James L. Smith Insurance logo

Blogs

November 24, 2025
The Smart Way to File a Business Claim Without Losing Time!

Running a business means handling many tasks at once. When something goes wrong, like property damage, theft or an employee injury, the last thing you want is a long claim process that slows operations. Filing a business insurance claim quickly and correctly can save time and protect your finances. A well-filed claim helps your business […]

Read More
November 21, 2025
Snowfall Season: 5 Things to Check in Your Snowmobile Coverage!

Snow season brings adventure, excitement and long rides on fresh white trails. But before you take your snowmobile out, it is important to make sure your coverage is ready for the season. Snowmobiles face unique risks such as icy crashes, engine damage, theft and sudden weather issues. A simple check of your insurance plan can […]

Read More
November 19, 2025
Why Your Daily Commute Says a Lot About Your Finances!

Most people see their daily commute as a simple routine. You wake up, get in the car and drive to work. But your commute actually reveals a lot about your financial habits. From fuel usage to wear and tear on your car, each mile you drive affects your money. The way you manage your commute […]

Read More
November 15, 2025
How to Make Sure Your Savings Stays Strong in Retirement Care!

Retirement should feel calm and secure, but many people underestimate how quickly savings can shrink once extra care is needed. Medical support, home help and long-term care services can become expensive as you age. When these costs rise, even strong savings can feel weak. The good news is that you can plan early and make […]

Read More
November 11, 2025
5 Smart Ways to Protect Your Space When You’re Traveling!

Going on vacation should be relaxing, but returning to a damaged or burglarized condo can ruin that peace. Whether you’re away for a weekend or a month, leaving your home unattended has its risks. Here’s how to keep your condo safe while you’re away. 1. Turn Off Water and Unplug Appliances A leaking pipe or […]

Read More
November 8, 2025
What Every Homeowner Should Know Before Thanksgiving Guests Arrive!

Thanksgiving is a time for warmth, family, and laughter. However, as you prepare for guests, big dinners and long weekends, your home faces additional risks. Accidents can occur suddenly and even a minor oversight can lead to significant repair costs. Here’s what every homeowner should check before the holiday rush begins. 1. Kitchen Fires: The […]

Read More
November 4, 2025
Off-Season Boat Storage Mistakes That Could Void Your Coverage!

As boating season ends, many owners breathe a sigh of relief, thinking their boat is safe once stored away. But what happens in the off-season can be just as risky as what happens on the water. Simple storage mistakes can lead to damage, theft or even a voided insurance claim. Here’s how to protect your […]

Read More
November 1, 2025
Hidden Dangers on Icy Roads: Is Your Car Insurance Ready for Winter?

When winter arrives, the roads turn from smooth to slippery in just a few hours. The first snow might look beautiful, but beneath it hides black ice, slush and other dangers that can cause unexpected accidents. Even experienced drivers find it hard to control their cars on icy roads. This is the time of year […]

Read More
October 23, 2025
Key Person Insurance: Safeguard the People Who Power Your Business!

Behind every successful company are people whose knowledge, leadership or relationships make all the difference. What happens if one of them suddenly can’t work due to illness or an accident? That’s where Key Person Insurance becomes essential, protecting your business from the financial impact of losing its most valuable contributors. Who Is a Key Person? […]

Read More
October 21, 2025
Smart Risk, Safe Business: The Modern Way to Protect What You’ve Built!

Every business begins with an idea, but it grows with effort, investment and determination. Whether you run a local store or a growing enterprise, one truth stays constant: every success carries some risk. That’s why smart business owners focus on protecting what they’ve built just as much as expanding it. 1. The New Age of […]

Read More
October 18, 2025
The Do’s and Don’ts After a Minor Car Accident!

Even small fender-benders can leave you shaken. At that moment, it’s easy to forget what to do first. But the way you respond after a minor car accident can affect how smoothly your insurance claim goes and how protected you remain. 1. Do Move to Safety First If it's safe to do so, pull your […]

Read More
October 16, 2025
How to Evaluate Daily Benefit Amounts in LTC Policies!

Planning for the later stages of life means thinking about more than just savings. It’s also about ensuring you can afford the right kind of care when you need it most. That’s where Long-Term Care (LTC) insurance steps in. But one key decision often confuses people — choosing the daily benefit amount. Pick too little, […]

Read More
October 14, 2025
The Difference Between Bare Walls and All-In Master Policies!

Condo owners share a building and a master policy that shapes what a personal HO-6 must cover. Two terms lead to most choices. Bare walls and all in. Know which one your association carries, and you can right-size your own coverage without gaps or overlap. 1. Bare Walls Cover Structures And Shared Areas A bare […]

Read More
October 10, 2025
Why Home-Based Businesses Need Additional Coverage!

More owners build real ventures at home. A spare room becomes a studio. A garage becomes a packing space. Regular home insurance protects a residence first, which means business needs may sit outside the policy. With a few targeted steps, you can shield income, tools and trust while you grow from home with confidence. 1. […]

Read More
October 6, 2025
Why You Should Understand Exclusions in Every Policy!

A policy feels solid until claim day tests the fine print. The most common source of shock is not the limit or the deductible. It is the exclusion. Exclusions define what a policy will not cover. When you know them, you avoid gaps, you add smart extras and you turn insurance into a plan that […]

Read More
October 2, 2025
The Hidden Benefits of Increasing Your Car Insurance Deductible!

Most drivers focus on discounts or carrier changes to cut costs. A quieter move can work just as well. Raising your deductible. This choice shifts a little risk to you, yet can bring steady savings if you plan it with care. When you match the deductible to your budget and driving habits, you gain control […]

Read More
September 27, 2025
The Hidden Costs of Not Having Professional Liability Coverage!

“I do great work. I don’t need that.” Many good pros think this way, until a client says the work caused a loss. Even if you did nothing wrong, you still have to answer the claim. Here are the costs that show up when you don’t carry professional liability. 1. Time You Can’t Get Back […]

Read More
September 23, 2025
What Rich Business Owners Secretly Do With Their Insurance!

The wealthy do not buy more insurance for fun. They buy it to protect time, cash flow, and control. Here are the quiet moves many top owners make and how you can use them, too. 1. Map The Big Risks Once A Year They sit down and list the losses that could hurt the most: […]

Read More
September 20, 2025
The Real Difference Between State Minimum and Full Coverage!

“Just make me legal.” That’s what many drivers say when shopping for car insurance. The state minimum will do that. But being legal and being protected are two very different things. Here’s a clear way to see the gap and decide what fits your life. What Does the State Minimum Really Do? State minimum is […]

Read More
September 16, 2025
Daily Benefit Amount: How to Pick It Without Guesswork!

Choosing the daily benefit amount for long‑term care insurance can feel like a shot in the dark. It doesn’t have to be. Use this simple plan to pick a number that fits real life, not guesswork. 1. Start With Local Prices Look up current costs for home health aides, assisted living, and nursing homes in […]

Read More
September 12, 2025
What is The “Bare Walls In” Rule That Condo Buyers Always Miss!

Many condo buyers think the building’s insurance covers “everything.” It rarely does. Most condo associations carry a master policy, but the coverage it provides can vary significantly. The most missed detail is a rule called “bare walls in.” Knowing it before you buy can save you stress and money. Two Master Policy Types What You […]

Read More
September 8, 2025
Why Your Roof’s Age Can Affect Your Home Insurance Rates!

Your roof is your home’s first shield against wind, rain, hail and heat. When a roof gets old, it struggles to do that job. That is why many insurers look closely at roof age when they set your price or even when they agree to write the policy. Older Roofs Mean Higher Risk An older […]

Read More
September 5, 2025
Roadside Assistance or Towing Coverage: Which One Actually Pays?

Towing after a breakdown can cost far more than you expect, and the farther you are, the higher the bill climbs. Having the right assistance built into your policy means you’re not left scrambling to cover those surprise expenses. Two popular add-ons promise to save the day: roadside assistance and towing coverage. They sound alike, […]

Read More
September 2, 2025
Bundle or Separate? How to Decide on Your Insurance Policies!

Bundling sounds neat: one company, one bill, a lower price. However, the best deal for your car may not be the best deal for your home, life or renters' policy. So, should you bundle or keep policies with different companies? Use this simple guide to decide what truly fits your life and your wallet. What […]

Read More
August 26, 2025
How Often Should You Update Your Business Insurance Policy?

Your business changes faster than you think. New tools, new people, new contracts, each can shift your risk. That is why your insurance should not be a “set it and forget it” item. A simple review can keep coverage tight and costs fair. The Baseline: Review at Least Once a Year Put a yearly checkup […]

Read More
August 23, 2025
General Liability vs E&O Insurance: Know the Difference!

Two policies sound alike but protect you in very different ways: General Liability (GL) and Errors & Omissions (E&O). If you run a business, you may need one or both. Knowing the difference helps you avoid painful surprises when a claim hits. What General Liability Covers? GL protects your business when someone says you caused […]

Read More
August 19, 2025
Auto Insurance for Ride-Share Drivers: 5 Things You Must Know!

Driving can be a smart way to earn a living. But your personal auto policy is not built for paid rides. Gaps can appear the moment you turn the app on. Here are five must-know points that help you stay covered and keep your income safe. 1. Your Personal Policy May Exclude Ride-Share Work Most […]

Read More
August 15, 2025
Long-Term Care Policies: What to Ask Before You Buy It!

Long-term care (LTC) helps when daily tasks like bathing, dressing or eating become hard due to age, illness or an accident. Most health insurance and Medicare do not cover this kind of ongoing care in the long run. That is why many families look at LTC insurance. Before you sign, ask the right questions so […]

Read More
August 13, 2025
Your Landlord Has Insurance, So Why Do You Still Need Yours?

It's a common misconception: "My landlord has insurance, so I'm covered." A landlord's policy only protects the building itself, such as the roof and walls. It does not cover your belongings like your couch, laptop or savings. This is why renters' insurance is important, even in a well-managed building. Your Stuff Isn't the Building If […]

Read More
August 9, 2025
Can Renovating Your Kitchen Raise Your Insurance?

A new kitchen can change how your home feels and cooks. But it can also change your home insurance. The answer is not always “yes” or “no.” It depends on what you upgrade and any risks that arise while the work is going on. Why Can the Price Rise? Insurance is built on the cost […]

Read More
August 4, 2025
What Is a Grace Period and What Happens If You Miss It?

A grace period is the additional time you receive after your due date to pay your insurance bill. Although your policy is considered late, you still have a chance to resolve it. The specifics of the grace period can differ based on your policy and your state, so it's important to read your documents carefully […]

Read More
August 1, 2025
Car Insurance: How Your Age Impacts Your Auto Insurance Premium!

Age is a big clue about driving risk and risk is what shapes your price. Insurers don’t judge your life story; they look at data. Who tends to file more claims? Who has years of practice? Your age often hints at those patterns so that it can push your premium up or down. Teens and […]

Read More
July 26, 2025
5 Different Types of Business Insurance You Should Consider Now!

Running a business is exciting, but every day brings new risks. A burst pipe can flood your office or a customer can slip and sue. The right insurance turns these threats into temporary setbacks instead of costly crises, letting you stay focused on growth. Below are five types of coverage worth considering now, each guarding […]

Read More
July 22, 2025
How to Create a Safe Work Environment for Your Employees!

Having a safe workplace is more than clean floors and hard hats; it is the heartbeat of a strong company. When employees feel protected, they focus on great work instead of injuries or lawsuits. These steps blend hands‑on safety and how you need to do it. 1. Start With a Risk Walk‑Through Tour every corner—warehouse […]

Read More
July 19, 2025
3 Common Summer Driving Hazards: Is Your Car Coverage Adequate?

Summer calls for road trips, beach runs and late‑night ice‑cream drives. But the season also brings hazards that can dent both your car and your wallet. Knowing these risks keeps the fun rolling long after the sun sets. Hazard 1: Heat‑Weakened Tires and Engines Baking pavement pushes tire pressure past safe limits, leading to blowouts. Engines […]

Read More
July 16, 2025
How to Ensure Your Wishes are Honored as You Age?

Growing older should feel like turning the page of a favorite book—each chapter bringing new memories. Yet many Americans find that plans made “someday” never get written down, leaving family members to guess what Mom or Dad would have wanted. A clear plan, backed by the right long‑term‑care insurance, keeps your voice loud and clear […]

Read More
July 14, 2025
Why Renters Insurance Essentials for College Students Living Off-Campus!

A first lease off campus offers freedom—your own kitchen, study nook and maybe a rescue cat or a pet of your liking. Freedom also brings risks like lost laptops or small kitchen fires. Renters' insurance is an easy, low‑cost way to keep bumps from turning into budget busters. What Personal Property Coverage Does? Renters' insurance […]

Read More
July 10, 2025
Understanding Replacement Cost vs. Market Value in Home Insurance!

Your house may be your largest investment, yet two simple words—replacement cost and market value—often confuse homeowners when buying insurance. Knowing the difference helps you avoid being underinsured and ensures your home sweet home stays that way after a disaster. 1. Market Value: What Buyers Will Pay Today Market value equals what a willing buyer […]

Read More
July 4, 2025
What Rich People Secretly Know About Insurance That You Don’t!

Wealthy families seem fearless when markets dip, storms hit, or lawsuits loom. It is not magic—it is strategy. Most affluent households treat insurance as a financial tool, not just a bill. Below are five “quiet rules” they follow that anyone can copy. 1. Coverage Limits Beat Price Tags High‑net‑worth clients do not stop at state […]

Read More
July 1, 2025
How the Color of Your Car Reveals Your Personality!

Step onto any highway and you will see a moving rainbow of paint jobs. While most of us pick a color because “it looks nice,” studies in color psychology suggest those shades may quietly hint at who we are—bold, calm or somewhere in between. Knowing the story your car’s color tells can even help you […]

Read More
June 25, 2025
Top 5 Must-Have Gadgets for Remote Home Monitoring

In today’s fast-moving world, many homeowners find themselves away from home more often—whether it’s for work, vacations or simply running errands. But being away doesn’t mean your home has to be unprotected. With smart gadgets, you can keep an eye on your house no matter where you are. Remote home monitoring is no longer a […]

Read More
June 22, 2025
Employee Turnover Solutions: How to Keep Your Top Talent!

Every time a valued worker walks out the door, you lose skill, time and money. Studies estimate the cost of replacing one salaried employee to be one to two times the employee's yearly pay. That is a hit no balance sheet enjoys. With thoughtful planning you can turn that leak into loyalty. Below, we share […]

Read More
June 18, 2025
What to Check Before Buying a Used Car from an Online Marketplace?

With just a few clicks, you can look upon hundreds of cars, compare prices, and find the one that fits your needs. But don’t let convenience fool you. Behind those nice pictures and tempting prices, there might be hidden issues. Before you hit that “Buy” button or send in an offer, it’s important to know […]

Read More
June 15, 2025
Family Meetings: How to Start the Conversation on Future Care!

Talking about an aging parent’s medical wishes or long-term care can feel uneasy but waiting only raises stress later. A short, relaxed family meeting today gives everyone time to plan, share their feelings and line up the funds needed for solid care. 1. Pick a Calm Moment Choose a weekend brunch or video call when […]

Read More
May 12, 2021
What do you need to know about insuring your home-based business?

As of 2018, 30.2 million small businesses were operating in the United States, and 50% were home-based businesses. A home-based business offers many benefits, including low costs, tax benefits, flexibility, and freedom from commuting. Like any business, a home-based operation requires insurance. Various insurance options are available, so home business owners can choose what best […]

Read More
April 12, 2021
RV maintenance checklist

    Sitting behind the wheel of your new RV comes with a lot of elation and anticipation. The open road is in front of you, and with all of the national parks and wild spaces available to explore in the U.S., there is nearly endless adventure ahead. But of course, you’ll have to make […]

Read More
March 27, 2021
7 Things You Should Know About Boat Insurance.

Boating is undoubtedly one of the best ways for you to release stress. You are excited to hit the water on your boat; worrying about the finances in case of an unfortunate event would be the last thing you would want. So, make sure your boat is well insured.  We have collated seven significant points […]

Read More

James L. Smith Insurance Agency, Inc.

We extend coverage to individuals and businesses in 
304 Cochran Road Pittsburgh, PA 1522 and surrounding areas.
412-531-3111info@jlsins.net
© James L. Smith Insurance Agency, Inc. All rights reserved. Powered by Amplispot.
Our commitment is to provide unparalleled customer service and exceptional value.
Get Quote
linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram Skip to content