Insuring Your Holiday Season: What You Need to Know

The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it also brings unique risks for both individuals and businesses. Whether you’re preparing your home and summer toys for holiday fun or safeguarding your business during peak season, having the right insurance in place ensures you can focus on what matters most. Here’s how to stay prepared.

1. Keep Your Summer Toys Covered

As the temperatures rise, so do the opportunities for outdoor fun. Boats, jet skis, caravans, and other recreational vehicles are often significant investments. Ensuring these items are covered under your insurance policy means you can relax on the water or road with peace of mind.

Key Tip: Review your policy to confirm coverage limits, check third-party liability, and ensure you’re protected against accidental damage or theft.

 

2. Securing Your Home for the Holidays

Many New Zealanders travel during the holiday season, leaving homes more vulnerable to burglary or accidental damage. A few proactive measures can significantly reduce your risk:

Checklist for Home Security:

• • Always lock doors, windows, and external gates—even for short trips away.
  • Arrange for mail collection or have a neighbour regularly clear your mailbox.
  • Keep the outside of your house well-lit with sensor lights to deter intruders.
  • Use timers for indoor lights to create the appearance of occupancy.
  • Install deadbolts on all exterior doors and ensure windows and sliding doors have proper locks​.

 

3. Business Security During the Holiday Season

For businesses, the holidays can be a busy period fraught with unique risks. Whether you operate a retail shop, warehouse, or service business, taking steps to secure your assets and premises is crucial.

Tips for Businesses Preparing for the Holidays:

• • Update Your Stock Records: Ensure all inventory is accurately accounted for, particularly if you’ve increased stock for the season.
  • Secure Premises: Lock all outbuildings, warehouses, and delivery areas.
  • Increase Visibility: Consider installing sensor lights around your business premises.
  • Revisit Security Systems: If you don’t already have one, or it’s outdated, consider installing a monitored alarm system or CCTV cameras​.

 

4. Why Now is the Time to Review Your Policies

The holiday season can be hectic, but it’s also the perfect time to review your insurance policies. Whether you’re insuring a holiday home, recreational equipment, or a business, having a trusted broker like Dawson Insurance ensures you’re fully covered for any unexpected events.

Contact Us: Ready to secure your holiday season? Get in touch with Dawson Insurance today to review or update your policies.