What Are Common Halloween Home Insurance Claims?

Halloween is officially the highest time of year for burglary and vandalism home insurance claims — and property damage claims in Houston increase 10% to 15% during late October and early November. Here is a complete breakdown of the claims Texas homeowners face most often.

Vandalism: The #1 Halloween Insurance Event

Halloween is the highest time of year for burglary and vandalism home insurance claims. Vandalism claims increase by about 19% during Halloween — and in 2020 that spike reached 81%. Common incidents include egged houses, smashed pumpkins, broken windows, spray-painted vehicles, and toilet-papered properties. Standard Texas homeowners insurance covers vandalism and malicious mischief — but your deductible applies, meaning small acts of mischief may not generate a payable claim.

Fire Damage: The Most Costly Halloween Claim

American homeowners experienced $18 million in property damage per year from holiday decorations catching fire between 2020 and 2024. Fires caused by decorations placed too close to heat sources account for 44% of Halloween-related fires. Candles inside jack-o’-lanterns, overloaded extension cords, and flammable decorations near open flames are the primary ignition sources. Standard homeowners fire coverage responds to these losses — but the claim can generate significant premium impact if you have multiple prior claims.

Theft: Decorations and Personal Property

60% of crime-related claims on Halloween are from on-premises thefts. Expensive animatronic displays, inflatable decorations, bikes, scooters, and holiday décor are prime targets. Personal property coverage under your homeowners policy covers theft of outdoor decorations even when they are not inside your home — subject to your deductible and any applicable sublimits.

Slip-and-Fall Liability Claims

With dozens of trick-or-treaters cycling through a Texas yard in a single evening, slip-and-fall liability claims are among the most frequent Halloween insurance events. Slips, trips, and falls are among the most obvious Halloween liability exposures — generated by extension cords, fog machine hoses, uneven walkways, and dim lighting. The personal liability portion of your homeowners policy covers medical expenses and legal fees if a visitor is injured on your property.

Dog Bite Claims

Halloween creates the perfect storm for dog bite incidents — unfamiliar visitors, unusual costumes, and heightened noise levels all elevate canine anxiety and aggression. If your dog bites a trick-or-treater, your homeowners liability coverage responds to the resulting medical bills and any lawsuit. Contact the Texas Department of Insurance with any Halloween claim questions.