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5 Ways to Help You Save Money in Your Daily Life

Sam Allcock
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5 Ways to Help You Save Money in Your Daily Life

It is a proven fact that making money habits always take a considerably long time. However, it is always good to start small with things you can do every day. This is especially true if you want to make any new lifestyle change. Admitted, it is inevitable to spend on the basic needs like food, gas and rent, but there are certain ways to lower your overall spending. If you succeed in this regard, you will be able to put more money towards retirement, a house, personal investments, emergency funds, etc. This article will guide you about certain activities you can add to your day to help you save more money toward your long-term financial targets. Here are the ways to do so. Let’s read on.

  1. Track your daily expenses sensibly

You must keep track of the money you spend every day. To do so efficiently, you may use any type of budget or budgeting app in order to monitor your daily spending. Doing so will help you better point out the areas you can easily cut back on. On the contrary, not knowing properly how much money is going out and in may cause you financial anxiety. Through tracking your daily spending, you will be better able to get a true picture of your money. In this way, you will enhance the chances for making smarter money decisions on the go.

  • Switch from in-person to online

In-person working in any field costs you more as compared to the one online. For instance, if you are taking in-person classes to learn some musical instrument such as the piano, you must be spending a reasonable amount for this. You may switch to online classes or use online learning apps as they are also as good and a little cheaper, too. Piano lessons online will prove both economical and time saving. The same you may apply to other areas of your everyday life as well.

  • Try your best to eat at home

Eating home-made dishes at home helps you save both your money and good hygiene. Though it is difficult to develop this habit at first, you will get used to it gradually. You will be eating healthier while on a budget as well. Likewise, try your best to manage to buy different grocery items once in a week and that, too, in bulk in order to save more money at the grocery store. You may use grocery coupons and other saving options in this context. Remember, all this never means that you must not dine out with your family or friends at some restaurant. You may opt to visit some good restaurant once in a week especially on the week-ends.

  • Wait 30 days before you buy

Impulse spending is another worst factor that spoils your whole scheme of budget. If you are an impulse buyer, try your best to refrain from it. Worse still, you often impulsively buy what you want not what you actually need. Hence, it will be very wise if you develop a habit not to buy before it is 30 days since your last buy. This 30-day rule will help you better identify your needs from your wants and reduce your impulsive spending a lot. Moreover, you must always be trying your hardest to curb excessive spending on things you actually never need.

  • Unplug energy-draining  electrical devices to cut short energy bills

 There is always a worst drain of money if you keep the electrical appliances plugged in when they are not in use. It is really a financially and environmentally sustainable habit to always unplug your energy-draining devices the soonest you have used them. Phone chargers, computer cords, coffee pots, etc. use up a lot of energy and prove them vampire energy drainers. You may reduce your energy bill by keeping them unplugged if they are not in use anymore. All this may reduce your energy bill by up to 20 percent. Using smart power cords and other energy-saving features of your electrical devices such as the sleep mode, etc. can help a lot to minimize the energy bill to an affordable level.                   

How Utility Warehouse is offering competitive tariffs despite the energy crisis

Sam Allcock
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How Utility Warehouse is offering competitive tariffs despite the energy crisis

While energy providers’ prices soar, Utility Warehouse’s tariffs are comparatively low.

People across the UK have seen their bills go up because of the spike in gas and electricty prices, which came into force on October 1, 2021. The price rises follow the increasing demand for energy, which has triggered a huge jump in wholesale energy costs. As a result, the government regulator Ofgem has raised its price cap for the second time this year. Despite the energy crisis, the UK’s only genuine multiservice provider Utility Warehouse (UW) is able to offer some of the most competitive energy prices on the market.

How can Utility Warehouse offer such good value energy tariffs?

UW, the ninth biggest independent energy supplier in the UK, can offer some of the lowest energy prices because of a deal between E.ON and its parent company Telecom Plus. In the past, this long-term agreement has meant that some energy suppliers have been able to undercut UW by taking a shorter-term approach. These suppliers have primarily focused on gaining market share. However, the rising wholesale prices have made it difficult for many of these suppliers to maintain their competitive energy pricing. This has left UW amongst the few energy providers that can take on new customers at the most competitive prices.

It’s no surprise that UW’s shares rose by over 10% when the multiservice provider reassured customers it was better insulated against the price hikes than most suppliers this autumn.

“We’ve been in business for 20 years,” says UW’s CEO Andrew Lindsay, who was a mergers and acquisitions banker for Goldman Sachs before he became the chief executive of Telecom Plus in 2010. “We’ve been patiently waiting for our opportunity.”

Lindsay explains that although the price climb has exposed the energy sector’s “systematic flaws”, he considers government intervention beyond temporary stop-gap measures unnecessary.

“Energy markets are cyclical,” he says. “We learned back in 2005 that you get wholesale price spikes. But everyone’s conveniently forgotten about that. The government is treading the right line here by not letting the incumbents muscle in and stifle competition, but equally not bailing out insolvent suppliers and prolonging the overdue and much-needed reset of unsustainable pricing practices.”

UW energy prices come in lower than many of its rival suppliers not only because of the agreement with E.ON, but also because the multiservice provider teams its energy service with great value broadband, mobile, and insurance services. UW has offered great value home services for 25 years, helping customers bundle their utilities into monthly packages. Plus, the bundles come with customer bonuses like 100% renewable electricity for Double Gold customers, a cashback card for those who take all services, and free smart meter upgrades for all energy customers.

About Utility Warehouse

UW helps people up and down the country save time and money on their utility bills with its award-winning home services. The more services customers take, the more money they save. Plus, keeping all their bills in one place means that if customers have any queries, they only ever need to contact one, UK-based customer service team.

The UW Foundation

Money and time savings aside, UW has also set up several initiatives to give back to society and support local communities. For starters, the company’s charity, the UW Foundation, works with Charities Trust to support environmental non-profits. The UW Foundation is currently working with Ocean Generation to tackle plastic pollution and spread the word about the dangers that plastic can cause in oceans, seas, and rivers. The UW Foundation matches every pound its Authorised Partners (independent distributors) and colleagues raise for Ocean Generation, doubling the company’s contribution.

The UW Foundation also supports underprivileged communities near the company’s offices in London, Bolton, and Bournemouth. ‘Get Your Hands Dirty’ campaign

Meanwhile, UW’s ‘Get Your Hands Dirty’ campaign has seen the FTSE 250 company give back to society through a range of additional initiatives. Aside from donating some of its annual profit to environmental and social causes, UW has:

·       Tidied local streets, rivers, and beaches during the coronavirus crisis. You might have seen some of UW’s Partners at litter-picking events.

·       Raised thousands of pounds for NHS Charities Together and Domestic Violence UK throughout the pandemic.

·       Supported local community events for St Luke’s Hospice in Harrow, the Young Barnet Foundation, and Ashton Lodge.

‘Get Your Hands Dirty’ is a call to arms that asks people to join UW in making a real, tangible difference to society. UW and its Partners are keen not only to help customers save time and money on their utility bills, but also to improve environmental health and keep communities safe.

Utility Warehouse’s Awards

UW has won many awards for its home services and customer care over the years. In 2021, the company claimed two titles at the Uswitch Energy Awards: Best Incentives/Rewards and Best Meter Reading Services – and came fourth in the Best Supplier category. This is the fourth year in a row that UW has scooped Uswitch awards. (UW won the Best Energy Saving Support Award in 2020 and 2019 and the Best Customer Service Award in 2019.)

In 2020, UW’s parent company Telecom Plus won CFI.co’s Best Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance Multi-Utility Provider Award. Meanwhile, Which? has recommended UW several times since 2011.

UW’s other accolades include 21 Moneywise awards, a five-star rating from Defaqto every year since 2017, and two new Moneyfacts five-star ratings for its home insurance in 2021.

Learn more about UW.

What is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and When does It Apply?

Sam Allcock
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What is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and When does It Apply?

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 came into force on the 1st of July 1997 and applies throughout England and Wales to resolve disputes in relation to party walls, party structures, boundary walls and excavations near neighbouring buildings.

The Party Wall Act legally obligates a building owner to notify their neighbour’s, in advance of commencing certain construction works. (Neighbours are known within the Act as the adjoining owners)

When applicable, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides statutory procedures for appointing Party Wall Surveyors. The surveyors then resolve matters by way of a ‘party wall award’. An award lists the format, the owner undertaking the work is required to follow. The Act is of a facilitative nature, it does not allow an adjoining owner to prevent a building owner exercising their rights to conduct work under the Act, unless the party wall procedures are not followed. The Act ensures works are performed in a manner that protects both the adjoining owners’ interests and the building owner undertaking the works interest.

What is a Party Wall?

Party Walls stand astride the boundary of land belonging to two or more owners. A wall is also considered a “party wall” if it stands wholly on one owner’s land but is used by two or more owners to separate their building. Party Fence Walls are not part of the building, they stand astride the boundary line between lands of different owners and are used to separate land.

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 Covers Three Different Types of Work:

  1. Works directly to a Party Wall, Party Structure or Party Fence Wall.
  2. Excavations within 3m – 6m at depth lower than the adjoining owner’s foundations.
  3. New walls built up to, or astride, the line of junction.

Here at Icon surveyors, we have seen it all over the years. However, in our experience the list below tends to be the most typical works undertaken, that invokes the Party Wall Act:

  • Repair of a damaged party wall.
  • Insertion of a damp-proof course.
  • Underpin a party wall.
  • Cutting into a party wall, for the insertion of steel beams.
  • Raise the height of a party wall.
  • Removing chimney breasts from a party wall.
  • Extend a party wall downward, to form a basement.
  • Demolishing and rebuilding a party wall or party fence wall. (Usually as a result of the wall being insufficient)
  • Weathering the junction of adjoining walls or buildings, i.e. cutting a flashing into an adjoining building.
  • Cut off projections of an Adjoining Owner’s boundary to remove or build a new wall.
  • Building, up to or astride the boundary line between properties: If the building owner is planning to build a party wall or party fence wall astride the boundary line, you must inform the adjoining owner by serving a party wall notice. You will only be afforded the legal right to build astride a boundary, with your neighbour’s written consent. The building owner must also inform the adjoining owner if they plan to build a new wall, wholly on their own land but up to the boundary line.
  • Excavations within 3 or 6 metres of neighbouring buildings or structures: A notice is required under section 6 of the Act, if any part of the proposed excavation is within six metres of any part of an adjoining owner’s building/structure, if this meets a line that is drawn downwards at 45° angle in the direction of the excavation from the bottom of an adjoining owner’s foundations.

Below are Some Works on a Party Wall that are Considered Minor and will not require a Party Wall Notice under the Act

  • Drilling into a party wall to fix plugs and screws for wall units or shelving
  • Cutting into a party wall to add or replace electrical wiring and sockets
  • Removing old plaster and re-plastering

What can Happen If You Choose not to Follow, the Party Wall Procedure?

Court Injunctions

If a building owner commences works without serving a Party Wall Notice, the adjoining owner can apply to the court for an Injunction. Injunctions are easy to apply for and have the potential to stop construction works immediately, until the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is followed. Ignoring this injunction can become a criminal offence. The building owner is usually held liable for costs in relation to obtaining the injunction. These costs generally include; court fees, solicitor fees, and surveyor costs. Over the years we have seen cases where the building owner was ordered by the court to remove the current works.

Property Damage

If the adjoining owner suffers damage due to the construction works, the onus would be on the building owner to provide evidence this was not caused by their works. If you have not undertaken a Schedule of Condition Report pre-works, it will be very difficult to identify if the damage was caused by the Notifiable works. The building owner will, therefore, have to pay for the repairs to the adjoining owner’s property. This can be a very costly mistake, so ensure to undertake a Schedule of Condition Report prior to commencing your planned works.

If you are planning to undertake Construction works and would like to discuss your party wall surveying matter, give us a call and speak to one of our experienced Party Wall Surveyors. We provide 30 minutes FREE impartial, no strings attached advice.

Find your next van

Sam Allcock
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Find your next van

Buying a second hand vehicle is quite different from getting a new one. Not only because it’s for sure a more affordable choice, but also for the reason that it requires some special attention before making the right decision. At vansales.com you can easily find the best deal and a trustworthy company that is enthusiastic about satisfying customers’ needs and expectations.

Vansales.com is a leasing and rental company specialized in kombi and panel vans. They sale used vehicles from 6 month up to 5 years old, most of them only had one previous owner, so they are, in effect, second hand.

The company also offers rental services for high specification motorhomes and vans. Vehicles rent is available from a day up to 12 months, providing an excellent choice not only for using a van or a motorhome in a specific occasion, but also to try a vehicle before opting for buying it. In fact, many used van buyers were first leasers that made the decision to buy after feeling comfortable with the vehicle.

Tips to find the right van

Choosing what vehicle is best for you can be an overwhelming experience, especially for those who are new to the world of panel and kombi vans. There are, indeed, many options available with different characteristics.

So, the first tip is to take some time to research the available stock before making any decision. Fortunately, most of renting and leasing companies have online web sites that can be visited in order to fully explore the available stock and narrowing it down to two or three options.

At this point, sending and email or even calling the company can be a great way of checking what you saw online. Also, it helps to clear up any doubts regarding the vehicles you are interested in or other matters regarding the sale or rent procedure.

After completing this steps, you will be in a better position to visit the company and see for yourself what you are about to buy or rent.

Taking some time to plan your visit to the company is also a good way of making the most of it. First, the basic things, such as checking the address and opening hours. Second, preparing yourself to gather all the information you are looking for by making a list of questions you would like to ask.

What has the vehicle been used before? Can I do a test drive? What is the mileage? Does the mileage reflect in the vehicle conditions? Does the company offer finance? Is there a guarantee? What are the accessories included? Can I upgrade my van with accessories? Does the company deliver vans?

These are some of the main questions you should ask during your visit. Your will probably have much more doubts than this. It’s better to have them written down so you won’t forget any of them at the moment of your visit to the store.

Last but not least, it is very important to check the legal documents associated with the vehicle and get a full understanding of the needed paperwork. Even though it can be tedious, it is important to take some time to look at all the documentation of the vehicle in order to be completely sure that everything is ok and you won’t get any issues once you are driving it.

Fortunately, at Van Sales you will find the proper orientation regarding all legal matters and what is exactly the paperwork needed in order to buy, lease or rent a panel or kombi van.

Finance solutions

Most of companies dedicated to sale, rent or lease cars offer some type of finance options to help customers get the product they want.

Van Sales offers a range of finance and leasing solutions at some of the cheapest rates. They offer Hire Purchase with VAT down as a deposit over up to 60 month. Also, on newer used vans they sometimes add a final payment at the end to reduce the monthly charge.

Moreover, most of new or used vans can be bought on Personal Contract Purchase with a final value and sometimes they offer their own in house contract hire on new vehicles if getting a mainstream funder is not an option.

5 Best Crypto Exchange Platforms You Must Know for trading in the UAE

Sam Allcock
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5 Best Crypto Exchange Platforms You Must Know for trading in the UAE

Cryptocurrency exchanges are gradually becoming popular in the UAE and the Middle East as a whole. With the rising endorsement of cryptocurrencies by Islamic scholars and sharia compliance bodies, enterprises, governments, and the general public are rapidly incorporating blockchain technology. This technology is gradually being pursued in asset management and investing in the Gulf region countries, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

Despite such increasing popularity, most interested folks jump into only one cryptocurrency exchange platform (recommended by a friend or randomly chosen). They use that same cryptocurrency exchange forever regardless of their preferences. However, it is crucial to choose a suitable exchange before investing. Otherwise, it would be too late, and you may have to face a ton of hassle for shifting your whole trade. Therefore, look before you leap.

The surprising fact is: most people in Middle East countries believe that they need to be experts in sophisticated technologies to buy bitcoin and cryptocurrency. This is not entirely true. You can easily buy and trade cryptocurrencies with a few clicks from your preferred exchange. However, there are different payment methods to buy these currencies in different exchanges. Some can be purchased with credit cards, and others may need debit cards, transfer from a bank account to another bank account, and other methods. Over time, you’ll understand the most cost-effective practices, price fluctuations, and trends.

What is a Cryptocurrency Exchange Platform?

Cryptocurrency exchanges are online marketplaces where users may trade cryptocurrencies for other assets, such as digital and fiat currencies. In practice, cryptocurrency exchanges function as facilitators between buyers and sellers, earning revenue via commissions and transaction fees.

The 5 Best Crypto Exchange Platform in the UAE

There are thousands of cryptocurrency exchange platforms around the globe. It can be really confusing for a beginner to choose from the list. In this article, we have prepared a shortlist of 5 Best Crypto Exchange Platforms in the UAE, considering different parameters and facilities.

So, here we go:

  1. eToro
  2. Binance
  3. Bitoasis
  4. Rain
  5. CoinMENA

1. eToro: The Best of The Best Crypto Exchanges

Considering various parameters, eToro as our first choice was obvious. With 20 million registered users globally, it is one of the largest online crypto exchange platforms where users may invest in a variety of assets. It offers around 17 cryptocurrencies for trading.

Pros:

  1. The webpage is incredibly user-friendly.
  2. With a broad user base, it has evolved into a social trading platform.
  3. eToro offers copy trading besides many of such unique features.

Cons:  

  1. Despite explicit commissions being speared, spreads are still quite massive.
  2. Charges a withdrawal fee of $5 per transaction.
  3. The withdrawal procedure sometimes might be time-consuming.

Fees:

Bitcoin: 0.75%

Others: 1% to 3%

Security:

  1. Client funds and personal details are both safeguarded by eToro’s use of tier 1 banks and SSL encryption.
  2. The FCA, CySEC, and ASIC all have oversight over eToro’s business operations and trading practices.

2. Binance: World’s Largest Crypto Exchange by Volume

Binance, launched in 2017, is a Hong Kong-based cryptocurrency exchange. Soon after the launch, it swiftly grew to become the world’s biggest exchange by trading volume. It is a feature-rich exchange that is ideal for experienced cryptocurrency traders and investors. It provides a plethora of trading tools and possibilities. It currently supports over 300 cryptocurrencies, with no deposit fees and extremely reasonable trading charges.

Pros:

  1. It offers a wide choice of cryptocurrencies for clients.
  2. The website contains a ton of exclusive features. For instance, WEb3 Browsers, Decentralized Applications, etc.
  3. It offers cutting-edge security features.

Cons:

  1. The customer support is not up to the mark. It lacks the essential live chat feature.
  2. Bad news if you frequently visit the US. Binance is not supported in several US states.
  3. Its security had been compromised once, but no customer had to suffer any loss. 

Fees:

Trading fee for ‘maker’ : 0.02% – 0.10%

Trading fee for ‘taker’ : 0.04% – 0.10%

Withdrawal fee specific: Here

Security:

  1. It uses 2FA Authentication and keeps biometric verification as a backup.
  2. For the sake of security, Binance only keeps a tiny fraction of the currencies in circulation in its hot wallets. The remainder is maintained in offline cold storage.
  3. Despite all the measures, its security had been compromised in 2019, losing over $40 million worth of Bitcoin. However, the clients did not suffer as Binance compensated from their own pocket. Since then, we have found no other security problems registered against Binance.

3. Bitoasis: UAE Specific Crypto Exchange 

Bitoasis is a crypto exchange and a broker in one. Being founded in 2015, this UAE-based crypto exchange has seen steady growth. With 20 cryptocurrencies supported, it’s available throughout the Middle East and some North Africa countries.

Pros:

  1. Unlike some of the best globally renowned crypto exchanges, Bitoasis is very comfortable to use from the Middle East.
  2. It offers certain unique deals every now and then.
  3. Provides useful resources for trading as downloaded content.
  4. The user interface is straightforward to go through.

Cons:

  1. The withdrawal process may take more than a week.
  2. It’s not up to the mark of comfort if you’re outside of the Middle East.
  3. The withdrawal fees are a bit outrageous.
  4. The website shows too many advertisements, which may be annoying at times. 

Fees:

Trading fee for ‘maker’ : 0.05% – 0.25%

Trading fee for ‘taker’ : 0.30% – 0.50%

Withdrawal fee : 0.000054 BTC

To know more about fees, click here.

Security:

  1. Customer assets are protected in multi-signature wallets.
  2. It uses three, different keys to protect the funds.

4. Rain: Bahrain-based Crypto Exchange for the Middle East

Rain, founded in 2017, is a cryptocurrency exchange primarily focused on the Gulf region. It is the first cryptocurrency exchange in the Middle East to be granted a regulatory license. They are rapidly expanding and presently have over 10,000 customers. However, Its cryptocurrency-asset offering is now restricted to four: Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and Litecoin.

Pros:

  1. The trading fees are very reasonable.
  2. The customer support is top-notch and available 24/7.
  3. Since it’s Bahrain-based, there’s absolutely no issue while using it from the Middle East countries.
  4. Holding a license from the Central Bank of Bahrain makes the transactions on this platform legally secured.

Cons:

  1. It does not offer varieties of cryptocurrencies.
  2. Rain is not supported outside of the Gulf Region.
  3. If you’re outside Bahrain, you’ll be charged a deposit fee.

Fees:

Purchase by Bank Transfer : 1.50%

Purchase by Card : 4.00%

Sell : 1.50%

Withdrawal (BTC) : 0.0001 BTC

Withdrawal (LTC, XRP, ETH) : $0

Security:

  1. Rain employs bank-grade security and encryption, and it complies with all CCSS regulations.
  2. The majority of funds are stored offline in a proprietary Cold Storage system.

5. CoinMENA: A Crypto Exchange for both the Middle East and North Africa

CoinMENA is yet another huge fully regulated crypto exchange that provides dependable, secure, and straightforward trading. CoinMENA is based in Bahrain and is completely regulated by the central bank of Bahrain. It currently offers up to 9 crypto assets for trading.

Pros:

  1.  It has been certified as Sharia-compliant by the SRB (Shariyah Review Bureau)
  2. The customer support is excellent.
  3. The website and mobile app are really easy and simple.

Cons:

1. It does not offer a wide range of cryptocurrencies.

2. It is not comfortable to use outside of the Middle East.

Fees:

Trading fee : 0.75%

Crypto withdrawals : 0.25%

Deposits :  bank 0% – credit card 3.5% 

Security:

  1. CoinMENA offers cold storage for crypto assets
  2. It Follows AML/KYC procedures when registering.

Conclusion

So, here ends the list of the best 5 crypto exchanges in the UAE. These are not the only options. If you really want to make the best out of crypto trading, you must explore and research each and every exchange and asset surrounding yourself so that you can optimize the outcome.

6 ways flat owners can protect themselves from unwanted insurance covers

ABC Staff
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6 ways flat owners can protect themselves from unwanted insurance covers

Flat owners are usually the ones to take care of their insurance covers, but what happens when they don’t know which cover is best for them? Which cover would be the most beneficial in case something were to happen? That’s where we come in. We’ll tell you exactly what type of insurance coverage you need so that you can protect yourself and your property.

As a flat owner, there are many things you can do to protect yourself and your belongings. Your insurance policy is an important aspect of this process that cannot be overlooked or ignored. There are many different types of covers available with each one covering specific perils such as fire, theft and more. In today’s post, we will focus on 6 ways flat owners can protect themselves from unwanted insurance covers.

1. Ensure that you have the right insurance cover for your needs

Finding the right insurance cover for your flat can be a hassle.

There are so many different types of flats that require different kinds of insurance, and it’s hard to know which one you need.

The big problem with most insurance policies for flats is that they do not cover all of the things which are important to you as an owner. They may only payout on certain kinds of loss or damage and leave your belongings uncovered in other ways. This means that if something happens to your home, there may be no money available from your insurer when it matters most.

Flat insurance is an umbrella term used to describe all forms of home-related coverage for renters or homeowners, including personal property protection (which covers your belongings), liability protection (which covers any injuries sustained by guests in your home), and living expenses coverage (which pays out if you’re forced to temporarily relocate due to damage).

According to Deacon, a leading building insurer in the UK, they suggested and we paraphrase:

It also includes renter’s/homeowner’s policy, which protects against loss or damage caused by fire, theft, or other covered perils; as well as additional options like earthquake insurance and flood coverage.

2. Read your policy carefully to make sure it is what you want

When you buy a flat insurance policy, it’s hard to know what you’re getting. In the UK, over 50% of homeowners do not read their flat insurance policy carefully. This is a problem as it means that they are unaware of what cover they have and whether or not it will be adequate in the event of a claim

You might be surprised at what is and isn’t covered by your policy. If you don’t read the fine print, there could be hidden costs or limitations that leave you with a huge bill if something bad happens.

Make sure that everything in your policy is exactly as expected by reading it carefully before signing off on anything. You may want to consult with an expert if the language seems unclear, but this could save you from future problems down the road.

3. If you are not happy with an insurance company, switch companies

Yes, you can switch your home insurance at any time. This is especially important if there has been a change in the type of coverage that does not meet your needs.

Most of the flat insurance companies are not transparent. They do not tell you what they charge for each service and when you need to pay additional fees or taxes, these costs just appear on your invoice.

But this is 2021, shouldn’t flat insurance be more transparent? Shouldn’t there be a way to see how much I am paying for my policy in real-time?

Switching your flat insurance company can save you money and give you peace of mind. You need to go with the company which offers transparency, easy payments with no hidden fees or charges, 24/7 customer support (in English), mobile apps that allow you to manage all aspects of your policy from anywhere, etc… All at the same price as other flat insurance companies!

4. Take out a policy that covers damage to your property as well as theft or vandalism of personal belongings

It is a hassle to deal with insurance companies and their agents when you have been the victim of theft or vandalism.

There are two options for getting your property replaced after an incident like this, but neither of them is ideal. You can claim on your home owner’s policy, which will cover up to £1 million in damages (if you live in Canada), but it requires that you submit receipts for all expenses related to the loss. If any money is leftover at the end of the process, it goes back into your pocket rather than paying off what’s still owed on your mortgage or other debts.

The second option is to get separate coverage through one of several different types of personal property insurance policies; however, these come with deductibles that range from £500- £10,000 depending upon whether they’re purchased individually or bundled together as part of a homeowners’ package policy.

5. Check if any policies will be void if the home is damaged due to natural disasters such as flooding or earthquakes 

Homeowners are often confused about what their insurance policies cover. They don’t know if they will be able to claim natural disasters such as floods or earthquakes.

The answer is simple – you need to check your policy details, but it’s not always easy to find out which damage is covered and which isn’t. Other things might void your policy, like having an unlicensed contractor do work on the home without informing the insurer first.

Homeowners should thoroughly check their policies for any issues with making claims after natural disasters have occurred in their area. With the help of an expert, you can see exactly how much coverage you have left on all of your policies, including flood insurance and earthquake coverage through FEMA or private insurers (if applicable). You can even compare multiple different quotes side by side to find the best deal!

6. Consider taking out additional cover for earthquake and flood damage in case they happen in your area

You don’t want to be left out of pocket if a natural disaster like an earthquake or flood affects your home. If you live in an area prone to earthquakes and floods, then you need to take action now before it’s too late.

So you need to choose such a provider who provides additional cover for natural disasters that could happen in your area with extra cover for a flat insurance policy. This is the perfect way to protect yourself against any potential damage caused by these types of events.

It also covers damage from fire, vandalism and malicious acts as well as water leaks inside the property which come from faulty plumbing systems or appliances such as washing machines, dishwashers and showers, etc… The extra cover for flat insurance is available at no cost so nothing is stopping you from protecting yourself today!

Conclusion

We hope that you found this blog post helpful. It’s important to know the right insurance cover for your needs, read your policy carefully and take out a policy that covers damage to property as well as theft or vandalism of personal belongings, including if any policies will be void due to natural disasters.

 If you are not happy with an insurance company, switch companies so they can offer the best possible coverage at competitive rates. Which of these tips did you find most useful? Let us know in the comments below!

Time recording in the home office: this is how it works

Claire James
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Time recording in the home office: this is how it works

In Germany, there are numerous companies that have been offering their employees the opportunity to work from home for many years. Nevertheless, until recently, there were also companies that did not believe in the concept of working from home.

However, due to the challenges associated with the Corona pandemic, it quickly became clear even to them that the home office should no longer be categorically ruled out. Rather, reports were mounting that productivity in no way suffers when work is done from home. For this reason, companies today must increasingly address the issue of working from home.

Of course, there are numerous criteria to consider, such as how to continue to communicate with each other as a team or how to ensure that employees can work productively. In addition, the topic of time and attendance, i.e. the recording of working hours, also plays an important role with regard to home office work.

The following article explains how detailed recording of working time is also possible when working from home.

Different options for time recording in the home office

Basically, there are various options to choose from when it comes to recording employees’ working hours in the home office.

Manually filling in time sheets

In order to record working time in the home office, it is of course possible to fill in a timesheet manually, for example in the form of a ready-made table in Excel.

Employees then enter the start and end of their work in this. The file must then be forwarded to the HR department or the responsible manager for approval.

Time recording through chatbots

Time recording in the home office can also be implemented with the help of chatbots. Depending on how the chatbot is deployed, employees can communicate with the bots via a desktop chat or an app, for example.

Simple inputs, such as “pause”, “clock out” or “clock in”, can then be used to pause, stop or start the recording of working time. If there is a connection between the chatbot and HR software, the system thus automatically takes over the hours worked.

HR software in the cloud

Companies benefit from using HR software not only because this type of time recording can be implemented extremely quickly. Other processes can also be automated with the help of this and the work in the home office can thus be optimized in numerous areas.

The data of the employees and their shifts or weekly working hours only have to be stored in the software. Employees can then clock in and out via a web platform or app. In addition, it is also possible to manage holidays and absences in the HR software.

This provides both parties with a practical overview of the hours worked, overtime and minus hours at all times.

Online time recording – these are the advantages

No investment in new hardware is necessary to establish the modern way of time recording. The working time is recorded with the help of the software simply via an app or on the desktop – regardless of whether the employee is in the home office or on site in the office.

This means that companies always have an overview of their employees’ working hours and can initiate measures such as compensating rest periods or reducing overtime at an early stage. It is also extremely easy to record sick leave, vacation days and absences.

At the touch of a button, the respective timesheets can be downloaded and used for payroll accounting purposes, for example.

10 Tips to Extend the Life of Your ATV, UTV and DIRT BIKE PARTS

Sam Allcock
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10 Tips to Extend the Life of Your ATV, UTV and DIRT BIKE PARTS

For any sportsman, ATVs, UTVs, and Dirt Bikes are a major investment. As with your automobile, home, or anything else you spend a significant amount of money on, you want it to endure as long as possible. You must attend to these matters and occasionally roll up your sleeves and get to work. Spending a little time in the garage on your ATV may save you hours of aggravation in the backcountry. And it’s not difficult since manufacturers continue to make machines easier to operate on and with higher-quality components and materials.

Additionally, manufacturers are strengthening their warranties, such as Kawasaki’s three-year “Kawasaki Strong” warranty. Numerous tasks that you will need to perform as an owner are detailed in your owner’s handbook. If you wish to go further, your dealer can provide you with a comprehensive service manual – the same document that your dealer’s mechanics use when they operate on the machines. If necessary, your dealer’s service staff can also assist you with maintenance-related inquiries.

HOW DO YOU KEEP YOUR ATV, UTV, AND DIRT BIKE PARTS IN GOOD WORKING ORDER?

Routine maintenance may appear to be a hassle, and you’re probably looking forward to spending more time on the trails and less time working on your four-wheeler. However, like with any vehicle (and investment), regular maintenance is required to maintain it in good shape.

Regular maintenance will ensure that your four-wheeler remains reliable for years. Maintaining your equipment regularly helps keep you safe when out on the trails. Additionally, it will save you considerable time and money.

The last thing you want is for your UTV, ATV or Dirt Bike to break down when you’re out in the wilderness. Additionally, with routine maintenance, you may avoid paying for UTV Parts, ATV Parts, and Dirt Bike Parts repair. Therefore, adhere to your service plan, schedule routine inspections with an ATV/UTV specialist, and apply these recommendations to ensure that you get the most out of your UTV/ATV, and Dirt Bike for many years to come.

●    Attend to Minor Repairs

Incorrectly functioning components can wreak havoc on your machine. When you hear or feel something unusual, seek medical attention. A little issue might quickly escalate into a large one. Whether it’s a routine maintenance issue or slight damage to a component, take care of the little things before they become huge problems!

●    Verify that your radiator cap is in good working order

The radiator cap is what regulates the temperature of the coolant in your UTV, ATV, and Dirt Bike. The cap enables the radiator to draw in additional fluid as needed. When your radiator cap develops cracks or breaks, it loses its capacity to regulate the pressure, making it difficult, if not impossible, to maintain an adequate flow of coolant to your engine.

●    Oil Change/Inspection

Would you purchase a fresh new track and then neglect to inspect or replace the oil? Of course not. That is not something you would do in an old beater you purchased to lug firewood around a hunting camp. While the gas propels the ATV, the oil keeps it going. Checking and changing the oil on ATVs and UTVs is much easier than it is on a vehicle or truck. The required oil weight and type are specified in the owner’s manual. The tiny engines on ATVs are significantly more susceptible to changes in oil weight than the ones in your truck.

It also won’t cost you a fortune, as your ATV’s engine just requires a couple of quarts of oil at most. Purchase a couple of additional quarts of oil to keep on hand in case it runs out. As with the engine oil in your truck, the oil in your ATV’s engine traps all the dirt and crud that accumulates after driving you down the path. You’re not going to keep that in there, are you? Obviously not.

●    Replace or Clean the Air Filter

Your motorbike, ATV, or ATVs engine must breathe. Fuel must also combine with air to burn, which means your vehicle’s engine needs a clear passage for air to enter. Keep your engine’s air filters clean. Depending on your vehicle’s demands, you may occasionally need to clean and reuse the air filter or replace it entirely, but this is a necessary part of basic engine maintenance.

●    Keep your engine in good condition.

The engine is the most critical component of your dirt bike since it powers all of the motorcycles, and if you maintain it properly and effectively, you will not only extend its life but also ensure that your engine continues to function well after a few years. Oil replacement is required at least every six months or 3000 miles of riding since the oil helps keep the engine cool, seals the pistons, and, of course, extends the engine’s life.

●    Warm up the engine before riding

The simplest thing that a lot of people overlook and ignore is the engine heating before riding. Engine heating should last about 5 to 10 minutes, and this simple operation will give you a lot of engine life. At the same time, if you do not heat the engine, you will damage the engine. Therefore, it is critical that you warm the engine before each ride.

●    Use the proper fuel.

This is a fairly self-evident recommendation, as it is still quite plain that you must use the proper fuel for dirt motorcycles, but I personally see a lot of people who do not use petrol for dirt bikes and instead use other forms of gasoline that are quite harmful to dirt bike engines. Thus, you will just need to use fuel for dirt bike engines. However, I strongly advise you to use the finest fuels available to extend the life of your engine.

●    Avoid Excessive Riding Breaks

The most common mistake many riders make is taking excessive riding breaks, which can damage the engine. This means you will need to ride your dirt bike at least once a week, and if you really want to take a break, I would recommend starting the engine without riding the bike, so you can heat and run the engine.

●    Be careful and smart.

A UTV is a costly vehicle, and it’s critical to recognise both the ride’s and your own limitations. If there is a steep incline that you are uncertain about riding, you would be wise to avoid it. Either your UTV will respect physics and roll over, or your inadequate riding abilities will result in a catastrophic accident. Accidents are frequently a combination of both, and you may have injuries, or your ride may sustain major damage. Repairs are costly, and even if you have enough motor insurance, you are irreplaceable.

ALWAYS RIDE RESPONSIBLY

When riding, take care of your vehicle and yourself. Protect yourself by wearing protective equipment such as a helmet and protective clothing. If you intend to venture out into the wilderness, bring an emergency kit. Whenever feasible, ride beside another four-wheeler. Additionally, avoid dangerous behaviour, particularly while riding alone. In other words, avoid riding erratically. The expense of repairs is not justified. Neither is an emergency room visit.

Therefore, learn how to ride your UTV or ATV safely and properly, as well as how to do routine maintenance on your ride to maintain it in peak shape. With proper care and maintenance, your vehicle can provide years of service and unforgettable journeys.

THE MOST SENTIMENTAL HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR THIS SEASON GP

Sam Allcock
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THE MOST SENTIMENTAL HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR THIS SEASON GP

The holiday season is fast approaching. Many stores are already launching holiday or special sales. That means now is the time to shop and spend without breaking your budget. Take out your wishlist and your holiday list so you can get to work shopping.

We have collected a holiday gift list of sentimental choices you can buy your loved ones. If you are sick of buying a sweater for your dad and something basic for your mom then this list will help you out. Everyone wants to be surprised with a sentimental and meaningful gift for the holidays. This will definitely do the trick and impress your family and friends.

  1. Customized jewelry is a sentimental choice for the women in your life. You can find a variety of different styles for whoever you need to gift to. You can create a custom necklace for your mom with all her kid’s initials. You can also feature coordinates of an important location, a short quote, or a special anniversary. This is a great option for new moms, your sister, your bff, or your bridesmaids. You can get many different kinds of jewelry personalized from rings to earrings.
  2. Monogrammed luggage or leather goods are also a great option. A beautiful bifold wallet or travel case with the receivers initials printed on it can make a lovely gift. Not only is it a practical choice but it will also be something they can use all the time. Anytime they used it or travel with these pieces they will think of you. A luggage set or weekender travel set that is personalized or monogrammed also makes for a good choice.
  3. A hand drawn portrait or painting is another excellent choice for a loved one. You can find many artists on sites like Etsy or find someone local to your area. You can get a portrait of a couple, someone’s dog, or even the whole family. If you pick an artist that matches the receivers style this can become such a meaningful and powerful gift. They can place it on their mantel or wall for years to come. If they don’t seem like portrait people getting a customized piece of art will feel ultra decadent.
  4. Another excellent choice for those in your life who have a green thumb is to gift them a plant set. Go for low maintenance and easy to care for plants that don’t need direct sunlight. Since you don’t know what the light levels in their home are like choosing low light plants insures they will be able to easily care for their plants. Choosing unique pots can also be a way to make this gift feel even more personal. Any plant lover will be thrilled to receive this gift.
  5. A helpful subscription to a service they enjoy. If your friend, family member, or loved one loves to read there are a few subscriptions services out there that allow them to get a different new book delivered every month. You could also get them a subscription that delivers fresh flowers monthly. You can get different toys delivered to the children in your family. There are all sorts of options like wine subscriptions, pant subscriptions, and spice or tea subscriptions. You can prepay for several months and gift it to someone as a surprise. We love subscriptions because they are the gift that keeps on giving!

Finding meaningful and sentimental gifts is easier than you think. Don’t let the stress of holiday shopping get you down. Stick with these easy and simple suggestions to find every person’s dream gift. This list can also serve as your personal wishlist to make shopping for you easier for your loved ones.

When moving out of state, how to overcome the emotional burden?

ABC Staff
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When moving out of state, how to overcome the emotional burden?

Relocation is one of the main reasons which leads to trauma, depression, and stress. The process is quite difficult and comes with lots of uncertainties that make one feel sad and stressed. When you are moving out of state, it will bring a huge change to your life and a chapter of your life will come to a close. This is the time when some people become irritable while others become a little impatient and moody. Leaving your old neighbourhood friends and going to a place where nothing will be familiar to you creates an emotional burden. If you are wondering to know the tips and tricks of overcoming emotional burden then here you will find out the right tips for you: 

Plan ahead 

Planning ahead of time is the best way to reduce the stress during relocation. Do as much as possible before the actual moving day. Try to research all the things before moving such as about schools, public transportation system, dentist, doctor, and everything. Knowing all the things about the new place in advance will help you to get familiar with all the things. Also, make a plan to move with success like whether you will have a DIY move or will hire out of state movers associated with Moving Apt, a reliable moving service broker. Planning everything and creating a to-do list is just the best way to stay organized in a move.  

Prioritize all the things 

Prioritizing things are important so that you can easily knock off the most important tasks at first. Though we all love multi-tasking if you want to reduce confusion and risk from the moving process then it is great to focus on one task at a time to reduce moving stress and depression.  

Don’t ignore your feelings 

If one of your family members or you are having a hard time accepting the move then you should talk to a team of professionals before you leave. They can help you in a better way. If you ignore your feelings then accepting the change won’t be easier for you. 

Try to adopt the right mental attitude 

Though you might be moving completely based on your decision still it would make you feel stressed and depressed. You will also feel anxiety along. Adopt the right viewpoint of all things and try to take everything positively. If you will stay positive then it will bring a positive vibe inside you which will fade away the stress and depression. Just think of all the good things that can happen and that makes you to decide move. Just think this is the right time when you can meet new people, can enjoy new experiences, and can create a better life for yourself. 

Know your emotional needs 

If you are moving against your wishes and you don’t want to move from your current house then you might feel stressed and sad and it is quite normal to feel like that. Usually, people think that grief is reserved for certain things like divorce or death lie events but grief is not reserved for only these events. Grief could accompany a move and there are numerous numbers of reasons behind it. If you accept the change and sadness then it will become easier for you.  

Understand the relocation depression 

There are numerous reasons which build an emotional burden on an individual. An underlying fear of the unknown is also the main cause behind the emotional breakdown. But if you understand your relocation depression and you take everything positively then it will bring a new mental attitude and you can take things in a better way now. 

Fear of unknown 

One of the main reasons behind moving stress is the fear of the unknown because when you live at a place for many years you become familiar with everything present there. But when you have to leave this place, having an emotional burden is common and it could make you feel absolutely terrifying. But remember that at the same time, the new place will elate a lot of new opportunities to your life. 

New people 

Leaving your friends and neighbours present at this place can make you feel sad also. Leaving your loved ones is always the hardest part of any moving process. You may be worried about being sociable worried about the new place. You can overcome this stress by visiting a place a few times before you move. If you took it positively and see how it brings the opportunity to connect with new people and you can make new friends and at the same time, you don’t have to leave the older ones then it will make you feel good and happier. 

Bottom line: 

Understanding yourself and knowing your emotions is always the best way to cope up with feelings of sadness. It is just you who can make you feel good just by looking at the opportunities that this relocation will bring to your life. 

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