Hosting Halloween in a Rental? Here’s What Tenants Should Know

Hosting Halloween in a Rental? Here’s What Tenants Should Know
By CREC Property Management - Thursday, October 23, 2025

Enjoy the Fun Without Spooking Your Neighbors (or Your Lease)

Whether you’re planning a pumpkin-covered porch, a spooky movie night, or even a full-blown costume party, Halloween is a great time to celebrate with friends, neighbors, and family. But when you’re renting, it’s important to keep things festive and respectful. At CREC Property Management, we want our tenants to enjoy their homes year-round—including during the holidays. Here’s a quick guide to making Halloween memorable for all the right reasons while staying in good standing with your neighbors—and your lease.

1. Know Your Community Guidelines

Before you hang up the cobwebs or plug in the fog machine, take a moment to review your lease or ask your property manager about:
  • Exterior decoration rules (especially on porches, balconies, or shared spaces) 
  • Noise limits 
  • Party guest limits or visitor parking 
  • Common-area usage, if you live in an apartment or townhome community 
Not sure what’s allowed? A quick check-in with the CREC team can help you avoid issues.

2. Decorate Without Causing Damage

We love a well-decorated front porch or entryway, but keep in mind that anything nailed, glued, or permanently affixed can risk your security deposit. Instead, try:
  • Command hooks or removable adhesive strips 
  • Window clings or suction-cup lights 
  • Pumpkin displays on steps or railings 
  • Battery-operated candles instead of open flames Avoid anything that might damage paint, trim, or landscaping.

3. Keep Parties Neighbor-Friendly

If you’re hosting a Halloween get-together, let your neighbors know ahead of time—and be mindful of volume.
  • Keep music at a reasonable level 
  • Set an end time to avoid late-night noise 
  • Ask guests to be respectful of shared hallways, outdoor spaces, and parking areas 
Even if your lease allows guests, a little courtesy goes a long way toward maintaining a good community vibe.

4. Make Trick-or-Treating Easy and Safe

If your neighborhood typically sees trick-or-treaters:
  • Keep outdoor areas well-lit 
  • Make sure walkways are clear and trip-hazard free 
  • Only hand out pre-packaged treats 
  • If you don’t wish to participate, turn off your porch light and consider placing a note near the door 
Not sure if trick-or-treating is common where you live? Ask a neighbor—or check with CREC.

5. Keep Pets Calm and Indoors

If you have a dog or cat, Halloween night can be overwhelming with constant doorbell rings and costumed strangers.
  • Keep pets safely inside 
  • Ensure they’re secured in another room if you’re hosting guests 
  • Double-check ID tags and microchips in case they slip out the door during the excitement

6. Clean Up Promptly

After the festivities are over, make sure decorations are taken down on time and any party trash or leftover pumpkins are properly disposed of. Avoid leaving food, wrappers, or decorations outside that could attract pests or create a mess for neighbors. Celebrate the Right Way Halloween is a great opportunity to make memories and connect with your community—and with a little planning, it’s easy to do it respectfully and responsibly. If you have questions about holiday decorating policies or hosting guidelines, the CREC team is always happy to help. Contact us here or reach out to your property manager directly.  

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CREC Property Management
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