Halloween home insurance claims: 5 surprise hazards and how to avoid them
From trick or treaters to Halloween parties, Australian households are gearing up for the spookiest time of the year.
But behind all the fun, Halloween can quickly turn any property into a haunted house.
No matter how you're intending on spending Halloween this year, we've rounded up some ghoulishly common Halloween mishaps and what you can do to keep your home (and policy) in the clear.
Trip or treat
Decorations, extension cords and poor lighting can quickly spoil trick or treat fun. And if someone injures themselves on your property, you could face a liability claim. If you are expecting trick or treaters on Halloween night, ensure you do a quick sweep of your property to ensure there's a clear, well-lit path.
Frightful fires
If you are planning on going traditional by placing candles in Jack-o'-lanterns, it may be worth tweaking your approach to prevent fire hazards. Fires from decorations can cause costly home damage, and your insurer may ask whether you followed fire-safety guidelines. Using flameless LED candles can give you the same spooky effect. If you're using lights, check for frayed wires or ditch damaged decorations altogether.
Decoration disasters
While this isn't a home insurance risk, any cars on your property can also fall victim to damage. Heavy props, inflatables or hanging decorations can be risky during heavy winds. Double check larger, hanging decor pieces are securely anchored down or avoid displaying them near cars.
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Costume criminals
Halloween is the night where some pranksters take things too far. Vandalism, theft and malicious acts can be more prevalent during All Hallows' Eve, which can mean having to make a claim. Keep your house well lit and hold onto any receipts for high-cost décor or electronics.
Pet panic
Between constant doorbell rings, strange faces and ongoing noise, pets can become easily overwhelmed. Dog bites or scratches are another liability issue, but exclusions differ between insurers. Consider keeping pets indoors or in a quiet room away from the front door to avoid confrontation.
Chocolate is another risk for dog owners, which can lead to an emergency vet visit (and a hefty bill). Pet Insurance Australia spokesperson, Nadia Crighton reminds pet owners to keep treats out of reach and to have a chat with children about the dangers of sharing with furry friends to avoid a claim.
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