Your Property Insurance

As a result of the requirement to self-isolate or quarantine to stop the spread of COVID-19, you may not be at your own residence or not able to visit your secondary residence. A vacant property can create issues with your insurance coverage and damage may occur if the property is unattended.

What to Consider:

• Vacancy – Many insurance policies have specific criteria and timelines for vacant properties. If a property is left vacant for an extended period of time it must be inspected inside and out. The timeline for vacancy varies by company but it can be as little as 72 hours. Check your policy or check with your broker to ensure you are in compliance with your policy.
• Accessibility – Most insurance policies will have a requirement to ensure the property is accessible to emergency service vehicles. If the access is not maintained the policy may not respond to a loss.

If you are going to be away from your property for an extended period of time (72 hours or more) it is important you consider doing the following:

• Turn off your main water supply.
• Even a small amount of heat in the building can prevent damage to your property. Don’t turn off your heat if you can help it.
• Ensure your sump pump is in good working order if you have one.
• Install a high-water alarm on your sump pump. Many of these will alert you through your cell phone.
• Ensure your smoke/fire alarms are working.
• During the spring snow melt and rainy season, ensure your eaves troughs and entrances are clear of ice and snow.
• We highly recommend monitored intrusion alarms. If you have one, make sure it is set and if you don’t have one consider getting one.
• Ensure your property is well lit. Timers are an effective way to control your lighting and ensure your property is lit at appropriate times.
• Always ensure your property is accessible to emergency services.

It is important to understand the conditions and requirements of your policy to ensure you will have coverage when you need it.

As the situation changes, we will be in contact with you.