UK households are being urged to switch on outdoor lights around their property on Saturday, October 31, for Halloween, as insurance data shows a seasonal rise in theft and malicious damage claims.
According to research by insurance company Aviva, claims for malicious damage increase by 19% in October and November, while theft claims increase by a quarter (25%) in the same period. Malicious damage claims during Halloween have included damage to doors caused by disgruntled trick-or-treaters, broken windows and stained front doors from thrown eggs.
Seasonal surge in burglaries
Home insurance claim data between 2022 and 2025 also found a seasonal surge in burglaries, with jewellery-related claims in the week spanning Halloween rising 25% compared to the surrounding eight weeks.
As such, households are urged to take extra precautions to protect their property and their possessions in the darker months, particularly around events like Halloween, including switching outdoor lights on.
Simple steps to deter thieves
Hannah Davidson, underwriting lead, home and lifestyle insurance at Aviva, said: "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."
If you are out or away from your home, using timed lighting outside your home, as well as leaving an interior light on, can help avoid signalling an empty property and give the impression that someone is home, helping to deter potential damage and theft on Halloween.
Motion-activated lights recommended
Experts also recommend keeping paths and doorways clear and visible to avoid any hiding spots, and to consider using motion-activated security lights to deter potential intruders.
In its online advice, DNA Security said: "Motion sensor lighting is a highly effective deterrent for thieves. Having lights which activate when motion is detected won’t just alert you of a presence on your premises after the evening spell of trick-or-treating, but it can also help to prevent devious behaviour from commencing."
Placing these lights outside any entrance points to your home, including the outside of a garage or down the side path, will allow you to remain aware of any movement around your home.
Additionally, some local police forces provide downloadable window posters for households that don’t want to welcome trick or treaters, which can help to prevent any unwanted visitors.
In its advice on securing your home on Halloween, security systems services company Arlo Technologies said: "One of the simplest yet most effective ways to secure your home is through adequate outdoor lighting. Well-lit properties deter unwanted visitors and vandals. Consider using motion-activated security lights around the perimeter of your property. These lights will startle potential intruders and be a welcome help to the visitors you are expecting. They will also alert you to the presence of people on your property."
