Homeowners should prepare themselves for fright night this weekend, as Trick or Treaters take to the streets for Halloween, resulting in an annual spike in home insurance claims.

The number of claims made as a result of Halloween shenanigans leaves many homeowners wanting to drive a piece of their broken garden fence through the heart of the nearest vampire, with Saga home insurance paying out more than £300,000 in claims resulting from Halloween damage last year.

On average, each house which fell victim to a Trick or Treater’s wrath last year claimed £117 on their Saga home insurance policy, but some had to claim as much as £250 for damage to their home.

In total, Saga home insurance experienced a 97 per cent increase in claims last Halloween, for vandalism caused by mischievous tricksters, and it estimates that 3.6million homeowners are likely to have t heir property damaged in some way this year, so the insurer is urging homeowners to make sure they have adequate home insurance in preparation for the weekend.

More than 1.4 million people in the UK have been the victim of malicious or harmful Halloween trickery, and while home insurance cannot ward off the evil spirits that throw eggs at their walls, knock over garden fences, or break windows, it can help households to recoup their losses.

Among the over 50s, more than 17 per cent draw the curtains and pretend not to be at home on Halloween night in an attempt to avoid it altogether.

Commenting, Andrew Goodsell, executive chairman at Saga Group, said: “Halloween is one of the worst days of the year for vandalism. For most people it will end without incident, but for a few it may be an expensive night. Taking a few simple steps, for example moving garden ornaments out of sight could help reduce the likelihood of vandalism. We would also urge all homeowners to check their home insurance provides adequate cover should vandals strike.

Saga’s over 50s home insurance provides up to £500,000 buildings cover which includes malicious damage and vandalism, and up to £50,00 contents cover as standard.

© Fair Investment Company Ltd

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