New Commercial Insurance: A Key Component in Michigan Warehouse Operations

Running a warehouse in Michigan involves managing a variety of risks, from property damage to employee injuries. Commercial insurance plays a key role in mitigating these risks, providing crucial protection for warehouse operations. Shield Insurance Agency is here to help you understand the importance of commercial insurance in your warehouse operations.

Warehouse Operations in Michigan: A Risk Landscape

Warehouses face a unique set of risks, including damage to goods, equipment breakdown, and liability issues. These risks can lead to significant financial losses if not properly managed. This is where commercial insurance comes in.

Commercial Insurance: A Safety Net for Warehouse Operations

Commercial insurance provides coverage for a variety of risks associated with warehouse operations. This can include property insurance for your building and contents, liability insurance for any injuries or damages caused by your operations, and workers’ compensation insurance for employee injuries.

Why Choose Shield Insurance Agency for Your Commercial Insurance Needs?

At Shield Insurance Agency, we understand the unique challenges that Michigan warehouse operations face. Our experienced agents can help you navigate the complexities of commercial insurance and ensure you have the coverage you need.

Commercial Insurance and Warehouse Operations: The Bottom Line

Commercial insurance is a key component in managing the risks associated with warehouse operations in Michigan. By understanding the role of commercial insurance, you can ensure your warehouse is protected against potential losses. Contact Shield Insurance Agency today to learn more about commercial insurance and how we can help protect your warehouse operations.

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Trust, And Verify: Ensuring Your Insurance Coverage

In today’s fast-paced world, we often rely on others to handle essential tasks, and insurance is no exception. Trusting your insurance agent is crucial, as they play a vital role in protecting your assets. However, verifying that the necessary steps have been taken to secure your coverage is equally important. Let’s delve into why this “trust, and verify” approach is essential.

Recently, a situation arose that highlights the importance of confirming your insurance details. A client voiced a complaint online about a mistake they believed was made. Upon review, it was clear that while an error occurred on the agent’s part, there were also steps the client had not taken to ensure their desired coverage was in place.

Here’s what happened: The client requested to add a home to their insurance policy. The agent responded to an email and said, “I should have the policy ready for you tomorrow”.  And that’s where the communication ended.  The agent (who no longer works at our agency) failed to insure the home.  However, several key confirmations were missing. No payment was made for the added coverage, no invoice was issued or received, and no written confirmation was sent to the client verifying that the house was added to their policy. This lack of confirmation led to confusion and frustration.

This example serves as a reminder that while we strive for accuracy and efficiency, clients must actively verify their insurance details. Here are a few steps you can take to ensure your coverage is in place:

  • Request a Written Confirmation: Always ask for written confirmation that any changes or additions to your policy have been processed. This can be an email, a letter, or an updated policy document.
  • Review Your Invoices: Carefully review your invoices to ensure all desired coverages are listed and paid for. If you don’t receive an invoice, request one.
  • Check Your Policy Documents: Review your policy documents regularly to ensure that all information is accurate and up to date.
  • Communicate with Your Agent: Maintain open communication with your insurance agent. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification on any aspect of your policy.

Ultimately, a successful insurance relationship relies on both trust and verification. By taking these proactive steps, you can have peace of mind knowing that your assets are adequately protected. We value your trust and are committed to providing excellent service. However, we also encourage you to be an active participant in managing your insurance coverage.

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Protect Your Adobe Oasis with Essential Home Insurance Tips in Michigan

Learn how you can secure your Michigan home against unexpected perils like breaking winds, uncontrollable wildfires, and theft in the guide from Shield Insurance Agency below. 

Essential Home Insurance Tips for Your Adobe Oasis

Create an Inventory 

The first step towards protecting your home and its contents is to create an inventory of your home’s interior and exterior. Document additions and customizations in case you ever need to repair or replace these items. 

Take Security Measures to Safeguard Your Home from Theft 

Installing security features such as video doorbells, motion sensor lights, deadbolt locks, and a monitored alarm system is an excellent way to prevent burglary and theft.

Talk to a trusted insurance agent to find out how safeguarding your home can reduce home insurance costs. 

Routine Maintenance Can Save on Costly Home Repairs

Proper landscaping and clearing gutters can prevent unsightly buildup and stress on your roofing system. Ensure adequate drainage for your indoor and outdoor water systems to prevent water damage. 

Invest in Fire-Resistant Landscaping

Michigan is prone to intensely hot weather, flash flooding, and wildfires. Investing in a home insurance policy with comprehensive fire protection can help shield your home from wildfire-related damage. Choosing fire-resistant landscaping is another proactive measure you can take to reduce the effects of wildfires. 

Get Specialized Coverage for Intense Weather

Protect your adobe abode from the unexpected with a comprehensive home insurance policy that shields your home from a variety of perils. Perils can include weather-related damage, theft, vandalism, burglary, and damage from natural disasters like wildfires. 

Contact a knowledgeable insurance agent at Shield Insurance Agency to learn more about your best coverage options! 

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Commercial Insurance: For the Business Risks You Can’t See

For some individuals, their business aims to provide a comfortable income for their families. Others envision it as a heritage that their descendants might run. Some business owners even aspire to elevate their businesses to become household names. Regardless of the vision you harbor for your business, commercial insurance plays a pivotal role in accomplishing or hindering these plans. That’s precisely why business owners throughout the state of Michigan rely on the proficient and seasoned team at Shield Insurance Agency for all their commercial insurance needs.

Protect the Unseen Future and Success of Your Business

Most successful business owners can distinctly foresee the path to triumph and readily map out plans for their companies. However, they can’t predict the unseen complications and risks that could potentially derail those well-crafted plans and their businesses’ eventual success.

However, the good news is that commercial insurance is always on standby to shield companies from unforeseen hazards and risks they don’t anticipate. Every business owner has a duty to build and aid their company’s success. Similarly, commercial insurance has a responsibility to protect these businesses.

For All Your Commercial Insurance Needs in Michigan

If you are a business owner in Michigan and are muddled about commercial insurance or need insurance for your business, our warm and expert agents at the Shield Insurance Agency can assist. Has your business been expanding lately? Are you planning on adding a new product line or service? This might be the apt time to reevaluate your current coverage needs. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a meeting for all your commercial insurance needs at Shield Insurance Agency.

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I just retired and don’t have life insurance. Can I still get it?

Life insurance is an often misunderstood form of insurance. Many people know little about how it works and who and when one should get it. We understand this, and our Michigan team at Shield Insurance Agency is dedicated to helping people understand the benefits of life insurance and how it works. 

What is life insurance?

In short, life insurance is like any insurance in that a person enters into a contract to pay a certain fee for a set period so that the person’s named beneficiary receives a lump sum payment once the policyholder passes away. However, other life situations besides death can trigger payments to a beneficiary. Some policies include clauses for terminal or critical illnesses as well. Life insurance can cover burial costs, final expenses, and more. The beneficiary receives a lump sum of money and can use the funds any way they see fit. Life insurance is commonly used to cover estate taxes as well as debt. 

I have just retired and don’t have life insurance. Can I still get it?

Yes. Finding a company that will insure you may be difficult, but it is possible to get life insurance after retirement. Depending on your age, many companies that do insure you will likely only approve a term life possibly instead of a whole life policy. However, you will likely pay more for life insurance as an older person. Typically, older persons who are 80 years of age or older may be rejected for life insurance. This includes term life insurance. If you have questions regarding life insurance, call us. We know that navigation life insurance can be confusing. We’d happily answer your questions and help you explore your options. 

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Thunderstorm Safety Be prepared for thunderstorms and severe weather Shield Insurance Agency Blog

Thunderstorm Safety: Be prepared for thunderstorms and severe weather.

The Red Cross | Thunderstorm | Home Insurance | Auto Insurance | Contact Us

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Thunderstorms are dangerous storms with lightning. A lightning strike can kill you. Thunderstorms often bring powerful winds that can knock down trees, power lines, and mobile homes, intense rainfall that causes flash floods, tornadoes, lightning strikes that can spark fires, as well as damaging hail.

But we can take action to prepare. Prepare now to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home.

What Should You Do Before a Thunderstorm?

Identify a Sturdy Building and Practice Drills

  • You need to get inside a sturdy building before a thunderstorm hits. A sturdy building is a structure with walls and a foundation. Once you have identified a sturdy building, plan to shelter in the basement or a small, interior, windowless room on the lowest level to provide additional protection from high winds. Plan to stay inside until weather forecasts indicate it is safe to leave.
  • Mobile, manufactured, trailer homes, and recreational vehicles (RVs) are not safe in high winds. If you live in one of these structures, you need to identify a sturdy building nearby that you can get to quickly.
  • Practice drills with everyone in your household, so everyone knows where to go and what to do before a thunderstorm hits.

Plan to Stay Connected

  • Sign up for free emergency alerts from your local government.
  • Plan to monitor local weather and news.
  • Have a backup battery or a way to charge your cell phone.
  • In case of a power outage, have a battery-powered radio.
  • Understand the types of alerts that you may receive and have a plan to respond:
    • A WATCH means Be Prepared! 
    • A WARNING means Take Action! 

Learn Emergency Skills to survive a major Thunderstorm

  • Learn First Aid and CPR
  • Utilities may be offline. Be prepared to live without power, gas, and water. Plan for your electrical needs, including cell phones and medical equipment.

Protect Your Home during the Thunderstorm

  • Make a list of items outside your home you will need to tie down or put away so that they don’t blow away or fly through a window during high winds. When a High Wind, Severe Thunderstorm, or Tornado Watch, is issued, immediately secure these items to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up.
  • Secure objects that would be unsafe to bring inside, such as gas grills and propane tanks.
  • Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on your home.
  • Keep drains, gutters, and downspouts clean.
  • Find out if your home is prone to flooding. If it is, consider:
    • Installing a sump pump with battery backup.
    • Elevating the heating system, water heater, and electrical panel.
  • Review your home insurance policy. Check to see if you are covered for flood damage.

Click here to Download the Thunderstorm Safety Checklist and read the full article from the Red Cross


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Discover the Added Value of Renter's Insurance in Michigan

Discover the Added Value of Renter’s Insurance in Michigan

Shield Insurance Blog | Renter’s Insurance | Contact Our Office Today!

If you’re renting an apartment or house in Michigan, you’ve probably considered getting renters insurance. But what exactly does a renters insurance plan in Michigan offer, and how can it benefit you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the value that comes with having renters insurance in Michigan, and why it’s essential for all renters in the Great Lakes State.

Renter’s Insurance Michigan: Protecting Your Rental Home

Renters insurance in Michigan is designed to protect your personal belongings and provide liability coverage in the event of unexpected disasters or accidents. Whether you’re renting a downtown apartment in Detroit or a cozy house in Ann Arbor, renters insurance offers valuable protection for your possessions and peace of mind for you as a tenant.

Rental Insurance Value: Safeguarding Your Assets

One of the significant benefits of having renters insurance in Michigan is the protection it provides for your personal property. From furniture and electronics to clothing and jewelry, your belongings are safeguarded against perils such as fire, theft, vandalism, and more. With the right insurance plan, you can rest easy knowing that your valuables are covered.

Michigan Insurance Plan: Coverage Tailored to Your Needs

When it comes to renters insurance, Michigan residents have access to a wide range of coverage options to suit their individual needs. Whether you’re looking for basic coverage or additional protection for high-value items, there’s a Michigan insurance plan that can be tailored to provide the right level of security for your belongings.

Rental Policy Michigan: Understanding Your Coverage

Understanding the specifics of your rental policy in Michigan is crucial to ensuring you have the right level of protection. Your policy may include coverage for additional living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable due to a covered loss, as well as liability coverage in case someone is injured while visiting your rental property.

Renter Protection Michigan: Peace of Mind for Tenants

Renters insurance in Michigan doesn’t just protect your belongings; it also offers liability coverage, which can help shield you from financial responsibility if you accidentally cause damage to your rental or injure someone while on the property. This added protection provides peace of mind for tenants, knowing that they have a safety net in place.

Renter’s Insurance Coverage: Maximizing Your Security

With the right renters insurance coverage, Michigan renters can maximize their security and minimize financial risks. From protecting your assets to providing liability coverage, a comprehensive renters insurance plan offers a robust safety net, giving you the confidence to enjoy your rental home without worrying about unexpected mishaps.

Michigan Rental Policy Benefits: Why Renter’s Insurance Matters

The benefits of having renters insurance in Michigan extend far beyond just protecting your belongings. It’s a valuable tool that can provide financial security and peace of mind, offering benefits such as coverage for additional living expenses, liability protection, and more. By understanding the benefits of a Michigan rental policy, you can make an informed decision about securing the right coverage for your rental home.

Whether you’re renting in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Lansing, or any other city in Michigan, having the right renter’s insurance plan is crucial for safeguarding your assets and protecting yourself from unexpected liabilities. Shield Insurance Agency represents over 45 insurance companies and can help you find the perfect renter’s insurance plan tailored to your needs. Contact Shield Insurance Agency at (616) 896-4600 for a free quote today or start the quoting process by visiting this LINK, and an agent will be in touch soon.

In conclusion, renters insurance in Michigan offers valuable protection for tenants, ensuring that you’re covered in the event of unforeseen circumstances. By understanding the value, coverage, and benefits that come with a renters insurance plan, you can make an informed decision to secure your rental home and enjoy greater peace of mind.

Visit the Shield Insurance Blog!


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Shield Insurance’s Roadmap to RV Insurance in Michigan: What You Need to Know

Shield Insurance’s Roadmap to RV Insurance in Michigan: What You Need to Know

Shield Insurance Agency Blog | RV Insurance | Start A Quote Today!

At Shield Insurance Agency, we effectively educate Michigan residents about RV insurance policies. These policies may seem daunting, but decoding them isn’t as hard as it might appear. This guide will help simplify RV insurance so you can make the best possible decision.

RV Insurance: Differentiating Between Part-Time and Full-Time

One common pitfall among RV owners is the failure to distinguish between a full-time and a part-time RV usage policy. Getting this right will ensure your policy adequately caters to your specific needs.

Special Considerations for Self-Built RVs

If you’ve constructed your own RV, be aware that it poses different issues for insurance companies. Self-built vehicles typically have additional insurance concerns and may not be as straightforward to insure as standard RVs. It’s important to bear this in mind when deliberating over potential modifications to your RV.

Importance of RV Insurance Emergency Expense Coverage

Emergency expenses are a vital consideration for any RV policy. Emergency coverage should be top of mind whether you use your RV full-time or part-time and whatever belongings you need to insure. This type of coverage will offer you the security of being prepared for any unexpected expenses that may come up.

At Shield Insurance Agency, we are eager to answer all your questions about RV insurance policies. Michigan RV owners are invited to call or visit us anytime to learn more. We’re here to assist with your RV insurance needs, enabling you to hit the road confidently.

Give us a call or stop by our home office at 3214 Chicago Dr, Hudsonville, MI 49426 Our phone is 616-896-4600 or you can fax your current policy to us at 616-896-4601. And of course, we can be reached via email at ContactUs@shieldagency.com


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Pizza Shop Goes Viral After Putting Up ‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’ Sign

Pizza Shop Goes Viral After Putting Up ‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’ Sign

Complex.com | Feb 22, 2023 | Now Hiring Non-Stupid People | Shield Insurance, is now hiring Smart People

The sign made its first appearance outside the Ohio pizza shop several months ago. The attention on it, however, has now grown to a national level.

A pizza shop in Ohio has successfully sliced its way to virality thanks to the specificity with which it announced it was seeking new employees.

‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’ Response is Largely Positive

The shop in question is Santino’s Pizzeria in the Columbus area, while the sign in question reads, simply, “Now hiring non-stupid people.” Per a report from WSYX, the local in-person response to the viral sign has been largely positive. One person, however, responded to the sign’s presence by calling in a fake order totaling more than $100.

Over on the shop’s Facebook page, owners confirmed they ultimately donated the pizzas made for the prank order to a nearby homeless shelter. In the comments section of several posts, some spoke kindly about the “non-stupid people” signage while others criticized the establishment. 

‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’ sign intended to be ajoke

Speaking with WBNS over the weekend, Heather Stockton—a manager at the shop—explained that the sign was “supposed to be a joke” in response to what she described as employment struggles. According to that report, the sign was initially posted several months ago, although its nationwide virality didn’t kick in until more recently.

“Instead of judging our signs, why don’t you come judge our pizzas?” Stockton said, adding that the shop’s pizza offerings are of the “really good” variety.

Complex has reached out to the shop for additional comment. This story may be updated.

This isn’t the first time this exact sign, albeit for a different business, has slide its way into headlines. A “now hiring non-stupid people” sign previously spurred a similar reaction after being posted outside the Pets Gone Wild Resort in Texas last October.

Click here to read ‘Now Hiring Non-Stupid People’…

Shield Insurance is now hiring, ContactUs@ShieldAgency.com for details and get to know our staff.


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