Vargas & Vargas Insurance

1133 Washington St
Dorchester, MA 02124

 Get Directions

Understanding Your Massachusetts Home Insurance Options: A Simple Guide

Did you know that protecting your home in Massachusetts is different from other states? Our unique weather and historic homes mean we need special insurance coverage. Let’s break down your choices in simple terms. Whether you live in a modern house in Worcester or a historic Victorian in Dorchester, understanding your options is super important.

THE BIG NATIONAL COMPANIES
MAPFRE Insurance leads the pack as our state’s largest home insurance provider. They’re like the local expert who knows all about New England homes. They’re especially good at handling those annoying ice dam problems that plague our roofs in winter.

State Farm comes in second place. Think of them as the tech-savvy option. Their mobile app makes everything easy, and you can save up to 25% when you bundle your home and car insurance together.

Liberty Mutual, born right here in Boston, offers great coverage options too. Their online tools are some of the best around, and they really know Massachusetts weather.

Progressive might be famous for their car insurance, but they’re also solid when it comes to home insurance. They make it super easy to get a quote online, and they offer nice discounts when you bundle with auto insurance.

OUR LOCAL HEROES
Vermont Mutual has been protecting New England homes for over 150 years! They work through local agents who really understand our area. Their deep knowledge of regional risks makes them particularly good at handling claims related to our tough New England weather.

Arbella Insurance shines when it comes to historic homes in Massachusetts. Their local agents really understand what it takes to protect older properties. Plus, they often offer great deals when you combine your car and home insurance.

Safety Insurance has been here for over 100 years! They know our building codes like the back of their hand, and they’re excellent with older homes.

Plymouth Rock offers something special too – they won’t raise your rates after your first accident. They’re also really good with coastal properties, which is super important if you live near the ocean.

MORE GREAT CHOICES
Hanover Insurance, based right here in Worcester, MA, brings over 160 years of experience to the table. They offer some really nice perks like identity theft protection and equipment breakdown coverage in their home policies.

Safeco Insurance, part of the Liberty Mutual family, offers some of the most flexible coverage options around. They’re great if you want to customize your policy, and their RightTrack program can help you save money.

Travelers Insurance stands out with their really strong coverage for high-value homes. They offer great options like extra coverage for green homes and identity theft protection.

Norfolk & Dedham Group, another local Massachusetts company, really gets our unique insurance needs. They’ve been protecting Massachusetts homes since 1825!

The Massachusetts Property Insurance Underwriting Association (MPIUA), better known as the FAIR Plan, is super important to know about. This is Massachusetts’s insurance safety net – they provide coverage when you can’t get it from regular insurance companies.

TAKE ACTION NOW
Don’t wait until there’s a problem to think about insurance. Our team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance understands Massachusetts homes inside and out. We’ve been helping homeowners like you find the right coverage for years.

Want to make sure your home is properly protected? Call us today at 617-298-0655. Our friendly experts will help you understand your options and find the best coverage for your specific situation. We’re here to work for you, not the insurance companies!

Read More

Why Every Renter Needs Insurance: A Simple Guide to Protecting Your Stuff

Are you renting an apartment or house? You might think your landlord’s insurance protects your belongings, but that’s not true! Your landlord’s policy only covers the building itself. This means all your personal items – from your laptop to your favorite chair – aren’t protected unless you have renters insurance.

WHY YOU NEED RENTERS INSURANCE

Think about everything you own for a minute. Your clothes, furniture, electronics, and other belongings probably cost more than you realize. According to the Insurance Information Institute (https://www.iii.org/article/facts-about-renters-insurance), the average renter owns about $30,000 worth of personal property. That’s a lot to lose if something bad happens!

WHAT RENTERS INSURANCE COVERS

Your renters insurance works like a safety net. Here’s what it protects:

YOUR STUFF
If there’s a fire, theft, or water damage from broken pipes, your insurance helps replace your damaged items. This includes things like:

  • Your favorite comfy couch
  • The TV you saved up to buy
  • All your clothes and shoes
  • Your computer and phone
  • Kitchen items and appliances

ACCIDENTS INVOLVING OTHERS
According to the National Safety Council (https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/home-and-recreational-safety), accidents can happen anywhere, even in your home. If someone gets hurt in your apartment, renters insurance helps pay their medical bills. It also helps if you accidentally damage someone else’s property.

TEMPORARY HOUSING
What happens if you can’t live in your apartment because of a fire or other covered problem? Renters insurance pays for your hotel stays and extra expenses until you can move back home.

SURPRISING THINGS THAT ARE COVERED

Did you know renters insurance can help in unexpected ways? It covers your stuff even when it’s not in your home! If someone steals your laptop from your car or your bike from outside a store, you’re protected.

WHAT’S NOT COVERED

It’s important to know what renters insurance doesn’t cover:

  • Flood damage (you need separate flood insurance)
  • Earthquake damage (you can add this coverage)
  • Your roommate’s belongings (they need their own policy)
  • Really expensive jewelry or collectibles (unless you get extra coverage)

HOW TO GET THE RIGHT COVERAGE

Getting the right amount of coverage is easier than you might think:

  1. Make a list of your stuff and take pictures
  2. Add up how much it would cost to replace everything (or you can just estimate what you have)
  3. Think about any special items you might need extra coverage for
  4. Ask about discounts – you might save money if you have car insurance too!

HOW MUCH IT COSTS

Here’s the really good news: in Massachusetts, renters insurance costs about $125 per year for $10,000 of coverage. That’s only about $10 per month! Even better – if you bundle your renters insurance with your auto policy, the cost becomes practically free. Think about it: for less than the cost of a pizza each month (or virtually nothing with bundling), you can protect thousands of dollars worth of your belongings.

PROTECT YOURSELF TODAY

Don’t wait for something bad to happen before getting renters insurance. It’s better to be protected now than sorry later. Our team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance understands that every renter’s situation is different. We’ll help you find the perfect coverage for your needs and budget.

Ready to protect your belongings? Call Vargas & Vargas Insurance at 617-298-0655 today. Our friendly team will answer all your questions and help you get the coverage you need. Don’t risk losing everything – get protected now!

Read More

What Is The Difference Between Replacement Cost and Guaranteed Replacement Cost?


If you are in the market for new homeowners insurance policy, or are reviewing your current policy, then you know how daunting it can feel when deciding on the coverages you want for your policy.

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we know how easy it can be to get lost in the intricacies of insurance terms and coverages – which is why we’re available to answer any questions you may have when reviewing your policy, so you can be prepared in the event you must file a claim. For additional resources, you can also visit (iii.org) or the National Association of Insurance Commissioners for comprehensive guides on homeowners insurance.

What is the difference between replacement cost and guaranteed replacement cost, so you plan ahead for any potential insurance claims.

What is replacement cost?

Replacement cost value, or RCV, is the cost to replace something as new or in equal value.

Having replacement cost coverage on your policy reimburses you after experiencing a total loss to rebuild/repair what was damaged. The reimbursement you receive is based on the value initially deemed by the insurance provider.

Replacement cost does not factor in depreciation or wear and tear over time, only paying you back based on the determined value of the dwelling or personal property.

So for example, if your home’s rebuild cost was estimated to be $300,000, that is how much you would receive after experiencing a total loss.

Replacement cost is different from actual cash value, which takes into account multiple factors like depreciation, land value, location, and more. Learn all about actual cash value and its differences from replacement cost here: Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost.

What is guaranteed replacement cost?

Guaranteed replacement cost is, as the name suggests, guaranteed. This means that if you experience a total loss on your home and must rebuild afterwards, the amount you receive is not limited/capped at the total amount of the replacement cost.

So to continue our example from before, if your home’s rebuild cost is estimated to be $300,000, guaranteed replacement cost would cover the rebuild no matter the cost – meaning you would still be covered if the costs exceed the estimated cost because of factors such as inflated supply or labor costs.

Having guaranteed replacement cost on your policy offers the highest level of protection and means you can breathe easy knowing your home will be covered after a loss, no matter the cost.

Will guaranteed replacement cost more?

Due to guaranteed replacement cost insurance offering more expansive coverage, it will likely increase your homeowners insurance premium. The exact cost of this coverage will vary between location and insurer, as some states or carriers won’t offer this as an option. Generally you can expect this coverage to cost around 5% to 10% of your total policy premium.

However, some insurance carriers will include guaranteed replacement cost as a part of their standard homeowners policy, so it’s important to speak with your agent or provider about your specific policy and options.

The deductible you will have to pay after a claim will also vary based on the insurer, but you will likely have the same deductible options with guaranteed replacement cost that you would have for other replacement coverage options.

Which one is right for my policy?

Well, it depends.

Ultimately the decision on whether you should have replacement cost or guaranteed replacement cost on your policy comes down to you and what your insurance broker recommends.

Replacement cost would be ideal for those looking for a balance between coverage and cost, and for properties where the rebuilding costs are relatively stable.

Guaranteed replacement cost is more suitable for those who want the most out of their protection and are willing to pay the potentially higher premium. This coverage is also recommended for homes in areas prone to natural disasters where the cost of building materials and labor can skyrocket after many homes are damaged.

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we always write policies with guaranteed replacement cost whenever possible – to ensure our clients are fully protected.

However, guaranteed replacement cost may not be available to cover every home – as older homes or homes made from materials harder to replace may not be eligible for guaranteed replacement cost coverage.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when Insuring older homes.

Protecting your home no matter the cost

As your home holds everything from your belongings, memories, and of course your family – it only makes sense that you’d want to make sure we’re getting the most expansive coverage in case you were to ever experience a total loss.

If you’re thinking that guaranteed replacement cost might be the best coverage option for you, then it’s time to discuss your insurance policy options with a trusted agent or provider that can walk you through the steps to get the right policy for you.

Key differences:

  • RC has a coverage limit; GRC doesn’t
  • GRC typically costs 5-10% more in premiums
  • GRC isn’t available for all homes, especially older ones
  • GRC provides better protection against inflation and post-disaster price spikes

The choice depends on your risk tolerance, budget, and home’s characteristics. GRC offers maximum protection but at a higher cost.

Ready to Secure Your Home’s Future?

Don’t leave your home’s protection to chance. Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance today at (617) 298-0655 for a comprehensive review of your homeowners insurance policy. Our experienced team will help you understand your options and ensure you have the right coverage for your needs. Visit us at www.vargasinsurance.com to learn more or schedule a consultation. Protect what matters most – let’s start the conversation today!

Read More

Everything You Need To Know About Scheduled Items (Including Cost Estimates and an insider tip)

That beautiful inherited china collection gets stolen, or your brand new engagement ring accidentally falls down the drain – what do you do? While your homeowners, renters, or condo insurance policy includes personal property coverage to protect your belongings, certain high-value items may have significant coverage limitations. to learn more, click here.

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we understand the importance of protecting your valuable belongings properly. We’ve helped countless clients secure comprehensive coverage for everything from silverware to golf clubs through scheduled personal property coverage.

What are scheduled items?

Scheduled items are additional coverages added to existing policies (home, condo, or renters) that provide greater protection for valuables than standard personal property coverage. While personal property coverage protects your possessions from covered damages like theft, water or fire damage, and vandalism, the coverage limits may not adequately protect your higher-value possessions.

A major advantage of scheduling items: there’s no deductible. You’ll never pay out of pocket for claims on lost or damaged scheduled items. Plus, scheduling includes coverage for mysterious disappearances (losing or misplacing an item) – something not included in standard coverage.

What scheduled personal property covers and cost

Here are common items that can be scheduled, along with typical annual premium costs:

Jewelry & Watches

  • Engagement rings/wedding bands: 1.3-1.4% of value ($130-140 annually per $10,000 value)
  • Fine jewelry: 1.3-1.4% of value
  • Luxury watches: 1.5-2% of value ($150-200 annually per $10,000 value)

Art & Collectibles

  • Paintings: 0.8-1% of value ($80-100 annually per $10,000 value)
  • Antiques: 0.7-1% of value
  • Collectibles: 1-1.2% of value
  • Silverware: 0.5-0.7% of value ($50-70 annually per $10,000 value)

Other Valuable Items

  • Furs: 1.5-2% of value
  • Firearms: 0.9-1.2% of value ($90-120 annually per $10,000 value)
  • Musical Instruments: 1-1.5% of value
  • High-end bicycles: 1.5-2% of value
  • Professional cameras: 1.2-1.5% of value

What’s not covered:

Typically excluded items:

  • Phones
  • Microphones
  • Drones
  • Sunglasses
  • Dentures

Additionally, scheduling doesn’t cover normal wear and tear, rust, or gradual deterioration.

Coverage Options: Scheduled Items vs. Standalone Policies

When protecting your valuables, you have several options:

Traditional Scheduled Personal Property

Adding scheduled items to your home insurance works well for most situations and provides comprehensive coverage for various items.

Personal Articles Floater and Inland Marine Policies

These separate policies, rather than endorsements on your home insurance, are ideal for covering multiple items or entire collections under one policy.

Tip: A standalone jewelry insurance policy is a smart alternative

For significant jewelry collections, a separate jewelry policy offers unique advantages:

Key Benefits of Standalone Jewelry Insurance:

  • Portable Coverage: Your jewelry remains protected even when switching home insurance carriers
  • No New Appraisals Needed: When changing home insurance providers, you won’t need to get new appraisals
  • Simplified Claims Process: Deal directly with jewelry insurance specialists who understand the nuances of jewelry claims
  • Coverage Continuity: No coverage gaps when changing home insurance policies
  • Specialized Expertise: Work with insurers who specifically understand jewelry risks and value
  • Flexible Policy Terms: Often includes options for worldwide coverage and mysterious disappearance
  • No Impact on Home Insurance: Jewelry claims won’t affect your home insurance rates or claims history

Typical costs for standalone jewelry insurance range from 1-2% of the jewelry’s value annually, comparable to scheduling on your home policy but with added benefits and flexibility.

Cost Considerations and Value Assessment

The cost of scheduling items depends on:

  1. The item’s appraised value
  2. The type of item
  3. Your location
  4. Your insurance provider

When comparing costs between scheduled coverage and standalone jewelry policies, consider the long-term benefits. While annual premiums might be similar, the convenience of maintaining coverage during carrier changes and avoiding repeated appraisal costs can make standalone policies more economical over time.

For example:

  • Scheduling a $5,000 engagement ring might cost $65-70 annually
  • A $20,000 art piece could cost $160-200 per year
  • A complete jewelry collection worth $50,000 on a standalone policy might cost $750-1,000 annually

Pro tip: We recommend regular appraisals (every 2-3 years) to adjust coverage based on current market values and depreciation.

How to Schedule Personal Property

The process is straightforward:

  1. Contact your insurance agent
  2. Provide proof of value (recent appraisal or receipt)
  3. Review coverage options and costs
  4. Add items to your policy

Finding the Right Protection

While you can’t always prevent damage or loss, proper insurance coverage provides peace of mind knowing your valuable items are fully protected. When deciding what to schedule, consider:

  • Items worth several thousand dollars or more
  • Irreplaceable family heirlooms
  • High-value collections
  • Items you frequently wear or use

Remember: While the annual cost might seem significant, it’s a small price to pay compared to replacing these items out-of-pocket.

For more information about potential gaps in your coverage, check out our article: “5 Things that May be Missing from Your Home Insurance Policy.”

Want to learn more about scheduling your valuable items? Contact our team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance today for a personalized consultation and detailed quote comparison between scheduled property and standalone policies.

Read More

How to Cancel Your License Plates: A Complete Guide

When you sell your car, move states, or retire a vehicle, you need to properly cancel your license plates. According to the Department of Motor Vehicles , failing to cancel plates can result in fines, fees, and continued insurance charges. Here’s what you need to know.

When to Cancel Your Plates

  • Selling or trading in your vehicle
  • Moving to another state
  • Taking a vehicle off the road
  • After a total loss accident
  • When switching to antique plates

The Process
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that plate cancellation procedures vary by state, but generally require:

  1. Return plates to your local DMV
  2. Complete a plate cancellation form
  3. Provide proof of insurance cancellation
  4. Pay any outstanding fees

Important Considerations
Insurance: Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance before canceling plates. Canceling insurance before plates can result in registration suspension and fines.

Documentation: Keep copies of all cancellation paperwork. Take photos of plates and get receipts when surrendering them.

Timing: Coordinate plate cancellation with vehicle sale or registration in a new state to avoid gaps in coverage.

Common Mistakes

  • Throwing away plates instead of returning them
  • Canceling insurance before plates
  • Forgetting to notify the DMV of address changes
  • Assuming a dealership will handle plate cancellation

Special Situations
Total Loss: After an accident, wait for insurance settlement before canceling plates.

Moving: Each state has different requirements. Research new state’s rules before canceling old plates.

Storage: If temporarily storing a vehicle, consider a storage insurance policy instead of canceling plates.

Electronic Tolls: Remove plate from any automatic toll payment systems.

Steps to Success

  1. Contact your insurance agent
  2. Gather required documents
  3. Visit DMV or mail plates
  4. Keep all receipts
  5. Confirm cancellation status

Final Tips
Never give plates to a private buyer. Always return them to the DMV yourself. Consider getting a cancellation receipt notarized for extra protection.

Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance at [phone] for guidance through this process. We’ll help ensure you’re protected during transition periods and avoid common pitfalls.

Remember: Proper plate cancellation protects you from future liability and unnecessary expenses.

Read More

Classic Car Insurance: How It Protects Your Older Vehicle

A classic car can be an absolute joy but may require more care and upkeep than a modern vehicle. Repairing or replacing can also be more challenging if you’re in an accident, so you should have classic car insurance to protect it. If you’re in the Dorchester, MA, area and looking for this kind of coverage, contact us at Vargas & Vargas Insurance to protect your classic car.

What Is Considered a Classic Car

In Massachusetts, a car needs to be between 20 and 25 years old to be considered a classic. There are also requirements about condition, mileage, storage, and use. That’s why working with an agent is important: You must ensure you follow the guidelines to keep your car properly insured. You don’t want to miss out on valuable coverage due to something minor that you could have adjusted.

How an Agent Can Help

Our agents can help by explaining the requirements and collecting information about your car and how you use it. Whether you just purchased or owned it for a long time, having the right coverage matters. When you talk with an agent, you get the information you need to find the right policy and keep it updated, giving you more peace of mind.

Contact Us for Support Today

Contact us today at Vargas & Vargas Insurance if you’re in the Dorchester, MA area and looking for classic car insurance. We’re here to help you adequately cover your vehicle so you don’t have to worry about whether it has the proper protection whenever you see it in the garage or take it out for a drive.

Read More

Essential Home Insurance Coverages You Must Know

Your home is more than just a building – it’s where your life happens. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we see how proper coverage protects families when disaster strikes. According to the Insurance Information Institute, homeowners file an insurance claim on average every 10 years, with typical claims exceeding $13,000.

Dwelling Coverage: Protecting Your Home’s Structure
Think of dwelling coverage as your home’s armor, protecting everything from foundation to roof. Whether it’s storm damage or fire, this coverage helps rebuild your home. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners reports dwelling claims account for over 60% of all homeowners insurance payouts.

Personal Property: Safeguarding Your Belongings
This coverage protects your furniture, electronics, clothing, and other possessions from damage or theft. Pro tip: Video record each room of your house – most homeowners underestimate their belongings’ total value.

Liability Coverage

Legal Protection If someone gets injured on your property or your dog bites a neighbor, liability coverage helps with legal fees and medical bills. We recommend minimum $500,000 coverage – lawsuits add up quickly.

Consider an Umbrella Policy for Extra Protection While $500,000 in liability coverage seems substantial, a serious injury lawsuit can exceed this limit. An umbrella policy adds an extra $1-5 million in coverage for a relatively low cost (typically $200-400 annually). Think of it as a safety net protecting your savings, retirement accounts, and future earnings from major lawsuits involving dog bites, pool accidents, or severe injuries on your property.

Loss of Use: Temporary Housing Support
When disasters make your home uninhabitable, this coverage pays for temporary housing and extra living expenses, from hotel stays to restaurant meals.

Medical Payments: Quick Injury Coverage
This covers immediate medical costs for minor guest injuries, regardless of fault, preventing potential liability claims.

Water Backup Coverage: Essential Protection Against Drain and Sewer Problems
Standard policies don’t cover sewer backups or failed sump pumps. This crucial coverage protects against:

  • Backed up sewers or drains
  • Overflowing sump pumps
  • Failed ejector pumps

Without this coverage, you pay out of pocket for:

  • Water damage cleanup
  • Replacing damaged belongings
  • Mold remediation
  • Electrical repairs
  • New flooring or drywall

Equipment Breakdown: Modern Home Protection
Today’s homes rely on complex systems. This coverage helps repair or replace failed mechanical and electrical equipment, from HVAC systems to smart home technology.

Identity Theft Coverage: Digital Security
With identity theft rising, this add-on coverage helps restore your identity and credit if compromised.

Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance at [phone number] to review your coverage. Every home needs unique protection – we’ll help find the right balance of comprehensive coverage and affordable rates.

Remember: The best insurance isn’t the cheapest – it’s the one that fully protects your home when disaster strikes.

Read More

Your Home vs. Winter: Are You Really Protected?

As autumn leaves give way to winter frost, it’s time to focus on preparing your home for the challenging months ahead. Taking preventive measures now can save you from costly repairs and ensure your family stays warm and safe throughout the winter season. Let’s explore essential steps to winterize your home effectively.

Inspect and Protect Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against winter’s harsh elements. Check for missing or damaged shingles, and ensure all flashings are secure. Clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams, which can cause serious water damage to your home’s interior. Consider having a professional roofer conduct a thorough inspection if you haven’t done so in the past year. Check out the National Association of Home Builders’ winter maintenance guide (www.nahb.org)

Seal Air Leaks and Insulate
Heat loss through poorly sealed windows and doors can significantly increase your energy bills. Inspect all windows and doors for drafts, and apply weatherstripping or caulk where needed. Check your attic’s insulation levels – proper insulation can save up to 15% on heating costs and help prevent ice dams.

Prepare Your Plumbing
Frozen pipes can burst and cause extensive water damage. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages. Know how to shut off your water main in case of an emergency. On particularly cold nights, let faucets drip slowly to prevent freezing, and keep cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

Service Your Heating System
Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system before the cold weather hits. Replace furnace filters monthly during the heating season. If you use a fireplace or wood stove, have your chimney cleaned and inspected annually to prevent dangerous creosote buildup.

Protect Your Outdoor Spaces
Don’t forget about your outdoor living areas. Store or cover patio furniture, drain and store garden hoses, and shut off outdoor water valves. Clean and store your lawn equipment properly, and ensure your snowblower is serviced and ready for use.

Emergency Preparedness
Winter storms can cause power outages and make roads impassable. Prepare an emergency kit including:

  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • Non-perishable food and water
  • First aid supplies
  • Blankets and warm clothing
  • Battery-powered radio
  • Portable phone chargers

Check out the winter storm preparation page (www.ready.gov/winter-weather

Check Your Safety Systems
Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing batteries as needed. Carbon monoxide poisoning risks increase during winter when homes are sealed tight and heating systems are running constantly.

Insurance Considerations
Review your homeowners insurance policy to ensure you’re adequately covered for winter-related damages. Standard policies typically cover winter storm damage, but it’s essential to understand your coverage limits and any specific requirements for filing claims.

Smart Technology Solutions
Consider installing smart home devices like programmable thermostats, water leak detectors, and freeze sensors. These technologies can alert you to potential problems before they become costly disasters and help manage your heating costs effectively.

Professional Home Inspection
Consider scheduling a professional home inspection to identify potential issues before winter arrives. An expert can spot problems you might miss and provide specific recommendations for your home’s needs.

Stay Proactive
Regular maintenance throughout the winter is crucial. Keep an eye on ice buildup, check for signs of water damage, and monitor your heating system’s performance. Address small issues promptly before they become major problems.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we understand the importance of protecting your home during the winter months. Our experienced team is ready to review your homeowners insurance policy and ensure you have the coverage you need for winter-related challenges.

Take action today by calling our customer service team at [Insert Phone Number]. We’ll help you understand your coverage options and provide expert advice on protecting your home this winter. Remember, prevention is always better than dealing with costly repairs after damage occurs.

Your home is one of your most valuable investments – let us help you protect it this winter season. Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance, your trusted local insurance partner, and gain peace of mind knowing you’re prepared for whatever winter brings.

Read More

Why Insurance Companies Demand Home Inspections

Imagine you just purchased into your dream house. You’ve moved in and started picking out cool colors for the walls and arranged your furniture just how you like it. Maybe you’ve even planted a tree in the backyard! But there’s one more important thing to do – a home insurance inspection. Don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds!

What’s a Home Insurance Inspection?

A home insurance inspection is like a check-up for your house. It’s when sometimes someone comes to look at your home to make sure everything is safe and working well. This isn’t the same as the inspection you had when you bought the house. This one is special for insurance underwriting purposes.

Why Do Another Inspection?

You might be wondering, “Why do we need another inspection?” Well, there are a few good reasons:

  1. It helps the insurance company understand your house better. They want to know what they’re insuring!
  2. It can find problems you didn’t know about. Maybe there’s a loose wire or a weak spot on the roof. Finding these early can save you a lot of trouble later.
  3. It might even save you money! If your house is in great shape, you might qualify for a better tier policy and pay less for insurance.

What Happens During the Inspection?

The inspection is pretty quick. Usually, it only takes less than an hour. Here’s what happens:

  • The insurance company or the inspector will reach out to you to set up an appointment
  • An inspector will come to your house at a time that works for you.
  • They’ll walk around inside and outside your house.
  • They’ll look at things like your roof, electrical stuff, and plumbing.
  • They’ll check for anything that might not be safe.
  • If you have a multi-family home, heads up! They’ll need to access all apartments.

Don’t worry – they’re not trying to find every little thing wrong with your house. They just want to make sure it’s safe and matches what the insurance company thinks they’re insuring.

What Are They Looking For?

The inspector checks a bunch of different things. Here are some of the main ones:

  • The Roof: They want to know how old it is and if it’s in good shape.
  • Electrical Stuff: They make sure all the wires and things are safe.
  • Plumbing: They check that the pipes are working well and not leaking.
  • Safety Things: Like smoke detectors, handrails and good lighting.
  • Possible Dangers: Like tree branches that might fall on your house.

What Happens After the Inspection?

After the inspection, you may receive a report. This report will tell you:

  • The condition of your home
  • If there are any problems they found
  • What you can do to fix any issues

Sometimes, the insurance company might ask you to fix something before they insure your house. But don’t worry they will give you ample time and this is done to help keep you and your home safe!

Why This is Actually Pretty Cool

Even though an inspection might sound boring or scary, it’s actually helpful. It’s like having an expert come check out your house to make sure it’s super safe. Plus, it can help you learn more about your home and how to take care of it.

Remember, this inspection isn’t about finding every little thing wrong with your house. It’s about making sure your home is safe and protected. And that’s pretty important when you think about it!

Need Help? We’ve Got You Covered!

If your home gets inspected and you have questions, don’t worry! You can always reach out to the team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance at 617-298-0655. We have been helping individuals, families and business for over 40 years and are the experts at this stuff and can help explain things or answer any questions you might have. Just give them a call, and they’ll be happy to help!

Read More

Partner Carriers

  • Arbella Insurance
  • Commerce
  • Mass Property
  • New London County Mutual
  • Norfolk and Dedham
  • Palomar
  • Pilgrim
  • Plymouth Rock
  • Safety
  • Travelers
  • Vermont Mutual