The holiday season brings festive lights, decorated trees, and plenty of cheer, but it also brings seasonal risks that can lead to preventable damage or costly claims. For landlords and tenants alike, understanding how to decorate safely is key to keeping communities merry, bright, and protected as the year winds down. Read on for practical, easy-to-share guidelines that help maintain safety across rental properties while preserving the spirit of the season.

Choose (and Encourage Tenants to Choose) Fire-Safe Decorations

Holiday decor often introduces heat sources, flammable materials, and electrical demands – a risky combination in multi-unit communities. That’s why it’s important to follow, and encourage tenants to follow, these tips:

• Select flame-retardant or noncombustible decorations for doors, balconies, and shared spaces.
• Keep all decorations away from heaters, radiators, stoves, and fireplaces, leaving at least a 3-foot clearance.
• Avoid real candles in units or common areas, in favor of battery-operated, LED alternatives.

Landlords can help by reminding residents of building policies regarding candles, open flames, and combustible decorations, including those used for holiday observances.

Light Up the Holidays Safely With String Lights

String lights are a holiday staple – and one of the most common causes of seasonal electrical issues. Best practices equal prevention, so follow and share these guidelines:

• Use UL-listed LED light strings, which stay cooler and use less energy than traditional bulbs.
• Inspect lights for cracked sockets, frayed wires, or loose connections before hanging.
• Avoid overloading outlets or power strips, which can overheat and increase fire risk.
• Choose indoor versus outdoor lights appropriately, as each is rated differently for safety.
• For exterior lighting, confirm that outlets are GFCI-protected and weather-resistant.

Prevent Tripping Hazards in Hallways and Common Areas

Shared spaces are areas of high foot traffic and high liability. To reduce chances for trips, falls, and injuries:

• Keep hallways, stairwells, and entrances free of cords, garlands, or low-lying decorations.
• Avoid decorations that extend into walkways or block visibility.
• Use secure hanging methods that won’t loosen or fall when doors open and close.
• Ensure all battery packs or extension cords are tucked safely against walls, not under rugs.

Landlords can share or post guidelines to keep community pathways open and hazard-free.

Practice Smart Christmas Tree Safety

Whether real or artificial, Christmas trees require careful placement and upkeep.

For live trees:

• Choose fresh, well-watered trees to reduce the risk of ignition.
• Keep the tree at least 3 feet from heat sources.
• Water daily to prevent the tree from drying out.

For artificial trees:

• Select artificial trees made from fire-resistant materials.
• Ensure built-in lights are LED and meet safety standards.
• Remind tenants that trees should never block exits or create obstacles within the unit.

Use Exterior Decorations Responsibly

Outdoor decorations adds curb appeal, but they must be used safely to protect buildings and tenants. Here are some smart tips:

• Avoid attaching lights with nails or staples, which can damage siding or roofing; use clips designed for exterior mounting.
• Ensure inflatables or other lawn decorations are secured against wind and placed away from parking areas or walkways.
• Never hang decorations from fire escapes or emergency exits.

Landlords should clarify what types of exterior decorations are allowed and where they are allowed.

Know the Property Rules and Communicate Them Clearly

Every property has its own set of guidelines tailored to ensure safety, maintenance, and compliance with local codes. Landlords can support residents by:

• Sharing a seasonal reminder outlining decorating do’s and don’ts
• Providing examples of acceptable decorations for balconies, patios, and shared spaces
• Clarifying expectations around lights, extension cords, and open flames

Clear communication helps prevent unsafe setups before they start.

Celebrate the Season With Safety in Mind

Holiday decorations certainly brighten up buildings and bring communities together, but they should never compromise the safety of residents or cause damage to the rental property. By encouraging smart decorating choices, proactive communication, and adherence to local building policies, landlords and tenants can enjoy a cheerful, claim-free holiday season.