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Insurance and risk management solutions.

Why Business Owners Need Liability Insurance (Even for Small Businesses) 11 Apr 2025, 8:48 pm

Running a business—no matter how small—comes with risk. Whether you’re a solo consultant, a local retailer, or managing a growing team, the unexpected can happen: a customer slips in your store, a client claims your advice led to a financial loss, or a product you sell causes harm. That’s where liability insurance comes in.

At Freedom Insurance, we work with business owners across industries to protect what they’ve built. If you think liability insurance is only for large corporations, think again. Here’s why every business—including yours—needs liability coverage to stay secure and sustainable.

What Is Liability Insurance?

Liability insurance protects your business from claims related to bodily injury, property damage, or professional errors. If someone sues your company for negligence or harm, liability insurance can cover legal fees, settlements, and medical costs—expenses that could otherwise put your business at serious financial risk.

There are several types of liability insurance, including:

General Liability Insurance – Covers physical injuries or property damage caused by your business operations, products, or services.
Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions) – Covers claims related to mistakes, missed deadlines, or negligence in professional services.
Product Liability Insurance – Protects against claims stemming from products you manufacture or sell.

The type (or types) you need depends on your business model—but some form of liability insurance is essential for everyone.

Why Small Businesses Are Especially Vulnerable

Small businesses often have limited resources and less room for error. A single lawsuit—even one that’s unfounded—can cost thousands in legal fees, not to mention lost time and damage to your reputation.

Liability insurance gives you the financial backing to handle these challenges without draining your business savings or shutting your doors. It also:

Builds credibility with customers, vendors, and partners
Helps you meet contract or lease requirements (many landlords or clients require proof of insurance)
Protects your personal assets if you’re a sole proprietor or LLC

Real-World Risks to Consider

Still unsure if liability insurance is necessary? Here are a few real-world examples where coverage can be a lifesaver:

A customer trips on a loose rug in your shop and sues for medical bills.
A dissatisfied client claims your business advice caused financial loss.
A product you sell malfunctions and damages a customer’s property.
You accidentally damage a client’s home while performing on-site services.

These types of incidents happen more often than you might think—and without coverage, the cost comes straight out of your pocket.

It’s More Affordable Than You Might Expect

Many small business owners assume insurance will be expensive, but liability coverage is often surprisingly affordable, especially compared to the cost of a lawsuit. Premiums vary depending on your industry, location, and business size, but policies can often be tailored to your exact needs.

An experienced insurance provider (like Freedom Insurance) can help you assess your risk and build a plan that fits your budget.

Protect Your Business with Freedom Insurance Agency

Whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for years, don’t wait until a claim jeopardizes your company. Liability insurance offers essential protection and peace of mind so you can focus on confidently growing your business.

At Freedom Insurance, we help business owners across Maryland find the right coverage at the right price. Let us show you how simple and worthwhile liability insurance can be. Contact Freedom Insurance Agency today to schedule a consultation and protect your business for the road ahead.

The post Why Business Owners Need Liability Insurance (Even for Small Businesses) appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

6 Reasons Why Water Heaters Fail 8 Apr 2025, 4:00 am

It’s no fun going without hot water. That’s especially true when the seasons change and temperatures take a dip.

But like nearly every otherappliance in your house, water heaters fail. And that can lead to cold showers — or even worse, a water leak.

Here are 6 telltale signs you have a failing water heater:

You only have cold water.
Your water gets warm, but never hot.
Your water heater makes a rumbling noise.
Your hot water is rusty, muddy or discolored.
Your water has a metallic smell or taste.
Water is leaking around your water heater.

If any of these symptoms sound familiar… it’s probably time to call a plumber. Wondering why your water heater is failing? Here are some of the reasons – and what you can do help prevent a failure:

Internal rust: Sacrificial anodes are highly active metal rods that help prevent your water heater from corroding. Anode rods are consumed in the place of the metal they protect – hence the name “sacrificial.” Over time, they need to be replaced.
The fix: They typically last several years, but it’s a good idea to check your anode rods every year – or bring in a professional to take a look. If they look worn down, it’s time to replace them.
Related: Can you guess the life expectancy of these 5 major appliances?
Sediment buildup: When water is heated, mineral deposits separate and settle onto the bottom of your water heater tank. Sediment builds up over time, reducing your water heater efficiency and eventually causing damage. This is especially an issue if you have hard water.
The fix: Flush your water heater at least once a year.
High water pressure: Water pressure that’s too high can damage your water heater, as well as your pipes and other appliances. If you notice water leaking from the overflow pipe on the side of your water heater, you may have an issue with excessive pressure.
The fix: Keep the water pressure on your heater no higher than 80 psi, and consider replacing your temperature and pressure (T&P) relief valve.
Corrosive fumes: In order for combustion to occur, water heaters need to draw in air. Problems can occur if the air quality is poor. Especially dangerous is corrosive air, which can corrode your tank and lead to water heater failure.
The fix: Keep corrosive substances like ammonia and bleach far away from your water heater.
Wrong size heater: Water heaters come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the water usage of all the people and appliances in your home. If you buy a water heater that’s too small for your needs, it will need to work more than it should – and that can lead it to breakdown from overuse.
The fix: Talk with a plumber or appliance expert to make sure you buy a water heater that’s the right size for your household.
Old age: Water heaters typically last about 8 to 12 years. Any longer than that, and you’re probably on borrowed time. If you’re having issues with rust, a bad heating element or a pilot light that won’t stay lit… old age may be the problem.
The fix: If your water heater is at the end of its life span, consider proactively replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model.

Types of hot water heaters

If you’re replacing a water heater, you’ll quickly learn that they come in all different shapes and sizes. There are plenty of choices, so research the option that’s right for you.

Gas water heaters use natural gas to heat the water you need quickly, while electric water heaters use electric coils. Tankless heaters can be electric or gas, but instead of heating an entire tank, they heat water on demand.

Homeowners insurance that goes the distance for major appliances

It’s also important to do your research when it comes to homeowners insurance. Basic homeowners insurance usually doesn’t cover equipment breakdown for major appliances and home systems like hot water heaters, HVAC systems or refrigerators and ranges.

Good news: With Equipment Breakdown Coverage from ERIE, you can get an extra cushion of protection for major appliances and home systems right in your homeowners policy with ErieSecure Home® and the Select bundle, when you also have Sewer and Drain Backup Coverage.*

Want to find out more? Talk to a local ERIE agent in your neighborhood and get a free homeowners insurance quote.

*Coverage is not available if the Select bundle does not include sewer and drain backup. Coverage is capped at $50,000 per occurrence and the policy deductible applies. Claims are subject to ERIE’s surcharge program. Details are contained in the policy. Subject to terms, conditions and exclusions. Not available in all states. Talk to an ERIE Agent for policy details and state-specific policy information and refer to our disclaimer for additional information.

ERIE® insurance products and services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). The companies within the Erie Insurance Group are not licensed to operate in all states. Refer to the company licensure and states of operation information.

The insurance products and rates, if applicable, described in this blog are in effect as of the article’s publish date and may be changed at any time.

Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog. The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions. Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.

The post 6 Reasons Why Water Heaters Fail appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

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The Beginner’s Guide to Short-Term Rentals 7 Apr 2025, 4:00 am

From a stylish urban loft to a cozy country cottage… booking a short-term stay is a hot trend (and a great way to travel like a local.)

Maybe you’ve considered becoming a host yourself. If so, you’ve probably wondered: Is it safe? Can I actually make money doing this? What amenities should I offer my guests?

Good news: You’re asking all the right questions.

Whether you’re looking to rent out your entire home, a guest house or a single bedroom, it pays to do some research first. From vacation rental sites like Airbnb and VRBO® to home-sharing sites like Couchsurfing – even old-fashioned weekly and monthly rentals! – there’s no shortage of options.

Keep reading to find out what great hosts know – and what you should know about your homeowners insurance if you’ll be hosting short-term rental guests.

3 Essential Tips for First-Time Hosts

As a host, a little preparation goes a long way. Before you list your property online, think through these three topics:

Pricing: To determine the rate you’ll charge for your rental, start by doing some research. Use sites like Airbnb and VRBO® to find comparable listings in your area to determine a competitive price point.
Marketing: A picture says a thousand words. When developing your listing, be sure to take photos that show your home in a positive light. Then, write a detailed listing description with all the reasons why your home is a great place to stay. Pro tip: Be descriptive, but don’t oversell it. Travelers value honesty and transparency, and exaggerations won’t do you any favors when it comes time for your guests to leave you a review.
Hospitality: Keep your home stocked with convenience items like shampoo and face wash in the bathroom, or pantry staples and a few fresh groceries in the kitchen. Make sure your space is free of clutter and give your guests a place where they can relax and feel at home.

How does insurance work for short-term rentals?

This can get tricky. Let’s explain.

Your listing site’s insurance

If you want to host short-term rental guests, do your research on what your online listing site does (and doesn’t) cover. For example, not every listing site offers liability coverage for hosts. Make time to talk to an insurance professional like an Erie Insurance agent to understand how you can customize your own insurance policy to bridge the gap.

Your own insurance policy

Here’s the good news: With ERIE, you have options to customize your existing coverage for home sharing, depending on what you’re renting, and for how long.

To rent out your primary home: If you want to rent out your own residence—whether it’s your whole home or just a spare bedroom—ask about adding the new home sharing endorsement* to your ErieSecure homeowners policy. (More detail on that below.)
To rent out a rental property: If you own a property exclusively used for renters or tenants (like an apartment building or cottage), an ErieSecure Rental policy has built-in coverage for home sharing. You’re covered to host short-term tenants, as long your place is listed on a reputable website that offers liability coverage equal up to $1 million or greater for bodily injury to or property damages of guests.

Why should I add the home sharing endorsement to my homeowners insurance?

The home sharing endorsement* from Erie Insurance is designed with short-term rentals in mind. You’ll want to consider it if you’re opening up your primary residence (your own home) to short-term tenants for fewer than 180 consecutive days per year.

This endorsement offers additional protection that would apply if something were to happen to a renter or their belongings while renting all or part of your home – for example, if a burst pipe in your home causes water damage to a traveler’s expensive DSLR camera, or your renter is injured by falling down a flight of stairs.

Here’s a little more about how it works:

Extra protection: Coverage is provided up to the liability limit for certain coverages on your homeowners policy, which typically ranges from $100,000 to $1 million.
Right-sized for any rental: The coverage kicks in whether you’re renting out your whole home or just a spare room.
Affordable: The average cost to add this to your ERIE policy could be as low as $40 to $60 per year. (Because coverage, limits and costs can vary, check with an ERIE agent for details.)
A company you trust: Customers have been putting their faith in ERIE to protect what matters most to them since 1925. (Find out more about what makes ERIE different.)

Request a Quote

For many people, their home is their most valuable asset. Our job is to help them protect it. If you’re ready to be a superhost, request a quote from an Erie Insurance agent to find the best insurance options for you.

ERIE’s Home Sharing Coverage is available with an ErieSecure Home®, ErieSecure Condo® or ErieSecure Tenant® policy. It is not available in North Carolina and Virginia. See the policy for specific coverage details. Certain terms and limitations may apply. Refer to our disclaimer for additional information.

The post The Beginner’s Guide to Short-Term Rentals appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

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Freedom Insurance: Top Home Insurance Myths Debunked 3 Apr 2025, 6:53 pm

Home insurance is an essential safeguard for your most valuable asset, but misconceptions about its coverage and limitations can leave homeowners unprepared. Myths about home insurance often lead to misunderstandings, leaving gaps in protection when disaster strikes. To ensure your home and belongings are fully protected, it’s crucial to separate fact from fiction. Here, we’ll debunk some of the most common home insurance myths to help you make informed decisions.

Myth 1: Home Insurance Covers Everything

Many homeowners believe their home insurance policy covers all types of damages and losses. However, standard policies only protect against specific perils, such as fire, theft, and some weather-related events. Damage from floods, earthquakes, and normal wear-and-tear is typically excluded and requires separate coverage.

Myth 2: Personal Belongings Are Fully Covered

Home insurance does provide coverage for personal belongings, but there are often limits for high-value items such as jewelry, fine art, or electronics. For instance, a standard policy might only cover up to $1,500 for jewelry, which may not be enough to replace valuable pieces. If you own expensive items, consider adding a personal property endorsement or floater to your policy. This additional coverage ensures your valuable possessions are fully protected against theft, loss, or damage. Creating a home inventory of your belongings can also help you assess whether your current coverage is adequate.

Myth 3: Market Value Equals Coverage Amount

Some homeowners mistakenly believe their insurance coverage should match their home’s market value. In reality, home insurance is based on replacement cost—the expense required to rebuild your home—not its real estate value. Market value includes factors like location and land value, which don’t impact rebuilding costs. Replacement cost coverage accounts for materials, labor, and current construction rates. Ensuring your policy reflects replacement costs rather than market value helps you avoid being underinsured.

Myth 4: Home-Based Businesses Are Covered

If you run a business from your home, don’t assume it’s protected under your homeowner’s insurance. Standard policies typically exclude coverage for business-related equipment, inventory, and liability. For example, if a client visits your home and gets injured, your homeowner’s policy likely won’t cover the liability. To protect your business, you may need a home business endorsement or a separate business insurance policy. Discuss your business activities with your agent to ensure proper coverage.

Myth 5: Filing a Claim Always Increases Premiums

It’s a common fear that filing a claim will automatically lead to higher premiums. While some claims can affect your rates, this isn’t always the case. Insurance providers consider several factors, including the type and frequency of claims, your overall risk profile, and the severity of the claim. For minor damages, consider whether it’s worth filing a claim or paying out-of-pocket to avoid potential rate changes.However, for significant losses, filing a claim ensures you get the financial support needed for repairs or replacements.

Myth 6: Older Homes Are Difficult to Insure

Owning an older home doesn’t mean you’ll struggle to find insurance. While some properties with outdated plumbing or electrical systems may require additional inspections, most can still be insured. Upgrading systems like wiring or roofs can lower risks and premiums. Specialized policies or endorsements may also be available to cover unique features of older homes, ensuring they’re properly protected.

Secure Your Home with Freedom Insurance

Understanding the truth about home insurance ensures you’re fully protected and avoids surprises when you need coverage the most. At Freedom Insurance, we’re committed to helping homeowners navigate their policies, debunk myths, and secure the right coverage for their unique needs.

Have questions about your home insurance or want to explore your options? Contact us today, and let our experienced agents provide the clarity and protection you deserve.

The post Freedom Insurance: Top Home Insurance Myths Debunked appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

What Kind of Auto Insurance is Right for My Business? 3 Apr 2025, 6:37 pm

Does your business rely on a vehicle or a fleet of vehicles? Businesses that rely on vehicles must keep them in good working order. One of the best ways to do this is to have a quality auto insurance policy. At Freedom Insurance, we have been helping people and business owners alike with all of their auto insurance needs. Today, we wanted to talk about how you can choose the right auto insurance for your business.

How Do Business Auto Insurance Policies Work?

There are a number of businesses that inherently require vehicles to function, and many others that may gain a need for vehicles as the business begins to grow. In order to protect these vehicles and your business, as well as the employees who use them, you need to have an auto insurance policy. How your particular policy works will depend on the kind of policy you opt for.

Liability Insurance is a Must

In the state of Maryland and nearly all states, liability insurance is a must if you intend to drive on the roads. Liability insurance will cover the costs of anyone harmed by your vehicle, should it be responsible for an accident. This includes both medical bills for any people harmed, as well as the cost of repairs for any vehicles that were damaged in the accident.

Should You Opt for Physical Damage Insurance?

A physical damage insurance policy does a good job of protecting your vehicles and can help to minimize losses. Should anything weather-related ever happen to your business’s fleet of vehicles, or if they’re ever vandalized, this kind of policy will protect you.

What Affects Your Insurance Costs?

Your insurance costs may vary based on the insurance company you choose to get your plan through, as well as a number of factors. This list is not all encompassing, but these are some of the factors that will affect the cost of your commercial auto insurance plan:

The types of vehicles being covered
Your policy deductible
What your business does
The driving records of your employees
The number of vehicles being covered

To learn about all of the different things that will affect the cost of your insurance, the best thing to do is to speak with an experienced insurance agent from a professional insurance agency.

Learn More from a Professional Insurance Company

Are you interested in learning more about how you can pick the right auto insurance for your company? You have a lot to worry about running your business, you can get some help figuring out how to choose the auto insurance policy that works best for their business. At Freedom Insurance, we are experts in all kinds of auto insurance policies. If you have any questions, or would like to learn more about what kind of policy is best for your business, reach out to our team of insurance experts. We look forward to working with you and your business!

The post What Kind of Auto Insurance is Right for My Business? appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

Freedom Insurance: The Top Reasons Why Everyone Should Have Life Insurance 3 Apr 2025, 6:12 pm

Life is full of uncertainties, and while no one likes to think about worst-case scenarios, having a financial safety net in place is essential. Life insurance is one of the most important ways to protect your loved ones, ensuring they are financially secure if something happens to you. Whether you’re young and just starting out, raising a family, or planning for retirement, life insurance provides peace of mind and long-term stability. Here’s why everyone should have life insurance.

Financial Protection for Your Loved Ones

One of the biggest reasons to have life insurance is to provide financial security for your family. If you were to pass away unexpectedly, your loved ones would still need to cover everyday expenses, mortgage payments, and other financial obligations. A life insurance policy ensures they have the funds necessary to maintain their quality of life and avoid financial hardship.

Covers Outstanding Debts and Expenses

Many people assume that life insurance is only for replacing lost income, but it also helps cover debts left behind. If you have a mortgage, car loan, student loans, or credit card debt, those financial responsibilities don’t disappear when you pass away. Without life insurance, your family could be left struggling to pay off these debts. A life insurance payout can ease that burden and prevent your loved ones from inheriting unnecessary financial stress.

Helps Pay for Funeral and Burial Costs

Funerals can be expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. Life insurance can help cover these costs, so your family doesn’t have to worry about unexpected expenses during an already difficult time. Whether it’s funeral arrangements, burial fees, or cremation costs, having coverage ensures that these expenses are handled without financial strain.

Provides Income Replacement

If you are the primary earner in your household, your income is crucial to maintaining your family’s lifestyle. Life insurance replaces lost income, allowing your spouse and children to continue meeting their financial needs. This coverage ensures they can afford necessities like rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, childcare, and education expenses, helping them stay on track for the future.

Helps Fund Your Children’s Education

Raising children is expensive, and college tuition continues to rise every year. Life insurance can provide financial support for your children’s education, ensuring they have the opportunity to attend college even if you’re no longer around to help cover the costs. This long-term benefit helps set them up for success without the burden of excessive student loan debt.

Builds Wealth and Provides Tax Benefits

Some types of life insurance, such as whole life or universal life insurance, offer cash value that grows over time. This can be a great way to build wealth while also securing protection for your loved ones. In addition, life insurance benefits are typically tax-free, meaning your beneficiaries receive the full payout without worrying about income taxes.

Peace of Mind for the Future

Life insurance isn’t just about money—it’s about providing security and peace of mind. Knowing that your loved ones will be financially stable, no matter what happens, allows you to enjoy life without constant worry. The right policy gives you confidence that your family will be taken care of, no matter what the future holds.

Secure Your Future with Freedom Insurance

No matter your stage in life, having life insurance is one of the best financial decisions you can make. At Freedom Insurance, we help individuals and families find the right coverage to meet their needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for term life insurance, whole life insurance, or a custom policy, our team is here to guide you through the process.

Don’t wait until it’s too late — contact Freedom Insurance today to get the right life insurance policy in place and protect your loved ones for the future.

The post Freedom Insurance: The Top Reasons Why Everyone Should Have Life Insurance appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

Freedom Insurance: Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an Insurance Policy 3 Apr 2025, 5:05 pm

Choosing the right insurance policy is one of the most important financial decisions you can make. Whether you’re shopping for auto, home, health, or life insurance, the right coverage can protect your finances, provide peace of mind, and help you recover from unexpected events. However, many people make costly mistakes when selecting an insurance policy, leading to inadequate coverage or paying more than necessary. To help you make an informed decision, here are the top five mistakes to avoid when choosing an insurance policy.

1. Choosing the Cheapest Policy Without Looking at Coverage

It’s tempting to pick the least expensive insurance policy, but price alone shouldn’t be the deciding factor. Lower premiums often mean less coverage, higher deductibles, or exclusions that may leave you vulnerable when you need protection the most. Instead of focusing solely on cost, compare policies based on:

What’s covered and what’s excluded
Deductibles and out-of-pocket costs
The company’s reputation and customer service

A cheap policy won’t do you any good if it doesn’t provide adequate coverage when you need it.

2. Not Understanding Policy Terms and Conditions

Insurance policies are filled with legal and technical terms that can be confusing, but it’s important to read and understand your policy before signing. Many people assume they have coverage for certain situations, only to find out later that specific conditions, limits, or exclusions apply. Key areas to review include:

Coverage limits – The maximum amount your insurer will pay for a claim
Exclusions – Situations or damages not covered under your policy
Claim process – How to file a claim and what’s required

If you’re unsure about any terms, ask your insurance provider to clarify before committing to a policy.

3. Underestimating Coverage Needs

One of the most common mistakes people make is not getting enough coverage. Whether it’s home, health, or life insurance, underinsuring yourself can lead to financial hardships if disaster strikes.

For example, homeowners who only insure their house for its market value, rather than its full replacement cost, may not receive enough money to rebuild after a major loss. Similarly, choosing minimum liability coverage for auto insurance may not be enough to cover damages in a serious accident.

To avoid this mistake, assess your financial situation, assets, and potential risks to determine the right amount of coverage for your needs.

4. Failing to Compare Different Insurance Providers

Not all insurance companies offer the same level of service, pricing, or policy benefits. Some providers specialize in specific types of coverage, while others offer better customer service, faster claims processing, or additional discounts. Before purchasing a policy, take the time to:

Get quotes from multiple insurance companies
Read customer reviews and ratings
Check the company’s financial stability

A well-reviewed, financially stable insurer is more likely to provide reliable coverage and handle claims fairly.

5. Not Reviewing and Updating Your Policy Regularly

Your insurance needs change over time, so a policy that worked for you five years ago may not be suitable today. Major life changes, such as buying a new home, getting married, having children, or changing jobs, can all impact the type and amount of coverage you need.

Review your policy at least once a year or whenever a major life event occurs to ensure it still provides the right level of protection. Additionally, check for discount opportunities that may lower your premiums, such as bundling policies or improving your credit score.

Get the Right Insurance Policy with Freedom Insurance

Choosing the right insurance policy doesn’t have to be complicated—avoiding these common mistakes can help you find coverage that protects you and your assets without unnecessary expenses. At Freedom Insurance, we help individuals and families navigate their insurance options to find personalized coverage that fits their needs and budget. Whether you’re shopping for auto, home, life, or business insurance, our experts are here to guide you every step of the way.

Don’t leave your financial security to chance—contact Freedom Insurance today for a free consultation and get the coverage you deserve!

The post Freedom Insurance: Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing an Insurance Policy appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

Are We Getting Enough Sleep to Safely Drive? 3 Apr 2025, 4:00 am

Sleep-deprived drivers are turning America’s roadways into danger zones with potentially costly consequences.

That’s according to the findings of a new survey sponsored by Erie Insurance examining drivers’ sleeping and driving habits.

The survey found that a majority of Americans are sleeping fewer than seven hours per night, the minimum nightly amount recommended by the Center for Disease Control. A lack of sleep can affect one’s ability to focus, think clearly and react quickly, all necessary functions for driving effectively.

The infographic below details some additional survey findings.

About the survey:

This survey was conducted online by Falls & Co. on behalf of Erie Insurance from Feb 21 through Feb 24, 2025, among a nationally representative sample of 1,000 U.S. residents ages 18 and older who self-reported they held a current driver's license. Falls established the sampling quotas, designed the questionnaire, tabulated the survey responses, and managed the overall project. Falls used SightX (New York, N.Y.) to administer the survey via the internet, including mobile devices to U.S. panels who met the key demographic criteria. Our results are statistically weighted for age and U.S. Region to align the sample distribution with U.S. population characteristics per 2023 ACS 1-year estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau and 2022 estimates from the USDA Economic Research Service. This technique was used to mitigate the effects of oversampling that can occur when using online survey panels.

The post Are We Getting Enough Sleep to Safely Drive? appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

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6 Things NOT to Say During a Job Interview 2 Apr 2025, 4:00 am

Whether you’re right in the thick of it with job interviews or you’re prepping for a future career change, knowing what to say — and more importantly, what NOT to say — during an interview can sometimes make or break your chances. So, to help avoid any awkward moments while also impressing your interviewer, review these six instant-red-flag-phrases for hiring managers and make note of some better ways to rephrase.

1. “I don’t know much about your company.”

Why: Hello, red flag #1. This shows that you didn’t come prepared, and even worse, don’t seem very interested in their company.

Instead: “I’ve researched your company and I’m excited about [insert specific detail].”

2. “My last boss was terrible.”

Why: Please, just don’t. Never bash a former boss (even if you think it’s true) to a potential future one, or it’s likely they won’t provide you the opportunity to work for them.

Instead: “I learned a lot in my last job, but I’m excited for a new challenge and positive, growth-oriented work environment.”

3. “I just need a job.”

Why: While this may be true, it makes you sound desperate instead of genuinely interested in working for their company.

Instead: “I’m excited about this role because it aligns with my skills and goals, especially [insert example of a strength or goal].”

4. “I don’t have any weaknesses.”

Why: Ok, even Superman had kryptonite. Saying you have no weaknesses might come off arrogant and like you lack self-awareness.

Instead: “One area I’m working on improving is [insert a real yet manageable weakness].”

5. “What’s the salary?” (Too early in the interview process.)

Why: This can be a delicate one. Asking too soon could leave you sounding like you’re more worried about the money than the job or any future opportunities.

Instead: “I’m open to discussing compensation based on the role’s responsibilities.”

6: “No, I don’t have any questions.”

Why: Missed opportunity! Give yourself every chance to learn more and show them you came prepared with thoughtful questions. Plus, not asking questions could come off like you’re not that interested.

Instead: “What would success look like after 6 months in this role?”

The post 6 Things NOT to Say During a Job Interview appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

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Home Siding: Pros and Cons of 5 Popular Types 28 Mar 2025, 4:00 am

Switching up your home’s exterior siding is a bold statement… and a big decision. When starting your research, a few factors to consider are curb appeal, maintenance, weather conditions, durability and – of course – your budget.

Here’s the good news: According to Remodeling Magazine, homeowners recoup 80% of the cost of new siding when they go to sell their home.

Here’s what to know about exterior siding options and how to make the right decision.

Here’s the good news: According to Remodeling Magazine, homeowners recoup 80% of the cost of new siding when they go to sell their home.

Here’s what to know about exterior siding options and how to make the right decision.

What siding is best for your house?

Drive around and see what homes you like – and, more importantly, don’t like. Note the siding types and color combinations. Take a look at your roof, shutters and home accents to see what will complement the features of your home.

You want your home to fit into the streetscape without duplicating your immediate neighbors’ selections.

Also, be sure to check if your neighborhood has any restrictions before deciding. Some communities or homeowner’s associations will regulate the siding colors and building materials, so it is important to find out if there are any limitations before you start shopping.

What are the different types of siding?

These days, you have lots of options. Here are 5 popular choices:

Vinyl House Siding

The most widely used material on home exteriors is vinyl. That’s for good reason: Vinyl siding is durable, and it’s typically under warranty for 30-40 years after installation. Available in an insulated version, vinyl siding has the potential to raise your home’s energy efficiency and help you cut down on heating and cooling costs.

Vinyl is easy to maintain, requiring only annual cleaning with a hose or power washer. And color options are almost limitless. Panels generally come with the color infused with the vinyl itself so it cannot flake or chip off.

One downside to consider: Vinyl has been known to warp in extreme heat.

Fiber Cement Siding

Fiber cement is a popular composite siding option. Made from a combination of substances such as wood fiber, sand, clay and cement, this material is designed to mimic just about any other siding material. Fiber cement siding can look like wood lap siding boards, cedar shingles

and wood shake. Fiber cement is known for its longevity, typically a 30-50-year lifespan. Like vinyl, it is available in virtually unlimited color options.

One downside to fiber cement is it will require regular painting and caulking to maintain its appearance. Plus, due to its weight, installation can be a little trickier and require special training.

Natural Wood Siding

If you’re considering natural wood siding, you have several to choose from. Popular woods include cypress, pine, spruce and cedar. In addition, wood offers a variety of styles such as lap, shingle, shake, tongue and groove, board and batten and bevel.

Wood siding requires painting or staining, offering a unique streetscape option. This biodegradable option makes it an environmentally friendly choice to consider. If maintained, it can last for decades.

A note of caution with this choice: Wood can be susceptible to insects and damage from weather elements.

Engineered Wood Siding

Made of wood fibers and exterior-grade resins, engineered wood siding is a less expensive alternative to real wood siding. Built to mimic the look and feel of natural wood siding, it offers less maintenance hassle and more resistance to insects. Plus, it comes already primed or painted in a wide range of colors. The resin surface means that it doesn’t peel or chip as quickly as real wood, although it can crack and fade over time.

Metal House Siding

Available in steel, aluminum, copper and zinc, metal is a more expensive siding option that has a lot of benefits. Metal siding cannot mold or rot, unlike other siding with the potential for water damage. Known for its low maintenance, the no fading of color with steel siding puts it at an advantage over vinyl and fiber cement.

Metal is relatively eco-friendly, since each panel is precisely cut with little waste material. Plus, insects cannot find a home in metal siding, while other siding types may require periodic spraying of insecticide. Like all metal, this siding can dent.

How much does it cost to side a house?

Siding pricing depends on the material you choose.

Vinyl siding is typically considerably less expensive than other siding options. Depending on quality, vinyl pricing ranges from $2 to $7 per square foot installed. You should plan to budget $4 to $6 per square foot installed.

Regardless of the material you chose, houses with bump outs, trim, extensions or complicated corners will increase installation costs. If you plan to remove and dispose of your current siding, that typically costs extra too. Geographic location will also impact your cost: Labor varies by region, so be sure to get several quotes before you commit.

How to get the right insurance coverage for your siding

Home renovations can be fun – when they’re on your terms. If you have damage from something like a storm, you may face unplanned home repair projects. No one wants the stress of wondering: Is this covered under my homeowners policy?

When it comes to being helpful, that’s where we shine. With ERIE, every policy comes with your own local, independent insurance agent. By getting to know you, your agent can help you customize your policy for that perfect fit – and help you understand what it covers in case the unexpected happens.

Learn more about homeowners insurance or find a local agent to get the conversation started.

The post Home Siding: Pros and Cons of 5 Popular Types appeared first on Freedom Insurance Agency.

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