Home Insurance Tips to Protect Your Holiday Celebration
Home insurance tips can save your holiday from turning into a disaster. Be prepared like Kevin McAllister with the right coverage before the festivities begin. “Welcome to our home – or what’s left of it,” says Mrs. Griswold wearily, illustrating the chaos that can occur.
Hollywood portrays holiday disasters for laughs, but real-life hazards are no joke. According to recent NFPA data, the U.S. experiences about 1,600 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving alone. In addition, an average of 160 Christmas tree fires annually cause $10–$12 million in direct property damage. These holiday fire risks extend throughout the season.
So, what happens when a dog chases through the dining room or a tree catches fire? Are these events covered by regular home insurance?
Typical Home Insurance Coverage
Understanding a homeowners insurance policy is crucial. It includes six core components: dwelling, other structures, personal property, loss of use, personal liability, and medical payments.
Dwelling coverage protects your home and attached structures, covering damages from fires, lightning, and other perils. Personal property coverage guards your belongings, while personal liability covers accidents involving guests.
Lessons From Hollywood Holiday Mishaps
Home Alone
In “Home Alone,” Kevin McAllister’s pranks cause significant damage. Experts estimate over $11,000 in damages. Neighbourhood burglaries increase insurance risks, highlighting the importance of proper coverage.
Tips To Avoid Holiday Mishaps
Combine these tips with your home insurance for a worry-free holiday season:
- Water your tree: Avoid fires by keeping your tree hydrated.
- Check candles: Prevent fires by extinguishing candles when unattended.
- Inspect lights: Use appropriate lights for indoor and outdoor settings.
- Monitor cooking: Stay near the stove to avoid grease fires.
- Prepare your family: Test smoke alarms and discuss emergency plans.
Do I Need Special Insurance for the Holidays?
Standard insurance typically covers holiday mishaps, but consider an umbrella policy for added protection. Also, remember that certain risks, like sewer backups, require additional endorsements.
The Bottom Line
The holidays blend joy and chaos, but with the right home insurance and precautionary measures, your home can remain safe. Pay attention to policy specifics, including exclusions and endorsements, ensuring you’re protected against Hollywood-style disasters.
About the Authors
Lena Borrelli is a freelance writer for Reviews.com. Over the last year, she has covered insurance, finance, and more. She has been featured in TIME with NextAdvisor, Bankrate, The Simple Dollar, MYMOVE, Million Mile Secrets, Coverage.com and more. My favorite article is “How to Invest in Real Estate During COVID?” on Reviews.com.
