Winter in Ontario brings picturesque snowfalls and cozy nights by the fire—but it can also bring challenges for homeowners. From snow and ice damage to heating system failures, winter can test the limits of your home and your insurance coverage. To help you stay protected, we’ve compiled answers to the top 10 winter home insurance questions.
1. Does my home insurance cover damages caused by snow or ice buildup?
Yes, most home insurance policies cover damage caused by snow or ice, such as a roof collapse from heavy snow or water leaks from ice dams. However, insurers often require proof that you’ve maintained your home properly—like clearing gutters and addressing roof vulnerabilities. Regular maintenance and keeping a log of these maintenance activities can help you avoid claims denial.
2. Does home insurance cover pipes that freeze and burst during the winter?
Frozen pipe resulting damage is typically covered by home insurance, but only if you’ve taken reasonable precautions to prevent it. In Ontario, this includes maintaining adequate heat in your home—generally above 16°C (60°F)—throughout the winter months, even if you’re away. If you plan to be away, it’s essential to arrange for someone to check on your home and property at least every 48 hours. This ensures the heat is functioning properly and snow is cleared to avoid potential liability claims if someone slips or falls on your property.
If pipes freeze because you turned off the heat to save money, or because a heating failure went unnoticed due to lack of monitoring, your claim could be denied. Similarly, for vacant properties, insurers often require you to shut off and drain the water system to prevent freezing. Failing to meet these expectations could leave you responsible for costly repairs. Proper preparation is key to staying protected and ensuring your insurance covers unexpected damage.
Learn more about preventing and repairing bust pipes here. Learn more about the dangers of water damage to your health and home here.
3. What if my snowblower or equipment is stolen during winter?
Personal property coverage in your home insurance usually covers theft of equipment like snowblowers, even if they're stored in a garage or shed. Your policy's deductible would apply to any claim you make for stolen equipment. For example, if your $800 snowblower is stolen and your deductible is $500, you would receive $300 from your insurance company. Be sure to keep an inventory of such items, including photos and receipts when possible, to make claims easier.
4. Will home insurance cover wind or blizzard damage?
Yes, damages caused by high winds, blizzards, or falling trees are typically included in standard Ontario home insurance policies. This could cover anything from broken windows to damage to siding or roofs. Always check your specific policy for details on covered perils.
5. Is my coverage affected if my home is unoccupied during the winter?
If you’re leaving your home unoccupied for an extended time—whether for a vacation or wintering in a warmer climate—you should inform your insurance broker. Some policies require steps like maintaining heat, shutting off the water, or arranging for someone to check the property periodically.
6. Does home insurance cover liability if someone slips on my icy driveway?
Your home insurance's liability coverage protects you if someone slips on ice on your property and sues you, up to your liability limit shown on your policy. However, Ontario law requires homeowners to maintain their property safely, including reasonable snow and ice removal from walkways. Failure to do so could affect your claim.
7. What if my roof leaks due to melting snow or ice dams?
Roof leaks caused by ice dams or melting snow are generally covered, but only if you’ve taken preventative measures, like cleaning gutters or repairing damaged shingles. Neglecting routine maintenance could result in a denied claim.
8. Will insurance cover my heating system if it fails during the winter?
Home insurance typically doesn’t cover mechanical breakdowns like a furnace failure. However, if the failure results in damage, such as frozen pipes, that resulting damage may be covered.
9. Does home insurance cover fires caused by heating appliances?
If a fire is caused by a secondary heating appliance—such as a space heater, fireplace, or wood stove—your insurance may cover the damage. The specific coverage amount and details may vary between insurers and policies. It's crucial to inform your insurance broker about any secondary heating sources in your home, including wood-burning fireplaces, pellet stoves, or other heating appliances. Failing to disclose these details could potentially affect your coverage in the event of a claim. Your broker needs this information to ensure you have the appropriate coverage and that all your heating methods are properly documented on your policy. Ensure all heating devices are used responsibly and meet safety standards to avoid potential issues.
10. Does home insurance cover winter flooding from snowmelt?
Home insurance policies in Ontario have important coverage limitations you need to know about. Basic home insurance policies typically DO NOT cover:
- Overland flooding from snowmelt
- Sewer backup
These are two separate types of coverage that must be specifically added to your policy for protection:
Overland Flood Coverage: This protects you if melting snow or rising water enters your home from ground level through doors or windows. With increasingly unpredictable winter thaws in Ontario, this additional coverage is becoming more crucial, especially if you live:
- In areas prone to spring thaws
- Near bodies of water
- In low-lying areas
- Where snowmelt tends to accumulate
Sewer Backup Coverage: This covers damage if your sewer system backs up due to overwhelmed municipal systems during heavy snowmelt.
To protect your home, speak with your insurance broker about adding both these coverages to your policy. The cost of these additional coverages is typically much less than dealing with uninsured water damage. To learn more about protecting your home from water damage and operational water coverages to consider, click here.
Required Home Maintenance to Keep Your Home Coverage Valid
Ontario insurers expect reasonable winter maintenance, including:
- Regular snow removal from roofs when accumulation is excessive
- Maintaining adequate heat
- Proper maintenance of heating systems
- Regular inspection of pipes and plumbing
- Failing to perform these tasks could void related coverage.
Stay Prepared This Winter
Since insurance policies can vary significantly between providers, it's important to review your specific policy details and discuss winter-related concerns with your insurance broker. Given Ontario's severe winters, considering additional coverage options might be worthwhile.Ontario winters can be unpredictable, but your home insurance doesn’t have to be. By understanding your policy and taking preventive measures, you can avoid costly surprises and enjoy the season worry-free. If you have questions about your winter home insurance coverage, contact Youngs Insurance Brokers. We’ve been helping Ontario families protect what matters most for over 100 years.
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Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as professional insurance advice. The coverage, terms, and conditions of each insurance policy are unique and subject to individual circumstances. The information provided does not guarantee the availability or suitability of any insurance policy for your specific needs. You should not rely on the information in the blog as an alternative to professional advice from your insurance broker or insurance company. If you have any specific questions about any insurance matter, please consult a licensed insurance broker for personalized advice and guidance.