How to Care for your Lawn and Landscaping Before Winter | Blog | Vargas & Vargas Insurance

As the thermometer drops, and autumn arrives, it is time to get your lawn and garden ready for the cold weather ahead. Following these few tips will help your lawn and garden come up green in the spring!

Continue Watering!

One misconception during winter is that grass and plants stop growing, die, and don’t need watering until spring.  This couldn’t be further from the truth. Once it snows, the melting snow will be sufficient to keep water levels in colder months. The grass becomes dormant and doesn’t have a quick growth output in the winter, but it still needs moisture.

Keep Mowing!

Grass should be mowed until it slows in growing . The length of your grass is vital in keeping it healthy during its dormant stage. If the grass is too short the cold wind can reach the roots and cause dead sections later in the season.If the grass is too long, the blades can get mold or disease. Stop cutting grass after you notice it stop growing and leave it for a few weeks. This should ensure a good length.

Rake leaves and other debris!

Grass still needs access to sunlight during the winter months. Rake up leaves and debris throughout the season to ensure grass receives ample light and air.  Mold, and disease, is common in winter months when leaves and debris are left over grass. Do not leave trash bags, trash cans or other heavy items on grass for long periods of time as well.

If your garden includes a lawn then the early autumn time period is the best time to re-seed, to fertilize, and to add lime

It’s important that you follow the instruction on your spreader when adding fertilizer and lime and amend your soil according to whatever nutrients you need to put back into the ground.   Re-seeding your lawn with new grass seed is fairly simple and can be done by hand if your lawn is not too large.  Take a soil sample to your local garden supply shop to have the ph tested, and to get their advice on the proper amendments the sail my need. Don’t forget that your plants, shrubs, and bushes can also benefit from an application of fertilizer.  Use a  slow-release fertilizer   and follow the directions on the package to ensure you apply the correct amount.

Prune trees and shrubs!

This will ensure that the plants will come back healthier and fuller in springtime.   Every bush or shrub has a slightly different pruning method so it’s best to do a little research on how much material to cut off and where in the branch formation you should cut. 

Seal pavers, natural stone, etc.  

Before sealing, check to see if new sand is needed in between the pavers to keep water from reaching underneath the walkway.  Check your driveway and see if it is in need of resealing if the current surface is cracked, crumbling, or is in general disrepair.  

Fall is a great time to plant a new street tree!  

Planting a tree near your home increases property value, shades your home during the summer months, and just makes for a better quality of life.  

Preventative maintenance on your lawn will shield it from disease and harmful cold as the winter months set in.  Consider mulching plant beds and landscaping areas to give an extra barrier against cold and harsh winter winds.  Taking the time now to prepare your yard for winter will result in your lawn and garden coming back better and fresher in the spring!

Contact Vargas & Vargas Insurance for an of your auto insurance , home insurance , business insurance , Life insurance or Tax services.

 

 

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What Happens to My Auto Insurance After a Hit & Run?

By carlos vargas • November 21, 2025
If someone hits your car and drives off, it’s called a hit and run . Imagine leaving the grocery store to find your bumper smashed with no note or witnesses. It’s not just the damage that’s frustrating; it’s the uncertainty about what to do next. Why Are Hit & Runs Confusing? Many drivers aren't sure what to do because we aren’t often taught how insurance works for these situations. But the more you know, the more protected you’ll be. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance , we guide drivers through hit and run claims, breaking down the process in simple terms. Key Questions Answered: What is a hit & run under Massachusetts law? What auto insurance helps in this situation? Will your premium go up? What immediate steps should you take? What Is a "Hit & Run"? A "hit and run" involves another driver damaging your car or injuring you and leaving without giving their info. It could happen in a parking lot, on the street, or even at home. Massachusetts law requires you to report it and file a claim. Coverage That Helps in a Hit & Run Your auto policy can help—if you have the right coverage. Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Essential for covering injuries to you or passengers. Collision Coverage: Covers car damage but requires you to pay the deductible. Note: Massachusetts is a no-fault state , needing collision and/or UM coverage for protection. Will Your Insurance Rates Rise? It depends. If considered a not-at-fault accident, rates might not increase. However, lack of a police report or a history of claims might affect rates. Reporting it properly is crucial. What Actions Should You Take? Call the police immediately to file a report. Take photos of all damage and surroundings. Seek witnesses or security camera footage. Contact your insurance agent for advice on filing a claim. Keep all records , like police reports and photos. The Bottom Line You can't control reckless drivers, but you can control your preparedness. Here's what you need to know: Have collision and uninsured motorist coverage for protection. A police report is essential. Your agent is your best ally for making claim decisions.  If you’ve returned to your car to find damage without a note, you know the stress. Now you know the steps to take and the protections you need. At Vargas & Vargas Insurance , we’re here to make this simple and stress-free. Unsure if your policy protects you from a hit & run? Call us at 617-298-0655 . Let’s ensure you’re covered before it happens.

Personal Liability Insurance: What Happens When Someone Gets Hurt on Your Property

By carlos vargas • November 21, 2025
In this post, we'll guide you through what happens when someone is injured on your property, how personal liability insurance can provide protection, and the steps you should take immediately if an accident occurs. By the end, you'll understand common scenarios that trigger personal liability coverage, what's included (and not included) in a standard policy, how claims are managed, and practical tips to protect yourself both before and after an accident. Understanding Personal Liability Insurance Personal liability insurance is designed to protect you financially if you are found legally responsible for someone’s injury or damage to their property. Typically, this coverage is part of your homeowners or renters insurance policy. If an incident occurs on your property and you’re held responsible, your personal liability insurance can help cover: Medical expenses for the injured person. Legal defense costs if you’re sued. Settlement or judgment amounts awarded to the injured party. Without this coverage, you could face out-of-pocket expenses which could amount to thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the situation. Common Injury Scenarios on Your Property Personal liability coverage may be applicable in situations like: A guest slipping on an icy walkway. A child falling off a swing in your backyard. A delivery driver tripping over a loose step. A neighbor’s fence being damaged by a tree falling from your yard.  Accidents can happen even if precautions are taken, and unfortunately, being "careful" doesn't automatically shield you from legal or medical bills. What’s Not Covered It's crucial to understand that personal liability insurance doesn't cover everything. Most policies exclude: Injuries to you or household members. Intentional acts causing harm. Certain high-risk situations, such as injuries from business activities conducted at home (unless you have separate business liability coverage). Understanding these exclusions can prevent surprises and the frustrations often accompanying a denied claim. What Happens After an Injury on Your Property If someone is injured on your property: Get medical help immediately — the priority should be the person’s safety and well-being. Document the incident — take photos, collect witness statements, and record all details. Notify your insurance company — report the incident promptly, even if unsure whether the injured party will make a claim. Avoid admitting fault — stick to the facts when speaking with the injured person and your insurer. Once a claim is filed, your insurance company will: Investigate the incident. Determine whether your policy covers the claim. Handle negotiations, settlements, or defense in court if necessary. How to Protect Yourself Before an Accident Happens While insurance covers the unexpected, prevention is better than reaction. Reduce your risk by: Keeping walkways clear of ice, snow, and clutter. Repairing loose steps, handrails, and flooring. Properly maintaining landscaping and trees. Providing adequate lighting for entrances and pathways. Regular maintenance not only keeps your property safe but shows responsible behavior if a claim is filed. The Role of Your Insurance Broker An experienced insurance broker can help you: Review your policy to ensure adequate liability coverage limits. Clarify exclusions so you understand what's not covered. Guide you through the claims process if an injury occurs. Suggest umbrella insurance for additional liability protection beyond your standard policy limits. Having a broker means you aren't navigating these situations alone — you'll have someone familiar with your policy advocating for you. The Bottom Line Accidents can occur anywhere to anyone at any time. If someone gets hurt on your property, personal liability insurance can safeguard your finances, cover legal costs, and help manage the situation professionally. The key is understanding how your coverage works before you need it. This involves knowing your policy limits, understanding exclusions, and ensuring you have sufficient protection in place. Additional Resources: Insurance Information Institute – Understanding Liability Coverage NAIC – Consumer’s Guide to Home Insurance