Jessica Hepburn - Insurance Broker

Calling all April & May renewals!
Alberta & BC (property only)

Now is a great time to review and get new quotes for your home, vehicle AND business insurance.

Below is my booking link to request a review of your policies select a date and time and ill give you a call to see if we can save you some money.

https://rhinsuranceappointmentbooking.as.me/alberta?field:11643859=AB-customer-referral

After 6 great years at Able Insurance I have decided to take a new role at Rate Hub Insurance. While my role will change a little, I will still be offering great quotes (with more carriers than before) and great service!

If you are a client of Able Insurance your new broker contact is Navreet Kaur 780.902.1438 or [email protected]

Any questions please don't hesitate to reach out as I would love to keep in touch!

Jess

The Town of Strathmore recently finalized its hazard reduction burn plan, which aims to reduce the risk of grass and wildfires in the local region.

According to the town, the plan aims to assess grassland fuels on the landscape within Strathmore, identify locations of high fire risk, prioritize and prescribe controlled burns.

“The plan is to reduce hazards around the community. Through that obviously, we have chosen the method of our grass fuel types 1A and 1B, which is basically standing or matted fuels,” said David Sturgeon, fire chief for the Strathmore Fire Department. “We decided that burning was the best method to go, and it regenerates the soil … so it grows back greener and (lusher). We thought it was a win-win.”

Town administration has selected regions within the town to undergo hazard reduction burns, which will reduce the risk of wildfire, reduce nuisance fires, and better prepare the local community in the event of an approaching wildfire.

Hazard reduction burning is used to quickly, effectively, and safely remove dead and/or dying grassland fuels from around communities.

“The Hazard Reduction Plan is a great example of our town being proactive. Especially, when we consider that the province has declared an early start to wildfire season and the fact that we are facing drought conditions,” said mayor Pat Fule.

Sturgeon added grasslands and older, matured crop leftover tend to become fire hazards during dry summer seasons and contribute to uncontrolled burns.

He explained by conducting controlled burn treatments of potential hazard areas, it reduces the risk of oncoming fires threatening the community.

“We have released a plan to the public … we have sent out letters to all of the property owners who were identified, so we are just gaining permissions on those properties – obviously, (owners) can opt in or opt out depending on what their tolerance level is,” said Sturgeon. “Once we have those all submitted, we are shooting for April 5 to April 12 for the actual burning … depending on how much we can get done, it is all weather dependent … if we can get a big chunk of this done, obviously we are just making it better throughout the community.”

According to the town, the controlled burns will not impact road access, traffic patterns, or the health and safety of residents.

Sturgeon explained the fire department will wait for favourable weather conditions, especially wind, before conducting burns so that smoke will not become negatively impactful in the locations of the burns.

More information regarding the controlled burns is available through the Town of Strathmore website.

Reference: https://www.canadianunderwriter.ca/insurance/alberta-town-outlines-plan-ahead-of-fire-season-1004244228/?utm_medium=email&utm_source=newcom&utm_campaign=CanadianUnderwriterDaily&utm_content=20240321153728

Be a home hero: Stop the spark before it starts

Fires in the home can be a destructive, heart-breaking force. Some of the losses are irreplaceable. That’s why it’s important to be ever vigilant against fires, and the causes that start them. Electrical fires spark most blazes, but there are many other causes to be aware of. When you prevent them, you’re the home hero who fights the fire before it gets a chance to light up.

Top dangers that cause house fires
It doesn’t take much. A spark will feed on the air and the nearest wall, furniture, or textile. Here’s where the sparks commonly fly:

-Hazardous or damaged wiring from even the smallest appliances
-Overloaded power bars
-Inadequate wiring in older homes, condos, and apartments buildings
-Old and hazardous wiring exhibited in frequently tripping circuit breakers or blowing fuses
-Improper handling of oil, leaving the stove unattended, and other cooking dangers
-Poor care and operation of portable space heaters and fireplaces in winter
-Unattended candles

How to prevent house fires and protect your home
Here are just a few things you can do to minimize the chances of a fire:
-Limit the use of power bars and multi-outlet extenders to prevent overloading a circuit
-Maintain your smoke alarms and ensure batteries are charged
-Never run cords underneath carpet or rugs or behind furniture
-Keep electrical cords away from sources of heat and water
-Disconnect small appliances when not in use or on vacation
-Never leave cooking or candles unattended and make sure to properly extinguish
-Limit usage of portable heaters indoors and never leave unattended
-Remove lint from your dryer after each load as it can ignite when the appliance is in use
-For smokers, great care needs to be taken when smoking and in the disposal of smoking items. Never use a potted plant as an ashtray.

Fire safety and prevention resources
Aside from good fire prevention behaviours, it’s also recommended that you add multiple fire alarms on each floor of your home and to place a fire extinguisher under the kitchen sink. Be sure to inspect your extinguishers at least once a year – maybe add it to the list of to-dos when you check your smoke alarms.

Not all heroes wear capes
They don’t even need x-ray vision. A watchful eye on the causes of fires can stop them before they spark.

Source: https://www.aviva.ca/en/blog/how-can-you-prevent-accidental-fires-at-home/?mkt_tok=MTQyLVRRRi00NTYAAAGR4ZoxWe4yIRz3YBKUQ202P1UnwZmDj8mo6FMTVmZkm5PDTxu6Z7gUsmDvau0ATVQZMQwfaxhPTZC3tyBmLEJEMwZQ5yYl1aBPHDvutMk4Lg

Seasonal changes can inspire us to take preventative steps and stay ahead of potential risks and unnecessary claims. Kickstart the new season and remind customers to become their own “Home Hero”.

Customer quick tips to spring into action:

-Fire safety: Start the season with a fresh check on smoke detectors.

-Burglary prevention: Open your windows to fresh air but close the door on burglars. Consider installing a home security system. (And take advantage of those sweet sweet savings!)

-Water leak prevention: Check for leaks and consider installing a smart leak detection device for peace of mind.

-Spring preparedness: Get your home ready for changing weather. Ensure proper insulation and consider installing a smart thermostat.

-Vehicle care: As the temperature rises, keep your vehicle cool. Store it in a garage and check coolant levels.

Sometimes all it takes is a checklist to tackle potential disaster. Doing the little things today can save the day for big problems tomorrow.

Reference: Aviva - Spring Warm-up Series: 1st edition

Catalytic converters: What you need to know about catalytic converter theft

With rising prices, supply chain disruptions and a scarcity of new vehicles, thieves are stealing cars and parts off vehicles. One auto part that’s grown in popularity among thieves is the catalytic converter – a valuable part that's easier to steal than cars themselves.

Across Canada, this type of theft is on the rise. In 2021, Aviva saw an increase of 123% more catalytic converter theft incidents than in 2020, and the number of these thefts continues to rise as more converters get stolen.

What are catalytic converters and why do thieves steal catalytic converters?
Since the 1970s, internal combustion engines use catalytic converters as exhaust emission control devices to convert hazardous gases and pollutants into less toxic carbon dioxide and water vapour.

The catalytic converter is the part of the car that wraps around the exhaust pipe. The precious metals in catalytic converters – platinum, palladium and rhodium, are the product that thieves are after. Not only does this type of theft drive up the cost of insurance, but the money received from selling the metal helps fuel illegal activities.

A catalytic converter is an important part in your vehicle and having it stolen is a major inconvenience and expense. Not only is it a hassle to not have your car in working order when you need it, but due to the dramatic increase of these thefts and overall supply chain issues, parts can be on backorder. This delay means it could take a while before your vehicle is repaired and your catalytic converter is replaced.

Are you a target for catalytic converter theft?

While any vehicle can fall victim to this type of part theft, certain vehicles appear to be particularly vulnerable to car catalytic converter theft. So far in 2022, Aviva Canada has seen a number of Hyundai Tucsons, Mitsubishi RVRs, Honda CR-Vs, Hyundai Santa Fes, and Ford F150s targeted. In addition, those living in the GTA, Ottawa, Montreal, Calgary, and Edmonton areas appear to be the hardest hit areas for catalytic converter theft.

Catalytic converter theft prevention tips;
Although a catalytic converter may appear small, replacing it could be costly. While the theft may not be obvious when glancing at your vehicle, you’ll be able to tell something is wrong when you start your car because the engine will make a loud roaring noise as you accelerate the vehicle.

Here are some tips on how you can help protect yourself from catalytic converter thief:
-Consider having your VIN engraved onto your catalytic converter by a specialist. This may make the resale of the stolen part more difficult at the scrapyard and can help identify the correct owner of the vehicle.
-Park your car in your garage. If that’s not an option, park your car in a well-lit and secure area.
-Consider buying a metal cage that can be installed on your vehicle to cover the catalytic converter.

The best step when you discover your catalytic converter was stolen is to file a police report and contact your insurance company. This way your vehicle and damages can be properly assessed by an insurance policy expert.

Reference: https://www.aviva.ca/en/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-catalytic-converter-theft/

The GTA has recently seen a number of carjacking crime incidents. Not only do these incidents contribute to the vehicle theft pandemic that parts of Ontario are currently experiencing, but these incidents are extremely dangerous. Carjackers can attack out of nowhere, leaving the victim stunned and in possible danger.

Tips to protect yourself from becoming a victim of carjacking:

-With carjacking crime rates on the rise, it's crucial to be vigilant about watching for carjackers and protecting your car from theft. Here are some steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim of carjacking:
-Always be aware of your surroundings – we have seen a trend of carjacking incidents in parking lots, particularly in fast food restaurant parking lots. These carjacking incidents appear to occur at all hours of the day, including in the daytime.
-If you have a garage at your home, park the vehicle in the garage and immediately close and lock the door.
-Separate car keys from any additional keys (i.e. house keys). In the event of a carjacking, home keys attached to your car keys can make your home a target in the future.
-If you see people approaching you, hit the “lock” button on your key fob. The noise may deter someone from coming closer.
-If you are faced with a carjacking situation, give up the vehicle to the attacker. Vehicles can be replaced, your life cannot.

Safety tips when selling a vehicle;

Carjackings have also been reported when attempting to sell vehicles. Below are some tips to keep safe and prevent motor vehicle theft when selling a vehicle:

-When you are contacted by a potential buyer, prior to meeting in person, request that they send you a copy of their driver’s license.
-Meet potential buyers in a public, high traffic area, during daylight hours. Police parking lots are an ideal place to meet someone, as help is nearby if needed and the area will also have surveillance cameras.
-Always be suspicious of any potential buyer willing to buy a vehicle “sight unseen."

Reference - https://www.aviva.ca/en/blog/carjackings-are-on-the-rise/

*Prevent vehicle theft: Tips on how to avoid having your car stolen*

Car theft is on the rise!

In 2021, losses stemming from vehicle theft rose over 20% from the previous year. While vehicle thefts have increased, there are fewer vehicles that are being recovered after they’ve been stolen. In 2021, the recovery rate of stolen vehicles dropped almost 20% from the previous year! Unfortunately, the growing trend of vehicle theft crime rates appears to be continuing into 2022 with an increase of 71% of vehicles stolen in January 2022 compared to January 2021.

Why is vehicle theft increasing and car recovery decreasing?

We believe an increase in vehicle thefts and decrease in vehicle recovery is due to a change in the motive of today’s car thieves. Vehicles are now being stolen with the intention of being sold overseas. Once stolen and placed into a shipping container, it’s very difficult for vehicles to be tracked and recovered. This makes preventing car theft and increasing vehicle security all that more important.

Are there certain vehicles or areas that are more susceptible to vehicle theft?

Although vehicle thefts are increasing across the country, we know certain vehicle makes and models are particularly vulnerable as targets for car theft. In 2021, we saw the largest increase of stolen vehicles (+100%) in Honda CR-Vs, Land Rover Range Rovers, and Lexus RX350s when compared to 2019! So far, in 2022, Honda CR-V continues to be the #1 targeted vehicle for motor theft. We are also seeing a growing trend of Ford F150s and Jeep Grand Cherokees being targeted. In addition, the GTA is the hardest hit area for vehicle theft.

Top 6 easy ways that may help prevent your car from getting stolen
With car theft on the rise, it's important to take steps to prevent theft and protect your vehicle.

Here are 6 car theft prevention steps you can take to protect your vehicle:

-Use a steering wheel lock. Not only does a steering wheel lock make it difficult for a thief to steal your vehicle, but it also acts as a strong theft deterrent! At first glance, the potential thief can see your vehicle is equipped with a steering wheel lock and decide not to even bother with your vehicle!
-Use a data port lock. Data port locks prevent thieves from reprogramming your vehicle and increase your car security. The bonus of a data port lock is once you install it, you can forget about it!
-Store your vehicle in your garage (if possible) and ensure the garage is locked.
-Store keys away from your front door. Keys close to the front door can be within range for thieves to use a computer to copy your key and steal your vehicle.
-Store keys in an aluminum or metal box. Containers, such as these, block the radio signals that thieves use to steal your vehicle.
-Consider installing a vehicle tracking device. In the event your vehicle is stolen, the device can help locate the car.

What to do if your vehicle is stolen?
-As soon as you notice your vehicle is stolen, contact your vehicle manufacturer/dealership to determine if they can locate your vehicle. Radio subscriptions, such as satellite radio, may also have tracking capabilities.
-Report the theft incident to the police.
-Report the loss of your car to your insurance company.
-Preserve any personal video surveillance you may have of the theft.
-Did you have any ID or personal information in your vehicle? If so, you may want to take measures to protect yourself from potential identity theft (for example, notifying your bank of any stolen bank information and arranging for credit monitoring if personal information was compromised).

Though car theft is on the rise, following the tips above can help avoid having your vehicle stolen.

References - https://www.aviva.ca/en/blog/vehicle-thefts-on-the-rise/

Vehicle theft prevention tips;

Rising auto thefts concern all of us. Latest industry data has shown a dramatic increase in targeted vehicle thefts of specific make and models. Thieves have become more sophisticated and tech-savvy, such as changing vehicle identification numbers (VIN) as a cover-up and taking advantage of smart keys as an easy way to create keys electronically. Even if your car isn’t on the list of most stolen cars, there are some proactive steps you can take to help safeguard your vehicle.

Vehicle theft is on the rise

6 tips to help protect yourself

-Use a steering wheel lock
-Install a data port lock
-Park your car in your garage
-Store keys away from your front door
-Store keys in an aluminum or metal box
-Install a tracking device

Vehicle theft is on the rise | Aviva Canada

You’ve probably noticed on the news that vehicle theft is on the upswing. But did you know that car thieves are also breaking into homes to steal car keys?
This new, alarming trend appears to target higher-end or luxury vehicles.

Rising auto thefts concern all of us. Thieves have become more sophisticated and tech-savvy, such as changing vehicle identification numbers (VIN) as a cover-up and taking advantage of smart keys as an easy way to create keys electronically.

It’s important for customers to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings while driving and parking their cars.

Over the next few days ill be posting some resources shared by Aviva Canada so stay tuned.

Alberta UCP announces auto rate freeze An Alberta auto rate freeze announced by the UCP party has been called "disappointing" by insurer and broker associations.

Ukraine war insured losses could outstrip 9-11 Insurance price tag from Ukraine war could be higher than 9-11

Calgary Flames sue insurers $125 million for pandemic-related losses The Calgary Flames have filed a $125-million lawsuit against its insurers to enforce the terms of an all risks insurance policy for “massive losses” due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The named defendants in the statement of claim filed in…

Feds threaten to suspend Convoyers’ insurance. What does that mean? Trucks or vehicles used in freedom convoy blockades will have their insurance suspended, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said in a press conference Monday. For property and casualty insurance professionals, the federal government’s path may raise more…

Could Ottawa police be sued for failing to arrest ‘freedom convoy’ protesters? Erika Chamberlain, Professor and Dean, Faculty of Law, Western University – THE CONVERSATION This article was originally published on The Conversation, an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts. Disclosure information is available on the…

For anyone looking for some last minute Valentines cards for their special someone 😅

Happy Valentines day everyone

Are Freedom Convoy truckers covered? When commercial trucks are used in protests, some insurance professionals suggest their equipment may no longer be covered. The question has been raised while the ongoing ‘Freedom Convoy’ in Ottawa stretches into its second week. Protestors demanding an end…

This is a topic that has been coming up a lot, regarding what is and what is not covered during times of Civil Disobedience.

This particular article refers to the businesses that choose to close for the safety of their property, and how coverage would or wouldn't respond.

Are businesses covered for damage caused by the Freedom Convoy? More than a week after the “freedom convoy” rolled into Ottawa, some in the P&C industry are discussing whether or not business interruption claims due to civil disobedience are insured risks. Ottawa’s downtown centre has been paralyzed with vehicles…

🤔

Why home insurance rates are rising in 2022 Home insurance policyholders can expect an average 5% rate increase in 2022, according to a report from RatesDotCa. The average cost for home insurance in Ontario in 2021 was $1,342, per RatesDotCa. A 5% increase would translate into a…

Direct Compensation For Property Damage (DCPD) Insurance

On January 1, 2022, Alberta will adopt a Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD) system – which will improve the way Alberta’s insurers support their customers following collisions.

Under DCPD, your own insurance company pays for repairs to your vehicle when you are not at-fault for a collision, not someone else’s. It’s a fairer and more customer-focused approach to insurance claims and vehicle repairs.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for DCPD?

Vehicle owners won’t have to do anything when DCPD begins in 2022. DCPD is simply a change in the way vehicle damage claims are treated in Alberta following collisions. DCPD does not change your automobile coverage, only who pays for the damage.

Will this impact my premium?

For the majority of drivers, DCPD will either reduce their premiums or they will see no change at all.

DCPD better aligns insurance premiums with the costs associated with repairs for a vehicle. This means that, typically, owners of less expensive vehicles that cost less to repair will pay less for their insurance. Similarly, owners of more expensive vehicles that cost more to repair may pay more. It’s a fairer system for everyone.

Under DCPD, 42% of drivers will see a reduction in their premiums and roughly 15% will see no change. An estimated 34% of drivers will see an increase in their premiums between 0% and 5%.



Why is Alberta moving to DCPD?
DCPD is a fairer and more efficient approach to insurance claims and vehicle repairs, and is already used in most provinces in Canada. Under DCPD, damages to your vehicle will be repaired faster and without the delays and complications that can arise when dealing with another driver's insurer.

DCPD reduces costs associated with subrogation – the process insurers use to determine who pays for a claim following a collision. Along with other reforms, it will help stabilize premiums for the long term.

Consumers who have questions about DCPD and what it means for them should contact their insurance representative or IBC’s Consumer Information Line at 1-844-2ask-IBC or email [email protected].

Top 10 things to know about Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD):
1. It’s a fairer system for everyone. Owners of less expensive cars that cost less to repair will pay less for their insurance.

2. Vehicle owners won’t have to do anything ahead of time. When they have a not at-fault collision, they will arrange vehicle repairs with their own insurance company, not someone else’s.

3. Under DCPD, 42% of drivers will see a reduction in their premiums and roughly 15% will see no change. An estimated 34% of drivers will see an increase in their premiums between 0% and 5%.

4. The DCPD system is already used in almost every province in Canada.

5. DCPD does not impact a consumer’s right to sue for other damages, like injuries, under the existing system.

6. If you are not at fault for a collision, DCPD covers your vehicle damages, loss of use and any contents that were damaged. You still need to purchase collision coverage to have repairs completed when you are at-fault.

7. Vehicle owners choose their insurance provider, which means you decide which company handles the vehicle repair process.

8. DCPD Regulation provides transparency when determining fault for a collision.

9. Ensures a more efficient process for vehicle repairs, since you don't have to wait for someone else's insurance company to start the process.

10. DCPD is part of recent auto insurance reforms to help improve long term sustainability of auto insurance premiums in the province

Click here for further details;

Direct Compensation For Property Damage (DCPD) Insurance On January 1, 2022, Alberta will adopt a Direct Compensation for Property Damage (DCPD) system – which will improve the way Alberta’s insurers support their customers following accidents.

Here are the latest trends in insurance fraud “Re-vinning” of stolen vehicles — where thieves steal a vehicle, put what appears to be a legitimate vehicle identification number (VIN) on the front dash and then sell it to an unsuspecting customer — is increasing as a fraud trend,…

Should have been more specific 🤦‍♀️

We are excited to announce that our Retail Store package product has launched!

This new product is designed for local and regional retail stores, selling a variety of offerings. From clothing, food products, flowers, and many more! With the ability to cover up to 5 locations! 🛍️

Key Features
· 35 eligible retail operations

-CGL up to $5 million
-Contents up to $2 million
-Tenant Legal Liability up to $500,000
-Online sales
-Monthly and annual payments are available
-Up to 30% revenue from delivery, installation, or repair
-Sales outside of Canada up to 30% and less than $100,000
-Flexibility - Pick and choose coverages that are tailored to your needs
-Optional - Earthquake, Flood, Crime, and Equipment breakdown coverage

Contact us today for a free quote.
-

Hey Everyone,

Please note we will be CLOSED for September 30th.

We will be using the day to remember, reflect and pay tribute to the children lost and those families torn apart by trauma.

In the event of an emergency please reach out via text 780.246.6217.

Thank you,

Personal property update From Aviva

All provinces and territories across Canada, excluding Quebec and Nunavut

We’re making changes to our personal property product in all provinces and territories except for Quebec and Nunavut, underwritten by Aviva Insurance Company (Aviva), Traders General Insurance Company (Traders), and Scottish & York (Ontario only), excluding Ovation. The changes will take effect on November 1, 2021 for renewals.

What you need to know
Throughout 2020 and in the first half of 2021, building reconstruction costs increased significantly due to shortages in labour, material, and ongoing project delays. As reported in Opta’s Q2 report, rebuilding costs increased by an average of 6.4% since May 2020, nationally.

As part of our commitment to monitor inflation trends and react to the market conditions, we have adjusted our inflation factors for Homeowner, Secondary, Seasonal and Fire and Extended Coverage policy form types. The inflation factor in all affected provinces and territories will increase from 5% to 7%, except in Ontario, which will increase from 5% to 6.5%.

Any questions on how this will directly impact your policy please contact me directly.

🛑Personal Property Rate change in Alberta🛑

As you are aware, there have been increasing inflationary trends in both labour and building materials.

What you need to know:

-in light of the above, we are adjusting our inflation factors upwards to reflect these changes. The average impact will be approximately 2.5% more than our current annual inflation increase. Individual customer impacts will vary.

-This change will begin impacting policy holders effective November 1, 2021 for renewals and new business.

All renewals will continue to be requoted on renewal to confirm the premium is still the best available.

Any questions on how this will directly impact your policy please contact me directly.

Will electric vehicles increase the severity of motor vehicle injuries? Occupants in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid models are less likely to be injured in a crash than people in similar gas-powered vehicles, according to a new report. Lithium-ion batteries is the primary power source for today’s EVs. This means…

Hey Red Deer & Calgary Area clients,

I will be traveling in your area and am available for policy reviews as well as quoting.

Appointments are available from September 10th until September 17th.

Message me today to book a time to ensure you are saving the most amount possible on your home, Auto and Business insurance.

Thank you,