Holiday Hosting Season Is Here — But So Are the Risks

December is the busiest month for in-home gatherings across Ontario and Alberta from Christmas dinners to open-house parties to New Year’s Eve celebrations.

And this year, Canadians are hosting more than ever:

61% of Canadians plan to attend or host holiday gatherings in December (IPSOS 2025).

Home-based events have increased by 23% since 2021, as more Canadians choose intimate gatherings over restaurants.

Food, alcohol and seasonal décor increase household risks, especially slips, falls, fire hazards and alcohol-related incidents.

With more people in your home, more foot traffic, and more potential hazards, holiday hosting comes with real liability risks that many homeowners don’t think about until it’s too late.

Are You Liable If Someone Gets Hurt at Your House?

Yes — as a host, you carry legal responsibility for the safety of your guests.

Under Ontario and Alberta law, homeowners have a duty of care to ensure their property is reasonably safe.

This includes:

• Icy walkways
• Wet floors
• Clutter, loose rugs or cords
• Alcohol consumption
• Fireplaces & candles
• Pets
• Food safety

If a guest is injured and it’s determined that reasonable precautions weren’t taken, you can be found legally responsible.

How Home Insurance Liability Protects You

Your home insurance includes personal liability coverage, typically between $1M–$2M, which can help cover:

• Medical expenses
• Legal fees
• Settlement costs
• Property damage caused by guests

However — exclusions exist, especially around alcohol. Alcohol-Related Incidents Are Often NOT Fully Covered!

If a guest leaves your party intoxicated and later causes:

• an accident,
• injury,
• or property damage,

…you may be held partially liable.

Standard home insurance may not cover hosts who overserve alcohol or fail to prevent impaired driving.

Hosts who entertain often may benefit from host liquor liability or umbrella policies, consult your insurance broker.

Common Holiday Party Claims (You Might Not Expect)

• Slips and falls: The #1 source of holiday-season liability claims in Canada.
• Fires from candles, fireplaces & décor: Cooking fires spike 30% in December, and faulty lights cause hundreds of fire incidents annually.
• Alcohol-related injuries: Overserved guests injuring themselves or others.
• Pet incidents: Dog bites or injuries from excited pets during gatherings.
• Food allergies or food poisoning: Hosts can be liable if negligence is proven.

How to Keep Your Holiday Guests Safe (and Reduce Liability)?

1. Clear Ice & Snow

Ontario & Alberta law requires homeowners to maintain safe walkways.
Salt, sand, clear steps, and ensure lighting is bright.

2. Prevent Tripping Hazards

Secure:

• Loose rugs
• Extension cords
• Clutter near entrances
• Stair areas

Create open walking paths, especially with older guests or kids.

3. Fireplace & Candle Safety

• Have chimneys cleaned
• Use a fire guard
• Inspect holiday lights
• Keep candles away from décor
• Don’t overload outlets

4. Manage Food & Allergy Risks

Ask guests about allergies. Label foods. Keep raw & cooked meats separate.

5. Alcohol Safety

• Offer non-alcoholic options
• Arrange rideshares
• Never serve alcohol to minors
• Encourage overnight stays if needed

A reminder: Host liability can extend beyond your home.

Does Home Insurance Cover Every Holiday Party Situation?

No — typical gaps include:

• Alcohol-related incidents
• Hosting short-term rentals
• Large gatherings beyond home policy limits
• Damage caused by guests who weren’t invited
• Any illegal activity (ex: serving minors)

Your insurance broker can review your policy to ensure you're fully protected for holiday hosting. If you need help, feel free to contact a MIB broker or our office anytime.

Final Thought

The holidays should be joyful — not stressful. With a little preparation, a safe hosting plan, and a clear understanding of your insurance coverage, you can protect the people you care about and enjoy the season with confidence and peace of mind.

And remember: if road conditions are unsafe due to current or expected severe winter weather, your safety comes first. When in doubt, stay home and avoid unnecessary risks.

Most importantly — never drink and drive. Keeping your loved ones (and your community) safe is the greatest gift of all.

Have questions about your home liability coverage?
We’re here to help, anytime.

Call us now: 1-855-482-5001