Homeowners who are planning to host a gathering over the festive period have been advised to approach such events with caution to ensure their belongings do not incur damage.
David Rochester, head of underwriting at Halifax Home Insurance, has urged parents in particular to stress the importance of keeping Christmas parties on an invite-only basis, while avoiding speaking about them on social media websites.
His comments come after the mother of a 14-year-old girl who planned her birthday celebrations on Facebook was left with a £30,000 repair bill when the family home was stormed by 800 gatecrashers.
For this reason, Mr Rochester warned families to keep tight control over the number of people invited to gatherings, while taking steps to protect soft furnishings and carpets with rugs and old throws.
In addition, hosts are well within their rights to requests guests who smoke to go outside before lighting up, as well as utilising plastic glasses and paper plates to prevent any breakages.
Mr Rochester said: “Homeowners could be left with a hefty bill for damage, as most home insurance policies do not cover malicious damage, theft or vandalism caused by guests invited into your home by you or your family.”