5 Insurance Checkups Every Homeowner Should Do Before The Holidays Hit

The holiday season is a time for full tables, full houses, and full calendars. Between hosting guests, traveling to see family, and decorating your home inside and out, it’s easy to overlook something important, your insurance coverage.

Late November is one of the highest-risk times of year for homeowners. More people in your home, more cooking, more deliveries, and unpredictable weather can all increase the chance of an unexpected claim. A few quick insurance checkups now can help you avoid costly surprises later.

Here are five smart insurance checkups every homeowner should do before the holidays hit.

1. Review Your Home Liability Coverage Before Hosting Guests

Holiday gatherings are wonderful, but they also increase liability risk. Slips on icy walkways, falls on stairs, or accidents involving children or pets can happen quickly.

Check to make sure:

• Your personal liability limits are adequate
• Walkways, steps, and railings are well maintained
• Outdoor lighting is working properly

If you host often or have larger gatherings, this may also be a good time to ask about umbrella insurance, which provides extra liability protection above your standard home and auto policies.

2. Double-Check Fire & Cooking Safety Coverage

Thanksgiving and the weeks that follow are peak times for kitchen fires. Add fireplaces, candles, and holiday décor to the mix, and the risk increases even more.

Before the holiday rush:

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
• Have your chimney inspected if you use a fireplace
• Keep flammable décor away from heat sources

While most homeowners insurance policies cover fire damage, preventing a loss is always better than filing a claim.

3. Confirm Coverage for Holiday Travel

Whether you’re heading across town or across the country, empty homes can become easy targets for theft or damage.

Helpful reminders:

• Put mail and package deliveries on hold or have a neighbor collect them
• Use timers for lights
• Ensure doors, windows, and garages are secure

If you’re traveling with valuables or gifts, ask your insurance advisor whether your homeowners policy or a separate rider is the best way to protect them.

4. Understand What’s Covered if Winter Weather Strikes

Late November often brings the first real taste of winter, and with it, frozen pipes, roof damage, and power outages.

Many homeowners assume all winter damage is automatically covered. In reality, coverage often depends on maintenance and prevention.

It’s wise to:

• Insulate exposed pipes
• Disconnect outdoor hoses
• Know what to do if you lose heat or power

A quick policy review can clarify what’s covered, and what steps you should take to stay protected.

5. Make Sure Your Policy Information Is Easy to Access

If something does go wrong during the holidays, the last thing you want is to search for policy numbers or contact information.

Before the season gets busy:

• Save your insurance agent’s contact info in your phone
• Keep a digital copy of your policy accessible
• Review your claims process so you know what to expect

Being prepared can make a stressful situation much easier to manage.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

The holidays should be about enjoying time with family and friends, not worrying about unexpected insurance issues. A short insurance checkup now can help ensure your home, belongings, and guests are properly protected throughout the season.

If you’re unsure whether your current coverage is enough, the team at KVCW is always here to help review your policies and answer questions, before problems arise.

Because peace of mind is one of the best things you can bring to the table this holiday season.