NORTHBROOK, Ill., July 1, 2025 – As temperatures rise, so do insurance claims. New data from Allstate* reveals a significant increase in incidents related to fire, water damage and theft between March and September. While severe weather plays a role, the heat itself is often to blame for seasonal risks.
Hot grills, high stakes: Fire risks rise in July
- Fire-related claims increase by 78% during summer months.
- Common causes include barbecues, fireworks and sun-damaged outdoor extension cords.
- July is the most hazardous month, with one in five fires caused by grills placed too close to homes.
Water damage: A hidden summer threat
- Your plumbing is the real summer threat. Non-weather-related water damage claims rise 69% in summer.
- Increased household water use from lawns to showers causes the most claims, including:
- 80% spike in appliance overflows (A/C drains, washing machines)
- 50% increase in bathroom overflows (shower, toilet and sink)
- 47% increase in burst water pipes
- And it’s getting worse: Water damage claims rose 20% in summer 2024 compared to 2023
Summer theft surge: What thieves are targeting
- Theft claims increase 68% in the summer, with thieves targeting cars, homes, bikes and even boats.
- What’s getting hit the hardest according to Allstate claims:
- 67% increase in bike thefts
- 60% rise in thefts from unlocked vehicles
- 40% increase in stolen vehicle claims
- 40% of all boat thefts happen during the summer
- Home burglaries and break-ins are also on the rise.
- 49% increase in home theft claims
- 36% spike in reports of home burglaries
- The most stolen items: Jewelry, watches and furs (up 45%) and cash (up 35%)
- The biggest vulnerability? Your garage. Garage break-ins spike 88% in summer
“From fire hazards to water leaks and theft, our data shows summer brings a sharp rise in risks,” said John Micheli, senior vice president of property claims at Allstate. “A little planning goes a long way when it comes to protecting your home, vehicles and valuables. Practical tips like locking your garage and checking outdoor power cords can help you stay ahead of the season and enjoy the sunshine without the stress.”
Summer Safety Tips to Protect Your Property
- Give your grill some space
Keep it at least 10 feet from your house, deck railings, or anything flammable. If you can touch your siding while flipping burgers, you’re too close. - Don’t let a leak ruin your summer
Most summer water damage starts inside. Inspect hoses and drains on your washing machine, A/C unit and dishwasher and don’t forget your drains. - Outsmart porch pirates and car thieves
Use smart lockers, ask friendly neighbors to grab your packages or reroute deliveries when you’re not at home. And remember: always lock your cars and bring valuables inside. - Lock down your garage door
Disable openers, disable the emergency release, and lock that side door. Thieves love an easy entry and jump from house to house while it’s warm. - Check if your outdoor outlets are toasting
Sun-baked cords and outlets can spark fires. Check for cracks, frays, or heat damage before plugging in the party lights.
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About Allstate
The Allstate Corporation (NYSE: ALL) protects people from life’s uncertainties with a wide array of protection for autos, homes, electronic devices, and identities. Products are available through a broad distribution network including Allstate agents, independent agents, major retailers, online, and at the workplace. Allstate is widely known for the slogan “You’re in Good Hands with Allstate.” For more information, visit www.allstate.com.
*based on Allstate claims data from 2023–2024, comparing summer (Mar–Sept) to winter (Oct–Nov).
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