Spooky Insurance Myths That Refuse to Die

Every Halloween, we expect a few tricks, a few treats, and maybe a plastic skeleton or two. But there’s something even more chilling that tends to pop up this time of year…Insurance myths.
They haunt your inbox. Lurk in your group chats. The posted memes. Whisper spooky not-quite-true things in your neighbor’s driveway while you’re trying to get your mail.

Let’s bust a few of these ghosts, shall we?

MYTH #1: “If I don’t live near the ocean, I don’t need flood insurance.”

TRUTH: FEMA reports that more than 20% of flood claims come from properties outside high-risk zones.
And here in New England?
All it takes is one stalled Nor’easter to turn a calm neighborhood street into a mini river. Flood insurance is a smart conversation even for homeowners in Watertown, Belmont, Arlington, and beyond. (We’re happy to check your address and walk you through it.)

MYTH #2: “If someone slips on my icy steps, it’s not my fault—it’s winter!”

TRUTH: Cold temps don’t cancel liability.
Whether it’s a Halloween visitor, delivery driver, or your neighbor borrowing a rake, you’re still on the hook if someone gets injured on your property. That’s where personal liability coverage in your homeowners policy (and sometimes an umbrella policy) becomes key. Make sure your limits are up to date before the frost hits.

MYTH #3: “My auto insurance covers stolen stuff from my car.”

TRUTH: Not exactly.
If someone breaks into your car and swipes your laptop or designer bag, your auto policy typically won’t cover those items. They may fall under your homeowners or renters policy instead—minus the deductible. (Still annoying, but better than nothing.)
Moral of the story: lock your doors and don’t leave valuables visible, especially this time of year when people get a little bolder in the dark.

MYTH #4: “I’m just renting—I don’t need insurance.”

TRUTH: Renters insurance is one of the cheapest and smartest coverages you can carry.
It protects your stuff, covers your liability if something goes wrong in your unit, and even helps with hotel costs if your apartment becomes unlivable (fire, flood, etc.). For the cost of one pumpkin spice latte a month, you can have serious peace of mind.

MYTH #5: “Insurance rates are set in stone—I can’t do anything about it.”

TRUTH: Not true!
We shop around with multiple carriers, update your profile, and offer options that can bring premiums down. Sometimes bundling home and auto, revisiting deductibles, or improving property security (hello, doorbell cameras) can help. The biggest mistake? Not asking. We’re here to help.

Don’t Let the Myths Win

The only thing scarier than a haunted house is being underinsured when something real happens.
Whether it’s your condo, your car, your small business, or your investment property, we’ll help make sure you’ve got the right coverage—no tricks, just truth.

Give us a call, stop by, or send us a message. We’re always happy to walk you through a free review. And hey, if you show up in costume, Curtis might even throw in a candy bar.

Happy Halloween from all of us at J.M. Whitney Insurance & Real Estate!
🎃🕯️👻🧹🕸️

Taking Action Ahead of Time is Smart

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