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When Halloween Turns into Your Very Own Horror Movie
Spooky season is upon us! Soon, the streets will be littered with goblins, ghosts, and Superman(s). As they say, it’s all fun and games…until Aladdin knocks over your jack-o-lantern and sets your front porch on fire.
So, what happens if this Halloween brings you and your home more tricks than treats? Luckily, some homeowners’ insurance policies cover several of the most common Halloween horrors!
Check out 5 Halloween nightmares that could be covered by your home insurance policy and how to prepare against these instances in advance. While you’re reading, remember not all policies are created equally! Always be sure to check yours before filing a claim.
Candles or Holiday Lights Catch Fire
When the string lights and candles you used to create a spooky ambiance accidentally set the place on fire, you may be covered unless the fire resulted from negligence.
How to prepare: Refrain from using candles in your pumpkins or as decorations. Use battery-operated lights if possible. If you use candles in your jack-o-lanterns or as decorations, ensure they are displayed in a safe space away from foot traffic, leaves, and grass.
A Trick-or-Treater Gets Hurt on Your Property
Did the Little Mermaid take a tumble in your driveway? Most likely, you’re covered. However, it is important to make sure that walkways are paths are clear of hazards on Beggar’s night. Remember that most policies will only cover accidental injury. If your little princess eats too much candy and kicks the astronaut next door, you may still be held liable.
How to prepare: Check your property. Check for items sticking out of the ground, holes in your yard, cracks in pavement, cords, and low-hanging tree limbs. If you’re using extension cords for decorations, make sure they’re out of the way so no one trips.
Your Pup Bites a Neighbor or Trick-Or-Treater
Even the best-behaved dogs can get over-excited or frightened on Halloween. All these guests showing up at your door, often dressed in flashy costumes? Your dog’s first instinct may be to protect or to play. Luckily dog bites are often covered by your policy, but there may be restrictions based on your insurer or location.
How to prepare: Keep your pet inside and in a room away from the entryway.
Pranksters Vandalize Your Home
Most policies will cover vandalism in the form of Halloween mischief when the cost of the repair exceeds a certain amount, given the home is currently being resided in.
How to prepare: Keep your porch lights on, park your car in the garage, install motion-sensor cameras/lights, and sit outside during Trick-or-Treat. These preparations can also deter thefts.
Treats Given Out is an Allergen
Although your homeowner’s insurance can cover a wide variety of incidents that take place on your property, food-related ones may not be covered. You could be liable for allergic reactions if you give out homemade treats. Stay away from homemade treats because if something happens, you can show the candy you bought and not be held liable as an individual.
How to prepare: Stick to store-bought candy and check the labels for ingredients if you want to stay away from big allergens like peanuts.
We hope this Halloween brings you and your family nothing but festive fun, but should you find yourself in need of some insurance expertise, we can help! Consult carefully with your policy or check out our partnered insurance company, HHS Insurance Company, for more information: https://hhs-insurance.com/home-insurance.
Sources:
Universal Property – Avoid Halloween Home Insurance Claims with These Tricks
Realtor.com – Are Homeowners Liable for Injury to Trick-or-Treaters?
