Horry County Fire Rescue announced yesterday that the Insurance Service Organization (ISO), whose ratings determine insurance fees, has reclassified most of Horry County’s unincorporated areas with ratings that could mean a welcome savings in insurance costs.  The change follows an ISO survey of our area’s public protection services, and the new classification better reflects the quick response and outstanding performance of our local public servants.

Many areas in the county had been classified as a 10, the most expensive insurance rating available. In most areas, that rating has dropped to a 5, which could translate into hundreds of dollars a year in insurance savings on Myrtle Beach real estate.

But, as usual, there’s a catch: before they’ll give you lower rates, your insurance carrier might require proof of the new ratings. Also, as usual, Price & Company Realty is making it a breeze for you: here’s the proof you need.

The dog days of summer may be a month or two away, but it’s still plenty hot out there. Happy July 4th in advance to you.  Before this weekend’s fireworks, you might also think about keeping your Myrtle Beach real estate in optimum condition for summer.  Here are our top tips for July:

• Check your entire home - inside and out - for signs of water leaks or damage. Don’t forget the eaves of your roof.
• Check your roof for loose and/or missing shingles, metal flashing around chimneys and valleys for cracks or shifts in position, and skylights.
• Inspect your air conditioning system (or have a local contractor do this for you) for optimum efficiency.
• Remember to change your filters - especially during the high use months (like now).
• Does your attic have a fan? Make sure it works properly and isn’t obstructed by bird nests.
• If you have anything flammable in your garage, get rid of it now. It’s hot in there, and why take chances?

Do you have other ideas that we should include?  Post them here!