The holiday season is a time for celebrations, visitors, and well-deserved rest. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the busiest times of the year for homeowners’ insurance claims. From kitchen accidents to weather-related damage, December and early January bring unique risks that can interrupt your festivities and lead to costly repairs. Understanding the most common holiday claims— and knowing how to prevent them —can help keep your Florida home safe, happy – and claim-free.
- Fire Damage from Holiday Lights, Candles, and Cooking: Fire-related claims spike dramatically during Christmas and New Year’s. In Florida, the biggest culprits are overloaded light strands and decorative candles.How to stay safe:
- Inspect light strings for frayed wires and use only UL-listed indoor/outdoor lights as intended.
- Never leave candles burning when you leave a room—consider battery-powered alternatives.
- Most holiday home fires start in the kitchen. Stay in the kitchen when cooking, and keep flammable items away from the stove.
- If frying, roasting, or using multiple burners, set a timer or ask a family member to help keep watch
- Water Damage from Burst Pipes or Leaks: Even though Florida rarely freezes, cold snaps do happen—and pipes that aren’t insulated can burst. Guests and holiday activity can also put extra strain on plumbing, leading to unexpected leaks.How to stay safe:
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- Insulate exposed pipes, especially in older homes, garages, and outdoor utility areas.
- Know where your main water shutoff valve is located.
- Check under sinks and around the water heater for drips before holiday guests arrive.
- If you’re traveling, keep the heat on at least 65°F and shut off water to washing machines or outdoor faucets.
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- Theft and Package Stealing: With deliveries arriving almost daily during the holidays, package theft is among the most frequently reported losses. Increased travel also leaves many homes temporarily unoccupied, making them attractive targets for burglars. How to stay safe:
- Install a video doorbell or ask packages to be delivered to an Amazon Locker or workplace.
- Avoid leaving boxes and high-value packaging (like TVs or electronics) visible at the curb.
- Use timers for indoor lights when traveling – or ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on the house.
- Double-check that windows, sliders, and the garage door are locked.
- Slip-and-Fall Liability Claims: Holiday parties and gatherings mean more foot traffic, and accidents happen. Guests can slip on wet floors, trip on decorations, or get injured on outdoor steps or driveways. In Florida, wet weather and morning dew can also make walkways slick. How to stay safe:
- Keep walkways, steps, and driveways well-lit and clear.
- Clean up spills immediately and secure loose rugs.
- If hosting a party, ensure decorations are not obstructing high-traffic areas.
- Remind guests to watch their step near pools or patios, where surfaces can be slippery.
- Electrical and Appliance Failures: Holiday cooking, entertainment systems, lights, and space heaters can overload outlets or cause electrical surges. Appliance-related claims tend to rise as homes work overtime during the holidays. How to stay safe:
- Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords or running multiple high-load appliances on the same circuit.
- Unplug holiday décor when you go to bed or leave the home.
- Use surge protectors for TVs and electronics.
- Have older electrical systems inspected periodically, especially in homes more than 30 years old.
Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season – with No Claims!
By taking a few simple precautions, Florida homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of the most common Christmas and New Year’s insurance claims. Staying attentive, keeping your home well-maintained, and using smart safety habits will help ensure your holidays remain festive rather than costly.
If you want help reviewing your homeowner’s policy before the season starts, Anderson & Associates Insurance Group can walk you through your coverages and make sure you’re fully protected. Enjoy your celebrations—and stay safe!
