Halloween horrors cause headaches for home owners

"Trick or treat?!" Love it or loathe it, homeowners across Britain will hear this question several times a night over Halloween.

According to figures released by Tesco Home Insurance this week, claims for damage to property rise by a staggering 150% on 31 October.

It seems that Halloween horrors cause misery for homeowners who fall foul of wicked trick or treaters. As the spooky spell draws near, Tesco Home Insurance is reminding home owners to be vigilant, ensure that their policies are up to date and provide adequate cover for damage caused by vandalism or malicious acts on their property.

Whether you plan to have some frightening fun or hide away, there are things you can do to help make sure you have a happy Halloween:

If you want to join in, stock up on sweets to treat those well intentioned witches and warlocks.

If you prefer not to participate then turn the lights out at the front of the house and pretend you're not in.

Download and print off a "No Trick or Treat Poster" from your local council or police station website and display this in your window to warn off any unwanted trick or treaters.

If you are worried about any plant pots, statues or furniture being stolen or vandalised, move them out of sight or lock them securely away in a garage or shed until the spooky season comes to an end.

If you find Halloween intimidating get friends, neighbours or relatives to come and join you for the evening. It will make you feel less vulnerable and may help deter tricksters!

Jim Bruce, Head of Tesco Home Insurance says "Halloween can be a fun time of year for most. However, whether accidental or intentional, some Halloween revellers get carried away and cause real damage to property as a result of their antics. If you get ‘tricked' rather than ‘treated', it's good to know that any serious damage done by others to your property, is covered."

Tesco Home Insurance covers for damage caused by vandalism or malicious acts on property. Additional benefits of the Standard and Finest insurance policies include cover for the garden's contents up to £1000. Important cover should garden furniture or priceless gnomes fall victim to theft, damage or vandalism.

To apply for Tesco Home Insurance visit tesco.com