Holiday Safety Tips For Landlords

The holiday season is a magical time for gatherings, traditions, and celebration. But while your tenants are stringing lights or hosting festivities, it’s also a season with unique risks for landlords. Fire hazards, weather-related issues, and even security vulnerabilities can quickly dampen holiday cheer—and impact your rental property.

As a landlord, being proactive during this season is key to protecting your investment and ensuring tenant safety. Here are five essential tips to help safeguard your property during the holidays.

1. Include Holiday Decor Guardrails in Your Lease

Festive decorations can brighten up any home, but they come with risks if improperly installed. Make sure you are on the same page with tenants so you limit any concerns.

Secure Outdoor Décor
Encourage tenants to firmly anchor any outdoor holiday decorations. Windy conditions can turn unsecured lights or ornaments into projectiles, potentially causing damage to the property or injuries to passersby. Suggest using sturdy hooks or stakes for added safety.

Avoid Blocking Exits Indoors
Remind tenants not to place large decorations near doors or windows. In the event of an emergency, clear pathways are critical for a quick exit.

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2. Reduce Fire Hazards

Fires are one of the most common risks during the holidays. As a landlord, you can guide tenants toward safer practices.

Inspect Electrical Decorations
If you provide any lighting or decorations as part of your rental, inspect them before the holiday season. Look for frayed wires or damaged plugs and replace faulty items to prevent electrical fires.

Promote Safe Candle Alternatives
Encourage tenants to use flameless LED candles, which mimic the glow of real candles without the risk of an open flame—perfect for households with kids or pets.

Highlight Kitchen Safety
Cooking accidents spike during the holidays. Share a reminder about not leaving stovetops unattended and keeping flammable items like towels and curtains away from heat sources. Suggest tenants keep a fire extinguisher accessible in the kitchen.

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3. Bolster Security Against Burglary

The holiday season can be a prime time for break-ins. Help tenants keep your property secure with these tips.

Encourage a Security System
If your property doesn’t already have one, consider installing a security system with cameras and alarms. These act as a visible deterrent to potential burglars.

Promote Smart Home Tools
Devices like smart locks and video doorbells give tenants remote control over property access. These tools not only enhance convenience but also improve security by allowing real-time monitoring.

Caution Against Oversharing on Social Media
Remind tenants to avoid posting travel plans or vacant-home photos during the holidays. A simple delay in sharing vacation highlights can go a long way in deterring burglars.

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4. Prepare for Winter Weather

Winter weather can wreak havoc on a property, especially in areas prone to freezing temperatures or heavy snow.

Prevent Frozen Pipes
Share tips on insulating exposed pipes and leaving faucets dripping during freezing weather. This simple measure can prevent costly water damage from burst pipes.

Ensure Roof and Gutter Maintenance
If you’re responsible for exterior upkeep, clean gutters and check the roof for damage before winter weather hits. Addressing these issues proactively can prevent leaks or ice dams.

5. Review Insurance Coverage

The holiday season is a good time to ensure your landlord insurance policy is up to date and adequate for potential risks.

Know What’s Covered
Familiarize yourself with your policy details, particularly regarding fire, theft, or weather-related damage. If you haven’t already, make sure you have loss-of-rent coverage to protect against unexpected interruptions.

Encourage Tenants to Obtain Renters Insurance
Tenants often overlook renters insurance, but it’s a valuable layer of protection for their belongings—and reduces disputes in case of damage or theft.

Home for the Holidays

A safe, secure rental property is one of the best gifts you can offer your tenants this holiday season. By addressing common risks—from fire hazards to winter weather—you protect not just your investment but also the well-being of those who call it home.

Stay prepared, stay proactive, and enjoy a worry-free holiday season knowing your property is ready for whatever comes its way.

For more landlord tips and insurance advice, visit Steadily Landlord Insurance.

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