing between an employee and an independent contractor can be complex and costly if mistaken. MADUA has issued guidance, outlining the 3-Prong ‘A-B-C test’ to help clarify independent contractor requirements.

As winter approaches, it's essential to take proactive steps to safeguard your home against potential ice, snow, and wind damage. Remember, starting the winterization process when the leaves change, not when snowfall begins, can significantly mitigate risks and ensure a safer, warmer, and more cost-effective living environment.

As urban expansion encroaches on rural habitats, deer-car collisions have surged, totaling over half a million annually, with a substantial number resulting in fatalities. Particularly during the migration and mating season from October to December, deer activity spikes, tripling the risk of auto accidents involving deer, as noted by statistics from the Highway Loss Data Institute (HLDI).

Amid peak disaster season, a recent national survey unveils that numerous homeowners are underinsured, lack comprehension of their policies, and have insufficient savings to sustain their households during emergencies.

Hurricanes pose significant threats to both your family and your home's safety. Prioritize learning how to secure your surroundings and safeguard your loved ones and property when facing an impending hurricane, ensuring comprehensive protection during these dangerous storms.

Homeowners insurance serves as a financial shield for your home and belongings during unforeseen calamities. Understanding the nuances of your coverage, including potential exclusions, becomes crucial when navigating storm-related losses under your policy."

Life insurance serves as a crucial component of financial planning, offering security and stability for your loved ones in the face of unforeseen circumstances. With proper guidance, navigating the complexities of coverage ensures you find a policy tailored to your goals and budget, safeguarding your family's future with ease.

Small businesses face substantial risks from severe weather, but with IBHS's free resources, owners can fortify their operations against potential disasters. By utilizing tools like OFB-EZ and EZ-PREP, businesses can streamline their planning, ensuring resilience and continuity in the face of adversity.

When leasing a car, purchasing your own auto insurance policy remains necessary, as the auto dealer or financing entity typically mandates collision and comprehensive coverage to protect the vehicle.

Prepare ahead to mitigate the devastating effects of hurricanes, which not only pose a threat to property but also to lives. Starting preparations before the storm's imminent arrival is crucial, as waiting until a hurricane watch is issued might leave you with limited options for safeguarding.

Many underestimate flooding's potential, but heavy rainstorms or hurricanes can cause severe damage. Floods can occur not only near rivers and lakes but also in low-risk areas due to various factors, prompting discussion on the value of flood insurance for individuals.

Homeowners insurance offers mold damage coverage, but not in every case, as it depends on the cause and circumstances. While standard policies typically include limited coverage, additional coverage options are advisable, given the potential for mold to develop unnoticed, exceeding basic policy limits.

Regularly reviewing your insurance policy, especially after significant life events like home renovations, marriage, or major purchases, ensures it's tailored to your current needs and offers sufficient protection. These periodic check-ins provide peace of mind, ensuring your coverage aligns with your evolving circumstances.

Enjoying time on the water is exhilarating, yet it demands responsibility and caution for safety. Utilize this boating safety checklist, regardless of your experience level, to ensure preparedness and safety while navigating.

Learn how to safeguard your vessel, yourself, and your passengers at sea. Delve into boat safety essentials and the importance of securing proper insurance coverage for smooth sailing and peace of mind on every voyage.

In today's uncertain world, ensuring our financial stability is crucial, with disability insurance often overlooked in this protection. Understanding its significance is vital, as unforeseen accidents or illnesses can jeopardize our ability to work and earn income. This blog post explores the intricacies of purchasing disability insurance, providing insights and key considerations to empower informed decisions in safeguarding your livelihood.

Creating an inventory of all your possessions may feel daunting amidst our hectic schedules and abundance of belongings. However, this step ensures adequate insurance coverage for your personal property and expedites claim settlement, increasing the likelihood of reimbursement in case of loss.

Do you have a checklist for reviewing your insurance coverage? With hurricane season underway, it's an opportune moment to ensure your homeowners or renters insurance is up to date. The Insurance Information Institute offers a convenient list to guarantee you're adequately prepared for any potential storms.

A permanent life insurance policy offers lifelong protection, paying out a death benefit whether you pass away tomorrow or live to be a centenarian, while also accumulating savings on a tax-deferred basis. Although premiums for permanent insurance are typically higher compared to term insurance due to the savings component, they remain fixed, unlike term insurance where premiums can significantly increase upon renewal.

Distracted driving remains a significant threat on the roads, with distracted driving-related crashes claiming the lives of at least eight individuals daily, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. As April marks Distracted Driving Awareness Month, take this opportunity to evaluate your driving habits and commit to making responsible choices to ensure the safety of yourself and others on the road.

As resilient as Northeasterners are in the face of snow, preparing for a blizzard requires more than just resolve—it demands readiness. Stay informed, stock up on essentials, and ensure your home is equipped with heating fuel and emergency supplies, because when it comes to blizzards, proactive preparation is key to weathering the storm

Is your business compliant with Massachusetts Independent Contractor Law (MICL)? Established in 1990 and expanded in 2004, the law imposes a strict "three prong test" for classifying workers, affecting various industries beyond construction. Failure to adhere to the MICL can result in significant penalties, including fines and potential imprisonment, making it crucial for businesses to assess and rectify any misclassifications promptly.

For those selling or buying homes, it's crucial to note the updates to the NFIP and revised flood insurance rates starting April 1, 2015. These changes affect property owners or buyers in flood zones or areas newly designated as Special Flood Hazard Areas due to updated flood maps.

Prepare for winter by ensuring your insurance coverage is adequate for potential damages caused by snow, ice, and cold weather. Take preventive measures such as cleaning gutters, insulating pipes, and servicing heating systems to minimize risks and protect your property.

We are excited to announce that our offices are reopening on June 1, 2021, prioritizing visitor safety. Remote options are encouraged for efficiency, with limited in-person visits requiring appointments. Safety measures include mask requirements, social distancing, and hygiene protocols.

Get the latest update from Dennis F. Murphy III regarding customer assistance and service amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic by watching the video on YouTube.

Boat insurance is essential for protecting yourself and your loved ones, especially with unregistered boaters. While smaller watercraft may get limited coverage under homeowner policies, larger boats need separate, comprehensive insurance for adequate protection. Discuss coverage options with your agent to avoid gaps in protection.

During the COVID-19 crisis, many insurers are offering payment flexibility for those facing financial difficulties. Contact your insurer or Murphy Insurance for assistance. Regarding Registry of Motor Vehicles issues, note the strict no walk-in policy; appointments must be made online for in-person transactions.

As the holiday season approaches, the Insurance Information Institute urges prioritizing family, friends, and festivities while remaining vigilant against potential hazards like fire, theft, accidents, and other mishaps. By following five key safety tips, including fire prevention measures, identity protection, home security strategies, responsible party hosting, and safe driving practices—especially in winter conditions—we can ensure a joyful and secure celebration for all.

Ensure your home is protected from potential oil spills with an "Escaped Liquid Fuel Endorsement," providing coverage for fuel contamination to your property and beyond. Don't risk costly out-of-pocket expenses—contact Murphy Insurance to discuss securing this essential coverage for your peace of mind.

A Business Owner's Policy (BOP) streamlines essential insurance for small businesses, offering property, liability, and business interruption coverage in one convenient package. However, eligibility hinges on factors like business size and revenue, with certain industries needing separate coverage due to unique risks.

Discover the importance of personal watercraft insurance in ensuring financial protection for accidents on the water. Unlike homeowners insurance, specialized PWC coverage safeguards against bodily injury, liability, property damage, theft, and more, tailored to your needs and watercraft usage.

In recent decades, women have made significant progress in the business realm. Business insurance, emphasized by the Insurance Information Institute, is crucial for safeguarding their investments and assets.

In the event of a home disaster or car accident, the deductible represents the amount you're responsible for covering and is deducted from your claim payment. Understanding how deductibles function can help avoid unexpected expenses and lead to savings.

Effective September 1, 2018, revisions to MA State Markings Regulation 540 CMR 2:22 will come into force. Customers covered under a MA Auto Policy class 30, including plumbers, carpenters, electricians, etc., may be impacted by these changes.

From Thursday, March 22, 2018 at 7 p.m. until Monday, March 26, 2018 at 8 a.m., the MA Registry of Motor Vehicles will be closed for a technology upgrade to meet federal security standards. During this period, non-public safety services will be unavailable, and no transactions will be processed.

Celebrating 80 years, Murphy Insurance's longevity speaks volumes about our dedication to customer care and satisfaction. To our existing customers, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your continued trust and support.

It's hard to believe that we've been serving Massachusetts and beyond for 80 years! We feel lucky to be part of the community and are having appreciation days on December 5th - 7th.

The ongoing coverage of the substantial Equifax data breach highlights its significance. With over 143 million American consumers potentially affected, if you possess a credit report, you may be among those whose sensitive personal information was compromised.

In Fall 2017, we celebrated our 80th year in business, reflecting on the contributions of our customers, employees, family, and insurance company partners to our success. Gratitude is extended for the trust and relationships cultivated over the years, which have been integral to our journey.

Good news for Uber, Lyft, or other Transportation Network Company (TNC) drivers: certain insurance carriers now provide personal auto insurance policy endorsements, addressing coverage gaps. Plymouth Rock Assurance and Mapfre Insurance are among the companies offering these endorsements, bridging the insurance gap for TNC drivers.

It's official: Downtown Hudson, MA, will host the feature film "Who Do You Think Would Win?" Filming is set for May 1st to 3rd along Main Street and Washington Street, 7 AM to 10 PM. Despite downtown excitement, we're here to assist you; parking may require additional time, but options are available on side streets.

Effective October 28, 2016, the Massachusetts Turnpike (Route 90) ceased accepting cash for tolls, eliminating toll booths at exits. For those who don't frequently travel on the Turnpike, here's a summary to ensure you stay informed about these changes.

Homeowners policies typically exclude personal injury claims like defamation unless a personal injury endorsement is attached. Manage these risks by monitoring social media activity, educating family members on online conduct, and considering additional coverage options like personal umbrella policies for comprehensive protection.

Homeowners can rent property to tenants regularly, and it's crucial for them to take protective measures for their rental investments. Here are some recommendations and tips for those who continuously rent out residential property.

To ensure excellent home insurance coverage, prioritize value over price. Understanding the essential components of a comprehensive insurance plan for your home, valuables, and liability is crucial whether you're a new homeowner or have owned your home for some time.

Earning from services like driving for Uber or renting out your home on Airbnb can be appealing, but standard personal auto and home insurance policies do not provide coverage for these activities, potentially leaving you exposed to significant gaps in coverage in the event of an accident. It's essential to explore specialized insurance options tailored to these ventures to ensure adequate protection for your assets and liabilities.

In America, a home burglary happens every 13 seconds, emphasizing the importance of taking preventive measures. Homeowners can significantly lower their risk of falling victim to this crime by implementing various security measures.

The Internet offers immense opportunities for communication and learning, yet it's vital for children to prioritize safety and precautionary measures. Children and teenagers often underestimate online risks, like the potential for libel or cyberbullying, exemplified by an ongoing lawsuit against thousands of Twitter users for spreading defamatory claims.

The Workers Compensation Rating and Inspection Bureau of Massachusetts (WCRIBMA) has introduced new payroll determinations for sole proprietors, partners, and LLC members, impacting premium calculations. Based on the Statewide Average Weekly Wage (SAWW), premiums are now determined by a formulaic approach, affecting new and renewal workers' compensation business from October 1, 2015.

In the US, there are roughly 10 million ATVs and over 16 million operators, but each year sees around 700 deaths and over 100,000 injuries from ATV accidents. If you own or operate an ATV, it's crucial to inform your insurance agent to ensure adequate liability coverage and limits.

The Massachusetts Senate has successfully incorporated an amendment into the 2016 State Budget, aiming to raise the Property Damage Threshold for both Minor and Major accidents. The proposed thresholds would increase to $1,001 for Minor Accidents and $5,001 for Major Accidents, potentially benefiting Massachusetts drivers by impacting surcharge points added to driving records, which can influence insurance premiums following at-fault accidents.

A new law passed, effective April 7, 2015, mandating drivers to activate headlights and taillights alongside windshield wipers. Non-compliance with this regulation constitutes ticketable and surchargeable offenses, potentially leading to increased insurance premiums.

To secure excellent auto insurance, prioritize value over price. It's crucial to consider the value you receive for your spending when purchasing car insurance, as minimum legal requirements may not offer sufficient protection in the event of a serious accident involving bodily injury or significant property damage.

Neglecting to fully clear snow and ice from your vehicle's roof and windows isn't just risky but could lead to hefty fines and legal consequences. Please take the extra few minutes to make sure your car is properly cleared to protect yourself and others on the road.

The choice of where to obtain Workers’ Comp Insurance can impact your business. While classification rates are determined by the Commonwealth, individual insurance companies may offer modified or decreased rates for specific job classifications, potentially leading to cost savings.

Fire is the primary cause of property loss annually in the U.S., with nearly 500,000 structure fires reported, amounting to around $10 billion in property damage. This peril claims thousands of American lives yearly and inflicts over 15,000 injuries.