Between 2013 and 2017, fire departments responded to an average of 160 fires each year caused by Christmas trees, resulting in approximately $10 million in property damage, and about 800 responses to fires, caused by holiday decorations other than trees, according to the National Fire Protection Association. But there are other types of accidents and hazards that also contribute to injury and damage during the holidays, such as cooking fires, increased traffic accidents, fireworks related incidents, and this year, we have COVID-19 to content with. But with a good homeowners' policy you can avoid risks and your family and property can be protected during the holidays.
According to the professionals at J.P. Perry Insurance, a standard homeowner's policy will cover most potential holiday accidents. They include...
Dwelling coverage - Your living space and attached structures (garages, carports, etc.) are covered for damages caused by explosions, fires, vandalism and other mishaps.
Personal property - Your home contents, including appliances, clothing, electronics and furniture are covered.
Personal liability - This coverage applies to mishaps where the homeowner is at fault for injuries or property damage, including bodily injuries or property damage suffered by someone outside your household while on your property.
Additional living expenses - The policy will help pay for your living expenses if an accident, such as a fire, requires you to temporarily move to another house or apartment.
Medical payments - This coverage pays for immediate medical expenses of an injured guest.
If you plan on doing more extensive holiday decorating or entertaining, it would be a good idea to have your J.P. Perry agent review your current policy to make sure you are covered. There are a few areas that may require additional coverage. Some examples include...
Theft - If you have property stolen that is worth more than your deductible, your policy should cover the loss. But personal property insurance may not cover expensive items. Particularly if you have very expensive gifts, such as jewelry, you may want to consider a separate jewelry policy.
Injuries and property damage- Personal liability coverage typically starts around $100,000. But if you have more elaborate holiday plans, your risks may increase and your liability policy may not be adequate.
Fires - This is the number one hazard during the holidays. So again you may want to review your dwelling coverage is see if it is sufficient for your holiday plans.
Late November, early December is always a good time to have a J.P. Perry professional review your homeowners' policy, not just for the holidays, but for complete coverage throughout the new year.