Why October?
Most people think of insurance reviews only when something big changes a move, a new car, a major renovation. But October offers a strategic advantage.
You’re ahead of the heavy holiday season when risk can increase: more travel, more guests, perhaps more valuables. You’re also in a moment when seasonal shifts begin (earlier darkness, slick roads, seasonal maintenance issues) which can shift your risk profile. For example, an insurance company says it’s a good idea to review your coverage at least once a year to ensure your possessions and vehicles are appropriately protected. (Travelers)
Premiums and policy terms are evolving quickly. Home-insurance costs are rising, and auto-insurance underwriting is adjusting for new driving patterns. (Investopedia)
In short: you’re not reacting to something that’s already happened — you’re preparing. That means fewer surprises, better coverage decisions, and a stronger peace of mind.
Home Insurance: What to review now
Let’s talk about home coverage first because your home is one of your biggest investments, and often the story people don’t think about until it’s too late.
- Coverage limits & endorsements
If you’ve made upgrades (new roof, finished basement, smart home system), or if you’ve added high-value items (jewelry, fine art, electronics), your policy may not reflect those changes. Many homeowners found that their coverage limits were outdated especially as replacement costs climbed. (MoneyWeek)
Ask: Does my dwelling limit reflect the current rebuild cost? Are my valuable items scheduled or covered properly? - Risk mitigation & seasonal maintenance
Autumn invites leaves, early storms, and holiday décor wiring. Checking your roof, gutters, HVAC and electrical systems now can reduce claim-likelihood. Preventive maintenance isn’t just good practice some insurers consider it when underwriting.
Also: Gradual damage (like water leaks) often isn’t covered. Make sure you don’t overlook maintenance issues. (Kiplinger) - Policy terms & how things are changing
Policies evolve. Deductibles may go up, exclusions may change, and insurers may weigh risk differently. A review can identify if your policy “fine print” now has gaps. (MoneyWeek)
Don’t assume your policy is the same as last year. - Bundling and auto alignment
If you carry both home and auto through the same agent or company, reviewing both at once often yields advantages, discounts, coverage alignment, streamlined renewals. Bundling can also trigger savings. (Investopedia) - Future-proofing for guests / travel / vacancy
Will you host family during the holidays? Will your home be unoccupied for periods? These scenarios may require liability or vacancy endorsements you might not currently have. October is when many begin winter-travel preparations.
Auto Insurance: The seasonal checkpoint
Now shift your focus to your vehicle and driving habits. Often overlooked until something happens but October is ideal.
- Renewal timing & rate review
If your auto policy is up for renewal soon, now is a smart time to review your options. Many policies renew in fall, and reviewing ahead gives you time to compare. (grangeinsurance.com) - Driving conditions are shifting
With days getting shorter, leaves falling (creating slick surfaces), and perhaps the first frost or early winter-weather risks in some regions, your driving conditions are changing. If your auto insurer doesn’t have updated info on your usage or your vehicle, your risk profile may have shifted. - Usage changes and mileage
Are you driving more for holiday errands? Less because you now work remotely? If your usage changes, so might your rate or the type of coverage you need. Some insurers offer usage-based plans or discounts if you drive fewer miles. - Vehicle and personal changes
Did you buy a new car this year? Add a teen driver? Stop using one vehicle? Move to a new city or neighborhood? All these affect your auto policy. A change in driver, address or vehicle age may change your rate and coverage needs. - Emergency preparedness
Ensure you have roadside assistance, understand your deductible and claim process, and that your coverage is sufficient for winter hazards (if applicable). If something happens on a slick November or December night, you want to know your coverage is strong.
Actionable checklist for October
Here’s a simple checklist you can follow this month:
- Pull your current home and auto policy documents.
- Note renewal dates, coverage limits, deductible amounts.
- List any major changes in the last 12 months (home improvements, new car, usage changes).
- Inspect your home’s exterior, roof, gutters, HVAC schedule maintenance if needed.
- Review your auto usage: commute, leisure, seasonal travel.
- Ask your agent/broker: Has anything changed in policy terms, deductibles, coverage structures?
- Compare bundling options for home + auto and ask for a discount impact.
- Review your premium: Is this still the best value for what you need?
- Set reminders for enrollment, renewals or upcoming coverage decisions in Q4.
This checklist can serve as your personal roadmap and when you pair it with guidance from Bates Hewett & Floyd, you’re leveraging expertise as well as timing.
Why work with Bates Hewett & Floyd?
Insurance is more than a policy, it’s a strategic tool. At Bates Hewett & Floyd, we don’t just sell home or auto insurance; we partner with homeowners and drivers to help them understand risk, anticipate change, and make confident choices.
Our local market insight (especially in Florida and surrounding regions) means we know what surprises may come from weather events to regional coverage gaps. We guide clients through the review process, explain endorsements, and help structure coverage that fits both life and budget.
In October, when you have the luxury of time, we’re here to help you turn that time into an advantage.
October isn’t just a transitional month, it’s a strategic moment for insurance review. By proactively reviewing your home and auto insurance now, you position yourself ahead of the risks that can accompany holidays, weather shifts, and year-end changes.
Choose to be prepared, informed and supported. Reach out to Bates Hewett & Floyd for a review, talk through your questions, and come into the final months of the year with coverage that actually works for you. Because when change is in the air, you want insurance that’s already adjusted not reacting.