Trick or treat? Jewellery-loss claims jump 25% during Halloween week

New data from Aviva reveals that jewellery claims are 25% higher around Halloween, with accidental loss the biggest cause.

Analysis of Aviva’s home insurance claims between 2022-2025 found a spooky seasonal surge in jewellery-related claims in the week spanning Halloween, with claims rising 25% compared to the surrounding eight weeks. Accidental loss – when items have been lost rather than stolen – is the biggest reason behind the claims, suggesting that people may be carrying or wearing valuable items when they’re out and about. The data also shows this is a short-lived peak in late October and early November, with claims at usual levels in the weeks before and after. 

The data also reveals a host of Halloween-related claims, from burglaries while families were out trick or treating to party-related damage. The average spooky claim costs £1,113, with the most expensive claim – for burglary – reaching over £30,000. 

Other examples of Halloween mishaps include:

• A fancy dress disaster when make-up was spilled onto a sofa while a partygoer got ready for Halloween 
• A smashed pumpkin leaking onto a laminate floor and wall  
• A candle-lit pumpkin igniting outdoor decorations 
• Doorstep surprises, including egging and pumpkin-related damage 

Hannah Davidson, underwriting lead, home and lifestyle insurance at Aviva, said: “Our data shows that jewellery claims are hauntingly common around Halloween, acting as a reminder for homeowners to protect their homes and treat their valuables with care. 

“To help avoid any mishaps, homeowners should check their insurance cover, especially if they’re wearing or carrying more valuable items, such as watches or jewellery. It’s best to leave these items at home, but if you’re taking valuables out and about, you may wish to consider purchasing personal belongings cover, which is usually an optional add-on that provides cover anywhere in the world. 

“While most claims relate to accidental loss of jewellery, sadly the data shows that trick or treaters aren’t the only ones out and about during the spooky season. Thieves can take advantage of dark, busy nights, so it’s worth taking simple steps, such as leaving lights on and closing doors and windows, to make sure your home looks occupied.” 

Aviva’s tips for avoiding a nightmare this Halloween:

• Avoid a trick this Halloween – if you’re out or away from home, avoid signalling an empty property. Use timed lighting and make sure you lock all doors and windows. If you’re going away, maintain regular gardening, and arrange for post to be collected to give the impression the home is occupied. 
• Protect against Halloween mishaps – review and update your insurance cover. Ensure your policy accurately reflects the current value of your home and possessions and have regular valuations for more expensive items. 
• Treat your valuables with care – consider adding personal belongings cover to your home insurance for items you and your family take out and about – such as smartphones, handbags, or jewellery. Check your policy's single article limit, as any item worth more than this will need to be listed separately.  
• Keep your Halloween plans off the radar – avoid sharing party or travel plans on social media as this can inadvertently signal that your property is unoccupied. Equally, you may receive unexpected party guests so keep plans private and only share with people you know. 
• Secure outbuildings and entrances – these can be common access points to homes so keep them locked, especially if you are going out. 

-ends- 

References

_{1. Analysis of Aviva home insurance claims in 2022-2025, comparing claims notified from 28 October to 3 November with the same weekdays in the four weeks before and after. [↑]}

Enquiries

Liz Kennett

+44 (0) 7800 692 675

liz.kennett@aviva.com 

Sid Varma 

+44 (0) 7385 018 944

sid.varma@aviva.com