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    • Author: Julie Couglin

    Maximizing Success in Health Open Enrollment: A Guide for Employers

    27 September 2024
    Julie Couglin
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    Categories: Uncategorized

    As we approach the open enrollment period, it’s crucial for employers to facilitate a smooth and successful experience for both their organization and employees. Open enrollment presents an opportunity not only to ensure adequate benefits coverage but also to strengthen employee engagement and satisfaction. Here are some strategies to make your open enrollment period a strategic success.

    1. Clear Communication is Key

    Start by informing your employees well in advance about the dates and details of the open enrollment period. A well-crafted communication plan can alleviate confusion and uncertainties. Use multiple channels—emails, in-person meetings, and intranet updates—to engage your employees. Personalizing communication can also foster trust and understanding of the benefits being offered.

    2. Ensure Comprehensive Education on Benefits  Given that health plans and benefits can be complex, equip your employees with the necessary tools and resources to make informed decisions. Consider hosting interactive workshops, Q&A sessions, and webinars to explain the various health plans and their features. Create educational materials like flyers or infographics summarizing key benefits and comparisons. This ensures employees feel confident in their choices, reducing the likelihood of post-enrollment dissatisfaction.

    3. Leverage Technology for Ease and Accessibility  Utilize technology to streamline the enrollment process. Many HR platforms offer user-friendly interfaces for employees to enroll or make changes to their health benefits conveniently. Moreover, these platforms often provide access to important documentation and plan information. By promoting ease of access, employees are more likely to engage thoroughly with their benefits.

    4. Encourage a Health-Conscious Culture** Encouraging health and wellness during enrollment can enhance the overall impact on employee engagement. Introduce wellness challenges or initiatives during this period that promote the importance of health while educating employees on the benefits of preventive healthcare plans. Engaging with qualified professionals, such as wellness coaches or healthcare advisors, can build excitement and awareness around your offerings.

    5. Feedback Mechanisms

    Post-enrollment, solicit feedback from employees about the enrollment process and the benefits they selected. This provides valuable insights into any gaps or areas for improvement in your overall benefits strategy. Use this information to adjust your offerings or processes in the following year to better cater to the needs of your workforce.

    6. Highlight Success Stories

    Celebrate success stories throughout the enrollment period. Showcase employees who have effectively utilized their health benefits and achieved positive outcomes. This not only encourages other employees to take full advantage of the resources at their disposal but can also help to create a culture of wellness and support within your organization.

    In conclusion, open enrollment is more than just a requirement for compliance—it’s an opportunity to engage, educate, and empower your employees about their health benefits. By implementing clear communication, leveraging technology, fostering a health-oriented culture, encouraging feedback, and celebrating successes, employers can create a positive open enrollment experience that resonates throughout the year. Let’s make this open enrollment period one where employees feel valued, informed, and excited about their healthcare choices!

    If you have additional questions about how we can assist with your Open Enrollment, please contact Mike Holley, Vice President – Life & Health for Dimond Bros. mike.holley@dimondbros.com

    This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice.

    UNDERSTANDING YOUR ROLE IN ROOFING COVERAGE

    16 September 2024
    Julie Couglin
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    Categories: Uncategorized

    As a homeowner, you may not think about your roof every day, but when it comes to your homeowners insurance, the age of your roof can make a big difference. With insurance carriers taking a hard line in the current market, the age of your roof has become a significant factor in determining insurance premiums and coverage.


    An old roof can pose a higher risk for insurance carriers, as it is more susceptible to damage and leaks, especially during extreme weather conditions. This increased risk often translates to higher premiums for homeowners with older roofs. In some cases, insurance carriers may even limit coverage or require a roof inspection before providing full coverage.


    During a hard market, where insurance carriers are tightening their underwriting standards and increasing rates, homeowners with older roofs may find it more challenging to secure affordable coverage. Some carriers may even refuse to insure homes with roofs that are deemed too old or in poor condition.

    For homeowners navigating the insurance market in these challenging times, proactive steps can be taken to mitigate the impact of an aging roof. Regular roof maintenance, such as inspections and repairs, can demonstrate to insurance carriers that the roof is being properly cared for and may help in securing better coverage options.


    Additionally, investing in a new roof, if financially feasible, can not only reduce insurance premiums but also provide peace of mind knowing that the home is better protected against the elements. Some insurance carriers may even offer discounts for homes with newer roofs or certain types of impact-resistant roofing materials.


    In summary, as the insurance market tightens and carriers become more selective, the age and condition of your roof can significantly impact your homeowners insurance. Taking proactive measures to maintain or replace your roof can help mitigate the effects of the hard market and ensure that your home is adequately protected.


    This article is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal
    advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice. For more details regarding the information contained in this report, contact Dimond Bros. Insurance today. Please note that leaving a message in email or voicemail does not constitute the binding of coverage and you must speak with an Agency Representative.

    Have you considered pollution liability?

    9 September 2024
    Julie Couglin
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    Categories: Uncategorized

    When one thinks about pollution, what comes to mind? Oil spills, chemical spills, smog, dirty air and water. While all of those are very visible signs of pollution, what is considered a pollutant may be a surprise. A simple internet search will reveal all kinds of definitions that certainly point back to natural assumptions about what is a pollutant. The National Geographic Society defines pollution as “the introduction of harmful materials into the environment. These harmful materials are called pollutants. Pollutants can be natural, such as volcanic ash. They can also be created by human activity, such as trash or runoff produced by factories.”

    If one simply takes the above perceptions and definitions as the standard for what pollution and pollutants are, then one might incorrectly assume they have no pollution exposure or risk. Chris Bunbury, an environmental strategist and founder of Environmental Risk Managers, defines pollution as “A material, substance, liquid or product introduced into an environment for other than its intended use or purpose.” The definition provided by Chris Bunbury is most closely aligned with the definition insurance carriers use when determining whether there is coverage for an incident or not. Taking this second definition into account, one can easily see why nearly everything could be considered a pollutant. One should also understand that pollution is largely excluded by most commercial general liability and commercial umbrella and excess policies. This means that if a business has what could be defined as a pollution event by most insurance carriers, then that business may be left holding the bag when it comes time to pay for damages… and the damages can be very costly.

    What can a business do to protect themselves from pollution liability claims or contractual provisions requiring Environmental Indemnification? Businesses have many products available to them, but two of the most common pollution policies are Site Pollution Policies, which cover the business for pollution incidents that occur on property they own, lease or manage. Contractor’s Pollution Liability Policies cover the business for the pollution exposures that may arise out of the business’ operations. Site Pollution policies are purchased by insureds who understand that they may have environmental exposures/risks, that could give rise to a pollution claim, on property they occupy. Contractor’s Pollution Liability Policies are often purchased by insureds who are trying to fulfill a contract requirement or a governmental mandate. It is important to note that the absence of either a contract requirement or a governmental mandate does not mean the insured is immune to pollution claims. This is why the best practice for insureds to follow is purchasing pollution policies that address each insured’s specific needs.

    For a copy of our recent webinar on Pollution Liability please email feedback@dimondbros.com or reach out to your local Dimond Bros. agent to discuss.

    This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice.

    Paid Time Off

    16 August 2024
    Julie Couglin
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    Categories: Uncategorized

    US Workers Are Satisfied With Their PTO, But Most Fail to Exhaust it

    A new recent Harris Poll found that most employed Americans are satisfied with their company’s paid time off (PTO) policy; however, 3 in 4 said they didn’t use the maximum PTO permitted by their employer.

    The survey reported that most U.S. workers get between 11 and 30 PTO days yearly. Last year, the average employed American took 15 paid days off despite many being allowed more. The top use cases were vacation and health and wellness (e.g., sick days and doctor appointments).

    According to the Harris Poll survey, 76% of workers say, “I wish my workplace culture placed a stronger emphasis on the value of taking regular breaks and utilizing PTO.”

    Consider these additional key findings from the survey:

    • Most Americans (83%) are satisfied with their company’s PTO policy.
    • Over half (60%) are given more than 10 PTO days annually.
    • An additional 7% have an “unlimited vacation policy.” Nearly one-third (32%) of American workers indicate that “unlimited vacation policy” means more than 30 days off.
    • Most (78%) do not use the maximum PTO allowed by their employer. The average worker took 15 paid days off last year despite half (49%) being allowed more than that by their employer.
    • The top barriers preventing workers from taking more time off are “pressure to always be available and responsive to demands” (31%) and “heavy workload” (30%).

    Even when workers took time off, 60% reported struggling to fully disconnect from work. As such, 86% checked emails from their boss, and 56% took work-related calls during time off. Similarly, nearly half of the workers said they felt guilty about taking the time off in the first place. Specifically, millennial and Generation Z workers are nervous about requesting PTO due to employer reactions and career implications. As a result, many millennials admitted to workarounds, such as moving their mouse to maintain online messaging status or taking time off without telling their manager.

    Employer Takeaway

    Despite more employers expanding their PTO policies, workplace culture and workload pressures tend to dictate working Americans’ benefit usage. Furthermore, many workers still check their email or feel guilty during their time off, which causes them not to recharge as intended.

    To combat these behaviors and prevent burnout, small businesses can foster a company culture focused on taking PTO, not just the policy itself. Today’s workers find it increasingly challenging to balance their work commitments and personal time off, but employers can work on building a culture that supports and encourages breaks.

    At Dimond Bros Ins. we strive to not only provide excellent employee benefit packages for or customers, but also help to develop a culture where employees value their employer’s investment and create an overall positive work environment.

    If you’d like to discuss ways to improve your company’s culture through Benefits, please contact Mike Holley, Vice President – Life and Health at mike.holley@dimondbros.com

    This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice.

    Know Your Insurance – Dog Bites & Liabilities

    17 June 2024
    Julie Couglin
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    Categories: Uncategorized

    Sharing your home with dogs can be a delightful and rewarding experience, often providing you and your family with company and comfort while encouraging you to enjoy the outdoors. However, while these furry friends can be beloved additions to your family and household, they may also come with potential risks. After all, regardless of how well trained or docile they may be, these animals may still exhibit unpredictable behavior that could even become violent.

    Dog owners should take time to understand how their pet biting someone, such as a guest, neighbor or passerby, could potentially incur significant financial consequences. Much like how a child injuring someone or a teenage driver causing an accident might lead to costly losses that affect everyone on the policy, you may be considered at fault for incidents involving your dog. Fortunately, understanding and optimizing your insurance coverage may help you enjoy financial security and peace of mind following these situations.

    Why Should My Insurance Account for Dog Bites?

    Some dog owners may make the mistake of thinking their adorable pets cannot inflict significant harm; however, this misconception could prove costly. According to the Insurance Information Institute (Triple-I), nearly 4.5 million Americans (many of whom are children) are bitten by dogs annually; the number of claims against homeowners insurance for dog-related injuries and the average cost per claim has risen in recent years. Furthermore, according to Triple-I and State Farm, liability claims arising from bites and other dog-related injuries resulted in nearly $1.2 billion in costs for homeowners insurance carriers in 2023 alone. Even a small and usually well-behaved dog can inflict significant harm on a person, and resulting medical bills and other financial losses could lead to catastrophic costs.

    Understanding the Law

    In 29 states, you are legally responsible for injuries inflicted by your dogs, although exceptions may apply. Seventeen other states and the District of Columbia do not automatically consider dog owners to be liable for the actions of their pets, but attacks can be considered misdemeanors or even felonies in some cases, according to Triple-I. In some cases, insurance companies may adjust rates or deny coverage altogether for homeowners who own certain breeds, although they may be prohibited from doing so in some states.

    Generally, three types of laws may apply if your dog injures someone:

    • Dog-bite statutes may automatically consider you liable for unprovoked bodily injuries or property damage caused by your pet.
    • A one-bite rule may hold you responsible for injuries caused by your dog if the victim can prove that you were aware of the dangers your pet presented.
    • Negligence laws may consider you at fault if an incident occurred due to your carelessness, negligence or failure to control your pet.

    Dog attacks can lead to significant fines and legal ramifications for you and your family. For example, there have been cases where individuals were convicted of charges, including murder and involuntary manslaughter, after their dogs attacked someone. Dog owners should research and understand their states’ laws regarding dog-bite liability and then take measures to reduce the risk of bites.

    Insurance Solutions for Dog Bites

    Given the financial and legal ramifications that could arise from an incident where your dog bites someone, it’s critical for you to have adequate insurance coverage. Fortunately, standard homeowners insurance policies typically include personal liability coverage, which can extend to your spouse, children and pets. If your dog bites someone or otherwise causes injuries, such as if they knock someone down inadvertently while playing, your insurance may help cover the affected party’s medical bills and financial losses. Similarly, your personal liability coverage may assist with repair or replacement costs should your dog damage someone’s property, such as digging up a neighbor’s garden.

    Still, you should be aware of any restrictions or exclusions in your homeowners insurance. While many policies may include dogs under their personal liability coverage, some insurance companies may exempt certain breeds, such as rottweilers and pit bulls. In some cases, insurers may evaluate your dog before deciding on coverage. You should also be aware that personal liability coverage does not extend to incidents where you or other members of your household are injured. For financial protection after your dog bites you or your children, you will require alternate coverage.

    Considering the expensive consequences of dog bites, you may wish to retain additional coverage beyond the capabilities of your homeowners insurance. In these situations, personal umbrella insurance emerges as a valuable investment. These policies establish a secondary layer of liability coverage, meaning that if your homeowners insurance coverage limits are exhausted, you can receive additional aid.

    Tips for Preventing Dog Bites

    While having suitable insurance can help limit the financial consequences of your dog biting someone, keeping an incident from occurring in the first place is ideal. Consider the following strategies to minimize the chance of your dog harming someone:

    1. Invest in training classes for your dog and compound these teachings with your own efforts at home, particularly in regard to stopping aggressive behavior.
    2. Have your dog spayed or neutered to reduce unpredictability, adventurousness and aggression.
    3. Introduce your dog to a variety of people and environments to help your pet be more comfortable in unfamiliar situations.
    4. Avoid environments where you cannot predict how your dog will react. This may include confining them to a room or kennel while having company over.
    5. Be aware of your dog’s breed and behavioral tendencies, and understand any potential triggers.
    6. Obey leash laws and ensure yard fencing is sufficient to contain the dog, as applicable.
    7. Be especially cautious with your dog around young children, who are the most frequently bitten.
    8. Maintain your dog’s health, as dogs who are sick or in pain may be more likely to lash out.
    9. Recognize your dog’s behavior, including knowing when they are agitated or stressed. Be ready to de-escalate a situation if this occurs when others are around.

    Ultimately, you know your dog better than anyone. Consider talking with a veterinarian about potential causes and remediation if your dog is acting strangely or showing signs of aggression.

    For More Information

    Dogs can be beloved additions to your family and household, but these animals still possess sharp teeth and claws that could inflict significant injuries. As a responsible dog owner, you should be diligent and dedicated to minimizing the risk of your pet harming someone else or otherwise causing damage. Furthermore, adequate insurance coverage should be a top priority to ensure you can manage the financial fallout of such incidents.

    We’re here to help. At Dimond Bros. Insurance we can help you understand coverage options related to your dog and limit potential losses. Contact us today for more resources.

    This article is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice

    Embarking on Adventure?

    31 May 2024
    Julie Couglin
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    Categories: Uncategorized

    As the summer months approach, many people start planning their road trips and vacations in their recreational vehicles (RVs). However, as an independent insurance agency, we know that it’s important for RV owners to understand the importance of having proper insurance coverage to protect them and their vehicles.

    RV insurance is a specialized form of insurance that provides coverage for the unique risks associated with owning and operating an RV. It typically includes liability coverage, which covers damage or injuries that you may cause to others while driving your RV, as well as physical damage coverage to protect your RV in case of an accident or theft.

    One important thing to keep in mind is that RV insurance is not the same as auto insurance. While they may have some similarities, RV insurance covers a wider range of risks and often includes additional coverage options, such as coverage for personal belongings that are stored in your RV.

    When shopping for RV insurance, it’s important to work with an independent insurance agent who can help you compare policies from multiple insurers and find the coverage that’s right for you. They can also help you understand the different types of coverage that are available and answer any questions you may have about your policy.

    Another thing to consider is that RV insurance rates can vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of RV you own, its age and value, and your driving record. By working with an independent insurance agent, you can find competitive rates on your RV insurance without sacrificing coverage.

    Before embarking on your next adventure, consider having the following protections in place through your RV insurance policy:

    • Bodily injury liability coverage
    • Property damage liability coverage
    • Collision coverage
    • Comprehensive coverage
    • Medical payments coverage
    • Contents coverage
    • Roadside assistance coverage
    • Vacation and campsite liability coverage
    • Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage

    As summer approaches and more people hit the road in their RVs, it’s important to make sure you have the right insurance coverage to protect yourself and your vehicle. By working with an independent insurance agent and understanding the different types of coverage available, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind knowing that you’re protected.

    This article is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be exhaustive, nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as professional advice.