Don't Let Holiday Cheer Turn into a Merry Mess

Imagine your home bustling with laughter, the smell of holiday treats filling the air, and the glow of festive lights shining bright. It’s the perfect setting to celebrate the year behind you and look forward to what’s ahead. Along with the warmth and cheer, there’s a risk many hosts overlook. A slip on an icy step, a guest who’s had one too many drinks, or an unexpected accident can quickly turn your celebration into a legal and financial headache—the last thing you need during the busy holiday season.

Hosting a party isn’t just about games and good times—there’s real responsibility when friends, family, and acquaintances come to your home. When you open your doors, you’re also opening yourself up to potential liability. Add a splash of wine, bubbly, or any kind of alcohol to the mix, and the stakes get even higher. Laws vary by state, but the consequences can include lawsuits, property damage claims, or even criminal charges if someone is hurt or harms someone after leaving your event.

Libations and liabilities: the fine line between fun and risk

Holiday parties and festive drinks often go hand in hand—but when you’re serving alcohol, remember you’re also serving extra risk. Social host liability laws hold hosts accountable if guests injure others or cause damage after drinking at their event. Here’s what may put you at risk:

• Continuing to serve guests who are clearly intoxicated
• Allowing underage drinking to happen on your watch

Overconsumption can lead to accidents, fights, or impaired driving. As a host, you could be held responsible for injuries or damage caused by intoxicated guests. For example, in 2023, a U.S. District Court judge in Los Angeles was sued after a party at the judge’s home resulted in a teenager allegedly being assaulted and hospitalized by another teen who was underage drinking at the judge’s home.

To keep your guests safe and your liability low, consider taking the following precautions:

• Limit alcohol availability to prevent overindulgence
• Monitor underaged guests’ access to alcohol
• Hire professional bartenders trained to monitor consumption
• Offer plenty of nonalcoholic beverages and food to slow alcohol absorption
• Arrange safe rides home or encourage designated drivers

Premises Liability: Your duty to keep guests safe

Your responsibility doesn’t stop at the bar. When you host, you should be aware of how safe your property is for guests. That means:

• Clearing snow and ice from walkways to prevent slips
• Keeping floors dry and free of hazards
• Monitoring activities that could lead to injury

If a guest slips, trips, or falls because of a hazard you didn’t address, you could be held liable for their injuries. A little extra care in preparing your space can go a long way toward preventing accidents.

Protection for property damage

Good parties are lively, but sometimes a good time can lead to costly accidents. Whether it’s a broken window from an innocent Thanksgiving Day football game or furniture that takes a beating, property damage is a common party hazard. Beyond the immediate cost of repairs, damage can lead to legal disputes or claims against you as the host. Consider removing valuable items like fine art or special collections from spaces guests can access or remind guests to be careful around certain items.

Ensure you’re insured

Your homeowner’s insurance might cover some mishaps, but large gatherings often require more. Event-specific liability insurance or host liquor liability coverage can help fill the gaps. If you’re hiring vendors, always ask for proof of their insurance. Umbrella policies, a type of extra liability insurance, offer additional protection if claims exceed your primary coverage limits.

Talk to your insurance advisor early to tailor coverage to your event’s size and scope. It’s better to be prepared than caught off guard. Now, that’s a true cause for celebration.

Peace of mind

Holiday parties can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Marsh McLennan Agency Private Client Services (MMA PCS) can help you identify risks and secure the right insurance coverage. Whether it’s an intimate family gathering or a large-scale get-together, we’ll help you celebrate safely and confidently.