Do you love going all out with your holiday display? Whether you’re turning your yard into a haunted attraction or a winter wonderland, this blog is for you!
The Rise of Public Holiday Attractions
Recently, there has been a surge in elaborate holiday displays that are open to the public, often free of charge. While these attractions bring joy to many, they also come with increased risks. Slip and falls are common, and some individuals might use these events to scope out homes for potential burglaries.
Understanding the Risks of Homeowners Insurance Claims
Filing a homeowners insurance claim can have several downsides:
- Loss of Discounts: You may lose your loss-free discount.
- Tier Changes: Your insurance tier could be downgraded from preferred to standard.
- Non-Renewal: There’s a possibility your carrier might not renew your policy.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: You’ll need to pay the deductible.
How to Minimize Your Risk
Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of a holiday display related claim:
- Clear Tripping Hazards: Remove shovels, electrical cords, and clean up leaves.
- Ensure Good Lighting: Provide a well-lit path for your guests.
- Avoid Scares Near Stairs: If you have a haunted maze, don’t scare people near stairs.
- Post House Rules: Use signs to inform visitors of the rules (e.g., stay in roped-off areas, stay on lit paths, enter at your own risk).
- Close Blinds: Keep blinds closed during attraction hours to maintain privacy.
Insurance Coverage for Holiday Displays
The good news is, as long as you’re not charging a fee, your homeowners insurance policy should cover the claims. If an incident occurs, report it to your agent as soon as possible. FBinsure clients can report a claim 24/7 by calling 508-824-8666 and following the prompts for CSR24.
Happy Decorating!
Questions on umbrella insurance for added protection? Contact Paige Souza at (508) 659-8731 or at psouza@fbinsure.com
View this article on LinkedIn: Holiday Display Safety Tips – LinkedIn
Learn more about homeowners insurance FAQ’s here: Homeowners Insurance – FBinsure
