Protect your home against mischief this Halloween

As we enter spooky season, Aviva is urging residents to be vigilant as data shows that claims for malicious damage and theft increase in the months of October and November. 

The data – which analysed home claims from 2021-2024 – reveals that claims for malicious damage increase by just under a fifth (19%) during October and November. Theft claims also increase by a quarter (25%) during the same months. 

According to the data, the average claim for malicious damage is £3,137, while theft claims are significantly higher at £6,272, on average.² 

Examples of malicious damage claims during Halloween include damage to doors caused by disgruntled trick-or-treaters, broken windows from someone throwing corn on the cob, and stained front doors due to thrown eggs.

Hannah Davidson, Senior Underwriting Manager at Aviva, said: “While some of us look forward to the festivities that come with the darker months – such as Halloween - our data shows that malicious damage and theft tends to increase during this time. In some cases, these incidents stem from minor pranks that have gone too far. However, in other scenarios, we see more serious acts of vandalism and break-ins to homes, resulting in thousands of pounds worth of damage and stolen items.

“Thieves tend to be opportunistic, so if you’re heading out or will be away from home for a longer period, be sure to lock all your windows and doors and leave a light on. Keep valuables out of sight, and if you can, shut all your curtains and blinds to keep your possessions hidden from prying eyes. Just five minutes of preparation could help to protect your homes and belongings. 

“With the clocks going back, we encourage residents to stay vigilant. If you witness or experience any vandalism or attempted theft, report it to the police and your insurance provider as soon as possible.”

Aviva’s top tips for protecting homes during the darker months include:

• Secure all windows and doors: Most theft is opportunistic, so take five minutes to check all windows, doors and gates – the same goes for any outbuildings too. According to Aviva data, 9% of UK adults do not take measures to protect their shed or outbuilding – equivalent to around five million Brits.³
• Leave a light on: Thieves are more likely to target homes that look empty, so if you’re heading out for the evening, leave a light on to give the impression you’re still at home.
• Think about where you store possessions: If you can, try to store items in a safe place when not in use. Homes that visibly contain valuables are also more attractive to burglars, so it’s wise to close curtains and blinds, keeping your belongings out of sight from anyone passing by.
• Use candles carefully: To keep your celebrations safe, swap real candles for battery-powered LED lights or torches when lighting up pumpkins. This simple switch helps prevent accidental fires - especially important around flammable costumes.
• If you do choose to use real candles:
  • Never leave them burning unattended, especially inside your home.
  • Place pumpkins on sturdy, non-flammable surfaces, well away from decorations and walkways.
  • Keep a close eye on children and pets to avoid any mishaps.
• Tidy up outside: Don’t leave wheelie bins or flammable items where vandals might be tempted. Mischief often starts with opportunity, so keep your surroundings clear.
• Rely on your community: If you're away, ask a trusted neighbour or friend to keep an eye on your property. 

- Ends – 

_{1 Aviva home claims data from 2021- 2024. Theft claims refer to instances of ‘forcible theft’.} 

_{2 Averages taken from Aviva home claims data in 2024.} 

_{3 The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2024 UK Respondents (Nat Rep 16+), 1,500 of which said they have a shed/outbuilding. The data was collected between 25.04.2025 - 29.04.2025.}