April, 2025 | Boizelle Insurance Partnership

I Have a Squirrel In My Attic. What Should I Do?

Having a squirrel in your attic can lead to property damage and potential health hazards. Here’s a step-by-step approach to deal with it:

1. Confirm It’s a Squirrel

• Listen for noises during the day (squirrels are usually diurnal).
• Look for signs like chewed wires, insulation damage, or droppings.

2. Find the Entry Point

• Check the attic, roof, vents, soffits, and eaves for holes or chewed openings.
• Squirrels can squeeze through holes as small as 1.5 inches.

3. Encourage It to Leave (Before Sealing Anything)

• Use light, noise, or strong smells (e.g., apple cider vinegar, ammonia-soaked rags) to make the attic less hospitable.
• Leave the attic light on and play a radio.
• Avoid sealing the entry until you’re sure all squirrels are out.

4. Install a One-Way Door

• These allow squirrels to leave but not return. You can buy one or have a professional install it.

5. Seal Entry Points

• Once you’re sure they’re gone (wait a few days to be safe), seal all holes with metal mesh or hardware cloth. Check for babies (usually born Feb-May or Aug-Oct).

6. Clean and Repair

• Remove contaminated insulation, droppings, and nesting material.
• Disinfect the area and repair any chewed wiring or wood.

7. Consider Professional Help

• If you’re unsure or can’t safely access the attic, contact a licensed wildlife removal expert.

What Are The Pros & Cons of Installing Solar Panels?

Using solar panels comes with a range of advantage and disadvantages depending on your goals, location and financial situation. Here’s a breakdown of the main pros and cons:

Pros of Using Solar Panels

1. Renewable Energy Source

Solar power is abundant and renewable—sunlight is free and won’t run out for billions of years.

2. Lower Electricity Bills

Once installed, solar panels can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity costs, especially with net metering.

3. Environmentally Friendly

Solar Panels generate clean energy with no greenhouse gas emissions, reducing your carbon footprint.

4. Low Operating Costs

Maintenance is minimal (mostly cleaning and occasional inspections), and there are no fuel costs.

5. Energy Independence

Reduces reliance on utility companies and fossil fuels, especially valuable in areas with unstable grids.

6. Increased Property Value

Homes with solar installations can be more attractive to buyers and sometimes command higher prices.

7. Government Incentives

Many countries offer tax credits, rebates, and other incentives that reduce the cost of installation.

Cons of Using Solar Panels

1. High Upfront Costs

Installation can be expensive, although this is often mitigated by incentives or financing options.

2. Weather Dependence

Solar efficiency drops on cloudy days and doesn’t work at night (unless paired with battery storage).

3. Space Requirements

Rooftop or ground space must be sufficient and unobstructed by shade for effective operation.

4. Energy Storage is Expensive

Battery systems like Tesla Powerwall are still relatively costly, limiting 24/7 energy use from solar.

5. Efficiency Limits

Most panels convert only 15-22% of sunlight into electricity; technological advancements continue, but gains are incremental.

6. Aesthetic Concerns

Some homeowners find panels unattractive or worry about changes to the appearance of their property.

7. Manufacturing Impact

Production and disposal of solar panels can involve toxic chemicals and energy-intensive processes.

Protecting Yourself From Natural Disasters

What kind of insurance would protect me from natural disasters?

Insurance that protects you from natural disasters generally falls under the category of property insurance, but with specific add-on coverages or separate policies, depending on the type of disaster. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Homeowners Insurance (Basic Coverage)

• Covers: Some weather-related damage like windstorms, hail, lightning, and fire.
• Does NOT cover: Floods, earthquakes, landslides, or sinkholes (usually).

2. Flood Insurance

• Separate policy from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers.
• Covers: Water damage from external flooding due to heavy rain, hurricanes, or overflowing bodies of water.
• Not included in standard homeowners insurance.

3. Earthquake Insurance

• Separate policy or rider added to your homeowners insurance.
• Covers: Damage from earthquakes, included structural repairs and personal property loss.

4. Hurricane Insurance

• Usually a combination of windstorm coverage (in homeowners) and flood insurance.
• Some areas require a hurricane deductible, which is higher than a regular deductible.

5. Landslide/Mudslide Insurance

• Not typically covered by standard homeowners or flood insurance.
• May require a Difference in Conditions (DIC) policy, available from specialty insurers.

6. Tornado Insurance

• Generally covered under standard homeowners insurance, as part of windstorm coverage.

Tips:

• Check your policy’s “named perils” to know what’s covered.
• If you live in a high-risk area, call us at 301-948-2010 to discuss possible endorsements we can add to your current policy or additional policies to make sure you have the proper coverage.

What is the best kind of insurance that Erie Insurance offers to cover natural disasters?

Erie Insurance offers comprehensive protection against natural disasters through its Extended Water Coverage, an endorsement that can be added to your ErieSecure Home policy. This coverage is particularly beneficial in areas like Kensington, Maryland, where flooding and water-related incidents can occur even outside designated flood zones.

What Does Extended Water Coverage Include?

Erie’s Extended Water Coverage provides protection for:

• Flooding: Covers damage from flash floods, inland flooding, storm surges, snowmelt, and mudslides.
• Sewer or Drain Backup: Protects against water damage resulting from backups in sewers or drains.
• Flood Avoidance Reimbursement: Offers up to $10,000 to help install equipment or materials to prevent flood damage before it occurs.
• Temporary Living Expenses: Covers additional living costs if you need to temporarily relocate while your home is being repaired.
• Personal Property Protection: Includes coverage for your home, garage, and personal belongings, such as appliances and furniture.

This endorsement can be added to your ErieSecure Home policy or bundle, providing a comprehensive solution for water-related damage.

Additional Coverage Options

Beyond Extended Water Coverage, Erie Insurance offers various add-ons to enhance your protection:

• Guaranteed Replacement Cost: Ensures your home can be rebuilt to its original state, regardless of the policy limit.
• Service Line Protection: Covers repairs to underground utility lines running from your house to the curb.
• Umbrella Insurance: Provides additional liability coverage beyond your standard policy limits.

These options can be tailored to your specific needs, offering peace of mind against unforeseen events.