Home insurance: Tips for protecting your home while you’re away

What kinds of incidents can occur while you’re away?

Water damage remains one of the leading causes of home insurance claims, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC). A leak that goes unnoticed for days can cause significant damage.

An electrical fire can also break out when a system failure (such as an overload or a short circuit) generates intense heat that ignites surrounding materials. According to the Quebec Federation of Municipalities, electrical problems account for about 22% of fires in Quebec.

Hail is another possibility. Mother Nature can decide to let loose at the worst possible moment—like when you have both feet in the sand on a beach down south, for example! Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to prevent damage in the event of a natural disaster.

Why can incidents that happen while you’re away be so problematic?

An incident that occurs while you’re on vacation can escalate quickly, simply because it may not be detected right away. A water leak, for example, could cause significant damage before anyone notices it.

Whoever does notice the problem should take immediate action to minimize the damage. That’s why it’s important to make sure you can be reached so you can contact your insurer right away and begin the home insurance claim process.

Home insurance and vacation: Are damages covered?

Generally speaking, yes, but a more detailed answer can be broken down into five points:

1. If you are temporarily away from your home or residence (and plan to return), your home insurance will generally continue to cover risks related to property damage.
2. However, some insurers recommend that a trusted person check on your home regularly if it is left unattended. If this condition is not met, certain claims may be limited or denied, particularly in the case of water damage.
3. Keeping the heat on during the winter and closing the main water shut-off valve are other examples of preventive measures that your insurer may require you to take before you leave.
4. It is also recommended that you notify your insurer if you will be away for more than 30 days.
5. But be aware! If you are away for an extended period (you do not intend to return in the near future and the home remains vacant), certain exclusions may apply to your policy.

Preventing damage: What should you do before you go on vacation?

There are several things you should do to make sure you can go on vacation with peace of mind:

• Make sure someone you trust goes by regularly to check on the property. You can ask them to do the pool maintenance and to pick up your mail while they’re at it. If it’s too much to ask of one person (like if they’d also need to mow the lawn or clear snow from your balconies) it’s better to ask two friends or a company that specializes in this to take care of it so they can work as a team.
• Your loved ones are there to help you, so give them a key and show them how your alarm system works. Never leave a key under the doormat and lock all the doors and windows before you leave.
• Protect yourself against potential water damage. Shut off the main water valve and drain the pipes. Planning to travel several times over the next few months? Water sensors are one of the most effective preventive measures for detecting leaks. And did you know that you can monitor your home remotely?
• Unplug all electrical and electronic devices that you won’t be using while you’re away. However, make sure that your programmable timers are plugged in at all times so that your lights turn on and off intermittently, giving the impression that someone is home.
• Keep important documents secure and store your valuables in a safe. In the event of a break-in, this will help you minimize the risk of identity theft or the theft of an expensive item, which may be subject to a limitation under your home insurance policy.
• Store outdoor items safely. Storing your patio furniture in the shed will help deter thieves from stealing your new BBQ. Plus, you also reduce the risk of Mother Nature blowing your lawn chairs around the yard.
• Take a walk around the house before you leave and take photos to document the condition of the property. However, avoid posting on social media about going away. There will be plenty of time to share all the highlights from your trip… once you get back!
• Be sure to clean out your refrigerator before you leave. Those leftovers will not look any more appetizing by the time you get back. Then, be sure to empty your garbage cans.

Check your home insurance policy before you leave

Whether to check your coverage or to better understand your obligations under your policy before going on vacation, it’s a good idea to review your home insurance policy in My Client Space or contact your insurance representative for any additional questions. That way, you will have done everything possible to ensure your peace of mind. The countdown has begun: all you have to do is pack your bags and get ready to travel like a world-class jet-setter!

FAQ—Preventing damage while you are on vacation

How is my home protected while I’m away?

Your home insurance covers you even when your home is unoccupied, as long as the terms of the policy are met. Insurers typically require certain preventive measures—such as shutting off the main water valve—to limit the risk of a loss occurring. And if something happens despite your careful preparations? Your coverage will apply, according to the terms set out in your policy.

What can I do to prevent problems while I’m away?

There are a few things you can do before you leave that will make all the difference: shut off the main water valve, empty the pipes, unplug all non-essential devices and ask someone you trust to stop by regularly. Being there from time to time will mean that they’ll be able to quickly detect any problems, such as a water leak or a theft.

What should I do if damages or an accident occurs while I’m away?

As soon as you find out, contact your insurer immediately, even if you are still outside the country. If possible, ask the person who is there to minimize the damage, secure the area and take photos. Documenting the situation promptly will help with the processing of your claim.

How soon do I need to file a home insurance claim?

It is recommended that you report a claim as soon as possible after discovering it. Waiting can make it harder to assess the damage, cause it to become worse and delay compensation. If you’re unsure, it’s best to notify your insurer as soon as an incident occurs, even if you don’t have all the details yet when you call.