Essential Home Insurance Coverages You Must Know

Name: Vargas & Vargas Insurance
Address: 1133 Washington St, Dorchester, MA, 02124
Telephone: 617-298-0655

Posted on December 15, 2024December 10, 2024 by cvargas

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.

Your Home vs. Winter: Are You Really Protected?

Posted on December 8, 2024December 10, 2024 by cvargas

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.

Why Insurance Companies Demand Home Inspections

Posted on December 1, 2024December 10, 2024 by cvargas

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:

It helps the insurance company understand your house better. They want to know what they’re insuring!
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.
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!

Three Ways to Improve Your Landscaping

Posted on November 15, 2024November 14, 2024 by agentinsure

Maintaining your landscaping is one of the most important tasks you can undertake as a homeowner. Not only does it enhance your curb appeal, but it also makes your home safer for you and your loved ones. If you want fresh ideas to improve your home’s landscaping, continue reading.

1. Incorporate Raised Flower Beds

Raised flower beds are becoming increasingly popular in landscaping due to their convenience and accessibility. They make it easier to manage weeds and pests without the need for excessive bending. You can easily switch out the flowers each season, adding variety to your landscaping.

2. Install Pathways

If your landscape doesn’t already include a pathway, consider adding one that leads to your door or connects the main yard to the side yard. Pathways create a sense of connection in your outdoor space and provide a designated area for foot traffic, protecting your grass. Constructing a path is generally affordable, especially using materials like cement pavers and small rocks. These are easy to maintain and contribute to a well-kept appearance.

3. Mix Tall and Large Plants

Integrating a mix of tall and large plants into your landscaping adds layers and depth, similar to raised flower beds. This approach allows different colors and textures of plants to coexist harmoniously, preventing your lawn from appearing bland or monotonous. If you incorporate tall and large plants throughout your lawn, ensure they vary in color for added visual interest.

If you’re in the market for home insurance in the Dorchester, MA area, don’t hesitate to contact us today at Vargas & Vargas Insurance.

How to Customize Your Home Insurance Policy in Massachusetts

Posted on September 23, 2024September 28, 2024 by agentinsure

As a homeowner, you’ve taken a significant step in securing your future. But have you ever wondered if your standard home insurance policy is truly enough to safeguard your most valuable asset? The good news is that home insurance policies are not one-size-fits-all. They can be tailored to fit your home’s specific needs, giving you peace of mind and ensuring comprehensive protection. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester, MA, we’re committed to helping you create a superior customized plan. Let’s walk through the steps to optimize your coverage.

Step 1: Assess Your Requirements

The journey to a perfectly customized home insurance policy begins with a thorough assessment of your needs. This involves more than just estimating the value of your home. You need to consider:

The worth of your possessions: Take inventory of your belongings, especially high-value items like jewelry, art, or electronics.
Liability coverage limits: Consider if your current liability coverage is sufficient to protect your assets in case of a lawsuit.
Additional structures: Don’t forget to account for structures like sheds, detached garages, or swimming pools.
Location-specific risks: Are you in an area prone to flooding, earthquakes, or other natural disasters?

According to the Insurance Information Institute, many homeowners underestimate the value of their possessions, leaving them underinsured. You can find helpful tips on how to create a home inventory on their website: III – How to Create a Home Inventory

Step 2: Explore Your Coverage Options

Once you’ve assessed your needs, it’s time to explore your coverage options. This is where professional guidance can be invaluable. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we can help you navigate through various options such as:

Extended dwelling coverage: This provides additional protection if rebuilding costs exceed your policy limits.
Personal property replacement cost coverage: This ensures you can replace your belongings at current prices, not just their depreciated value.
Scheduled personal property coverage: For high-value items that exceed standard policy limits.
Water backup coverage: Protects against damage from sewer or drain backups.
Home business coverage: If you work from home, you might need additional protection for business equipment and liability.

Remember, the goal is to create a policy that addresses your specific risks and concerns. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification on any aspect of your coverage.

Step 3: Keep Your Policies Updated

Your home insurance needs aren’t static. They evolve as your life changes. Major life events, home renovations, or significant purchases can all impact your insurance needs. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners recommends reviewing your policy annually and after any major changes to your home. You can find more information on when to update your policy on their consumer resource page: NAIC – Home Inventory

Consider setting an annual reminder to review your policy. During this review, think about:

Any home improvements or renovations you’ve made
Major purchases or inheritance of valuable items
Changes in your home’s occupancy (like adult children moving out)
New potential risks (like installing a pool or trampoline)

By staying proactive and regularly updating your policy, you ensure that your coverage grows and changes with your needs, preventing potential coverage gaps.

Connect with Vargas & Vargas Insurance

Many homeowners are unaware of the flexibility within their insurance policies. By customizing your coverage, you can create a safety net that’s perfectly tailored to your unique situation. If you’re in the Dorchester, MA area, our team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance is here to help. We’re not just insurance agents; we’re your partners in protection.

Don’t leave your most valuable asset underprotected. Reach out to us today, and let’s work together to craft a home insurance policy that gives you the comprehensive coverage and peace of mind you deserve. Remember, in insurance, one size does not fit all. Your home is unique, and your insurance should be too.

Call us at 617-298-0655 to start the conversation about optimizing your home insurance. Your perfect policy is just a consultation away!

How Dog Breeds Affect Home Insurance Policies and Premiums

Posted on September 15, 2024August 26, 2024 by cvargas

Beware of Bites: How Dog Bites Impact Your Home Insurance and Steps to Take if It Happens

Owning a dog offers companionship and joy, yet it also brings certain liabilities that can impact your home insurance. Dog bites, in particular, are a significant concern for homeowners as they can lead to hefty insurance claims, increased premiums, or even policy cancellation. Understanding how dog bites can affect your home insurance, knowing which dog breeds are commonly flagged by insurers, and having clear steps to follow if your dog bites someone are essential for any dog owner. Here’s a closer look at these issues, supplemented with pertinent statistics on dog bites and their financial effects on insurance.

How Dog Bites Affect Your Home Insurance

Per The Insurance Institute, dog bites account for over one-third of all homeowners insurance liability claim dollars paid out, costing insurers about $900 million annually. In 2021, the average cost per claim was approximately $50,000, a significant increase from previous years, largely due to rising medical costs and sizable legal settlements.

When a dog bite occurs, it can lead to substantial medical bills, legal costs, and compensation for pain and suffering. Since homeowners’ insurance policies typically cover liability for dog bites, the insurer may need to pay these expenses. Consequently, if your dog has bitten someone, your insurance provider might increase your premiums or label you as a high-risk homeowner. In some cases, insurers might even choose not to renew your policy.

After a claim is made for a dog bite, insurance companies assess the risk of insuring your home. This assessment includes reviewing the circumstances of the bite, the breed of your dog, and any previous incidents. High-risk breeds or a history of aggression can lead to higher premiums, special provisions in your policy, or difficulty finding coverage.

Dog Breeds Often Flagged by Insurance Companies

Insurance companies sometimes identify specific breeds as more likely to bite or cause injury, based on statistical data regarding dog behavior and insurance claims. The breeds often flagged include:

Pit Bulls
Rottweilers
German Shepherds
Doberman Pinschers
Alaskan Malamutes

This doesn’t mean you cannot get insurance if you own these breeds, but it might be more challenging or expensive. Each insurance company has different policies regarding dog breeds, so it’s essential to check with your insurer to understand their specific rules and restrictions.

What to Do If Your Dog Bites Someone

If your dog bites someone, there are immediate steps you should take to handle the situation responsibly and mitigate potential repercussions:

Provide Aid and Contact Help: Ensure that the person bitten receives appropriate medical attention. If the injuries are severe, call emergency services immediately.
Report the Incident to Authorities: Depending on where you live, you may be legally required to report a dog bite to local authorities. This can also provide an official record, which might be helpful for insurance and legal processes.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurer about the incident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and what to expect next.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of the incident, including photos of the injuries, a written account of what happened, and any medical reports or bills. This documentation will be crucial for your insurance claim and any possible legal actions.
Consult a Lawyer: Because dog bites can lead to legal actions, consulting with an attorney who specializes in such cases can provide you with guidance and protect your interests.
Take Preventive Measures: After a biting incident, assess why it happened and take steps to prevent future occurrences. This might include training, behavioral assessments, or securing your property better.

Conclusion

While dogs are beloved members of many households, their actions can sometimes lead to unexpected consequences for homeowners. By understanding how dog bites can affect your home insurance and taking proactive steps to manage your pet’s behavior, you can enjoy the rewards of pet ownership while minimizing the risks.

Your Local Independent Insurance Broker: Your Best Ally in Protection

When it comes to insurance, working with a local independent broker is always in your best interest. Unlike captive agents who represent only one company, independent brokers have access to multiple insurers, allowing them to find the best coverage and rates tailored to your unique needs. They offer unbiased advice, personalized service, and advocate on your behalf if you ever need to file a claim.

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we’ve been serving families, individuals, and businesses for over 40 years. Our experienced team is ready to assist you with any insurance-related questions or concerns, including how your coverage may be affected by factors such as pet ownership. We’re committed to providing you with the guidance and support you need to make informed decisions about your insurance.

Have a question or need advice? Don’t hesitate to reach out. Our dedicated team is just a phone call away at 617-298-0655. Let us put our expertise to work for you and ensure you have the right protection for what matters most.

Lost and Stolen Property: How Renters Insurance Can Save the Day

Posted on August 30, 2024September 28, 2024 by agentinsure

Renters insurance is often underestimated, but it’s a powerful tool that extends far beyond protecting your belongings at home. One of its key benefits is coverage for stolen or lost possessions under a policy rider when you’re away from your residence. The professionals at Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester, MA are here to explain the various ways that renters insurance can be beneficial in these situations and others.

Missing Property During Airline Travel

Few situations are more uncomfortable than getting off a plane and waiting at the luggage carousel for your suitcase that never arrives. If it’s not due to a delay, your missing luggage has likely been stolen, and you’ll need to file a claim with the airline or your insurance company. Keep receipts to submit for any essentials you need to replace to continue your journey.

According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, airlines are required to compensate passengers for lost, delayed, or damaged bags. However, there are limits to this compensation, which is where your renters insurance can step in to fill the gap.

A Renters Policy Can Be Used in Many Theft Situations

Beyond stolen luggage, things can also be taken when you are closer to your home. If you leave your bike outdoors and it goes missing, or if you accidentally leave your laptop on public transportation and it’s not returned, it’s likely stolen. Renters insurance will compensate you for stolen belongings, both inside and outside your home. This includes items taken from vehicles, storage facilities, hotel rooms, and more.

It’s important to note that the cost of replacing these items must exceed your deductible for you to receive payment. This is why it’s crucial to understand your policy details and choose a deductible that makes sense for your situation.

Protect Lost Items: Invest in a Policy Rider

Adding a rider to your renter’s insurance policy provides additional protection for items accidentally lost. Jewelry, watches, cameras, and sporting gear are among the goods typically covered. However, the rider may not cover certain personal possessions like eyeglasses, phones, and some high-value electronics.

The Insurance Information Institute provides detailed information on what’s typically covered in a standard policy and what might require additional coverage.

Documenting Your Belongings

To ensure you can make a successful claim if needed, it’s wise to keep an updated inventory of your belongings. Take photos or videos of your items, especially valuable ones, and keep receipts for major purchases. Store this information in a safe place, preferably digitally, so you can access it even if your physical documents are lost or stolen.

Understanding Policy Limits

While renters insurance provides broad coverage, it’s important to understand that there are typically limits on how much your policy will pay out for certain categories of items. For example, there might be a cap on jewelry or electronics coverage. If you have particularly valuable items, you may want to consider additional coverage specifically for those pieces.

The Importance of Liability Coverage

While not directly related to lost or stolen property, it’s worth noting that renters insurance also typically includes liability coverage. This can protect you if someone is injured in your rental home or if you accidentally damage someone else’s property.

Safeguard Against Theft and Loss of Property

Stay protected for these incidents with a renters insurance policy, and perhaps even expand your coverage with a policy rider. The peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protected, both at home and while traveling, is invaluable.

Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester, MA to learn more about how renters insurance can protect you and your belongings, and to get a personalized quote. Don’t wait until it’s too late – secure your belongings and your peace of mind today!

Help! My Insurance Was Canceled!

Posted on August 26, 2024August 30, 2024 by cvargas

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Having insurance is like having a safety net; it gives you peace of mind, knowing you’re protected during unexpected events. But did you know your insurance company can cancel your policy for certain reasons? It’s crucial to know these reasons to make sure your coverage stays intact when you need it most. Let’s dive into the main reasons your insurance policy might be canceled and what steps you can take to prevent this from happening.

Non-Payment of Premiums

One of the most common reasons for an insurance policy being canceled is not paying the premiums on time. Insurance companies need these payments to provide coverage. If you miss payments, your coverage could be stopped.

To avoid this, always pay your premiums on time. Setting up automatic payments can be a big help. Also, talk to your insurance broker about payment plans and grace periods if you’re having trouble.

Material Misrepresentation

When you apply for insurance, giving accurate and honest information is very important. If you provide false information—like not telling the truth about your driving record or the condition of your home—your policy could be canceled.

Always be truthful on your insurance applications. If you realize you’ve made a mistake, contact your insurance company right away to fix it.

High-Risk Activities

If you start doing something risky that your insurance company doesn’t know about, like using your personal car to drive for a rideshare company, they might cancel your policy.

Before you start any new activities, talk to your insurance broker to make sure your current policy covers them. This helps avoid any surprises about coverage.

Fraudulent Claims

Making a fraudulent insurance claim is illegal and a serious offense. This includes exaggerating a claim, staging accidents, or lying during a claim. Insurance companies are very good at finding fraud, and doing this can get your policy canceled.

When making a claim, always be honest about what happened. It’s the best way to make sure your claim is processed smoothly and keeps your policy in good standing. For more information on the impact of fraudulent claims, visit: www.fbi.gov/stats-services/publications/insurance-fraud.

Significant Changes in Risk

Insurance companies set your policy based on the risk you pose. If something big changes—like you renovate your home or modify your car without telling your insurer—they might cancel your policy because the risk has changed.

Always let your insurance company know about big changes that might affect your risk. Your broker can help you figure out if you need a different policy or additional coverage.

Failure to Maintain Eligibility Criteria

Some insurance policies have specific criteria you need to meet. For example, if you get a special rate because you’re in great health but then your health changes significantly, your insurance company might reassess your situation.

Try to maintain the criteria needed for your policy. If that becomes difficult, talk to your broker about what options you have, like changing your coverage.

Frequent Claims or High-Risk Behavior

Filing many claims or constantly engaging in risky behavior can lead your insurance company to cancel your policy. They see this as a sign that you might keep causing more losses, which costs them money.

Try to only use insurance for big, unexpected problems. For small issues, it might be better to handle them without making a claim. Also, try to avoid risky behaviors that could lead to more accidents or claims.

Your Credit Score and Insurance Rates

Your credit score can significantly affect your insurance premiums. Insurers use credit information to predict the risk of insuring someone. A higher credit score can lead to lower premiums, while a lower score might increase your rates. For a detailed explanation of how your credit score affects your insurance, check out www.forbes.com/advisor/car-insurance/rate-increase-poor-credit/

Conclusion

Knowing why an insurance company might cancel your policy helps you take steps to keep your coverage active. Pay your premiums on time, be honest on your applications, tell your insurer about any big changes, and avoid making unnecessary claims.

If you ever have questions about your insurance policy or need advice, remember that your insurance broker is there to help you navigate these issues. For personalized service and expert advice, reach out to Vargas & Vargas Insurance, your trusted local independent insurance broker, at 617-298-0655. We’ve been helping people like you for over 40 years, ensuring you have the peace of mind you deserve.

Prepare Before Hurricane Season: Tips from Vargas & Vargas Insurance

Posted on May 19, 2024August 5, 2024 by cvargas

Hurricane season, runs from June 1st to November 30th, can be pretty daunting with all the strong winds and heavy rains. Each year, there are about ten to sixteen named storms, including four to eight hurricanes, and some with winds over 155 mph! Preparing your house and family for these storms is super important, so here’s a guide to help you get ready and stay safe.

Stock Up Early and Keep Supplies Handy

Before the hurricane season kicks off, it’s a great idea to gather all the essentials. Stock up on non-perishable food, water, medications, and other supplies like flashlights and batteries. Keeping these items in an easily accessible emergency kit means you won’t be scrambling to find them when you really need them.

Prepare Your Home

Make sure your home is as strong as it can be before the storms hit. Start by trimming trees and shrubbery; loose branches can fly like missiles during a hurricane. Secure your windows and doors, and if you have storm shutters, make sure they’re properly installed. You might also want to reinforce your garage door and secure loose items around your property to minimize damage.

Unplug and Protect

Electrical surges are common during hurricanes, consider plugging your devices into surge protector outlets like this one or unplug your electronics to protect them from damage. This simple step can save you a lot of trouble later.

Plan for Power Outages

Hurricanes can knock out power for a long time. Having a backup generator can be a lifesaver, ensuring you have electricity even when the grid is down. Installing a battery backup for your sump pump is also smart to prevent flooding in your home. Fill up your bathtubs with water in case you lose access later

Know Your Evacuation Plan

Understanding where to go and how to get there can save precious time during an evacuation. Plan your routes to a safe location, perhaps a friend’s house outside of flood-prone areas. Remember to have a strategy for your pets and check local options for emergency transportation if you don’t have a vehicle.

Review and Update Your Insurance

Before the storm season gets too intense, take a moment to check your insurance coverage. It’s crucial to have the right amount to rebuild your home if the worst happens. You might want to check if you need specific flood coverage, as it’s not included in standard home and renters policies. Vargas & Vargas Insurance, one of the premier local independent insurance agencies, can help you customize your coverage to fit your needs. For an insurance check-up or more information about the National Flood Insurance Program, call us at 617-298-0655.

Digital Safeguards

Creating digital backups of important documents like insurance policies, identification, and property records can be lifesaving if physical copies are lost during a storm.

How We Can Help

Vargas & Vargas Insurance works for our clients, not the insurance company. We’re here to tailor your insurance coverage to your specific needs and help answer any questions you might have. Contact us today to ensure you’re fully protected this hurricane season.

By taking these steps, you can ensure that when the wind starts howling, your home and family will be safe and secure. Don’t wait until it’s too late—start preparing now to stay safe and protected during hurricane season. Call Vargas & Vargas Insurance at 617-298-0655 for all your coverage needs. Stay prepared and peace of mind will follow!

Why Does My Mortgage Company Require Me To Get Homeowners Insurance?

Posted on February 15, 2024February 12, 2024 by agentinsure

Mandatory Homeowners Insurance: A Mortage Requirement

When buying a home and seeking a mortgage, you might be surprised to find out that your mortgage lender mandates homeowners insurance. Let the experts at Vargas & Vargas Insurance, servicing Dorchester, MA, assist you in acquiring homeowners insurance and determining the optimal policy for you.

Why Do Lenders Insist on Homeowners Insurance?

Mortgage lenders require homeowners insurance as it helps protect their financial interest in your home. If an unexpected disaster strikes, the lender wants assurance that they can recover the money they advanced to you for the house purchase. Homeowners insurance offers this assurance, covering the cost of repairs or rebuilding if needed.

Benefits of Homeowners Insurance

Apart from satisfying a mortgage requirement, homeowners insurance offers multiple benefits: • Peace of mind knowing your investment is protected • Minimizing financial risks if a covered event happens • Speeding up recovery after a disaster by offering the financial means to rebuild or replace.

Getting Homeowners Insurance: How to Proceed

If you find yourself shopping around for homeowners insurance to secure a mortgage and buy a home, it’s best to start as early as possible. Explore policies from different carriers until you get the perfect fit. Working with Vargas & Vargas Insurance can simplify this process.

Get in touch today to start shopping for your homeowner’s insurance policy, ensuring seamless progression on the path of homeownership. We can help answer your questions and obtain a quote.

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