Aviva warns of nearly 20% spike in malicious damage claims ahead of Halloween

Aviva has urged residents to be vigilant as data revealed that claims for malicious damage and theft increase in the months of October and November.

According to Aviva home claims data between 2021 and 2024, claims for malicious damage increase by just under a fifth (19%) during October and November.

Meanwhile, theft claims also increase by a quarter (25%) during the same months.

The survey also revealed that the average claim for malicious damage is £3,137, while theft claims stand at £6,272 on average.

Examples of malicious damage claims during Halloween include damage to doors caused by trick-or-treaters, broken windows 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.”

How to protect yourself

Aviva has urged that over the winter months residents secure windows and doors, leave lights on after leaving the property to deter thieves and tidy up outside to reduce vandalism threat.

Davidson added: “Thieves tend to be opportunistic.

“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.”