At Merit Insurance, we know Halloween is full of treats, costumes, and creative decorations, but sometimes the tricks can cause more than a fright. Between busy doorsteps, flickering candles, and extra visitors, a lot can happen on Halloween night that might leave you wondering: Would my home insurance cover this?

Let’s take a look at a few common Halloween mishaps and what your home insurance might do to help.

1. Slips, Trips, and Falls
Trick-or-treating means plenty of visitors on your property and sometimes that can lead to accidents. If a child or adult is injured while on your property, your personal liability coverage may help cover medical expenses or legal costs. To help prevent these claims, keep pathways clear, secure loose cords, and make sure your porch and steps are well-lit.

2. Property Damage
Halloween decorations bring out creativity but also some risks. If your home or yard is damaged by vandals (for example, egged walls or broken windows), most home insurance policies cover vandalism and malicious mischief. Just remember to document any damage and file a claim promptly if needed.
Pro tip: Keep your property well-lit and consider motion sensor lights or security cameras to deter mischief-makers.

3. Fire from Decorations or Candles
Jack-o’-lanterns and string lights set the Halloween mood, but they also raise fire hazards. If a fire damages your home or belongings, your home insurance’s fire coverage would typically apply. Opt for battery-operated candles and check that your extension cords and light strings are in good condition to reduce the risk of an accident before the night begins.

4. Pet Scares
Even the friendliest pets can get startled by costumes or constant doorbell ringing. If your pet injures a guest or another animal, liability coverage may come into play, depending on your policy and the circumstances. Consider keeping pets in a quiet, separate room during trick-or-treat hours to avoid stress and surprises.

5. Stolen Decorations or Property
Unfortunately, theft can spike around Halloween. Whether it’s a missing inflatable ghost or stolen packages left at your door, home insurance may help replace stolen outdoor items, depending on your coverage and deductible. To prevent theft, bring in smaller decorations at night, keep valuables out of sight, and lock up when you head out for festivities.

A Safe and Spooky Night

Most Halloween mishaps are minor, but it’s always better to know where your coverage stands before the unexpected happens. If you’re unsure how your home insurance applies to certain scenarios, or whether your coverage is up to date, your Merit broker is here to help.

Enjoy the fun, stay safe, and keep those scares limited to the costumes, not your insurance claims!