Jenkins Insurance Blog

Is an Electric Car Right for You?

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 21:34:28 GMT

Electric vehicles are increasing in popularity lately. Have you considered getting one? Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of electric cars, so you can decide if owning one is right for you.

Great for the planet

There’s no doubt — electric vehicles are better for the environment. They don’t exhaust emissions into the atmosphere, and, as a bonus, you won’t need a smog check. They also don’t rely on fossil fuels, which are harmful to the planet to procure and burn and are non-renewable.

Electricity is considered a renewable resource, making electric vehicles more eco-friendly. Even when an electric car is charged using electricity from coal-fired power plants, it still causes a lot less emissions than an equivalent car that burns gasoline. Some parts of the US are legislating a change over to electric vehicles for the future. You can get ahead of the curve by owning one now.

Less expensive to operate

Electric vehicles are considerably less expensive to own over time than their gas-burning counterparts. There are no gasoline expenses and no oil changes. You can charge your electric vehicle at home with a home charging station, and most can simply be plugged into any standard 120-volt outlet for power.

Maintenance is generally less costly, especially when it comes to brakes, since many electric cars use the motors to slow the car down, a process which actually puts energy back into the car's battery. You may also qualify for tax breaks when you purchase an electric car.

Quieter

If you’ve ever had an electric vehicle sneak up on you, you know how quiet they are. If you would rather hear the sounds of nature or your car stereo without the growl of an engine interfering, an electric car may be just perfect for you. Overall, greater use of electric vehicles would reduce urban noise pollution, too.

More convenient

Electric vehicles are considered more convenient by people who own them. Many municipalities have dedicated lanes just for preferred electric cars and high-occupancy vehicles. And if waiting in line for gas is eating up your time – save time by charging at home while you sleep. This means that if you plug in every night, you'll be able to leave the house every morning with a “full tank.”

There are a few cons to owning an electric vehicle, but their fans typically find these are outweighed by their advantages.

May cost more to buy

In most cases, electric vehicles are more expensive than equivalent models that run on gas. You will likely save this price difference over time with ownership (by not having to buy gas or spend money on maintenance), but you will need the cash or financing up front. Expect the expense of electric cars to drop, however, as the technology improves and they become more part of the mainstream.

Fewer options

You won’t find as many options with electric vehicles as you will with other cars and trucks. Options are growing, but these vehicles still have some catching up to do.

Electric charging limitations

The biggest disadvantage to electric vehicles is the flip side of their advantage: limitations imposed by electric charging. It can be tough to find charging stations in some places, especially in rural areas, although that is certain to change over time.

You’ll want to be sure there are stations along the way or at work, for instance, if you plan to take a long trip or have a sizable commute. Most electric vehicles can’t travel as far on a single charge as a gas-powered vehicle can on one tank, though some can.

Refilling at the gas station can be a hassle, but once at the pump, it only takes a few minutes. However, electric vehicles typically need more time to charge. Depending on the model you select, how depleted the battery is, and how much range you want to add, it can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. You need to plan that into your schedule, including any potential need for short-notice vehicle use.

A Final Consideration When Making the Switch

There is one last thing to think about when swapping your gas vehicle for an electric one: your auto insurance. Be sure to check with your insurance agent about what the cost of a new policy will be. As electric vehicles become more widespread, insurance is moving more on par with other cars. And owners say the advantages and overall cost savings by far make up for any increases to their premiums.

Six Tips to Minimize Risk of Extreme Weather on Your Business

Sun, 27 Sep 2026 21:34:28 GMT

Extreme weather can wreak havoc on your business. Tornadoes, wildfires, hurricanes, windstorms, flash floods, snowstorms, and blizzards — are you prepared for any of these to strike?

Taking precautions against Mother Nature is always a smart business move because nobody wants to be caught in a financial nightmare. If you haven’t already, it’s about time you mapped out an emergency plan to best prepare your company for sudden eventualities. Here are six tips that will help you weather-proof your business:

Protect your workers and business property

Identify weather risks your business is most vulnerable to and design an emergency action plan to safeguard your employees and your commercial property. Safety procedures include keeping emergency booklets in common areas and designating offsite locations where your employees can assemble and seek shelter. To minimize damage on your property, install safety systems to shield windows, structures, electronic equipment, and inventory from debris and water damage.
Prevent file and data loss

If you haven’t taken that digital leap yet, now is the right time to do so. With cloud storage systems, storing and accessing files and data is easier than ever. Make sure to schedule regular backups of data and records, including photos, videos, important documents, customer contracts, and inventory.
Keep communication lines open

Natural disasters can overload or knock out power, phone, and internet. However, you can still devise ways to communicate with your employees and customers amid an emergency. Develop a “phone tree” (a system for delivering a message to a large group of people) or utilize mass texting apps to update them about the status of your business operations. You can also alert them through social media posts or emails.
Run your business remotely

Disasters can cripple a business. But having a business continuity plan in place will help you to continue serving your customers in times of disruptions to operations. This includes setting aside funds for recovery efforts, rotating staff, renting a temporary office space, contacting third-party organizations for assistance, and even allowing employees to work from home.
Stash away emergency necessities

Aside from investing in a backup power source, you should also stockpile emergency items such as flashlights, external batteries, first aid kits, food, and water. These are essential when staying put in the office is safer than going home.
Make sure your business carries up-to-date insurance

The elements can impact everything in your business. Stay ahead of the weather by periodically reviewing and your with your agent, and adjust coverages when necessary. This will help ensure your business has adequate protection.

Severe weather cannot be avoided, but its impact on your revenue, costs, and profits can be mitigated by putting comprehensive measures in place. Get in touch with us today and we can make sure your business is properly covered.

How to Protect Business Equipment That Travels Off-Site

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:19:07 GMT

Many businesses rely on equipment that does not stay in one location. Contractors transport tools between job sites, photographers carry expensive cameras, technicians travel with specialized equipment, and businesses may regularly move computers, machinery, or other property.

Once equipment leaves your primary business location, it can face different risks. A few practical precautions can help protect valuable business property while it is being transported, stored, or used away from your premises.

Keep an Accurate Equipment Inventory

Maintain an updated record of equipment that regularly travels off-site. Include descriptions, serial numbers, purchase dates, approximate values, and other identifying information.

Photos can also provide useful documentation. Keeping receipts and purchase records with your inventory can make it easier to identify equipment and establish its value if something is lost, stolen, or damaged.

Use Secure Transportation and Storage

Avoid leaving valuable equipment visible inside unattended vehicles whenever possible. When equipment must remain in a vehicle, store it in a locked compartment or otherwise keep it out of sight.

At job sites and temporary locations, consider locked storage containers, secured rooms, equipment cages, or other appropriate safeguards. Establishing clear procedures for how equipment should be stored can also help employees protect company property consistently.

Consider Tracking Valuable Equipment

Tracking technology can make it easier to locate certain types of equipment if they are misplaced or stolen. Depending on the item, businesses may use GPS trackers, Bluetooth tracking devices, or specialized asset management systems.

Tracking systems can also help businesses maintain more accurate records of which employee or location currently has a particular piece of equipment.

Train Employees on Equipment Procedures

Employees who regularly transport company property should understand how it should be handled, secured, and stored. Simple procedures can reduce confusion and encourage consistent practices.

Consider establishing guidelines for vehicle storage, overnight storage, equipment checkouts, reporting damage, and what employees should do if an item is lost or stolen.

Inspect and Maintain Equipment Regularly

Equipment that frequently travels may experience additional wear from loading, unloading, transportation, and changing work environments. Regular inspections can help identify damage or maintenance needs before they interfere with operations.

Protective cases, appropriate packaging, and secure mounting systems can also help reduce damage while equipment is in transit.

Understand How Your Insurance Covers Equipment Off-Site

Business owners should not automatically assume that property is covered the same way everywhere it travels. A commercial property insurance policy may have limitations for equipment once it leaves the insured location.

Inland marine insurance is designed to help protect certain types of business property while they are transported or located away from the primary business premises. The appropriate coverage depends on the type of property and how your business uses it.

At Jenkins Insurance, we can help you evaluate how your business equipment is being used and whether your current coverage reflects those risks. Contact us today to review your business insurance coverage.

What to Consider Before Installing a Home EV Charger

Thu, 03 Sep 2026 17:19:07 GMT

Charging an electric vehicle at home can make ownership more convenient, but installing a home EV charger involves more than simply mounting equipment in the garage. Electrical capacity, charger type, installation location, local requirements, and long-term use should all be considered before work begins.

Planning ahead can help make the installation safer, more practical, and better suited to your home and vehicle.

Check Your Home's Electrical Capacity

Before choosing a charger, it is important to determine whether your home's electrical system can support the additional demand. Many Level 2 chargers require a dedicated 240-volt circuit and may draw a significant amount of power.

An electrician can evaluate your electrical panel, available capacity, and existing circuits to determine whether upgrades are needed. In some homes, installing a charger may require a larger electrical panel or other improvements.

Choose the Right Charger

Home EV chargers are available with different charging speeds, power requirements, cable lengths, and smart features. The best option depends on your vehicle, daily driving habits, and how quickly you need to recharge.

It can also be helpful to think ahead. If you expect to purchase another electric vehicle in the future, choosing equipment with additional capacity or flexibility may make sense.

Think About Charger Placement

Location can affect both convenience and installation cost. Consider where your vehicle is normally parked, where the charging port is located, and whether the charging cable can reach comfortably without becoming a trip hazard.

Outdoor installations may require equipment specifically rated for exposure to weather. The distance between the charger and electrical panel can also influence installation complexity and cost.

Understand Permits and Local Requirements

Depending on where you live, installing a Level 2 charger may require an electrical permit and inspection. Local building codes may also establish requirements for wiring, circuit protection, equipment placement, and installation methods.

A licensed electrician who regularly installs EV charging equipment should be familiar with local requirements and can help make sure the installation is completed properly.

Consider Professional Installation

Because EV chargers can place a substantial load on a home's electrical system, professional installation is generally the safest approach. Improper wiring or overloaded circuits can create electrical and fire risks.

Before hiring an installer, confirm licensing, insurance, experience, and the scope of work. It is also a good idea to understand whether the quoted price includes permits, inspections, equipment, and any necessary electrical upgrades.

Plan for Long-Term Use

Your charging needs may change over time. A future vehicle could have a larger battery, require faster charging, or use the charger more frequently.

Thinking about future needs during the initial installation can help reduce the likelihood of having to make significant electrical changes later.

Review Your Home Insurance

Installing an EV charger can involve changes to your home's electrical system and may increase the value of permanently installed equipment. Significant electrical upgrades or other home improvements are a good reason to make sure your homeowners insurance information remains current.

Contact us today to review your coverage and discuss whether your EV charger installation or other recent home improvements affect your insurance needs.

How to Protect Your Home During a Power Outage

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 21:34:29 GMT

Power outages can happen with little or no warning and may last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours or longer. While most outages are temporary inconveniences, they can also create risks for appliances, electronics, food, plumbing, and other parts of your home.

A little preparation can help you reduce potential damage and make it easier to manage an outage safely.

Protect Electronics and Appliances

Power surges can sometimes occur when electricity is restored. Unplugging sensitive electronics such as televisions, computers, gaming systems, and other devices can help protect them from potential damage.

For equipment that needs to stay connected, consider using quality surge protectors or a whole-home surge protection system. Once power returns, wait a few minutes before turning major appliances back on to avoid placing additional demand on the electrical system all at once.

Keep Refrigerators and Freezers Closed

A refrigerator or freezer can maintain a safe temperature for a limited period if the doors remain closed. Opening them frequently allows cold air to escape and can cause food to warm more quickly.

Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible during an outage. If outages are common in your area, a refrigerator thermometer can also make it easier to determine whether food has remained at a safe temperature.

Use Generators Safely

A portable or standby generator can help keep essential equipment operating during an extended outage, but generators must be used properly.

Portable generators should always be operated outdoors and away from windows, doors, and vents because they produce carbon monoxide. Never operate one inside a garage, basement, or enclosed area. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for placement, fueling, and electrical connections.

Consider Plumbing and Temperature Risks

During cold weather, a long outage can allow indoor temperatures to fall enough to create a risk of frozen pipes. Keep doors closed to retain heat, open cabinet doors around plumbing when appropriate, and monitor indoor temperatures if possible.

Homes with sump pumps, well pumps, or other electrically powered systems may also need backup power during longer outages. Understanding which systems depend on electricity can help you decide where backup power is most important.

Prepare for Extended Outages

Keep flashlights, batteries, portable chargers, and other basic supplies in an easy-to-find location. Charging phones and battery packs ahead of severe weather can also help you stay connected if power is lost.

It is also useful to know how to manually operate garage doors, security systems, and other equipment that normally relies on electricity.

Review Your Home Protection

Preparation can help reduce the impact of a power outage, but unexpected damage can still occur. Equipment failures, spoiled food, electrical damage, and weather-related losses may all raise questions about what your homeowners insurance covers.

Contact us today to review your homeowners insurance coverage and make sure your policy reflects your current home and protection needs.

What to Consider Before Renovating Your Commercial Space

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 21:34:29 GMT

Renovating a commercial space can improve functionality, update the appearance of your business, and create a better environment for employees and customers. Whether you are making a few targeted improvements or completing a major remodel, careful planning can help keep the project on track.

Before construction begins, consider how the renovation will affect your budget, operations, property, and long-term plans for the space.

Define the Purpose of the Renovation

Start by identifying what you want the renovation to accomplish. You may need additional work areas, more efficient storage, an updated customer-facing space, or a layout that better supports your current operations.

Having clear priorities can make it easier to evaluate design decisions and determine which improvements are worth the investment. It can also help prevent the scope of the project from expanding unnecessarily.

Establish a Realistic Budget

Construction costs can include much more than materials and contractor labor. Design services, permits, inspections, new equipment, furniture, technology, and temporary operating arrangements may all contribute to the total cost.

Consider including room in your budget for unexpected expenses. Older buildings in particular may reveal electrical, plumbing, structural, or other issues once work begins.

Review Permits and Building Requirements

Depending on the project, renovations may require permits, inspections, or approval from local authorities. Accessibility requirements, fire codes, zoning rules, and other building regulations may also affect your plans.

If you lease your space, review your lease and obtain any required approval from the property owner before beginning work. The lease may also specify who is responsible for certain improvements and repairs.

Plan Around Business Operations

Consider how construction will affect employees, customers, inventory, and everyday operations. Noise, dust, blocked entrances, limited parking, and unavailable work areas can all create temporary challenges.

Some businesses may be able to complete renovations in phases or schedule disruptive work outside normal operating hours. Larger projects may require temporary workspaces or changes to how customers are served.

Choose Contractors Carefully

Before hiring a contractor, review experience, references, licensing requirements, and the proposed scope of work. Make sure responsibilities, costs, timelines, and expectations are clearly documented.

It is also important to confirm that contractors carry appropriate insurance for the work they will be performing.

Think About Long-Term Needs

A renovation should address current needs while also considering where your business may be headed. Future staffing, equipment, storage, technology, and customer needs can all influence how useful the renovated space remains over time.

Planning for reasonable growth now may help you avoid having to make additional major changes sooner than expected.

Review Your Business Insurance

Renovations can change the value, layout, features, and use of a commercial space. New equipment, fixtures, improvements, or changes to business operations may also affect your insurance needs.

Before beginning a significant renovation, contact us to review your business insurance coverage and discuss whether any changes should be made before, during, or after the project.

Signs Your Business Has Outgrown Its Current Space

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 21:34:09 GMT

As businesses grow, their space needs often change. A location that once felt like the perfect fit can eventually become crowded, inefficient, or limiting. While moving to a larger facility is a significant decision, recognizing the signs early can help business owners plan ahead and avoid unnecessary operational challenges.

Whether you own, lease, or manage a commercial property, understanding when your space is no longer meeting your needs can support better long-term planning.

Employees Are Running Out of Room

One of the most obvious signs of an overcrowded workspace is a lack of room for employees. Workstations may feel cramped, meeting rooms may always be occupied, and common areas may struggle to accommodate staff comfortably.

As headcount increases, businesses often find that the original layout no longer supports productivity or collaboration as effectively as it once did.

Storage Areas Are Overflowing

Many growing businesses accumulate inventory, equipment, supplies, and records over time. When storage rooms begin overflowing into offices, hallways, or work areas, it may indicate that your current space is no longer keeping up with operational demands.

Insufficient storage can create inefficiencies and make it more difficult to keep workspaces organized.

You Are Turning Away Opportunities

Growth can create opportunities that require additional space. Whether it is hiring new employees, expanding inventory, purchasing equipment, or adding new services, a lack of physical space can become a barrier to progress.

If business decisions are regularly being influenced by space limitations, it may be worth evaluating whether your current location still supports your goals.

Operational Efficiency Is Declining

Many businesses evolve over time. New technology, additional equipment, expanded product lines, and changing operational needs can all place new demands on a facility.

An undersized workspace can impact workflow in ways that are not always obvious. Employees may spend more time navigating crowded work areas, locating supplies, or working around space constraints.

A space that worked well several years ago may no longer align with how your business operates today. Over time, these small inefficiencies can affect productivity and create frustration for both employees and customers.

Customer Experience Is Being Affected

For businesses that interact directly with customers, limited space can influence the customer experience. Crowded waiting areas, limited parking, insufficient seating, or cramped retail spaces can make it more difficult to serve customers effectively.

As your customer base grows, your physical location should be able to support the level of service you want to provide.

Planning for Future Growth

Outgrowing a space is often a positive sign that a business is moving in the right direction. Whether you are considering a larger lease, purchasing a commercial property, or reconfiguring your current facility, planning ahead can help make the transition smoother.

As your business grows, it is also important to review your business insurance coverage to make sure it reflects your current operations, property, equipment, and staffing levels. Contact us today to review your coverage and discuss how recent changes to your business may impact your insurance needs.

How Smart Home Technology Can Help Detect Problems Early

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 21:34:09 GMT

Smart home technology is often associated with security cameras and smart locks, but many of today's most useful devices are designed to help homeowners identify potential problems before they become major repairs.

From water leaks to temperature fluctuations, smart home tools can provide early warnings that allow homeowners to respond more quickly. While no technology can prevent every issue, these devices can offer greater visibility into what is happening around your property, whether you are at home or away.

Smart Water Leak Detectors

Water damage is one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face. Even a small leak can cause significant damage if it goes unnoticed for an extended period.

Smart water leak detectors are designed to monitor areas where leaks commonly occur, including around water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, sinks, and sump pumps. If moisture is detected, many systems can send an alert directly to your smartphone, allowing you to investigate the issue before it worsens.

Automatic Water Shutoff Systems

Some smart home systems take water protection a step further by automatically shutting off a home's water supply when a significant leak is detected.

These systems can help reduce damage from burst pipes, appliance failures, and other plumbing issues. For homeowners who travel frequently or own seasonal properties, automatic shutoff technology can provide an added layer of protection.

Smart Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Traditional smoke and carbon monoxide detectors play an important role in home safety, but smart versions can provide additional awareness when you are not at home.

Many smart detectors can send notifications directly to your mobile device if smoke or carbon monoxide is detected. This allows homeowners to stay informed and take action even when they are away from the property.

Smart Thermostats and Freeze Monitoring

Temperature-related issues can create unexpected property damage, especially during colder months. Frozen pipes can burst and lead to extensive water damage if problems are not identified quickly.

Smart thermostats allow homeowners to monitor indoor temperatures remotely and receive alerts if temperatures fall outside a designated range. This can be particularly helpful for vacation homes, rental properties, or homes left vacant for extended periods.

In addition to temperature monitoring, some smart home devices can track humidity levels, air quality, and other environmental conditions.

Technology and Insurance Working Together

Many smart home devices can work together through a single app or platform, making it easier to monitor multiple aspects of your property from one place. Homeowners can choose the devices that fit their needs and gradually build a system that provides greater visibility and convenience.

While smart home technology is not a substitute for insurance, it can help homeowners stay informed and respond quickly when problems arise. Contact us today to review your homeowner insurance coverage and discuss ways to help protect your property.

Common Insurance Mistakes Young Families Make

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 21:34:47 GMT

Starting and growing a family comes with many exciting milestones, but it also brings new responsibilities and financial risks. Between busy schedules, growing expenses, and changing priorities, insurance coverage is often overlooked. Unfortunately, small gaps in coverage can create major problems when the unexpected happens.

Keeping the Same Coverage for Too Long

Many young families continue using the same insurance policies they had before getting married, buying a home, or having children. As life changes, insurance needs often change as well. Coverage that worked a few years ago may no longer provide enough protection today.

Underinsuring Personal Property

Families tend to accumulate furniture, electronics, appliances, toys, and other belongings quickly. Many people underestimate the total value of their personal property until they experience a major loss. Creating a home inventory can make it easier to understand how much coverage may be needed.

Choosing Coverage Based Only on Price

It is natural to want affordable insurance, especially with the expenses that come with raising children. However, choosing the lowest-priced policy without understanding the coverage can lead to unexpected out-of-pocket costs later. Deductibles, liability limits, exclusions, and coverage options all matter.

Not Updating Beneficiaries

Life insurance and other financial accounts often require beneficiary updates after major life events such as marriage or the birth of a child. Forgetting to review this information can create complications later and may not reflect your current wishes.

Many young families delay purchasing life insurance because they assume it is too expensive or unnecessary. In reality, life insurance can help provide financial stability for a spouse or children if something unexpected happens. Policies are often more affordable when purchased at a younger age.

Ignoring Liability Protection

As families grow, liability risks can increase as well. Owning a home, hosting guests, having pets, or adding teenage drivers can all increase exposure to liability claims. Reviewing liability limits and discussing umbrella insurance may be worthwhile for some families.

Forgetting to Review Coverage Regularly

Insurance should not be treated as a one-time purchase. Families often experience changes in vehicles, income, home value, and lifestyle over time. Regular policy reviews can help identify gaps and ensure coverage continues to match current needs.

Insurance may not always be top of mind during busy stages of life, but having the right coverage in place can help provide peace of mind and financial protection for your family. Taking a little time to review your policies now can help prevent larger problems later.

Mistakes Small Businesses Make When Trying to Grow Too Quickly

Sat, 27 Jun 2026 21:34:47 GMT

Growth is exciting for any small business. More customers, new employees, and expanding operations are all signs that hard work is paying off. However, growing too quickly without the right planning can create serious challenges that impact long-term success.

Taking on Too Much Overhead Too Soon

One common mistake is expanding expenses too quickly. Leasing larger office space, purchasing costly equipment, or rapidly increasing payroll before revenue is fully stable can create unnecessary financial pressure. Growth should be strategic and sustainable rather than rushed.

Growth often increases expenses before profits fully catch up. Some business owners assume future sales will automatically solve current financial strain, but rapid growth can quickly create cash flow issues without careful budgeting and planning.

Failing to Build Strong Processes

As businesses grow, communication, scheduling, customer service, and project management become more complex. Systems that worked for a small team may no longer be effective as operations expand. Without organized processes in place, inefficiencies and mistakes are likely to increase.

Many businesses grow because they provide excellent service and strong customer relationships. During periods of fast expansion, it can become difficult to maintain the same level of responsiveness and consistency. Customers often notice when service quality changes.

Hiring Faster Than You Can Train

Adding employees too quickly without proper onboarding or clearly defined responsibilities can create confusion and inconsistent service. Strong hiring and training practices become increasingly important during periods of rapid growth.

Overlooking Insurance and Risk Management

Growth can also change your insurance needs. Adding employees, vehicles, equipment, locations, or services may require updates to your business insurance coverage. Reviewing your policies regularly can help ensure your business remains properly protected as operations expand.

Planning for Sustainable Growth

Growing your business is an exciting milestone, but sustainable growth is often more successful than expanding too quickly. Taking the time to strengthen operations, finances, and long-term planning can help position your company for continued success.