January 2018 Agency Newsletter
Our Mission Is Simple
Stone Creek Insurance Agency Is Committed To Knowing, Meeting, And Exceeding Our Clients’ Needs And Expectations.
At A Glance
New At The Creek
Winter Woes For Homeowners
The holidays have come and past, but Winter is in full swing. For those that live in cooler temperatures, there are a few issues that can be prevented to avoid a catastrophe. Below are just a few of those issues and some prevention tips.
- Frozen Water and Drain Line Pipes – A common issue during low temperatures is pipes freezing. This can be easily prevented by doing things such as wrapping pipes with foam or self-adhesive insulating tape. Focus on pipes that are in uninsulated parts of your home or on the exterior of your home. And if you go out of town, make sure that thermostat isn’t set any lower than 55 degrees.
- Furnace and Hot Water Failure – During the cold months your furnace and hot water heater are more likely to have failures. Due to the harsh winter temperatures, the pipes can freeze and cause issues. Before the weather drops significantly have a professional come out and check your system for weak spots and fix them. Planning can save you a lot of trouble of trying to get your furnace or water heater fixed during the harsh winter months.
- Roof Issues – Roof issues can occur at any point during the year, but inclement weather puts a huge strain on any roof. Pay attention to water and ice buildup on your roof; both can cause damage to the roof and cause leaks. Don’t neglect weak spots and ignore them, they will only get worse.
- Fireplace and Chimney Safety – Fireplaces can add a nice touch to any cold winter night. But it is important that they are properly maintained. If flues are not cleaned properly, they can cause smoke build up that can back up into your home. Make sure that your flue is properly cleaned and always open your flue before starting a fire.
Always remember that there are licensed professionals that can make sure you are taking the correct precautions. If you aren’t sure, contact a professional. Thinking ahead and preventative action are the two best ways to try to negate potential losses.
Source: https://extramile.thehartford.com/home/winter-woes-and-steps-to-help-avoid-them/
Managing Your Business' Online Reputation
One of the most valuable assets to bringing in new customers is a positive reputation online. The average consumer will consult reviews online when choosing a service provider or trying something new, like a restaurant or hotel. While you cannot completely avoid negative reviews or publicity, below are some tips regarding your online reputation:
Know your social media presence and overall online reputation
Do a detailed search of the internet to review what you have put on the internet and what other parties have put. While you can’t control everything posted online, you can delete some content that you have control over. Take note the search results for your business; the top hits you get are what your perspective clients will see as well. It’s important you know what’s out there.
Respond to negative reviews
Respond to negative reviews or negative content when it comes up, in a thoughtful and positive manner. Responding positively shows care for your business and its clients. You can control how you respond, so think hard before you do. If the negative reviewer is someone you know, reach out to them directly. Sometimes negative reviews are misunderstandings that can be corrected. The reviewer may even delete their review or post an annotation, upon resolution.
Sign up for alerts
Google alerts allows you to keep on top of what is posted online about your business. These alerts are free and easy to set up. There are also monthly subscription services that will let you know when your business is referenced on social media platforms.
Source: https://sba.thehartford.com/managing-risk/managing-your-online-reputation/
Visit our Yelp page to see how our online reputation stacks up against the rest!
https://www.yelp.com/biz/stone-creek-insurance-agency-lafayette
(source: www.Safeco.com)
Business Spotlight
Arreola Landscaping
Established in 1989. We started with just the landscaping eventually we moved into concrete work and from there into pool construction. A landscape designer was added and now we offer all aspects of construction for outdoor living.
We’re a one stop shop when it comes to outdoor construction. Arreola landscaping and pool design offers complete landscape and hard-scape services. We also offer new pool installation, complete renovation and demolition, concrete work (such as driveways, patios, pool decks and retaining walls), and much more.
Anything you can imagine for beautiful and comfortable outdoor living, we can achieve: pavers, waterfalls, fire pits, and outdoor kitchens are just a few of the items that can make an outdoor living space magical. From design through to construction, Arreola Landscape and Pool Design is your complete outdoor resource. “Realize your dreams. ”
Located in Lafayette, CA
Contact them: Malrie Champion 925-323-8316 or Carlos Arreola 925-323-8316