As Halloween approaches, a new study has revealed that superstition still has a surprising influence on Britain’s housing market – with one in three young homeowners saying they would never buy a property rumoured to be haunted.
The research, commissioned by specialist home insurer Homeprotect, surveyed 2,000 UK homeowners and found that 24% overall would be deterred from buying a supposedly haunted house – rising sharply to 30% among 16–24-year-olds.
The survey highlights a generational divide in what puts buyers off. While older purchasers tend to focus on material defects such as asbestos, structural cracks and uncertified electrical work, younger buyers are significantly more influenced by perceived “stigmas” such as hauntings or a property’s criminal past.
Nearly a third (32%) of respondents said they would avoid buying a home if it had been the scene of a crime. Meanwhile, 64% of people overall said they believe in ghosts or paranormal activity.
FINANCIAL CONSEQUENCES
Although the idea of a haunted house may seem frivolous, it can have real financial consequences. Previous research suggests that a property associated with a haunting or a violent incident can lose up to 20% of its market value.
In the United States and Japan, estate agents are legally obliged to disclose whether a property has a troubling history, but no such disclosure law exists in the UK. Nevertheless, British buyers appear equally wary.
Among 25–34-year-olds, 44% said visible cracks or broken fixtures would deter them, 37% cited unpleasant smells such as cigarette smoke, and 39% said they would avoid homes linked to criminal events. For older generations, asbestos and uncertified electrical work remain the biggest red flags.
EMOTIONAL AND PRACTICAL
David Joyson, Chief Customer Officer at Homeprotect, reckons that the findings illustrate both the emotional and practical aspects of buying a home.
He says: “It’s interesting to see that the younger generation in particular feels spooked by the idea of buying a house that is rumoured to be haunted.
“While some people may be scared by the idea, it’s also worth thinking about the practical things that could cause a fright – from suspected subsidence to a history of flooding. These issues aren’t always as scary as they sound, but they do highlight the importance of specialist home insurance.”
DAMAGE INSPECTION
Joyson adds that the change of season should serve as a reminder to check for structural wear and tear before winter sets in.
“The start of spooky season coincides with storm season, so it’s a good time to inspect roofs and gutters for damage,” he says.
“A poorly maintained roof, for example, can lead to a rejected insurance claim. While home insurance provides essential protection, insurers expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to care for their property.”
