Holiday Hosting & Homeowners Insurance: Keep the Season Merry and Protected

By Alison James & Associates | Holiday Home Safety | Homeowners Insurance Tips

Welcome the Season — and Your Guests — with Confidence

The holidays bring warmth, laughter, and loved ones together under one roof. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or a weekend stay, it’s important to make sure your home — and your insurance — are ready for the extra activity.

At Alison James & Associates, we believe peace of mind is the best gift you can give yourself this season. Here are a few key ways to keep your celebrations joyful, safe, and properly covered.

🏠 Review Your Liability Coverage Before Hosting

​When guests step into your home, you take on an added layer of responsibility. Accidents happen — from slips on icy steps to spills on new rugs.

✅ What to check:

• Make sure your personal liability coverage is high enough to protect against injuries or property damage.
• Ask your insurance advisor about medical payments coverage, which can help pay for minor injuries without a claim.
• For large gatherings or luxury properties, consider adding an umbrella policy for extended protection.

Pro Tip: Umbrella insurance is an affordable way to boost your coverage by $1 million or more — giving you extra security during the busiest season of the year.

🍷 Hosting with Care: Alcohol Liability Awareness

A glass of wine or holiday cocktail adds cheer to any gathering, but it can also add risk. Under social host liability laws, you could be held responsible if a guest becomes intoxicated and causes harm after leaving your party.

Safety tips for responsible hosting:

• Offer nonalcoholic options like cider or mocktails.
• Arrange ride-sharing options for guests.
• Know your homeowners policy — not all include alcohol-related liability protection.

🔥 Fire Safety Starts Before the First Candle is Lit

​The glow of candles and scent of baked goods make the holidays magical — but they also increase fire hazards.

Simple prevention steps:

• Keep decorations and wrapping paper away from open flames.
• Never leave food unattended while cooking.
• Clean your chimney and test your smoke detectors before entertaining.

Insurance Insight: Confirm your homeowners policy includes replacement cost coverage for your home and belongings in case of a fire or similar loss.

❄️ Winter Weather Prep for a Safer Home

Snow, ice, and freezing temps can create hazards for both guests and your property.

Quick winter prep checklist:

• Clear and salt walkways before guests arrive.
• Place mats near entrances to avoid slippery floors.
• Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and water damage.

Even small leaks can lead to expensive claims. Review your policy’s water damage coverage limits before the next storm hits.

🎁 Protect Your Holiday Gifts and Valuables

The holidays often bring high-value items into your home — jewelry, electronics, collectibles, and more.

Protection tips:

• Store gifts out of sight from windows and doors.
• Keep receipts for new valuables.
• Update your personal property coverage to reflect new purchases.
• For expensive or heirloom items, ask about scheduled personal property coverage for full protection.

✨ Give Yourself the Gift of Peace of Mind

​The holidays are about connection, gratitude, and creating memories. By taking time to review your homeowners insurance, you can focus on what matters most — celebrating safely with the people you love.

At Alison James & Associates, we’re here to help you protect your home, your guests, and your peace of mind.

​🕯️ Ready to Review Your Coverage Before the Holidays?

Contact Alison James & Associates today for a complimentary homeowners insurance checkup. Let’s make sure your home — and your holidays — are fully protected this season.

📞 Call: (917) 554-2202​
🌐 Visit: alisonjassoc.com
📧 Email: [email protected]