December 5, 2025
The holiday season brings lights, decorations, family gatherings, and plenty of festive cheer — but it also brings an increase in accidents, property damage, and unexpected risks. As you pull out your string lights and inflate your yard décor, you may be wondering: Does homeowners insurance cover holiday decorations and holiday-related accidents?Let’s break it down so you can enjoy the season with confidence.
Are Holiday Decorations Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
In many cases, homeowners insurance does cover damage to holiday decorations, but the type of coverage depends on how the damage occurs. Your personal property coverage typically protects decorations like lights, inflatables, ornaments, and artificial trees if they’re damaged by covered perils such as fire, theft, vandalism, or certain weather events.
For example:
- If a storm knocks over your outdoor holiday inflatables, your policy may provide protection.
- If a fire caused by faulty wiring damages your decorations, you may be able to file a claim.
- If someone steals your outdoor decorations, theft coverage can help replace them.
However, general wear and tear or accidental breakage (like dropping an ornament) are typically not covered.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Holiday Lighting or Electrical Fires?
Holiday lights are a common cause of seasonal insurance claims, especially when overloaded outlets or old wiring are involved. If a fire starts due to faulty lights or electrical issues, your dwelling coverage and personal property coverage generally provide protection for the resulting damage.
This makes it crucial to inspect light strings, avoid overloading circuits, and use outdoor-rated extension cords to reduce risk.
What About Accidents During Holiday Gatherings?
If you’re hosting friends and family this season, your liability coverage comes into play. Homeowners insurance may help cover medical expenses or legal costs if a guest is injured on your property.
Examples include:
- Someone slipping on your icy walkway
- A guest tripping over extension cords
- A child getting injured while playing near decorations
Liability coverage protects you if you’re found responsible for the accident, which is why safe property maintenance is essential during the holidays.
Are Outdoor Decorations Covered If They Cause Damage?
If a heavy holiday decoration damages your home — for example, a large inflatable detaches in high winds and hits a window — your homeowners insurance may help cover repairs. This falls under dwelling protection if the damage is caused by a covered peril.
Tips to Stay Safe and Reduce Holiday Insurance Risks
- Use timers and surge protectors for outdoor and indoor lights
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets
- Keep real trees watered to reduce fire hazards
- Secure inflatables and outdoor décor properly
- Clear walkways and steps before guests arrive
Final Thoughts
Holiday decorations bring joy, but they also bring risks that can lead to costly damage or injuries. The good news is that homeowners insurance often covers holiday decorations and accidents, depending on the situation and your specific policy.
If you’re unsure what your current policy includes or want to review your coverage before the holiday season, Secured Insurance Group is here to help you protect your home, your belongings, and your family all year long.
