Click to Call Text Us
Vargas & Vargas Insurance

1133 Washington St
Dorchester, MA 02124

 Get Directions

A Quick Guide to Shopping for Condo Insurance

Posted on by cvargas
couple shopping for condo insurance on their computer

If you are shopping for condo insurance, there are some things that you will need to understand to ensure that you get the right coverage for your specific needs. Knowing what the condo association insurance already covers is an excellent place to start. This will enable you to get condo insurance coverage that fills the gaps.

Condo association insurance covers mostly common areas within the building like roofs and shared spaces like walkways, but check with your condominium association for specifics on what they cover. Most master policies provide coverage for these areas:

• All-in policy

• Bare wall policy

• Original specification policy

Most contracts of the association will cover exterior damages of the building, and the condo owner will be responsible for managing the interior. With this information, you can assess your specific needs before getting condo insurance to fill the gaps. Here is a guide to what you need to look for as you shop:

1. Look for the Best Rates

If you have a car, you can get a discount of between 5% and 15% for a package that includes auto and condo insurance.

2. Consider the Features That You Need

Assess your needs and choose the policy that fits. Typically, condo insurance coverage will include coverage for:

• Damage to personal property

• Personal liability (for you and your family)

• Loss assessment

• Building property and fixtures

• Loss of use

You can also find additional features like identity theft and many more that might be specific to you as you start shopping for condo insurance.

3. Choose the Best Customer Service

You will need to get in touch with your insurance at a time when you are stressed. This can be due to theft or a disaster. Good customer service will be beneficial at that time. Look out for a company with a good customer service reputation.

Shopping for Condo Insurance Is Easy With Vargas & Vargas

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is one of the premier local independent insurance agencies — we work for our clients and not the insurance company.  We will customize your insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price, and our team is here to answer all of your insurance questions. Contact us today to get started.

Read More

Entrepreneurs — Quickly Review Your Commercial Insurance Policy for 2021

Posted on by cvargas
small business owner wearing a mask and holding an open sign

Commercial insurance policies are complicated. At Vargas & Vargas, we know small business owners are focused on running their businesses. You don’t always have the time to pour over commercial insurance policies in detail. Today, we will make a few key points that you should consider as we move forward in 2021.

Review the Most Important Points of Your Commercial Insurance Policy

The declarations page (dec page) of your commercial insurance policy is usually the first page. It contains a ton of essential information. 

Before getting into the minutia, check that all the information on your dec page is correct:

  • A correct property address is vital for claims.
  • Ensure the contact names and business owner names are right. Only the named insured can make changes to a policy.
  • Be sure the contact phone numbers and email addresses on your policy are correct, too.

Then, consider your coverages. In the wake of COVID-19, we know many small businesses have evolved.

Has Your Business Changed Much in 2020? If So, Talk to an Agent

From social distancing and healthcare concerns that limit foot traffic to increased online shopping and curbside meals, we know the business landscape has changed in Massachusetts. You might need to adjust your insurance if:

  • You have much lower sales numbers than predicted in 2019 — maybe you’re stocking less inventory or hosting fewer customers. Either way, you might be able to reduce your premium because your risks are lower.
  • You’ve sent your workforce home.
  • You’ve scaled back operations.

In short, if you made any significant changes to your business in 2020, it’s time to talk to an insurance agent. 

If You’re Concerned About Civil Unrest

Commercial insurance policies usually cover civil unrest, riots, and malicious mischief. But if you’re worried about political turmoil in your neighborhood, then check your policy to be sure.

What if you’ve closed up the shop, but you’re still operating out of your home? Know that your homeowner’s insurance policy won’t cover much related to your business. You might still need a business owner’s policy. 

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is proud to be your premier local independent insurance agency. We work for our clients, not the insurance company. We’re ready to customize your commercial insurance to your unique needs at the right price, and we’re here to answer your questions. Remember, if you have deeper questions about commercial insurance in Massachusetts or need help with a Business Owners Policy (BOP), contact a licensed agent today.

Read More

What Does Condo Insurance Cover?

Posted on by cvargas
family sitting together in a condo

Condo insurance is property insurance for condo owners. It’s designed to protect the condo contents and repair the unit in instances of fire or burglary. Condo insurance provides liability coverage for the condo owner, too. Today, we’ll take a closer look at Massachusetts condo insurance. We’ll explore the coverages and perils that policies can insure against — and highlight some gaps, too. Remember, if you have deeper questions about condo insurance, talk to a licensed insurance agent at Vargas & Vargas Insurance today!

What’s Covered by Condo Insurance in Massachusetts?

Condo insurance policies in Massachusetts are similar to homeowners insurance, with a few key differences. The basic idea is the same — it’s an insurance policy that protects the condo owner from loss from perils like:

  • Fire
  • Wind
  • Hail
  • Lightning
  • Burglary or theft
  • Civil riot 
  • Malicious mischief

In a nutshell, if your condo burns down or gets burglarized, then your insurance company will reimburse you for your belongings. Remember, condo insurance will only pay up to the policy limits (after the policyholder pays a deductible). It’s vital to know whether your condo insurance policy will pay you the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of your belongings or Replacement Cost (RC). 

Liability Coverage

“Liability” means responsibility. In Massachusetts, most condo insurance policies will include liability coverage. If a visitor stumbles in your home and breaks their ankle, this insurance covers you. 

What’s NOT Covered by Condo Insurance?

Condo owners don’t have an interest in the outer property. Your condo insurance policy won’t cover the condo building’s exterior, separate structures and outbuildings, fences, trees, and landscaping. 

Also, know that certain luxury items in your condo might not be covered. If you own an $18,000 painting by Pablo Picasso or a luxury strand of pearls, you’ll need to have them specifically added to your condo insurance policy. In addition, a standard condo policy in Massachusetts doesn’t cover some perils. Floods, for instance, require a separate flood policy.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is proud to be your premier local independent insurance agency. We work for our clients, not the insurance company. We’re ready to customize your condo insurance to your unique needs at the right price, and we’re here to answer your insurance questions. Contact us today.

Read More

What’s the Difference Between Home Insurance and Property Insurance?

Posted on by cvargas
mother and son playing in the kitchen

Ever wondered what the difference is between homeowners insurance and property insurance? Maybe you saw both listed somewhere and wondered if they are different. Well, if you were wondering, here is a quick overview of the terms and what they mean — and why they are important to know. 

Property Insurance

Property insurance is an umbrella term for all different kinds of dwelling insurances and can include: 

  • Homeowners insurance
  • Renters insurance
  • Flood insurance
  • Earthquake insurance

Property insurance is normally part of your homeowners policy, but the homeowners policy doesn’t have to be the entire property insurance policy. For example, a property insurance policy could be for a dwelling that isn’t your home (see renters insurance). The homeowners policy will be more than just the property insurance. 

Home Insurance

Your homeowners policy will most likely be a hybrid policy that will include both the property insurance element and some riders that have other things on it. An example of a rider is if you have some expensive art or jewelry in your home, then you will get an additional rider to cover those expensive pieces. Here are a few of the perils that your homeowners insurance will typically cover: 

  • Fire
  • Theft and vandalism
  • Windstorm or hail
  • Explosion
  • Falling objects 
  • Loss of Use: This is when a part of your home ends up needing to be repaired. If it causes you extra expenses, your homeowners policy will reimburse you for those extra costs. Another part of this applies to rental properties. You may suffer from loss of rental income or “loss of rents” if you have a rental property that becomes unlivable due to a covered event. You will be reimbursed for the amount you would typically receive in rental income per month in this instance.

This list is not complete, but it should give an idea of the types of things that are covered in the typical homeowners insurance plan. Each homeowners insurance plan is customized for you, the homeowner, so the best way to discover what kind of coverage you currently have (or don’t have) is to check out the exclusions page of your policy. 

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is the premier local independent insurance agency. We work for our clients and not the insurance company. We will customize your insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price. We’re also here to answer all of your insurance questions — contact us today.

Read More

Home and Home Insurance Winterization Tips

Posted on by cvargas
mother and infant child looking out their home's window during winter

The weather outside is definitely on its way to being frightful, and the fire may be so delightful. Have you winterized your home and checked to make sure your home insurance is ready for winter? Below are some home and home insurance winterization tips to make sure you are prepared for the season. 

Start Before Cold Winter Weather Sets In

Some basic steps to start your home winterization checklist include:

  • Clean your gutters. Get all the debris out to ensure that the winter rain and snow will have someplace to go.
  • Check for drafts, and seal up any extra breezy areas. This could be done using chalk or by installing door sweeps.
  • Have your furnace maintained to make sure that it’s working properly.
  • Change out the filter in your furnace. The furnace filter should be changed out regularly.
  • Change all the batteries in the detectors (carbon monoxide and smoke). It is recommended that you change your batteries in your detectors twice a year.
  •  Have your chimney swept. There could be dust, dirt, or even birds in there.
  • Check your windows and insulation.

Review Your Home Insurance Coverage

Add home insurance winterization to your to-do list. You will also want to check with your homeowner’s insurance policy to make sure that you have enough coverage. There are many things that can happen in the winter, and you will want to make sure that your coverage has you prepared for any eventuality. It is a good idea to make sure that your insurance has flood coverage before you have a burst pipe in your home. This coverage takes time to take effect, and it will not cover you after the event has occurred. If you don’t know what you have, contact your insurance agency to find out.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is the premier local independent insurance agency. We work for our clients and not the insurance company, and we will customize your insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price. Our team is here to answer all of your insurance questions, so contact us today.

Read More

Will Security Cameras Lower Home Insurance Costs?

Posted on by cvargas

Almost always, yes! Security cameras or a home security system will almost always lower your cost to insure a home. They might also help you sleep better at night and reduce your stress when you’re away from home.

man installing a security camera in his home

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, our goal is to provide you with honest, thoughtful answers to your insurance questions. Customers ask us about security cameras and security systems and how they relate to homeowner’s insurance in Massachusetts. So let’s explore the issue.

Massachusetts Homeowner’s Insurance Basics

Homeowner’s insurance in Massachusetts is based on fire coverage. If your home burns down — in whole or partially — a homeowner’s insurance policy will protect the investment by paying the homeowner for the amount of the loss. The idea is to make the homeowner “whole” again after a loss, and it’s called indemnity. Here are some other important facts to keep in mind:

  • Homeowner’s insurance also covers other “perils,” like theft, hail, lightning, smoke damage, and so on.
  • It rarely covers earthquakes or floods. Earthquake coverage can be added to most homeowner’s policies with a rider. Flood insurance will need a separate policy. 
  • Millions of homes in the US face flood risk, even ones not in a federally mandated flood zone area. You can purchase flood insurance.

Insurance companies know that security systems reduce theft instances and can reduce the damage caused by fire or other emergencies. That’s why all insurance companies will offer a discount when your security system is centrally monitored and a smaller discount when it is not.

There are a few other ways to reduce your insurance premium too.

Other Discounts and Savings on Homeowner’s Insurance

Every insurance policy is a unique contract between the insurer and the insured. In addition to savings for a home security camera, you might also save money by:

  • Bundling multiple lines of insurance — like your car insurance — with a single provider
  • Installing sprinklers
  • Replacing an old roof
  • Adjusting your deductible to a higher amount — though that means you’ll be on the hook to pay for more damage out-of-pocket in an emergency, and your mortgagee might have minimum deductible requirements

The staff at Vargas & Vargas Insurance is proud to be your premier local independent insurance agency. We work hard for our clients — not the insurance company. We’re ready to customize your homeowner’s insurance coverage to your specific needs and budget. We’re also glad to answer all your Massachusetts homeowner’s insurance questions. Need a quote? Then let’s talk!

Read More

Winterize Your Auto and Auto Insurance With These Tips

Posted on by cvargas
mom and child smiling in a car while it's snowing

As winter continues, it’s important to prepare your car for the harsher conditions. At the same time, you want to make sure that your auto insurance policy provides you with sufficient coverage for the season. Here are some tips on how to winterize your auto — and your auto insurance.

Winterizing Your Automobile

  • Make sure your 4-wheel drive works if you have it.
  • Check your vehicle’s belts and hoses. Cold weather can cause them to weaken and even break, so you may want to take your car in for a tune-up ahead of time.
  • Change your windshield wipers.
  • Always keep your fuel tank full. A near-empty tank in extremely cold weather can result in severe damage to your car.
  • Top off your fluids (coolant, wiper fluid, and so forth).
  • Check your oil. If you need to give your car an oil change, make sure you use a product with the right viscosity (or thickness).
  • Check your car’s battery. The last thing you want is a dead battery in freezing temperatures.
  • Check your air filters, and replace them as needed.
  • Make sure your tires have enough air pressure. You’ll likely have to periodically check on this throughout the winter. Also, consider putting on snow tires if you live in an area that gets a lot of snow and ice during the cold season.

Winterizing Your Auto Insurance

It’s true that you can never foresee an auto accident or other winter-related damage. However, you can prepare. You may want to add collision coverage to your automobile insurance policy in the event that you slip or slide into something and damage your car that way. Also, comprehensive coverage will cover just about any other accident that causes damage to your car, such as a branch falling on your hood or damage from a snowbank.

At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we can help you winterize your auto insurance so that it works best for you. We are one of the premier local independent insurance agencies, and we truly work for our clients, not ourselves. Our team of friendly experts would be happy to answer all of your insurance questions. Contact us today.

Read More

How Much Condo Insurance Do You Need?

Posted on by cvargas
couple sitting in their furnished condo

The purpose of condo insurance is to protect your financial investment in your belongings and provide liability coverage. If you under-insure your belongings, you won’t be made whole again after a fire or burglary. If you over-insure, you’ll be paying a higher insurance premium than you need to pay.

Imagine a fire rips through your condominium. Thankfully, everyone gets out safely. Your condo insurance will cover most belongings, less a deductible. Therefore, you should buy enough contents coverage to replace all your belongings and be made whole after a loss. 

So today, the team at Vargas & Vargas Insurance will explain how to decide how much condo insurance you need. We’ll talk about contents coverage and also touch briefly on liability coverage. The first step is to tally up your belongings.

Contents Coverage: Tally Up Your Belongings

Grab a notebook and take a walk through your condo. Start by jotting down the big-ticket items.

If you add it all up, then you’ve probably spent significant cash on:

  • Furniture — including bedroom sets, mattresses, dining room sets, and living room furniture
  • Appliances
  • Wardrobes, shoes, and accessories
  • Hobby items and craft supplies
  • Electronics — such as televisions, computers, tablets, cell phones, and all the related accessories and chargers
  • Decor — including area rugs and window treatments

Then, start thinking about the money you have tied up smaller items like linens, towels, and cosmetics. Also, don’t forget the medicine cabinet and medical devices. Suddenly, you’ll realize you have anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars of personal belongings in the bathroom alone!

What’s your final number? A single individual might own $50,000 worth of belongings easily. A family of five might need $200,000 in contents coverage for a start.

Next, it’s time to think about liability coverage.

Condo Insurance and Liability Coverage

Most condo insurance providers offer packages that include a pre-set amount of liability coverage. It may be $100,000, $250,000, and so on. You can always ask for more liability coverage, and in today’s litigious society, more coverage is better. 

We should also point out that some umbrella insurance policies (which are additional liability policies for families with many assets) have minimum property liability requirements. In other words, if you have an umbrella policy, it might require that you maintain $500,000 or $1 million of liability coverage at your residence.

We’re Proud to Be Your Premier Independent Insurance Agency for Condo Insurance

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is proud to work for our clients, not the insurance company. We can customize your condo insurance policy to suit your specific needs and budget. We’re ready to answer your condo insurance questions, so contact us today.

Read More

Do You Need Home Insurance in Massachusetts

Posted on by agentinsure

One of the largest investments you will ever make is the money you invest in your home. To create a true sanctuary, you will need peace of mind, and the best way to achieve that is to obtain a home insurance policy. The agents at Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester, MA understand the importance of obtaining a home insurance policy for all homeowners to protect your assets.

In the state of Massachusetts, you are not required to have a homeowner’s insurance policy but if you have a mortgage on your home, the bank or other lender you used for your loan will more than likely require you to have a policy in place to protect their investment in your home.

Coverage Options

Homeowners insurance is designed to assist you in paying for to repair or replace your house if it is damaged or destroyed by an act of vandalism, a fire, or a natural disaster, such as a tornado or windstorm.

Your home insurance policy will also cover the rest of your property. For example, if you have a garage and it is destroyed by a tornado, your home insurance will pay to rebuild your garage.

If your home is broken into and several items are stolen and the door is damaged, your items will be replaced through your policy, and your door will be repaired or replaced. It will also provide coverage if a visitor to your home is injured or their property is damaged. For example, if a tree in your yard falls on their vehicle, your home insurance will help cover the damages to their vehicle.

Call For A Quote

To create the home insurance policy that works best for you and your home, you should consult with an experienced insurance agent. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance in Dorchester, MA, the home insurance agents you can trust are ready to assist you. Call for a quote or an appointment today to start your policy.

Read More

What a Standard Home Insurance Policy Covers

Posted on by cvargas
happy family sitting outside on their patio

A standard home insurance policy compensates you if your home is damaged or destroyed by certain events. Home insurance also typically provides coverage for personal belongings and structures on your property. Here’s a brief overview to explain what’s covered by a standard home insurance policy.

What Are Insured Events?

A standard home insurance policy covers losses due to the events specified in the policy. Insured events for most policies include:

  • Fire
  • Hail storms
  • Lightning strikes
  • Windstorms 
  • Theft
  • Vandalism

It’s important to note that sewer backups, floods, and earthquakes are not insured events on a standard policy. If you desire coverage for such events, your independent insurance agent can help determine if you need additional coverage or a separate policy.

When an insured event makes a home uninhabitable, loss of use coverage pays additional living expenses related to fleeing the home, such as the cost of temporary housing. Loss of use coverage also provides protection for loss of rental income. The policy limit for loss of use coverage is usually a percentage of the dwelling’s coverage limit.

What Structures Are Covered?

Home insurance typically covers the interior and exterior of the building itself. That includes the home’s roof, walls, foundation, and structures attached to the home, such as a deck or a garage. Most policies also protect structures on the property that aren’t connected to the home, such as a fence, a shed, a gazebo, or a detached garage.

Is Personal Property Covered?

Generally, personal items within the home are covered for losses due to insured events. Here are examples of covered personal property:

  • Clothing
  • Electronics
  • Furniture
  • Appliances
  • Sporting equipment
  • Musical instruments

Although home insurance does cover costly items like fine jewelry, antiques, art, and furs, the limits on a standard home insurance policy are usually insufficient to compensate for their full value. You may be interested in purchasing additional coverage for such items.

What Is Liability Protection?

A standard home insurance policy usually includes liability protection. If someone who isn’t a resident of your home is injured on your property, liability protection provides coverage for expenses, such as the injured person’s medical bills or your legal costs in the event the injured person sues. 

When you’re uncertain whether you have coverage for damage, it’s always best to check with your local independent insurance agent. If your agent is not available, look at the exclusion page of your insurance policy.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is one of the premier local independent insurance agencies. We work for our clients and not the insurance company. We will customize your home insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price. We’re also available to answer all of your insurance questions. Contact us today to get started.

Read More

How Can I Get the Best Home Insurance Rate?

Posted on by cvargas
couple researching home insurance rates in their new home

Whether you are a first-time homeowner or you are shopping for a new policy for your current home, there are some things you can do to ensure you have the best home insurance rate possible without having to skimp on insurance coverage. In this article, we will outline three tips on how to receive excellent coverage while paying a reasonable premium.

1. Clean Up Your Credit

When it comes to offering a homeowners insurance policy, an insurer mainly focuses on the risk they will take on by extending a policy to an individual or couple. That means they will likely be reviewing your current personal credit rating(s). Insurers know that homeowners with a good credit history are generally more financially stable and interested in doing whatever is necessary to maintain their credit status.

If you think you have a good credit history but still get turned down by an insurer, it’s a good idea to obtain a free copy of your credit report to determine if it contains errors that need correction.

2. Consider Fido’s Breed 

Canine pets can be a wonderful addition to a home. But some breeds are more prone to biting or causing some other type of injury than others. Before heading out to the animal shelter, consider how certain dog breeds may adversely impact your home insurance rates.

3. Review the Policy Deductible

Most insurance policies come with a standard annual insurance deductible. Suppose a homeowner submits a claim to the insurance company. In that case, the deductible is the amount the homeowner must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance company covers their claim(s) in any given policy year. By increasing one’s annual deductible, a homeowner can save on the annual cost of their insurance policy. For those who rarely file a claim, this can translate into significant savings over time. 

4. Bundle to Save

Many insurance companies offer their clients discounted rates if they bundle their other insurance policies along with their homeowners insurance. Home or condo owners can save significant amounts every year if they bundle their policy along with their auto insurance. 

5. Get Started

Here at Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we are committed to creating a customized insurance package with the best home insurance rate options for our clients, without compromising on coverage for the largest investment they will likely ever have. We are a leading local insurance agency, and we’re ready to answer all of your insurance questions today. Please call us for a personalized consultation.

Read More

How Much Does Apartment Insurance Cost?

Posted on by cvargas
woman unpacking in her new apartment

There are two ways we could talk about apartment insurance. The first way is renter’s insurance, and that’s the angle we’ll take today. We’ll explain how much renter’s insurance costs and what it usually covers. The other insurance product that could be called apartment insurance is a landlord protector policy. Those policies are for landlords and not what we’re writing about today. So, if you’re a renter, and you’re wondering about the apartment insurance cost you might face, read on!

Apartment Insurance Basics

Renter’s insurance is designed to cover your belongings in the rented home against fire damage, storm damage, and theft. Your covered belongings usually include furniture, clothing, shoes, appliances, and most household electronics. In a nutshell, if your rented home were to burn down or be burglarized, the insurer will pay for your belongings.

Renter’s Insurance Is Affordable and Valuable

While every policy is a unique agreement between the insurance company and the insured, you can expect your apartment insurance cost to usually be very affordable. We’ve seen renters insurance premiums starting as low as $25 for $25,000 worth of belongings in some cases.

The apartment insurance cost is even more affordable for individuals who can bundle other insurance with a renter’s policy. If you’re spending $25 a month on renter’s insurance and receiving a $15 monthly discount for a multi-line bundle on your car insurance, there’s even more value.

But, there are a few items renter’s insurance doesn’t cover. 

Items Not Covered By Renter’s Insurance

Renter’s insurance won’t cover large amounts of cash, high-end luxury jewelry, collectible guitars, or expensive art. As licensed insurance agents, we may add those items to a policy (it’s called scheduling) or write a separate policy for a specific item. So, if you have a $10,000 engagement ring, let your favorite insurance agent know about it!

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is proud to be your premier local independent insurance agency. We work for our customers, not the insurance company. We will customize your renter’s insurance coverage to your specific situation and budget, and we’re here to answer all of your insurance questions. So let’s talk!

Read More

Why Is Rental Insurance Important?

Posted on by cvargas
happy couple in an apartment

Why is rental insurance important? This may be a question you have. After all, if you live in an apartment or a condo, you don’t actually own the building. You are not responsible for the insurance on the physical building. However, you are responsible for your personal belongings that are inside the condo or apartment.  

Protect Your Personal Belongings

If you are paying rent to a landlord, their insurance covers damage to the building you are living in. If your belongings got damaged, lost, or stolen, your belongings would not be covered under the landlord’s insurance. You would not be able to replace these items. Rental insurance protects your personal belongings from loss, theft, or damage.

Consider This Example

Imagine that your neighbor is cooking dinner and leaves the stove unattended. A fire breaks out, and it causes damage to their unit and your unit. If you have renter’s insurance, then a combination of your neighbor’s insurance, the personal property coverage in your renter’s insurance, and the landlord’s property insurance would all be considered. In this scenario, if you are all covered, all three parties may be completely covered for their losses.

Prepare for Liability Claims

What about liability claims? If someone comes to your home, and you are renting it, what happens if they injure themselves? The liability portion of rental insurance provides compensation if someone is injured while at your home.

Get Coverage for Temporary Accommodations

What if your apartment building burns down? What if your condo has smoke damage? If your home is damaged and needs to be fixed, renter’s insurance can cover the cost of having to live somewhere else while your condo or apartment gets repaired or until you can find another place to live.

Establish an Insurance History

Having renter’s insurance helps establish an insurance history. This is very helpful when you go to purchase a home or a condominium. If you had no claims with your rental insurance, you will qualify for a “loss-free” or “claims free” credit on your home or condo insurance policy, which will reduce the cost of the policy.

Contact Us for Rental Insurance That Fits Your Needs

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is one of the premier local independent insurance agencies. We work for our clients and not the insurance company. We will customize your insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price and are here to answer all of your insurance questions. Contact us today.

Read More

5 Reasons for Renters Insurance Every Renter Should Know

Posted on by cvargas
Happy couple talking on a coffee break after unpacking their belongings at new apartment.

Renters insurance is one of the rare breaks you’ll get from the insurance world: it’s super affordable without sacrificing coverage. Most landlords require it, but even if yours doesn’t, you still need it. Here are five reasons for renters insurance and why it’s so important:

1. It’s one of the best deals in insurance.

Your monthly premium will cost you about the price of a haircut, about $15 to $20. Sounds unbelievable, sure, but truly it’s one of the cheapest policies you can buy. 

2. It covers your stuff. 

That new laptop you just bought? Covered. That flat-pack furniture from IKEA? Covered.  Renters insurance stops you from paying out-of-pocket for new things—including furniture, jewelry, clothes, computers, and electronics—if yours are damaged. Even if you don’t think you own a lot, it adds up quickly. A standard policy will cover you for the following accidents and catastrophes: 

  • Fire or lightning
  • Riots or civil commotions
  • Smoke 
  • Theft 
  • Vandalism 
  • Weight of ice, snow or sleet
  • Damage caused by aircraft, vehicles, or falling objects
  • Explosions
  • Volcanic eruptions
  • Windstorms or hail
  • Water or steam damage from sources within the apartment, such as household appliances, plumbing, heating, air conditioning or fire-protective sprinkler systems

But wait, you might ask, doesn’t your landlord’s insurance cover your stuff? A lot of people make this assumption, but it’s not true. Your landlord’s insurance covers the physical structure in which you live. If a fire destroyed your apartment, the landlord’s insurance company pays out for the building, not your stuff.  

3. It covers your stuff when you’re traveling. 

Yes—incredible. Most policies will cover your belongings wherever you travel in the world, whether they’re in your car, your backpack, or your pocket. If you travel a lot, make sure you talk to an insurance agent about getting a policy that covers you internationally. 

4. It gives you liability coverage. 

Along with covering your belongings, renters insurance will give you liability coverage. So if someone sues you after getting injured in your apartment, renters insurance would help cover lawyer costs and medical bills. 

5. It can cover additional living expenses. 

If your apartment becomes uninhabitable and you’re forced to live in a hotel and eat takeout, renters insurance may foot the bill. Check with your insurance agent to see how long your policy will pay for your additional living expenses. 

Looking for Renters Insurance?

If you don’t have a renters insurance policy, we can help you. We’re independent insurance agents, meaning we work for you, not any one insurance company. We’ll customize your renters insurance coverage to match what you need at the best price, and we’re here to answer any of your insurance questions. Contact us today to get the right insurance for your apartment. 

Read More

Important Variables Classic Car Owners Should Consider While Researching Policies

Posted on by agentinsure

Vargas & Vargas Insurance serves the Dorchester, MA community, as well as the surrounding areas, by helping people find coverage. We strive to help our clients find policies that will keep them safe and secure. As an independent agency, we have positive relationships with several carriers in the region to help make sure that our clients can find flexible and reliable policies.

Important Classic Car Insurance Variables

Your classic car is one of your most prized possessions. It’s a unique asset that you have to take care of. Classic car insurance will help you maintain the value of your vehicle. Here are some important variables to consider while you are researching policies.

The Usage

In order for your vehicle to maintain its status as a classic car, you should only drive the vehicle on very exclusive occasions. Primarily, you should only drive the vehicle to special shows in the Dorchester MA area. The policy will also outline a mileage limit that you have to adhere to.

Storage

Having a good place to store your classic car is important. You should look for somewhere safe and secure where your vehicle will be protected from the threat of inclement weather. Consider a classic storage facility. Storing your car at a classic facility will allow you to enjoy some amenities specifically designed to help you maintain your classic car. Storing your classic car at a private building is another option.

Maintenance Tips

Make sure that your classic car has regular oil changes to prevent contamination buildup. Also, try to keep a full tank of gas in your vehicle. That will reduce the possibility of engine troubles. Make sure that your policy contains coverage if you plan to replace parts of your car with new ones.

Consult With Vargas & Vargas Insurance

For more information on classic car insurance, visit our website today!  

Read More

6 Ways Downsizing Saves You Money

Posted on by cvargas
older couple unpacking in front of their new home while downsizing

A big house is not always the best, particularly if you want to make your life simpler and save on expenses. Most people often desire to downsize their homes and streamline their lifestyles as they age. The decision to downsize your house is motivated by several reasons, including fewer expenses, starting a new adventure, and minimizing the upkeep and effort of maintenance. If you want to know if downsizing saves you money, it is vital to consider all the different areas of savings. Below are the expenses that you can save on when you downsize your house.

1. Cost of Purchase

A smaller house comes at a cheaper cost, which is subject to less capital gains tax on profits. Therefore, you save on the cost and on capital gains tax.

2. Property Taxes

When you downsize your house, you save on property taxes. There is a big difference in property taxes between different neighborhoods based on the availability of amenities and access to roads.

3. Maintenance

Moving to a smaller house helps in reducing the amount spent on maintenance and sustenance. This relieves you from the maintenance cost of a large house that can, at times, weigh you down.

4. Mortgage

Downsizing to a smaller house ensures you fully utilize the space in your house, and you save on your mortgage payment.

5. Utilities

A smaller house means you are spending less every month to cool and heat the space. This is good for your wallet and the environment because you are consuming less energy.

6. Healthcare

In most cases, a big house is packed with clutter and stuff, and this adversely affects the quality of air. Cluttered homes are dustier and dirtier than small houses that are less cluttered. Also, the air quality in small houses is good, and this reduces your chances of falling sick. Cleaning a smaller house is less complicated and does not consume much time. There is little stress in cleaning your small house, and this does not adversely affect your health.

Vargas & Vargas Insurance can help you when you are buying or downsizing to a small place. We will customize your insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price. We are here to answer all of your questions, so contact us today.

Read More

Insurance To-Dos After Your Child Moves Out

Posted on by cvargas

So your child is moving out. They are either going to college and getting an off-campus apartment, going out on their own for a job, or starting some other adventure. This brings with it a whole string of emotions from happy to sad and anxious to ecstatic. After the tears, it’s time to think about some next steps for when you are starting to downsize your life. 

Adult Son Moving Out Of Parent's Home

Home Insurance

On your checklist of to-dos, you will want to check on your home policy after your child has moved. There are a few different things to check. For example, you will want to see if you can change your own policy to be lower now that there are not as many belongings in the home. You may also want to see if your homeowner’s policy will cover your child if they are still in college (which may be the case if they are in the dorms). Alternatively, you may be able to get a discount by getting a renter’s policy through the same company. 

In any case, now may be a good time to let your child know that a renter’s policy will help them with liability concerns. It will also protect the belongings that are inside their apartment.  

Car Insurance

The other thing that your child will need to take charge of will be their own car insurance policy. This is especially nice as newer drivers tend to require more expensive policies. If they are moving far away without a car, you may be able to put the car they used in your own name without listing them as a driver on the policy any longer. Alternatively, if they are moving and taking their car, they can go ahead and get their own policy. You will no longer need to be responsible for it and can see about downsizing your coverage.  

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is the premier local independent insurance agency — we work for our clients and not the insurance company. We will customize your insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price as you downsize. Contact us today for answers to all of your insurance questions.

Read More

How much renter’s insurance do you need in Dorchester, MA?

Posted on by agentinsure

It only takes one major event for you to learn that renters insurance is not an option. Still, even with the knowledge that you absolutely need an indemnity policy to pay for damaged or lost items, you may not know the type of renters insurance policy that best fits your life in Dorchester, MA. How much renters insurance does one need to secure a sense of financial stability? The agents at Vargas & Vargas Insurance can help. 

Is renters insurance required?

There is no state law requiring every renter to obtain an indemnity policy. Some landlords, however, may require you to show proof of a renters insurance plan before letting you sign a lease to rent an apartment in Dorchester, MA. 

You should consider an indemnity policy even if such is not required by the landlord for personal reasons. The building owner is mainly responsible to insure the property grounds. You cannot sue him or her for items lost or damaged in a burglary. 

What should a renters insurance plan entail?

The best renters insurance policies offer replacement cost values for items lost or damaged. Such a tenet is especially important if you have a lot of electronics in your unit. 

Computers and televisions lose value immediately after purchase. Having an insurance plan that only offers the cash value of such items leaves you to pay for the remaining cost to replace the items out-of-pocket. A replacement cost plan provides payment according to the current market value.

A good renters insurance plan should also offer temporary housing. It is usually up to the landlord to secure housing if a unit is uninhabitable. You should not, however, rely on someone else when it comes to shelter. A good renters insurance plan will pay for expenses related to temporarily relocating upfront.

How much renters insurance do you need?

The amount of renters insurance you need largely depends on your personal preferences and possessions. An agent at Vargas & Vargas Insurance can help you determine how much coverage is right for your living situation. Call today for a quote!

Read More

When Is the Right Time to Reassess Your Home’s Value?

Posted on by cvargas

There are times when you think about your home’s value and wonder whether you have the right home insurance coverage. It’s an important thing to consider, and there are definitely times when it is important to reassess your home’s value. This ensures you have the coverage that matches your home and belongings, just in case something happens. 

Young man and woman finishing their kitchen renovation

If you were to look at the market right now and think that maybe your coverage is not enough, that isn’t the whole story. Insurance companies use replacement value, not market value, to make assessments of your home’s worth. 

What Is Replacement Value?

Replacement value is the cost of replacing the home and all the belongings inside it. This does not take into account the age of the home or any depreciation that has occurred over time. This value is challenging to quantify. 

How Often You Should Reassess Your Home’s Value

It would be best if you had your insurance policy reassessed whenever you have made improvements to your home. Also, as the market changes, you will want to have the policy assessed. Why is this important? You don’t want to have something happen, only to find out that you only have half of your home’s worth covered in your insurance plan. It is best to get a new appraisal every couple of years, and a new insurance assessment annually.

In the end, it is better to be safe rather than sorry when it comes to your home insurance policy. Proactive steps now give you the comfort that, if something happens, you have the coverage that you need so that you can focus on rebuilding. 

Vargas & Vargas Insurance is one of the premier local independent insurance agencies. We work for our clients and not the insurance company. We will customize your home insurance coverage to your specific needs at the right price, and we’re here to answer all of your insurance questions. Contact us today to get started.

Read More

How Often Should You Reassess Your Home’s Value?

Posted on by cvargas

There are different types of home valuations that you can choose from. The value of your home depends on your chosen type of valuation. There are different ways and reasons why homes are valued. The different types of home valuations differ based on the reason, who carries out the process, and the effect on the rates and coverage of your home insurance.

home inspector assessing a house's value

Some home valuations affect home insurance directly. It is important to critically appraise your home insurance policy if you realize there is a decrease or increase in its apparent value. Also, it is important to have enough home-dwelling insurance coverage in the event of a disaster. It is devastating to lose your house to a disaster and realize it was insured for less than its value.

Several factors affect the value of a home. They include size, age, location, condition, and building materials. You might need different types of valuations for different reasons. Therefore, home valuations fluctuate based on the situation.

Reassessing Your Home’s Value for Insurance Coverage

It would help if you had your home reassessed to ensure your coverage is a good fit. It would also help if you reassessed the value of your home every year. This will help you decide on the best coverage. This helps in avoiding payment of high premiums. It also ensures that any possibility of loss is satisfactorily covered.

Reassessing the value of your home every year helps in incorporating any recent improvements to your house into your insurance coverage. Even if there are no improvements, reassessment ensures that you have adequate coverage limits to cover the entire cost of rebuilding.

In reassessing the value of your home, you need to measure how much coverage you need. Also, inspect for perils not included in the coverage, and recheck your deductible. You need to compare your current premium to the premium you paid the previous year. Be sure you store all your documents safely.

Vargas & Vargas is one of the premier local independent insurance agencies. We work for you by customizing your insurance coverage consistent with your specific needs at the right price. Contact us today for expert responses to all your insurance questions. 

Read More

Our Services

Reviews

Partner Carriers

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