Halloween Pranks and Homeowners Insurance: What's Covered and When to File a Claim

Rising costs for eggs, toilet paper, and shaving cream are leading to fewer Halloween pranks, which is welcome news for homeowners concerned about property damage. While standard homeowners insurance policies typically cover vandalism, filing a claim is often not financially advisable due to deductibles. Understanding your coverage and taking proactive steps to protect your property are the most effective ways to prepare for Halloween.

Why Are Halloween Pranks Becoming Less Common?

The tradition of "trick-or-treat" often involves minor vandalism, but the affordability of these pranks has diminished. Key supplies have seen significant price increases, making them less accessible. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the cost of eggs remains volatile, and major brands like Charmin announced price hikes in 2025. Similarly, the cost of personal care items, including shaving cream, increased by 3.5% for the 12 months ending September 2025. This economic pressure reduces the likelihood of pranks, lowering the risk of damage to homes and vehicles.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Halloween Vandalism?

Home insurance policies do cover damage from acts of vandalism, such as egging or toilet papering. This type of damage typically falls under the "dwelling coverage" section of a standard HO-3 policy. However, a crucial factor is your deductible—the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance coverage begins.

For example, if egg damage to your home's siding costs $1,500 to repair and your deductible is $2,000, filing a claim would not result in a payout. It only becomes financially sensible to file a claim when the repair costs exceed your deductible. For minor issues like clogged gutters from toilet paper, which may cost $75-$200 to clear, paying out-of-pocket is almost always the better option.

What About Damage to Your Car?

Coverage for vehicle vandalism depends entirely on your auto insurance policy. Only a comprehensive auto policy covers vandalism damage. If you only carry liability insurance, you will be responsible for all repair costs. Similar to home insurance, comprehensive coverage includes a deductible. If the cost to repair egging or shaving cream damage is less than your deductible, you will cover the expense yourself. Based on our experience assessment, if repairs are significantly higher than your deductible, filing a claim may be warranted.

How Can You Proactively Protect Your Property?

Being prepared is the best defense against Halloween mischief. Insurance experts recommend these practical steps:

• Increase visibility: Keep outdoor lights on throughout the evening to deter potential pranksters.
• Utilize technology: Install a doorbell camera or security camera, as their presence alone can act as a deterrent.
• Secure vehicles: Park cars inside a garage or under a secure cover whenever possible.
• Clear the yard: Temporarily store easily movable items, like decorative pieces, to prevent them from being tampered with.

Most Halloween nights pass without incident, but taking these simple, proactive measures can significantly reduce your risk. If damage does occur, assess the repair costs against your insurance deductibles before contacting your provider. This approach helps you avoid unnecessary claims that could potentially affect your future premiums.