Tamzin Metcalfe, Managing Editor for home insurance at Go.Compare, warns that Halloween decorations can create risks for your home and belongings:
"From candlelit pumpkins to trailing extension cords for decorations, small oversights can lead to fire, damage or injury. With trick-or-treaters at the door, clear paths, secure displays and well-lit entrances are important - but it’s also important to check your policy documents to see what’s covered."
While Halloween celebrations don’t usually require additional insurance, they can bring risks to your home and belongings. Homeowners, landlords and tenants should check what their policy does and doesn’t cover.
Halloween home safety checks
Power outdoor lights safely - Never trail wires through open or unlatched windows to plug in outdoor displays. An open window can compromise your home security and void your insurance, while a window crushed down on a cable creates a serious electrical fire hazard. Use outdoor-rated sockets or battery powered lights instead
Swap real flames for LEDs - Keep open candles far away from flammable curtains and costumes, or switch to safer, battery-powered LED alternatives
Clear walkways and secure displays - Prevent trip hazards for trick-or-treaters by keeping paths clear and well-lit. Make sure heavy outdoor decorations are fastened securely so they don't blow away in strong winds
Protect against opportunistic thieves - A steady stream of visitors at the front door can be distracting. Keep car keys, wallets, and valuables well out of sight from the entrance, and keep side gates and back doors locked
Does your insurance cover Halloween hazards?
Many people assume their policy will automatically pay out if something goes wrong, but claims often depend on whether responsible precautions were taken - like making sure doors and windows were properly secured.
Whether you are a homeowner, landlord, or tenant, take a moment to review your policy. Make sure your cover accurately reflects your property and contents, and make sure your excess is set at an affordable level before you ever need to make a claim.
Before renewing your home cover, shop around to compare prices, carefully consider the excess, and make sure to add on any optional extras that are useful to you.
Tamzin says: "Halloween should be full of spooky surprises - not costly ones! A few dead-simple precautions will keep fires, trip hazards, and tricksters at bay. It’s also worth giving your home insurance policy a quick once-over, so an unexpected mishap doesn’t come back to haunt your bank balance."
Don't let a Halloween disaster turn your celebrations into a nightmare. Pair a few basic safety tricks with the right home insurance treats, and enjoy your celebrations with peace of mind.
To find out more about home insurance, visit Go.Compare page.
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