Party Host Checklist from Hanover Insurance

• Before:

• • Talk to your insurance agent to make sure you have adequate liability coverage and whether you need an umbrella policy.
  • Make sure your walkways are clear of tripping/slipping hazards, including items, ice and snow.
  • Ensure your walkways have adequate lighting.
  • Clear objects or decorations that may hit or trip guests.
  • Put your pets in a separate area to keep guests and the pet safe.

• During:
  • Make sure food is cooked correctly and stays at the correct temperature.
  • Serve plenty of food and nonalcoholic beverages.
  • Keep alcohol visible so underage guests don’t have access to it.
  • Use a reliable adult server who can monitor alcohol consumption.
  • Never let underage minors drink alcohol.
  • Close the bar 90 minutes before the end of the party.
  • Don’t let intoxicated guests drive. Ask them to choose a designated driver, call an Uber or Lyft, or drive them home.

• What may my homeowner’s insurance cover during a holiday party according to Policy Genius?
  • Homeowners insurance may offer liability coverage if someone is injured and you are found legally liable. The loss may be covered, after your deductible, if it is not excluded by your policy and up to your policy limits.
  • Umbrella insurance offers additional liability coverage on top of your liability coverage limits if a guest is badly injured.

• Whitlock’s Pro Tip: Proactively contact your insurance agent before the party to review your current insurance policies, understand current coverage and limits, identify potential gaps, and modify policies to limit coverage gaps.