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Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category
Wednesday, August 25th, 2010
Hello All,
For those of you who don’t know, District 132 Assemblyman Joseph D. Morelle and current NYS Insurance Committee Chair has worked hard for the insurance consumer in NYS and garnered the PIA’s Political Action support.
Recently Morelle was instrumental in sponsoring a bill, Bill A01952B which “Prohibits insurers from imposing a surcharge for accidents where the property damage does not exceed two thousand dollars and where no physical injury resulted.” This was a small victory for all us trying to minimize our insurance costs. More importantly sometimes its not the initial costs but our surcharges after we have an accident that affect our wallets.
 I recently met with Joe and found him to be an engaging and receptive member of our legislature as pertains to the needs of the insurance consumer in NYS.
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY
NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
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Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010
Hello All,
Everyday new fresh young minds arrive in our industry ever eager strive for excellence. Their countless dedication to professionalism in our industry usually crosses over into other facets of life. Some proffer steadfast committment to chartitable causes other are professional athletes in their spare time. I am proud to say that my good friend and trusted commercial underwriter Tim Goettleman is all three, a knowledgeable young professional in our industry, dedicated servant to his chartiable organization, Monster Kids (dedicated to serving pediatric hospitals), and all time goal scorer in the National Lacrosse League. This past weekend Tim surpassed Jesse Hubbard as the all time goal scorer in the history of the league!!!
Congrats to Timmy for excelling in everything he does!
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY
NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
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Friday, July 2nd, 2010
Hello All,
Wishing you all happy and safe wishes for the holiday weekend. Enjoy yourselfs but try to remember a few things:
- Be careful with the barbeque – we all fancy ourselves the next Tyler Florence but remember those propane tanks for the grill require care and supervision to avoid a potential claim
- Watch your speed – State and local police officers will be out in full force during the holiday weekend. Be alert for local speed limits and keep safe distance from the cars in front of you. Speeding tickets translate to points on your license which lead to potential increase in your auto insurance rates
- Buckle Up!
- Please do not drink and drive!
Lastly in the spirit of our founding fathers……
These are tepid political times, much unrest and strain. The Founding Fathers of this country organized in groups to voice their outrage which would lead to positive change in the direction of their land. Fast forward to today!!!!
If you are upset with the direction your town or state or this country is headed speak up and voice your opinion, write letters organize. I don’t recall in recent times where your voice or VOTE will count. Hold our representatives accountatble. Remember they work to serve the taxpaying public!! Do your part and exercise your freedom!
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY
NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment »
Friday, June 11th, 2010
| Hello All,Just a few few comments from Empire Blue Cross, a premier provider of health care services nationally. Enjoy your weekend….
This Week in Health Care Reform: June 11, 2010
Primary elections were held in 11 states this week as lawmakers returned to Washington, D.C., to face a growing list of unfinished legislative business including a jobs bill and environmental issues stemming from the Gulf crisis. Meanwhile, President Barack Obama launched a public relations campaign to combat skepticism around his new health care reform legislation and to promote the early implementation of certain provisions of the law.
As the health care reform debate continues to take shape this year, we encourage you and others to engage members of Congress by visiting the Health Action Network.
Health Care Reform
Health Care Reform Debate Alive and Well: Democrats continue to sell their plan for health care reform to Americans in the face of mixed public opinion, simultaneously battling Republicans pushing for its repeal.
Congressional lawmakers address concerns about the new health care reform legislation, particularly among senior citizens , who make up a disproportionate share of voters in midterm elections. Democrats and the administration are eager to publicize certain provisions of the bill, like retaining young adults on their parents’ plans until age 26, as a way to gain support and to turn voters away from Republicans who called for its repeal.
On Tuesday, President Obama held a nationally televised town hall meeting at a senior center in Maryland to highlight the distribution of $250 rebate checks for senior citizens who hit the so-called “doughnut hole ” in Medicare’s prescription drug coverage. The first round of checks was mailed yesterday and serves as the law’s first monetary benefit.
State Battle Against Health Care Reform Law Continues: On Monday, Virginia Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli disputed the administration’s claim that the state lacks standing to challenge the new federal health care reform law. The lawsuit filed by Cuccinelli in the Eastern District Court cites a Virginia law that exempts state residents from being required to have health care coverage. Sebelius argued that states cannot simply pass a statute that would nullify a federal law. A hearing to determine next steps is set for July 1.
Public Opinion
Americans Want Repeal of Health Care Reform: A recently released Rasmussen report suggests that Americans are strongly in favor of repealing President Obama’s health care reform law. Fifty-eight percent of those polled favor repeal, while 62 percent believe the new legislation will increase the budget deficit. In addition, 57 percent predict health care costs will increase, while 51 percent feel the quality of care will decrease as a result of the new health care reform law.
Looking Ahead
Democrat lawmakers are expecting to pass the jobs bill next week but will need Republican support in order to get the 60 votes needed for passage. One provision of the bill, a 21 percent cut in Medicare payments to doctors, is being delayed as the bill moves through Congress and would ultimately be blocked if the legislation passes.
This content is provided solely for informational purposes: it is not intended as and does not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein should not be relied upon or used as a substitute for consultation with legal, accounting, tax and/or other professional advisors.
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Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY
NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments »
Friday, May 28th, 2010
Hello All,
Once again Congress has failed to renew the national flood program and as such it will lapse effective May 31, 2010. Happy Memorial Day to all those looking to close on their new homes or refinancing. Moreover if Murphy’s Law comes into play there is no coverage for any flood claim while the program has lapsed. Arguments can be made that Congress was working 11th hour on other legislation at the time. Regardless it is incumbent on them as administrators of this program and our elected officers in their service to the voters to end the band-aiding that has occured since Sepember of 2009. The time has never been more tepid in politics nor has each and every representative been more receptive to the public in the hopes of securing another term on taxpayer dollar. Reach our to your local and federal representative offices and demand action.
Happy Memorial Day! God Bless our Troops and God Bless America!
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
President –Elect Young Insurance Professionals of NY
NY-YIP/PIA Political Action Liaison, NYS
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Tuesday, May 11th, 2010
Hello All,
Just another informative piece given the Spring season courtesy of the insurance information institute.
Spring Flooding and Demands on Aging Sewage Systems Contribute to Increasing Problems
INSURANCE INFORMATION INSTITUTE
New York Press Office: (212) 346-5500; media@iii.org
NEW YORK, April 26, 2010 — Recent heavy rains have overburdened sewer systems, causing raw sewage to back up into drains in homes throughout the country. Backed up sewers can wreak havoc on a home, causing thousands of dollars in damage to floors, walls, furniture and electrical systems, according to the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.).
“Sewer backups or the inability of sump pumps to handle runoff water from major downpours are not covered under a typical homeowners insurance policy, nor are they covered by flood insurance,” said Loretta Worters, vice president of the I.I.I. “Those types of coverage must be purchased either as a separate product or as an endorsement to a homeowners policy.”
Worters noted that sewer backup coverage is available from most insurers for a nominal cost—usually an additional annual premium of $40-$50.
For homes that have been severely damaged and are uninhabitable, homeowners policies may provide Loss of Use coverage, which provides reimbursement for lodging, food and other living expenses you may incur as a result of having to live outside of your home. Loss of Use coverage also reimburses you for the lost rental income if you rent out part of the house.
Causes of Sewer Backup
Aging Sewer Systems: The Civil Engineering Research Foundation reports that the number of backed up sewers is increasing at an alarming rate of about 3 percent annually. In addition, a recent report from the American Society of Civil Engineers indicates that the nation’s 500,000-plus miles of sewer lines are on average over thirty years old. The increase in the number of homes connected to already aging sewage systems has also contributed to rapid increases in sanitary sewer backups, flooded basements and overflows.
Combined Pipelines: Problems also arise in systems that combine storm water and raw sewage into the same pipeline. During many rain storms, the systems are exposed to more volume than they can handle, and the result is a sewage backup situation that allows sewage to spew out into basements and other low lying drains.
Blockages Due to Tree Roots: Shrubs and trees seeking moisture will make their way into sewer line cracks. These roots can cause extensive damage. They may start out small, getting into a small crack in the pipe; but as the tree or shrub continues to grow, so does the root. Tree roots can enter the service pipe at joints and cause blockages. Tree roots can travel a long way, and roots from different types of trees act differently. If city trees are suspected, your plumber can contact the city, and samples of the roots will be used to help identify the trees and who is responsible for cleanup. Sometimes the blockage is a result of a combination of city and private trees. In this case costs are split between the city and the property owner.
Sanitary Main: A blockage can occur in a city sanitary main. If the blockage is not detected in time, sewage from the main can back up into homes and businesses through floor drains. Usually this happens slowly, giving the owner time to call a licensed plumber to assess the damage. If water is entering into your basement at a rapid rate, call the city public works office and report the problem immediately.
Water in Basement: Most basement flooding is not related to the sanitary sewer system. In many cases, soil settles adjacent to the building and, if not corrected, leads to rainwater flowing towards the building and down the outside of the foundation wall. This is particularly true in older buildings, where cracks may have developed in the foundation or floor slab that allow water to enter the basement. The cement floor and basement walls of these structures may have deteriorated to the point that they are no longer waterproof. In these cases, water can show up in a basement that has never had a water problem. This will usually happen after a number of rain storms, when the ground is saturated. Drainage can be improved by making sure that water drains away from the building. Owners may also be able to prevent flooding by water sealing the basement.
Most homeowners may not realize that they are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their house or sewer lateral—the pipeline between the city sanitary sewer main, usually located in the street—and the building. The sewer lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner including any part that extends into the street or public right of way. A cracked or deteriorated lateral or one filled with tree roots can allow groundwater to seep into the system, contributing to the problem.
How to File a Claim
For insurance purposes, take before and after photos of the affected areas and itemize any property losses. Save all receipts related to repair, cleaning or damages and contact your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible.
How to Prevent Backups In Your Lateral and in the City Main
Dispose of Grease Properly: Cooking oil should be poured into a heat-resistant container and disposed of properly, after it cools off, not in the drain. Washing grease down the drain with hot water is unsatisfactory. As the grease cools off, it will solidify either in the drain, the property owner’s line, or in the main sewer causing the line to constrict and eventually clog.
Dispose of Paper Products Properly: Paper towels, disposable (and cloth) diapers and feminine products can cause a great deal of trouble in the property owner’s lateral as well as in the city main. These products do not deteriorate quickly, as bathroom tissue does, so do not put them down the drain or toilet.
Replace Your Line with New Plastic Pipe: One way to prevent tree roots from entering your line is to replace your line and tap with new plastic pipe. If you have continuing problems with tree roots in your lateral, you may have to have the roots cut periodically.
Correct Illegal Plumbing Connections: Do not connect French drains, sump pumps and other flood control systems to your sanitary sewer. It is illegal, and debris and silt will clog your line. Consult a plumber to correct any pre-existing illegal connections. French drains are common drainage systems, primarily used to prevent ground and surface water from penetrating or damaging building foundations.
Install a Backwater Prevention Valve: A backwater valve is a fixture installed into a sewer line, and sometimes into a drain line, in the basement of your home or business to prevent sewer backflows. A properly installed and maintained backwater valve allows sewage to go out, but not to come back in. Property owners are responsible for the installation and maintenance of backwater valves. The cost to install one depends on the type of plumbing in the building and the difficulty of installation. Check with a qualified plumber.
What to Do If You Experience a Sewer Backup
A sewer backup can lead to disease, destruction of your valuables, damage to your house or business, and can even result in electrical malfunctions. Prompt cleanup of affected property can help minimize the inconvenience and prevent mold or further damage. If you experience a sewer backup situation, immediately arrange for the cleanup of your property. This should include:
- Wet-vacuuming or removal of spillage
- Mopping floors and wiping walls with soap and disinfectant
- Flushing out and disinfecting plumbing fixtures
- Steam cleaning or removing wet carpets or drapes
- Repairing or removing damaged wallboard or wall covering
- Cleanup of ductwork
“Don’t let a sewer backup be a drain on your home or finances; make sure to have the proper coverage,” Worters advised.
The I.I.I. is a nonprofit, communications organization supported by the insurance industry.
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
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Wednesday, February 24th, 2010
Hello All,
In case you missed the NY Greater Area is scheduled for another snowstorm tomorrow. Baring that in mind take some time to review the safe winter driving video courtesy of The Hartford, provider of property, casualty and financial services for 200 years.
http://hartford.greenarrowpro.com/?v=1-21-10_SafeDrivingV_FL9&mp4=f4v
Drive safe everyone.
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Thursday, February 11th, 2010
Hello All,
Safety for our families while behind the wheel is of utmost important. Here’s a way to add to that safety for our young ones courtesy of the Department of Transportation. Nice to see our tax dollars at work in some capacity….
Is your child car seat installed properly? Nine out of ten car seats are not. Find out if yours is. Come to a free car seat check on Saturday, February 13, between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm at Chevrolet of Harlem, 2485 Second Avenue at 127th Street, Manhattan. A trained car seat technician will check your seat and demonstrate correct installation. No appointment is necessary.
A new law that went into effect on November 24, 2009 requires that all children under the age of 8 must be restrained in an appropriate child restraint system while riding in a motor vehicle. Check to be sure you are using the right restraint – a car seat, booster seat or seat belt. When it comes to the safety of a child, there is no room for mistakes. Make sure your children are safely restrained – every trip, every time and at every age.
If you cannot attend this event, call 311 for an appointment for a free inspection at a DOT Child Car Seat Fitting Station. Please note that we cannot accept walk-ins at the Fitting Stations.
For additional information, visit our web site at: http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/safety/safetips.shtml#carseat
At Orrino Capital Services we specialize insuring the all contractor classes, moreover its not just the carrier but the coverage and language of the policy that determines whether or not your general contractor’s owner or clients legal departments or review will accept your bids for a job. For a competitive encompassing quote, knowledgeable service and experience please contact our office at 718 606-0293. We will tailor a program suited to your companies specific needs, craft and bottom line.
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Friday, January 29th, 2010
Hello All,
The NYC Dept of Bldgs has further defined the nature of a general contractor by the type of general liability insurance they carry. No longer will they accept certain insurance companies who clearly do not underwrite general contractors state-wide. Please see the official text listed below.
As of February 15, 2010 the Licensing Unit will no longer accept
Artisan policies for Registered General Contractor (123 Family)
Commercial General Liability Insurance. This includes all
certificates with a policy number containing an “ART” prefix or
suffix.
If you have previously submitted this type of policy for your
registration number, you must submit a new certificate for the
appropriate policy.
Licensees who do not submit the new certificate by February 15,
will no longer be eligible to pull or renew of permits.
For more information on the Department’s insurance requirements,
read our “
Guidelines for Licensees – Keeping Insurance Current.”
Questions?
Call the Licensing hotline at (212) 566-4100
Or visit us online at
nyc.gov/buildings.
At Orrino Capital Services we specialize insuring the all contractor classes, moreover its not just the carrier but the coverage and language of the policy that determines whether or not your general contractor’s owner or clients legal departments or review will accept your bids for a job. For a competitive encompassing quote, knowledgeable service and experience please contact our office at 718 606-0293. We will tailor a program suited to your companies specific needs, craft and bottom line.
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »
Wednesday, December 9th, 2009
Hello All,
Just some cold weather freeze up tips courtesy of the loss control department at Philadelphia Insurance Company:
Cold weather freeze-ups can cause vital fire protection systems to malfunction. Cold temperatures can also cause sprinkler piping to burst which may result in major water damage to buildings, contents, and equipment. Pipes bursting can also impair automatic sprinkler systems and leave a major portion of your facility without fire protection. A fire during this situation may result in a major interruption to your business and a huge loss.
In the interest of maintaining sprinkler protection for your property, building owners and tenants must be aware of cold weather and freezing temperatures. All key personnel should be aware of freeze protection and emergency preparedness procedures. Utilize the Winter Weather Emergency Checklist to ensure a prompt and efficient transition from normalcy to emergency operations during a winter weather event.
The Sprinkler Technical Bulletin is also an excellent reference and addresses freeze protection.
Additional proactive actions include:
Building temperature should be maintained @ 40° F or higher, monitored and documented
- Perform freeze protection inspections and be cognizant of shutdown procedures
- Have a contingency plan with contractors and suppliers
- Pre-emergency planning for fire, water damage and snow removal should be established
- Boilers, furnaces, heaters and flues should be serviced regularly
- Post a 24 hour watch on the building
- A no smoking policy should be strictly enforced
- Any flammable or combustible liquids should be safeguarded
Water Supplies
- Tanks should be leak free and pressure should be checked
- Water temperature should remain at 42°F or above
- Fire hydrants checked for proper drainage by outside contractor or water department
- Buried sprinkler control valves and valve pits should be marked in the event of heavy snowfall
- Fire pump room should not drop below 70°F
- Post indicator valve, OS&Y valve, and test header to pump inspected regularly
Wet Pipe Sprinkler Systems
- All areas of buildings with sprinkler systems should maintain temperature of 40° F or above
- Cold weather valves should be closed while all others should remain open
- Windows, skylights and doors should be in good condition and sealed tightly
- Check temperatures with thermometer
Dry Pipe Systems
- Dry lines should be checked for proper drainage as trapped water can freeze and cause breakage
- Check drains located in cold places for freezing
- Dry-valve clapper should be properly set with temperature maintained at 40°F or above
- Low air pressure alarms should be provided, calibrated and connected to constantly attended location
- Low pressure switches should be set at 5 psi which is above trip point of dry pipe valve
- Air pressure checked regularly with records maintained to indicate normal pressure
- Air drying equipment available to supply air to system as designed
**Never attempt to thaw piping using a blow torch or open flame**
“Propane torch used to thaw pipes ignites insulation – Alberta, Canada – Maintenance workers using a propane torch to thaw a frozen pipe in a 42 unit apartment building unintentionally ignited cellulose insulation in concealed ceiling spaces. Despite their efforts to control the fire with a dry-chemical fire extinguisher, the fire eventually destroyed the building.” (1)
Sincerely,
Gino A. Orrino, President
Orrino Capital Services, LLC is an independent agency operating out of two locations in Corona, NY & West Babylon, NY servicing the 5 Boros of NYC, Long Island, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam Counties, NJ, CT PA & VT. OCS provides all lines of insurance including business, contractors insurance, personal, life, health, and bonds
Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments »
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