How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a timeless classic enjoyed by kids and adults alike each holiday season while wrapping presents and setting them under the Christmas tree.

Sadly, insurance agents at agencies throughout the country know that the Grinch is real, at least as far as package and gift thieves go.

Homeowners insurance claims for theft tend to increase around the holidays as real-life Grinches seek to get away with the holiday goods.

Fortunately, home owners insurance companies can come to the rescue in some cases, plus offer these tips to reduce holiday theft!

Are Gifts Covered By Homeowners Insurance?

They are.

Items stolen from within a home are covered by standard homeowners insurance policies as this is considered property theft.

The average home owners insurance policy provides coverage for possessions at actual cost value for up to 50 to 70% of the insurance on the structure and that does include the theft of gifts left under the tree awaiting Christmas.

Considering that home break-ins increase 6% each holiday season according to insurance industry research, this can provide peace of mind for some, especially when making large holiday purchases.

Homeowners should hold onto all holiday gift receipts for this reason, so there is proof of purchases should a break-in occur.

Is It Worthwhile To File A Claim?

As comforting as it is that stolen gifts are claimable, insurance agents also point out the issue of deductibles and how they affect holiday home burglaries.

Before making a claim to homeowners insurance policies, homeowners must determine whether the value of their stolen items exceeds the deductible and by how much.

Since homeowners are frequently unable to get much of a return when their deductible is higher, prevention ends up being a better solution.

How to Prevent Holiday Property Theft

Knowing that home break-ins increase at holiday time, it is recommended that homeowners practice these tips to reduce their chance of being visited by the Grinch and needing to submit a home owners insurance claim:

Keep home security systems armed and outdoor lights on, especially at night or when away from the house for any reason.
Be discreet when disposing of gift packaging as this can reveal what new, expensive items might be sitting inside the house.
Insurance agents recommend that homeowners avoid setting out gifts before the holidays if they can be seen from outside the house from a window. As charming and picturesque as that might seem, it creates an attractive nuisance that can increase the possibility of someone trying to break in to help themselves.
Take steps to avoid becoming a victim of porch pirates when expecting deliveries by using locker pickup or designating a less-visible spot for packages to be left.
Take photos of holiday gifts, record serial numbers on electronics and expensive items, and keep all receipts, just in case.

Keep The Grinch Away This Christmas!

Home property crimes like theft increase at holiday time, with a surprising number of gifts being stolen.

Homeowners insurance policies will typically cover stolen gifts, but only after the policy deductible has been met.

It is more beneficial to reduce the need to file a home owners insurance theft claim by practicing good home security.

Contact homeowners insurance agents for more information on how to prevent break-ins and protect holiday gifts that will help keep the season merry and bright!