🎃 Is Your Home Ready for Trick-or-Treaters?

Halloween night is one of those evenings when neighborhoods really come alive; porches glow, sidewalks fill with laughter, and kids in costumes rush from house to house.

While everyone’s admiring the spooky decorations and handing out candy, I can’t help but notice the practical stuff, the uneven steps, dark walkways, and tangled cords that could turn a fun night into an avoidable accident.

If you’re planning to welcome trick-or-treaters this year, it’s worth giving your home a quick “mini inspection.” Start with your lighting. A burned-out bulb might seem minor, but proper lighting makes a world of difference, not just for showing off your décor, but for keeping everyone safe. Check that your porch light is bright enough and that pathways are visible. Even adding a couple of solar lights or motion sensors can make things easier for little ones who may not see well in the dark (especially through a mask!).

Next, take a look at your walkways and steps. This is where I often see trouble during home inspections: cracked concrete, uneven boards, loose railings. These things are easy to miss day to day, but they’re even easier to trip over when you’re carrying a bucket of candy or walking on a dimly lit path. Give everything a quick sweep to clear away leaves and debris, and if you’ve got extension cords running to Halloween props, try to keep them tucked safely out of the way.

Speaking of decorations, they’re one of the best parts of Halloween, but also one of the most common safety hazards. Before plugging anything in, check cords and plugs for wear. Only use outdoor-rated lights and extension cords outside, and keep flammable materials like straw bales and hanging fabrics away from open flames or electrical displays. A little bit of caution can go a long way toward preventing a nightmarish situation.

And finally, don’t forget about your entryway. Make sure your door opens and closes easily, your porch boards or decking are secure, and that nothing blocks the area where kids will be waiting. These small details might not seem like much, but they’re the same things I check during an inspection. They tell you a lot about the overall health and safety of your home.

Halloween is a great reminder that maintenance isn’t just about keeping your house looking good; it’s about keeping it safe and functional. So, after the decorations come down and the last chocolate bar disappears, take a few minutes to think about the things you noticed. Did that step feel a little wobbly? Was that light flickering more than it should? These are small clues your home gives you, and paying attention to them now can save you bigger repairs later on.

At Just Call Joe Inspections, we help homeowners understand their homes inside and out, whether you’re buying, selling, or just trying to stay ahead on maintenance. A home inspection isn’t only about finding problems; it’s about helping you plan, protect, and feel confident in your space all year long.

Because when it comes to your home, safety doesn’t have to be scary, and prevention is the best treat of all. 👻🏡