😟 What happens when the agent who’s always handled your insurance suddenly retires or sells their agency?
Have you received a letter or email letting you know your trusted insurance agent is stepping away? It can feel unsettling—after all, this was the person who knew your needs and had your back when life threw surprises your way.
What should you do now to make sure your coverage—and service—stay strong? In this article, we’ll walk through your options, how to keep your current policies, and when it’s time to consider switching to a new agent.
Let’s break it down—quickly and simply.
✅ Your Policy Is Still Safe
Good news! Your insurance contract is with the carrier, not the agent—so your coverage continues as long as you keep paying your premiums. 🏠🚗
🔄 But Your Agent Will Change
In most cases, your account is reassigned to another agent or service team. Some insurers may even move you to a self-service model. That’s where issues can start:
Less personal service
Longer wait times
Unfamiliar communication style
Missed reviews or updates
🛠️ What Can You Do?
Here are your top options:
Give the new agent a chance — Evaluate their service over the next 30–60 days.
Call the new agency — Ask how they handle renewals, claims, and client communication.
Keep your carrier, switch agents — Contact your insurance company and request to work with a different agent.
Find a new local independent agent — Especially helpful if you want personalized service and more carrier options.
💬 Why Clients Choose to Switch Agents
Poor service or communication
Limited availability
Lack of insurance knowledge
Personality mismatch
You’ve relocated
This is your chance to get the support and service you really want.
🧠 Tip: Now’s a Great Time for a Policy Review
Are you overpaying?
Missing discounts?
Covered for the right risks?
A trusted agent will help you reassess and improve your protection.
🧭 Vargas & Vargas Insurance Is Here to Help
If your agent just retired or sold their agency, don’t feel stuck. Vargas & Vargas Insurance—your local independent insurance broker—is ready to step in and provide the personal, knowledgeable service you deserve. ✅
Let’s make your transition simple—and your coverage even stronger.
👉 Reach out today for a free policy review or agent transfer consultation.
Does your home have a finished basement? Do you rely on a sump pump to keep things dry during storms or snowmelt?
If so, there’s something you need to know: your standard homeowners insurance policy likely won’t cover water damage from sewer or drain backups.
In this quick-read blog, we’ll explain the difference between water damage and water backup, what your policy probably covers (and what it doesn’t), and how you can add a simple endorsement to fill this risky gap.
🚿 Not All Water Damage Is Treated the Same
When it comes to insurance, water damage and water backup are not the same thing.
Here’s the difference:
Water damage typically refers to a sudden event inside your home, like a burst pipe, leaking appliance, or damaged roof.
Water backup refers to water coming into your home from outside sources — like a sewer line, drain, or failed sump pump.
Standard home insurance policies usually cover the first — but not the second.
That means if sewage or groundwater floods your finished basement due to a sump pump failure or clogged drain, you could be left paying for repairs out of pocket.
💧 What Is Water Backup Coverage?
Water backup coverage is an add-on endorsement you can include in your homeowners insurance policy. It’s designed to cover damage caused by water that backs up through sewers, drains, or sump pumps.
Why is it so important? Because these events:
Are more common than people think — especially during heavy rains or power outages
Can cause expensive damage, especially to finished basements, flooring, furniture, and electrical systems
Are not considered “sudden accidental discharge” — and are explicitly excluded from many standard policies
🛑 Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Unfortunately, most people only learn about this gap in coverage after their basement floods — and by then, it’s too late to add it.
Even worse? If you’ve invested in a finished basement, water backup could mean thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket repairs, mold risk, and damage to sentimental items.
✅ What You Can Do Right Now
The good news? Water backup coverage is easy to add and often very affordable.
Here’s what we recommend:
Check your current policy to see if water backup is included. (It usually isn’t by default.)
If you have a sump pump, finished basement, or any plumbing near lower levels, strongly consider adding it.
Talk to us. We’ll explain the exact cost and coverage options — in plain English — and help you protect your home the smart way.
Need Help Reviewing Your Coverage?
At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we’ve been helping Massachusetts homeowners understand their policies — and protect what matters most — for over 45 years.
Think you’re fully protected just because you have homeowners insurance? Would your policy really cover you the way you expect if disaster hit tomorrow?
You’re not alone if you’re unsure. Many people assume they’re covered for anything that could go wrong. The truth? Most homeowners are underinsured — and don’t even realize it until it’s too late.
In this blog, you’ll learn the top 5 mistakes people make when buying homeowners insurance — and how to avoid them. We’ll show you how to make smart, informed choices so your coverage actually protects your home and your finances.
❌ Mistake #1: Not Buying Enough (or the Right) Coverage
A lot of people think the amount they paid for their home is the amount they should insure it for. But that’s not how insurance works.
Here’s the issue:
Home values change.
Construction costs go up.
If your home burns down or gets severely damaged, you need enough replacement coverage to rebuild it — not just repay your mortgage.
Don’t fall into the “cheapest quote” trap. A cheaper policy might leave you underinsured when it matters most.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Insure your home for its replacement cost, not its purchase price.
Review your policy every year, especially after renovations.
Work with an independent agent who can help you compare policies and tailor coverage to your real needs.
❌ Mistake #2: Not Knowing What Your Policy Doesn’t Cover
It’s easy to assume insurance covers everything. But that’s just not true. In fact, standard homeowners policies have exclusions that might surprise you.
Some common things not covered:
Flooding
Earthquakes
Sewer backups
Mold or foundation damage
High-value items like jewelry or art
Poor maintenance (like a leaking roof you ignored for months)
✅ What to Do Instead:
Ask questions. Know what’s covered and what isn’t.
Consider extra coverage for floods, valuables, and water backup.
Remember: homeowners insurance is not a maintenance plan — it won’t cover wear and tear or neglect.
❌ Mistake #3: Not Shopping Around
Getting one quote is quick, but it’s also risky. You could end up with:
Higher premiums
Poor claims service
Gaps in coverage you don’t see until it’s too late
Every insurance company prices differently — and not all offer the same benefits.
✅ What to Do Instead:
Let Vargas & Vargas Insurance shop for you. We compare quotes from many top-rated carriers so you get options — and expert help choosing the best fit for your needs.
❌ Mistake #4: Not Updating Your Policy Over Time
Your home changes. Your life changes. Your insurance should change too.
If your policy is outdated, it may not reflect:
Renovations or home upgrades
New valuables (like electronics, collectibles, or jewelry)
Safety features (like a new alarm system)
Liability risks (like a trampoline or swimming pool)
✅ What to Do Instead:
Review your policy once a year.
Call your agent when anything major changes.
We’ll help you adjust your coverage — no pressure, just smart protection.
❌ Mistake #5: Ignoring Discounts and Bundling Opportunities
You might be paying more than you need to — simply because you didn’t ask about discounts.
Common savings opportunities:
Bundling your home and auto insurance
Installing security systems or smoke detectors
Raising your deductible
Staying claims-free for several years
✅ What to Do Instead:
Ask your agent to review all possible discounts.
We can help you find hidden savings that most people miss.
A short phone call could save you hundreds of dollars per year.
Final Thoughts: Make Smart Moves Now, Save Yourself Later
Homeowners insurance doesn’t have to be confusing — but it can cost you if you don’t pay attention. Avoiding these 5 mistakes could save you thousands and give you real peace of mind.
Let’s recap:
✅ Don’t underinsure — know your home’s true replacement cost ✅ Understand what’s not covered ✅ Don’t settle for one quote — compare policies ✅ Update your policy as life changes ✅ Ask about discounts and bundling options
Need Help Reviewing Your Coverage?
At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we’ve helped Massachusetts families protect their homes for over 45 years. We shop with multiple companies, break things down in plain English, and give honest advice — no pressure.
📞 Call us at 617-298-0655 💬 Visit vargasinsurance.com ✨ We welcome your referrals, too — thank you for trusting us.
As a real estate professional, you play a key role in ensuring your clients are set up for success—not just with their new home but also with proper insurance coverage. Below is a simple, actionable guide to help you support your home and condo buyers through the insurance process.
Recommend They Start the Insurance Process Early
Many buyers wait until the last minute to secure homeowners or condo insurance, which can lead to delays at closing. Encourage your clients to:
Request an insurance quote as soon as they go under contract
Compare coverage options and costs early
Share the necessary documents with their lender well before final underwriting
Key Information Buyers Will Need for an Insurance Quote
To generate an accurate quote, buyers should have the following:
Legal name that will appear on the deed
Property address
Date of birth
Current residential address
Pet information (certain breeds may impact policy eligibility)
Best contact phone number
Work with an Independent Insurance Broker
Independent brokers have access to multiple carriers and can:
Compare rates and find the best value
Customize coverage for unique properties
Assist with challenging cases like older homes, flood zones, or coastal areas
Our agency partners with top-rated insurance providers and helps homebuyers get the right coverage quickly and easily.
Ensure Buyers Understand the Coverage They Need
Many first-time buyers assume a basic homeowners policy is enough. Here are a few things they should consider:
Flood Insurance: Not included in standard policies. Required in flood zones.
Condo Master Policies: Buyers need to understand what’s covered by the condo association and what they’re responsible for.
Wind & Hurricane Deductibles: In high-risk coastal areas, these may require separate deductibles.
Pro Tip: If the home has an older roof (15+ years) or is in a high-risk area, coverage might be harder to obtain—or more expensive. Make sure buyers investigate this early.
Help Buyers Avoid Common Insurance Issues
Be sure your clients are aware of these often-overlooked situations:
Vacant Homes: May require a special policy until the buyer moves in.
Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb, VRBO): A standard homeowners policy won’t cover rental activity. Buyers need a landlord or short-term rental policy.
HOA Requirements: Some condo associations require specific liability limits. Buyers should confirm this before purchasing a policy.
Provide Buyers with a Trusted Insurance Contact
Instead of sending clients to shop on their own, connect them with an insurance expert you trust—someone who can walk them through the process and ensure nothing gets overlooked.
Need an insurance partner for your buyers?
We’re here to help. Send them our way, and we’ll take care of the rest.
We work with top insurance carriers and specialize in helping home and condo buyers get the right coverage at the best rate.
By following these best practices, you can help ensure your buyers secure the right insurance coverage, avoid closing delays, and move into their new homes with peace of mind.
What do we actually do when you request a quote? Are we just hitting a button on one website? Not even close. You’re about to find out what most agencies won’t tell you — and why that matters. In this article, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how Vargas & Vargas Insurance compares coverage, coordinates condo policies, and gives you the clearest possible picture of your options.
We Don’t Just “Shop Around” — We Strategically Compare the 12 plus insurance Carriers
When you request a quote from Vargas & Vargas Insurance — whether it’s for auto, home, or condo insurance — we don’t just go to one provider.
We leverage a powerful quote platform that compares offers from all of the different insurance carriers including trusted names like Plymouth Rock, Travelers, Safety, and more. Why? Because each company values different things. One might reward your clean driving record, while another might raise rates based on your zip code in Dorchester.
Different Carriers, Different Priorities — That’s Why We Cast a Wide Net
Insurance pricing isn’t one-size-fits-all. Some companies love urban areas. Others? Not so much. Some give discounts for bundling auto and home. Others might price aggressively for new condos.
That’s why our team reviews all these variations — so you don’t end up overpaying for a cookie-cutter policy that wasn’t made with your life in mind.
If You’re Buying a Condo, You Need This Extra Step
Most agencies skip this, but we won’t. If you’re buying a condo, we go a step further and review your building’s master insurance policy.
Why does that matter? Because many condo buyers don’t realize they might be underinsured — or wasting money on duplicate coverage. By comparing the master policy with your quote, we ensure your personal policy fills in the gaps without overlapping coverage you already have.
We Show You the Process — So You’re Not Left Guessing
Let’s be honest: most insurance agencies don’t want you to see how the sausage is made. But we believe you deserve transparency.
That’s why we break down your quote in plain English, walk you through your options, and explain what your coverage actually protects — and what it doesn’t.
Here’s What to Do Next If You Want Your Quote Done Right
At Vargas & Vargas, we know it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when shopping for insurance. Maybe your current coverage feels unclear, or you’re tired of getting quotes that don’t make sense for your lifestyle.
Now that you’ve seen what we actually do behind the scenes — from comparing up to 15 carriers to coordinating master condo policies — it’s time to make sure your next quote is done with care.
👉 Call us today at 617-298-0655 or click below to request your quote online.
Is the lowest insurance quote always the best one? What are you not getting when you pick the cheapest option? Let’s talk about why that “great deal” might not be so great when you actually need it. In this article, you’ll learn what most agencies won’t tell you about coverage, deductibles, and how to truly protect yourself.
Yes, We’ll Show You the Cheapest Option — But That’s Just the Start
When you come to Vargas & Vargas Insurance for a quote, you’ll definitely see the lowest-price policy. But we won’t stop there — because what you don’t see on the quote sheet matters even more.
The cheapest policies often leave out key protections like:
Water backup coverage
Adequate liability limits
Personal property protection
You could save $100 today, but end up paying thousands when the unexpected happens. That’s why we believe it’s better to compare not just the price — but the protection.
Deductibles: Lower Premiums Aren’t Always Worth the Risk
Absolutely — here’s a rewritten version of that paragraph that incorporates your points and keeps the tone clear, helpful, and aligned with the rest of the article
Choosing a $2,500 deductible to save $30 a month might be a smart move for some — but not for everyone. That’s why we take the time to explain how that trade-off would actually play out in the real world, especially when it comes to filing a claim. We’ll also walk you through percentage-based deductibles — what they are, how they work, and why they can be risky in certain situations. You’ll leave the conversation knowing exactly what you’re signing up for, and whether it fits your comfort level and financial reality.
It’s not about cheap — it’s about what’s smart for you.
We Sell with Honesty, Not Pressure — Every Single Time
We’re not here to upsell or scare you into a pricier policy. And we’re definitely not here to push a rock-bottom deal that leaves you vulnerable.
Our job is to walk you through all your options — clearly, honestly, and with your best interests in mind.
We’ve served the Boston area for over 45 years, and we’ve seen it all. That’s why we take the time to explain what each quote really means, and why one option might make more sense for your situation than another.
What’s the Smartest Move for Your Insurance? Let’s Talk About It.
At the end of the day, the “cheapest” policy could be the most expensive mistake you make. Especially if it skips key coverage or gives you a deductible you can’t afford.
Now that you know what to look for — and what to ask — it’s time to get a quote that’s tailored to you.
📞 Call us today at 617-298-0655 or click below to get started online.
You’ll get:
Side-by-side comparisons of coverage and cost
Clear advice on deductibles that match your comfort level
No pressure — just real guidance from local experts
If you’re just looking for the lowest price, a broker might not be your best fit. That may sound odd coming from an insurance broker — but honesty is part of the deal when you work with Vargas & Vargas.
We’re not here to tell you what you want to hear. We’re here to tell you what you need to know. With 45+ years in the insurance industry, we’ve seen what happens when people chase the cheapest premium and ignore the fine print. It usually ends with big out-of-pocket expenses, confusion during claims, or gaps in protection they never knew existed.
In this article, we’ll explain exactly when working with a broker makes sense — and when it doesn’t.
If Price Is All That Matters, a Direct Company Might Be a Better Fit
Let’s be real — if you’re only interested in the lowest monthly premium, a direct insurer like GEICO or Progressive might give you what you’re looking for. You can quote online, click a few buttons, and get coverage fast.
But what do you give up in exchange for that price?
Ultra-low quotes often mean:
Lower liability limits (leaving you exposed)
No water backup coverage
Hidden deductibles
No advisor to help you if something goes wrong
Having Deductibles where there should be none
Short term policies (6 months instead of 12 months)
And when disaster strikes? You’re left alone with a 1-800 number and a policy you don’t fully understand.
What Makes a Broker Different — and Why It Matters
We don’t work for one company. We work for you.
As an independent broker, we partner with 12 to 15 top-rated insurance carriers and compare their offerings based on:
Your personal risk factors
The value of your home or vehicle
Your budget and deductible preferences
What’s actually covered — not just the price
That means you get the best possible value, not just the best possible price.
And here’s the part most people miss: Before every single renewal, we re-check your policy. If something has changed or a better option is available, we’ll reach out and walk you through the pros and cons of switching — without pressure.
Our Promise: Advice First, Sales Second
We’ve been serving clients in Boston and beyond for over 45 years. During that time, we’ve earned a reputation for being the team that tells it like it is — even when that means telling someone we might not be their best fit.
We’re not in this for one sale. We’re in it for the long haul. Our clients stick with us because they know we treat their policy like it’s our own — and we never disappear after the paperwork is signed.
Still Wondering If a Broker Is Right for You? Here’s What to Do Next
You came here to figure out if working with an insurance broker is the right move — and maybe discovered that for some people, it’s not. That’s okay.
But if you’re looking for more than just a cheap rate — if you want real advice, real coverage, and someone in your corner for the long run — Vargas & Vargas is here for you.
📞 Call us at 617-298-0655 or request a quote online.
You’ll get:
A side-by-side comparison of coverage, not just price
A policy tailored to your real-life needs
A broker who checks in before renewal — not just when you call
Your home isn’t just where you live — it’s where life happens. It’s filled with memories, milestones, and the people and pets that matter most.
So when disaster strikes — whether it’s a burst pipe, a break-in, or severe weather — it’s not just physical damage. It’s emotional. It’s disruptive. And it can feel overwhelming.
That’s why having the right insurance — and the right team — makes all the difference. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we’ve been helping Massachusetts homeowners file and navigate claims for over 45 years. If you’re facing damage to your home or just want to be prepared, here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what to expect during the homeowners insurance claims process.
Step 1: Stop Any Further Damage
If you’re in the middle of an active emergency, your first priority is safety — and then damage control.
Make sure everyone in the home is safe.
Stop any ongoing damage if it’s safe to do so (e.g., turn off the water, board up a window).
Take photos and save receipts for any temporary repairs or cleanup.
💡 Pro tip: If your insurer believes the damage could have been prevented, they may reduce or deny parts of the claim. Do what you can to minimize additional loss.
Step 2: Gather Detailed Information
Start documenting everything as soon as it’s safe.
What happened and when
What was damaged
Who was involved (if applicable)
Photos of all damage — ideally from multiple angles
📸 If your home was burglarized, be sure to file a police report.
Step 3: Decide Whether to File a Claim
You might assume you should file a claim automatically, but that’s not always the best move. Consider the following:
Is the damage even covered by your policy?
Is the cost of repairs below (or just above) your deductible?
Will filing a small claim increase your future premiums?
If you’re unsure, give us a call. Vargas & Vargas Insurance can help you run the numbers and make a smart, pressure-free decision.
Step 4: Understand What’s Covered — and What’s Not
Most standard home insurance policies cover:
Fire and smoke damage
Storm-related damage (if sudden)
Theft and vandalism
Water damage from burst pipes
Overflow damage from toilets or sinks
But there are some important limitations and exclusions. Coverage typically does not include:
Flood damage (requires separate flood insurance)
Gradual wear and tear
Damage from pests or neglect
Earthquakes (unless added)
Sewer or water backup (unless added)
If you have extra coverages like equipment breakdown, service line protection, or sewer backup, those are usually added by endorsement.
Step 5: Know Your Deductible
Your deductible is what you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Common deductibles are $500, $1,000, or $2,500.
Example: If your deductible is $1,000 and the repairs will cost $1,200, you’ll only receive $200 from the insurance company — and that small payout might not be worth the potential for a rate increase.
When in doubt, ask us. We’ll help you evaluate your situation.
Step 6: Call Your Insurance Agent
Once you decide to move forward with a claim, your first call should be to your insurance agent — not the insurance company directly.
At Vargas & Vargas, we’ll:
Collect your documentation
Answer your questions
Submit the claim on your behalf
Guide you step-by-step through the process
Step 7: Work With the Adjuster
After the claim is submitted, your insurance company will assign an adjuster. Their job is to:
Verify your report
Evaluate the damage
Determine what’s covered under your policy
It’s a good idea to be present when the adjuster visits, if possible, to walk them through everything and answer questions.
Step 8: Get Repair Estimates
Before starting repairs, get written estimates from licensed and insured contractors.
Why does this matter?
Your insurance company may not accept repairs done by unlicensed contractors.
You’ll need accurate estimates to negotiate your claim payout if the adjuster’s offer feels low.
It protects you legally and ensures the work meets code.
Step 8.5: Notify Your Mortgage Company (If You Have One)
If you have a mortgage, it’s essential to let your lender know you’ve filed a claim. Most insurance claim checks are issued to you and your mortgage company jointly, meaning both parties must sign off before the funds can be released.
Each lender has their own process, so the sooner you start communicating with them, the better. Some may require inspections, documentation, or staged payment releases during the repair process.
Skipping this step could lead to delays in getting funds released — and delays in starting your repairs.
Step 9: Wait for Your Claim Settlement
Once your claim is approved and a payout amount is agreed upon, the insurance company will start issuing your payment — but you likely won’t get the full amount upfront.
Here’s how it usually works:
Actual Cash Value (ACV) – This is the depreciated value of your damaged property. You’ll get this check first.
Replacement Cost – After you repair or replace the items and provide proof (invoices, photos), you’ll receive the rest of the funds to cover the replacement cost.
Why the split? Carriers want to ensure the repairs are actually completed before releasing the full amount.
Stay Calm — and Stay in Touch
Filing a home insurance claim is stressful, but knowing what to expect can make a huge difference. And remember: you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we’re with you every step of the way. From deciding whether to file to making sure you get what you’re owed, we advocate for you — not the insurance company.
And one last tip: make sure your coverage still fits your life. Home value changes, renovations, and new belongings can affect what you need. That’s why we recommend reviewing your policy with us at least once a year.
Questions About a Home Insurance Claim?
Whether you’re in the middle of a claim or just want to make sure you’re prepared, we’re here for you.
Have you ever wondered what would happen if your house got damaged? That’s where homeowner’s insurance comes in handy! It’s like a safety net for your home and belongings. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to handle insurance claims if something goes wrong with your house.
What is Homeowner’s Insurance?
Homeowner’s insurance is a type of protection you can buy for your house, condominium or apartment. It helps pay for repairs or replacements if your home or stuff inside it gets damaged. This insurance can cover many different problems, like:
Natural disasters (like storms or floods)
Fires
Theft
Accidents that hurt people visiting your home
Lawsuits
It’s important to have this insurance because repairing your home or condo after damage that has occured can cost a lot of money!
Common Types of Insurance Claims
There are three main types of claims that homeowners often make:
Damage to the house: This could be a tree falling on your roof, a pipe bursting and flooding your basement, or your roof is damaged.
Damage to personal belongings: This covers things like furniture, clothes, or electronics that get stolen or ruined.
Liability claims: These happen when someone gets hurt while visiting your home, or away from your home (with the correct coverage in place).
If something bad happens to your house, here’s what you should do:
Call your independent insurance broker-agent or insurance company right away. Tell them what happened.
Take lots of pictures of the damage. This will help prove what happened.
Keep all receipts if you have to buy things or fix stuff before the insurance company looks at the damage.
Start looking for licensed and insured experts to give you a quote to repair the damage.
The insurance company will send someone called a claims adjuster to look at your house. They’ll advise you how much money you should receive to repair the damages.
Be patient! Sometimes it takes a while to get everything sorted out.
Tips for a Smooth Claims Process
To make sure everything goes well when you file a claim, try these tips:
Know what your insurance covers. Read the exclusions portion of your policy carefully or ask your independent insurance broker-agent to explain it.
Make a list of all your important things and how much they cost. This will help if you need to replace them.
Understand how much you might have to pay out of pocket, this is called your deductible.
Keep your house in good shape. Fix small problems before they become big ones!
Sometimes, the insurance company might say no to your claim. Don’t worry! You can send them further information. Here’s what to do:
Ask the insurance company why they denied your claim
Look for any new information that might help your case.
Write a letter explaining why you think they should pay for the damage.
If they still say no, you can ask for help from your state’s insurance department.
And, if they still deny your loss, consider working a highly recommended and rate public adjuster
Remember, it’s always better to be prepared before something goes wrong. Take some time to become familiar with your insurance policy now. Make sure it covers everything important to you. If you’re not sure about something, ask your insurance agent for help.
Dealing with insurance claims can seem tricky, but if you follow these steps, it becomes much easier. Keep calm, stay organized, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Your home is important, and having the right insurance can give you peace of mind.
By understanding how your home, condominium or renters insurance policy works and how to handle claims, you’re taking a big step in protecting your home and family.
If you have any questions about homeowner’s insurance or need help with your policy, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Vargas & Vargas Insurance, your local independent insurance broker, can be reached at 617-298-0655 for any questions you may have.
We’ve all seen the comforting insurance commercials:
“Like a good neighbor…”
“You’re in good hands…”
These slogans suggest that your insurance company is always there to cover anything that goes wrong. But here’s what they don’t tell you—insurance isn’t designed for every little issue, and using it the wrong way can actually cost you more in the long run.
Let’s break down what insurance is really for, when you should and shouldn’t use it, and how to protect your home the smart way.
The Problem – Common Insurance Misconceptions
Many homeowners believe that because they’ve been paying premiums for years, they should be able to file claims for anything—from a small roof leak to a broken fence. But that’s not how home insurance works.
Home Insurance Is for Major, Unexpected Losses
Think of home insurance like car insurance. If you get into a major accident, your policy covers the damages. But you wouldn’t file a claim for new tires or an oil change, right?
The same logic applies to your home. Insurance is designed to protect against:
✔ Fires
✔ Storm damage
✔ Major structural issues
✔ Unexpected, catastrophic events
It is not meant to cover:
✖ Regular wear and tear
✖ Minor maintenance issues
✖ Gradual damage from neglect
The Cost of Filing Too Many Claims
When homeowners file too many small claims, two things happen:
Premiums Increase: Insurance companies view frequent claim-filers as high-risk.
Policy Cancellation Risk: If an insurer believes you rely too much on your policy, they may cancel your coverage altogether—making it harder and more expensive to find new insurance.
The Reality – How Insurance Actually Works
Every time you file a claim, it stays on your record. Even if it’s a small claim, insurers track your claims history and adjust your rates accordingly.
Example: How Small Claims Add Up
Let’s say in three years you file:
A claim for a minor roof leak ($2,000)
A claim for a plumbing issue ($1,500)
A claim for wind damage to your fence ($1,000)
Individually, these seem reasonable. But together? You now look like a homeowner who depends on insurance for routine upkeep.
That’s when insurance companies start:
Raising your premiums
Labeling you as high-risk
Potentially dropping your policy
Before filing a claim, ask yourself: Is this claim worth it in the long run? If the repair cost is close to your deductible, it’s often better to pay out of pocket and avoid adding another claim to your record.
A Smarter Approach – Taking Control of Home Expenses
So, what’s the better way to manage home repairs and keep your insurance costs low? It’s all about being strategic and proactive.
1. Maximize Your Deductible to Save on Premiums
One of the most effective strategies is to increase your deductible. By choosing a higher deductible, you can:
💰 Lower your annual premium
🚫 Avoid the temptation to file small claims
🛡️ Reduce the risk of policy non-renewal due to claim frequency
This approach not only saves you money each year—it also protects your insurability by keeping your claims history clean. If you’re only filing claims for major losses, your insurance company sees you as a lower risk, which can lead to better long-term rates and fewer coverage issues.
2. Have an Emergency Fund
Setting aside a cushion for small repairs means you won’t feel the pressure to file a claim every time something breaks.
3. Keep Up with Maintenance
Routine maintenance prevents minor issues from becoming major headaches. Take care of your home like you would your car—it pays off.
4. Be Strategic with Claims
If the repair cost is close to your deductible, it’s often better to pay out of pocket and preserve your clean record.
We’re Here to Help
At Vargas & Vargas Insurance, we understand that navigating insurance can be complex. Our goal is to provide you with the knowledge and support you need to make informed decisions about your coverage.
Have questions or need assistance with your policy? Give us a call at 617-298-0655. We’re here to help you protect what matters most.
