The holidays in Colorado are full of warmth, snow, and celebration. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner in Boulder, a New Year’s party in Colorado Springs, or a multi-day family gathering in a mountain home near Breckenridge, there’s something magical about welcoming people into your space.
But the reality is, more people means more risk. Accidents happen—and your insurance needs to be ready for it. Here’s what to look for in your policy before the guests arrive.
1. Liability Coverage: Your First Line of Defense
If someone gets injured on your property, your homeowners liability coverage kicks in. This is essential during the holidays when you have icy sidewalks, unfamiliar guests, or overexcited kids running around.
Typical homeowners policies offer $100,000 in liability, but that’s not nearly enough if you have significant assets or a serious claim. In Colorado, with rising medical and legal costs, you should have no less than $300,000. And ideally, you have an umbrella policy in place for added protection.
2. Medical Payments Coverage: No-Fault Help
This coverage pays for minor injuries to guests—like a twisted ankle or a small burn from the stove—regardless of fault. It helps you avoid lawsuits and maintain good relationships. Most policies offer $1,000 by default. We recommend bumping it to $5,000 for the holidays.
3. Short-Term Rental Hosting? You’re Not Covered
If you’re renting out part or all of your home through Airbnb, Vrbo, or other platforms over the holidays, your homeowners insurance likely does not cover that activity. You need a short-term rental endorsement or a separate landlord policy.
Don’t assume you’re protected unless your insurer explicitly confirms it in writing.
4. Property Damage and Theft
More foot traffic means more wear and tear—and more opportunity for damage or loss. Think spilled wine on carpets, broken windows, or theft of personal items.
Your homeowners insurance should cover most of this, but claims may be subject to your deductible. It pays to have a current home inventory—photos, receipts, and serial numbers of valuables can streamline the claims process if something goes missing.
5. Fire Risks: Tis the Season
Holiday lights, space heaters, fireplaces, candles, and crowded kitchens all increase the risk of fire. Make sure:
- Smoke detectors are working
- Fire extinguishers are accessible
- Guests know where emergency exits are
If you’re decorating outside, use weather-rated extension cords and check for frayed wires. Fire claims spike in December and January—don’t let your home be one of them.
6. Icy Walkways and Driveways
Colorado winters are beautiful but brutal. Ice and snow are leading causes of holiday liability claims. Clear walkways, salt your driveway, and use caution signs if conditions are bad. If someone slips and falls, you could be held liable.
7. Alcohol and Hosting Liability
If you’re serving alcohol at your party and a guest drives home intoxicated, you could be held responsible under Colorado’s social host laws. It’s rare but real. Encourage rideshare use, offer overnight accommodations, and be prepared to take keys if necessary.
8. Pet Liability
Dogs and other pets can get overwhelmed by new people and noise. Even well-trained animals can snap. If your pet bites or injures a guest, you could face a serious claim. Make sure your policy doesn’t exclude your breed and that your liability limits are high enough.
9. Know Your Deductibles
If damage occurs—say someone breaks a window or ruins your hardwood floors with snow boots—know what your deductible is before filing a claim. You don’t want a $700 repair to trigger a $1,500 deductible and a claim history.
10. Umbrella Insurance: Your Holiday Safety Net
If you don’t already have umbrella insurance, this is a good time to consider it. It adds an extra layer of liability coverage beyond the limits of your home and auto policies. One serious accident can lead to six-figure costs. Umbrella policies are relatively inexpensive and can be life-savers.
Final Tips Before the Guests Arrive
- Review your policy and liability limits
- Make a quick home safety inspection checklist
- Store valuables and personal information out of sight
- Have emergency contacts and procedures on hand
The holidays should be about celebration, not lawsuits or claims. With the right coverage and a few smart precautions, you can welcome family and friends into your home with confidence.
