The festive season is a time for celebration, reflection, and planning ahead — but for many businesses, it also brings a rise in risks that can impact operations, staff, stock, and customers. At D2 Corporate Solutions, we’ve wrapped up the most common seasonal risks into a simple guide: The 12 Insurance Lessons of Christmas.
Whether you’re a growing SME or a nationwide brand, these lessons are designed to help you stay protected, compliant, and confident throughout December and into the new year.
1. On the First Day of Christmas… your insurer said to see: check your indemnity.
Professional indemnity isn’t just for regulated industries. If you give advice, design, recommendations, or consultancy, the festive rush can increase error rates. Make sure your cover reflects today’s risks — not last year’s assumptions.
2. Second Day: Supply chains under strain.
Christmas is peak season for delays. From freight backlogs to postal strikes, supply chain disruption can leave you out of pocket. Business interruption and stock cover are essential protections.
3. Third Day: Three frozen pipes.
Cold snaps can wreak havoc on business premises. Burst pipes, water damage and frozen heating systems are among winter’s most common claims. Ensure maintenance is up to date and your property cover is sufficient.
5. Fifth Day: (Golden) Stock Values.
Increased seasonal stock means increased exposure. Underinsurance is a major issue at this time of year. If your stock levels peak in December, your policy should reflect that.
6. Sixth Day: Slips, trips, and icy mishaps.
Customer and employee injuries rise sharply in winter due to ice, wet floors and reduced daylight. Public liability and employers’ liability are essential — and so is a clear risk management plan.
7. Seventh Day: Seasonal staff onboarding.
Temporary workers need the same safety, training, and HR frameworks as permanent staff. Businesses often overlook how seasonal staff impact employers’ liability requirements.
8. Eighth Day: Eight drivers skidding.
Winter driving accounts for a high proportion of fleet and commercial vehicle claims. Telematics, driver training, and the right motor fleet cover can significantly reduce risks and costs.
9. Ninth Day: Christmas party claims.
From alcohol-related incidents to venue damage, the festive party season brings unique liability exposures. Event liability insurance and clear staff guidance help avoid unwanted surprises.
10. Tenth Day: Ten tech devices stolen.
Dark evenings and busy shops mean increased theft of equipment, laptops, and mobile devices. Ensure your contents and portable equipment cover is up to date and reflects real-world replacement costs.
11. Eleventh Day: Energy costs climbing.
Businesses cutting costs may unintentionally compromise safety — for example, by switching off heating or reducing maintenance. A winter audit helps ensure risk controls remain robust.
12. Twelfth Day: Time for a year-end review.
The end of the year is the perfect moment to review your entire insurance programme. Business growth, new assets, changes in staffing, or operational shifts can all affect your cover needs.
A Final Christmas Message from D2
The festive season should be a time of celebration — not concern. By preparing for the seasonal risks that affect businesses every year, you give yourself the best chance of a smooth December and a confident start to 2026.
If you’d like support reviewing your current insurance arrangements or understanding where you may be underexposed, D2 Corporate Solutions is here to help.
Our team is always happy to offer clear, straightforward guidance.
✔️ Expert Advice
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Contact us today to start the new year protected and prepared.