As the leaves turn and the fog machines fire up, haunted attractions across the country are prepping for their busiest—and riskiest—season. If you’re running a haunt, you know that insurance isn’t just a box to check: it’s the safety net that keeps your business (and your guests) protected when the unexpected happens.
The good news? There’s still time to get covered for 2025. And this year, the landscape has shifted: the Donat team is no longer at FCIS, and Risk Services Leavitt (RSL) is now the go-to agency with the carrier relationships and expertise to help your haunt succeed.
What’s New in the Haunt Insurance World?
If you’ve been in the industry for a while, you know that Donat Insurance was the name for decades. FCIS acquired Donat, but with recent departures—including Dave Cummings leaving FCIS—the space is wide open for new leadership. Many haunts have reached out this year, asking, “Who do I call now?” The answer: Risk Services Leavitt.
Why RSL?
- We have direct appointments with the top carriers for haunted attractions, including West Bend, Cincinnati, and more.
- Our team has nearly a decade of experience insuring haunted houses, hayrides, escape rooms, and more.
- We’re actively involved in the Haunted Attraction Association (HAA) and understand the unique risks and requirements of the industry.
What Are Carriers and Owners Talking About This Year?
Rates & Coverage:
Rates are up across the board, and carriers are scrutinizing applications more closely than ever. As one owner put it, “We got declinations from Secura, USI, and Philadelphia because the haunted house is on someone’s private land.” Others have seen premiums jump, especially if there’s a recent claim or we are serving beer.
Carrier Relationships Matter:
With some agencies losing their appointments ,it’s more important than ever to work with an agency who has access to multiple markets. RSL has maintained and expanded these relationships, so we can shop your coverage and find the best fit—even if you’ve had a claim or are a new operation.
Application Requirements:
Carriers want details. Here’s what you’ll need for a smooth application process:
- Haunted House Supplemental (specifics about your attraction: location, construction, security, special effects, attendance, etc.)
- Loss Runs for the past 3-5 years (even if you’ve never had a claim, carriers want to see the report)
- Waivers and Safety Protocols (are you a member of HAA or C.H.A.O.S. certified? Do you require guest waivers? What’s your emergency plan?)
- Details on any incidents or claims (be honest—carriers will find out)
Pro Tip:
If you’re not sure what a “loss run” is, it’s a report from your previous carriers showing coverage dates and any claims. Your prior agent can provide this, and it’s required for quoting.
What’s in the Application? (And Why Does It Matter?)
A typical haunted house insurance application will ask:
- Is your haunt indoors, outdoors, or both?
- Do you allow physical contact between actors and guests?
- What kind of special effects do you use (fog, strobe, animatronics)?
- How many exits and fire extinguishers do you have?
- What’s your estimated attendance and gross receipts?
- Do you serve food, alcohol, or have other attractions (hayrides, escape rooms, etc.)?
- What’s your security plan (off-duty police, professional guards, cameras)?
- Are you inspected by the fire department before opening?
The more detail you provide, the better your quote will be—and the fewer surprises you’ll face at binding.
Why Choose Risk Services Leavitt Now?
- Carrier Access: We have the relationships to get your application in front of the right underwriters—even if you’ve been declined elsewhere.
- Industry Knowledge: We know what carriers are looking for, and we’ll help you present your haunt in the best light.
- Fast Turnaround: We know you’re on a tight schedule. Our team is ready to move quickly, as long as you have your paperwork in order.
- Support After the Sale: We’re here for you all season long, not just at renewal.
The Bottom Line
There’s still time to get covered for 2025.
If you’re feeling lost after the Donat/FCIS changes, or if you’re frustrated by rising rates and stricter requirements, reach out to Risk Services Leavitt. We’re here to help you keep your haunt safe, legal, and thriving—so you can focus on scaring your guests, not your insurance agent.
Ready to get started?
Contact us at hauntrsl@leavitt.com. Let’s make this season your safest (and most successful) yet!
Have questions? Contact:
