Risk Management Archives - Cade Associates Insurance Brokers Limited

Accident Benefits – Understanding Auto Insurance

Ross Fraser — Tue, 15 Jan 2019 19:03:16 +0000

Accident Benefits

The Ontario Automobile Insurance policy includes Accident Benefits coverage, which responds when you or your passengers are injured in an automobile accident. In 2016, reforms to the Accident Benefits portion of the policy were introduced by the provincial government and now affect all policies. Standard Accident Benefits are those provided by the basic policy, with optional increased or additional benefits available for purchase.

We encourage you to review the Accident Benefits provided by your policy and consider additional benefits available for purchase.

Medical, Rehabilitation and Attendant Care Benefit

Medical & Rehabilitation: Reimbursement for reasonable, necessary medical and rehab expenses not covered by OHIP. If you have Employee Group benefits, the insurance provided by your employer responds first. Attendant Care: Reimbursement for an attendant to look after you at home or within a healthcare facility. As of June 1, 2016, payments are limited to 5 years for adults and 10 years for children (non-catastrophic).

Standard Benefits: $65,000 combined limit. Minor injuries are fixed at a maximum limit of $3,500

Optional Benefits:

Increase limit for serious but non-catastrophic injures to $130,000 or $1,000,000.
Increase limit for catastrophic injuries from $1,000,000 to $2,000,000.

Caregiver Benefit

Reimbursement to hire someone to care for your dependant(s).

Standard Benefits: Up to $250/week for first dependant, $50 for each additional dependant. Available in catastrophic injuries only.

Optional Benefits: Extend this benefit to respond to non-catastrophic injuries.

Housekeeping & Home Maintenance Expenses

Reimbursement for someone to carry out your household responsibilities. Standard benefits provide coverage only in the case of a catastrophic injury.

Standard Benefits: Up to $100/week. Available in catastrophic injuries only.

Optional Benefits: Extend this benefit to respond to non-catastrophic injuries.

Income Replacement Benefit

A weekly income of 70% of your gross income up to the weekly limit, beginning one week after the accident occurs which prevents you from working. If your annual income is higher than $30,000 you should consider purchasing the increased limits.

Standard Benefits: Up to $400 per week. Non-earners are eligible for up to $185/week limited to 2 years.

Optional Benefits: Increase the weekly maximum to $600, $800, or $1,000.

Dependant Care Benefit

Not provided in the Standard Benefits, this optional coverage provides limited reimbursement for additional expenses to care for your dependant(s) if you are employed and injured in a car accident.

Standard Benefits: No coverage.

Optional Benefits: Up t $75/week for first dependant and $25/week for each additional up to max $150/week.

Death & Funeral Benefit

A lump sum payout to your spouse and dependant(s) in the event of your death, with a separate lump sum for funeral expenses.

Standard Benefits: $25,000 to spouse, $10,000 to each dependant; up to $6,000 for funeral expenses.

Optional Benefits: $50,000 to spouse, $20,000 to each dependant; up to $8,000 for funeral expenses.

Indexation Benefit

Not provided in the Standard Benefits, this optional coverage adjusts the sum of Accident Benefit payments for which you are eligible annually as per the CPI of Canada over the course of time for which you receive benefits.

Standard Benefits: Not included.

Optional Benefits: Adjust annually to CPI.

Tort Deductible

The amount deducted from a settlement or court award for pain & suffering.

Standard Benefits: $36,500 deductible applies to any settlement.

Optional Benefits: Reduced $20,000 deductible is available.

Injuries – Minor Injury Guidelines, Non-Catastrophic & Catastrophic Injuries

Some benefits are activated only when an injury is ‘catastrophic’. While the revised legal definition for ‘catastrophic’ is complex, the criteria includes traumatic brain injury, loss of ambulatory mobility, loss of vision, etc., injuries requiring extensive care and medical attention. Minor injuries include sprains, strains, whiplash, abrasion, etc., insured to a maximum limit of $3,500. Non-Catastrophic injuries lie in the area between the Minor Injury guidelines and the Catastrophic definition.

Third Party Liability Insurance

Your policy also provides Third Party Liability coverage to respond to claims brought against you for bodily injury and/or damage to property of others caused by an auto accident arising out of the ownership or use of your vehicle. With the new changes and reductions in the Standard Accident Benefits, we strongly recommend you also consider purchasing increased limits of Third Party Liability coverage under your auto policy and/or purchasing a Personal Umbrella Liability policy.

Contact our office to discuss your existing limits of insurance or to purchase additional optional coverages.

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Winter Maintenance Tips

Ross Fraser — Sat, 15 Dec 2018 09:00:05 +0000

Preparing your home or cottage for winter is an important annual ritual. For instance, did you know that adding insulation in your attic before winter arrives can help prevent ice dams? And don’t forget that tuning up your heating system now can help prevent more costly emergency repairs at the height of a storm, when it can be difficult to find supplies and licensed contractors. The following winter maintenance tips can help you prepare your home and cottage to withstand another cold season.

Your Heating System

Before you give your heating system a workout this winter, take the time for preventive maintenance. It may help extend the life of your system and identify potential problems.
Before Winter:

Have your furnace and other heating systems checked and serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year, preferably before the heating season begins.
Clean or replace any filters on forced hot air systems.
Have your chimney checked and serviced by a licensed contractor at least once a year, with particular attention to removing creosote buildup from woodstoves and fireplaces.

During Winter:

Have your fuel tanks filled and keep an eye on levels throughout the winter.
Set your heat no lower than 14 degrees, as the temperature inside the walls where water piping is located is colder than the living spaces; open doors to unoccupied rooms to keep an even temperature throughout the home.
Maintain your wood-burning or pellet stoves according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Your Insulation

If your cottage is winterized, insulation provides an important line of defense from winter’s gusty winds and freezing temperatures, it is worth taking time to inspect and upgrade insulation and weather stripping before the season starts.

Add extra insulation in the attic to help guard against ice dams. If too much heat escapes into the attic, it can warm the ice and snow on the roof. When it refreezes, it can cause an ice dam, leading to water damage or even a roof collapse.
Add weather stripping around doors and caulk windows to guard against drafts and heat loss.

Your Utilities

Freezing temperatures can be especially damaging to your plumbing. If your pipes aren’t drained for the winter, be sure to prepare them to withstand the cold.

Check for water leaks and fix problems immediately; wrap water piping in UL-Listed heat tape and insulate if it is exposed in unheated areas such as garages, crawl spaces or attics. Use only thermostatically-controlled heat tape if your water piping is plastic, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Learn how to shut off your water and know where your pipes are. In a freeze, you may be able to prevent water damage.
If traveling, set your heat to ensure the home stays warm enough to avoid freezing, or drain all pipes and appliances.

Your Winter Safety Measures

Trim trees and remove dead branches so they do not damage structures or cause injury if they fall due to ice, snow or wind.
Clear gutters of leaves, sticks and other debris to ensure melting snow can drain properly. Direct downspouts away from the foundation.
Repair steps and handrails for safety in ice and snow.
Check smoke detectors, fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace batteries for proper operation.

Key Supplies & Equipment

Make sure you have snow shovels and a roof rake on hand. Stock your ice melting compound to melt ice on walkways.
Service your generator or snowblower and store their fuel in approved containers, away from sources of heat.

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Social Host – Understanding Your Liability

Ross Fraser — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 17:40:01 +0000

With the holiday season upon us, will you be throwing a party or celebrating a special occasion? Do you plan on serving alcohol? If yes, while we wait for our invitation to arrive, let the Cade team discuss the liability exposure that comes with these events, and how to take steps to prevent an incident. Serving alcohol or facilitating its consumption beyond intoxication might result in your being held responsible in a liability claim where alcohol is a contributing factor.

What’s the Liability?

As a personal Host, you do have potential liability for bodily injury or property damage to third parties which arises out of the negligent serving or distribution of alcohol at your party, be it a small backyard BBQ setting, or a holiday gathering. The insurance provided by most home/condo/tenants insurance policies may protect you from a liability claim arising from a private social gathering in your home, but you should confirm this with your broker/agent first.

As a business or non-profit organization, it is very important that you review your insurance protection first with your broker or agent if you have any plans to host such an event. While some commercial insurance policies are able to accommodate an event involving liquor, additional information may be required to endorse the policy accordingly. In some cases, host liquor liability is expressly excluded and must be arranged by your Broker for your function.

Liability for claims arising out of social hosting can arise from many different avenues, including:

Server – Serving people past the point of intoxication;
Occupier – Whether you own the space or are temporarily renting the venue, you have responsibility for protecting the people on premises from harm;
Employer – You have a responsibility for your employees at staff functions.

Special Occasion Permit

Functions with more attendees, ticketed events, or those involving the sale of alcohol may require the purchase of a Special Occasions Permit. SOPs allow for the sale and service of alcohol on special occasions, and are required any time alcohol is offered for sale or is served anywhere other than in a licensed establishment (eg. bar or restaurant), or in a private place (eg. office or home). Special Occasion Permits are available from the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (link) and are reviewed and approved based on the nature of your function.

Party Alcohol Liability Insurance

Party Alcohol Liability insurance is a low-cost policy, designed to provide protection when lawsuits are brought against individuals, organizations, or companies who host events with alcohol service. This is typically provided when you are in a situation where an SOP is required, such as weddings, stag & does, banquets, dances, socials, cocktail/Holiday parties, etc. Contact your Broker to request a quote.

Risk Management & Avoiding Issues

Here’s some advice for curtailing over-consumption of alcohol:

Be aware of the designated drivers in attendance. If other guests are unable to drive safely, the DDs may be able to help
Provide non-alcoholic drink and food options to all guests throughout the party
Implement a cut-off time for alcohol service, even at private functions. For example: stop serving alcohol some time before you expect your guests will leave. You may also serve other drinks, like coffee or tea, and encourage guests to have water.
Be prepared with excess cash to offer to pay for guests’ cab rides if necessary. You may also have extra space set up in your home to house last-minute overnight guests.
Have no reservations about asking for someone’s keys if you suspect they are too intoxicated to drive.
If alcohol service is being provided at a larger function, or one involving an SOP, ensure that servers are Smart Serve certified.
The legalization of cannabis adds an additional layer of complexity, as guests may mix intoxicants. Keep a keen eye on your attendees to watch for over-consumption.

What To Do In A Claim

In the event of a claim, here’s what to do:

Contact your representative at Cade as soon as possible.
Make a note of all the relevant details of the incident, including the date, time, witnesses’ names and contact information.
Don’t confess liability; always direct any discussions with the claimant to your insurer for further comment.

Whatever the occasion, be wary of how much your attendees are drinking. It is your responsibility to ensure your guests are having a good time in a safe manner. Take the lead on educating yourself and your team about what you’re responsible for when holding a party. Be prepared with several methods of getting your guests home safely if they are too intoxicated to drive themselves and others.

Get in touch with us today at clientservices@cadeinsurance.ca to discuss how to prepare for your next event.

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Bubblers – Important Safety Considerations

Ross Fraser — Sun, 04 Nov 2018 04:15:37 +0000

Important Safety Considerations for Bubblers

With the temperature dropping, our thoughts turn to preparing our cottages for the cold and snow to come. For some, this means closing up the cottage until the spring. For others, it is a time to prepare for life on the lake during the winter. Regardless, we all do our best to prepare our properties to withstand the toughest weather Canada can throw at us. Some property owners have opted to give their waterfront structures a helping hand, through the installation of bubblers.

What Are Bubblers?

For those who are unfamiliar, ‘bubblers’ are a type of de-icing system, intended to prevent the build-up of ice at or around waterfront structures like docks and boathouses. There are several different types of systems, but generally these devices use air or propellers to create zones of agitated and warmer water to prevent ice from forming. Protecting our cottage properties is understandable and an increasing number of cottagers in Ontario are turning to these devices as part of their winter preparation.

However, if you are a regular bubbler user, or if you are considering installing one at your property, it is important to plan carefully and be sure that you are not contributing to a significant hazard on the lake.

Creating a Hole in the Water

Bubblers are often turned on and left largely unattended by property owners throughout the winter. Without careful planning, management and consideration of the nature of your waterfront area, your bubbler can de-ice a significantly larger portion of the water than is necessary to protect your property. This is especially true in shallow or sheltered areas, or when several bubblers are active near one-another, with multiple property owners inadvertently creating a massive hole in the ice, hundreds of feet in size. These holes in the ice can pose a serious safety risk to winter users of our lakes, especially at night or during storms with poor visibility.

Legal Implications

Section 263 (1) of the Criminal Code of Canada is very clear that those who make or cause to be made an opening in ice are under a legal duty to guard the opening in a manner adequate to prevent persons from falling in by accident, and adequate to warn them that the opening exists. If you fail to perform these duties, the Code states that you may be found guilty of serious offences, up to and including manslaughter.

Risk Management Considerations

If you chose to operate a bubbler to protect your property, please make sure you are taking all steps possible to ensure the safety of all lake users and consider taking these risk management steps:

Place and angle your devices with care to keep the impacted area as localized as possible;
Talk to your neighbours to avoid doubling up in an area. It is possible that one bubbler will do the trick.
Equip your system with a thermostat or timer control. Running 24/7 creates oversized openings.
Place clear signs near the bubbling area, visible from all directions noting “Danger Open Water”.
Run an amber light to mark the hazard at night and during storms. Do not use a red light, as this can be mistaken for the brake lights of a snomobile and draw people towards the risk, rather than turn them away.
Monitor your property. If you cannot be present, have someone check regularly to ensure the system is operating, the effected area is appropriate in size, and that the warning lights and markers remain in place.
Where possible, a knowledgeable and experienced contractor should be used to configure the system.

Summer or winter, safety on the water is a top priority!

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Cannabis Legalizaiton in Canada

Ross Fraser — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 08:00:07 +0000

On October 17^th, 2018 Canada became just the second country in the world to legalize the recreational use of cannabis. While the implications of this legalization will be wide-reaching and have yet to be fully realized, there are some important insurance implications that you should keep in mind.

Driving Safety

Impaired driving remains an illegal act, whether the impairment is caused by alcohol or drugs, and is the leading criminal cause of death and injury in Canada. With the legalization of cannabis, families are encouraged to discuss the dangers of drug-impaired driving with the same seriousness as drinking and driving has been approached in the past. New legislation allows Police to use approved drug screening devices, similar to their response when dealing with a suspected drunk driver. Remember that there is a zero-tolerance policy with respect to young and novice drivers.

For Auto Insurances purposes, a conviction for drug-impaired driving is comparable to a conviction for alcohol impaired driving. Both are considered Criminal Code offences and will result in significant premium surcharging or even declination of coverage. In no uncertain terms, driving while under the influence of any drugs or alcohol is unacceptable.

At Home

The new legislation allows Canadians to legally grow up to four plants per residence. Please note that this is a per residence limit and not a per person limit. If you are considering growing plants under the new legislation, please read the rules carefully to ensure you are in compliance. From a risk management perspective, growing can involve the use of specialized lighting or other equipment and licensed electricians should be consulted or used where necessary. As with any plant, growing inside your home can attract pests, which can cause a significant nuisance or even damage to the rest of your home. Cannabis plants in your home can also represent an allurement for ‘smash and grab’ style burglaries, meaning they should be stored out of sight and in a secured location. A monitored burglary and fire alarm system should be considered.

Each Insurer has their own approach to home-based growing, and we may be in touch with any specific underwriting questions or requirements your Insurer may have.

Host Liability

With the legalization of cannabis, hosts should approach service and consumption in the same manner as alcohol. As you may already know, whether you are hosting friends in your home or a work social event, you have potential liability for bodily injury or property damage to others, arising out of the negligent serving or distribution of alcohol. Hosts have been found responsible by the courts for the actions of their guests who consumed past the point of intoxication. If alcohol or cannabis will be consumed at your event, consider asking participants if they have a designated driver, ensure non-alcoholic beverages and food options are available, have cash on hand for cabs to prevent impaired driving, and keep a watch for over consumption or signs of intoxication. Call our office if you have any questions, or if you would like a quote for separate Host Liability Coverage for your event.

Travel

Despite some states having different rules, cannabis possession is still illegal under U.S. federal law – do not attempt to enter the United States with any cannabis. While there is some allowance while flying within Canada, cannabis is not permitted aboard international flights.

Insurance policies contain exclusions that apply when Insureds engage in illegal activity, so it is up to all of us to ensure we fully understand and adhere to the new laws of the land. To help, visit the following links:

Canada’s Cannabis Act Website – canada.ca/cannabis
Ontario’s Cannabis Website – https://www.ontario.ca/page/cannabis-legalization

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Fall Home Maintenance Tips

Ross Fraser — Fri, 12 Oct 2018 02:36:38 +0000

While spring is a common time for many homeowners to spend some extra attention on upkeep and maintenance, autumn is just as critical a season for preparing your home to withstand the potentially harsh winter weather and temperature conditions that may await you. By making maintenance part of your annual fall routine you can identify potential problems before they arise, and help prepare your home and property for what Mother Nature has to offer. These tips are provided by Travelers Canada, the underwriter of the CottageFirst Insurance program!

Following are some home maintenance tips from our Risk Control professionals to help you prepare for the coming winter:

Have your heating system cleaned and inspected annually by a qualified technician.
Replace your furnace filter in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
Insulate water pipes in areas exposed to freezing temperatures.
Check gutters for damage and confirm they’re securely attached to the house.
Clean gutters and downspouts to keep debris from accumulating. This is especially important during the fall season when leaves may collect in gutters.
Check and repair caulking around doors and windows that show signs of deterioration.
Have your chimney cleaned and maintained by a professional. If you use a wood stove, check for wear and tear, corrosion, etc. and store your wood in a dry, cool area away from the wood stove and potential sources of ignition or pests.
Clean the clothes dryer exhaust duct and space under and behind the dryer. Remove lint and dust that may have accumulated inside the dryer in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Check electrical outlets for loose-fitting plugs or receptacles. Be sure not to overload electrical outlets.
Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher accessible. Confirm that it is fully charged and ready for operation.
Inspect your smoke detectors. Make sure you have a smoke detector in each bedroom or sleeping area and also, a smoke detector in the hallway outside each sleeping area. You should also make sure you have at least one smoke detector on each floor of your home, including your basement. Test them monthly, and change the battery annually or as needed.

The steps you take during the fall can help protect your home and property from more potentially expensive damage and emergency repairs in the colder months to come.

Original Article

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Snowbirds: Winterize Your Home While You’re Away

Ross Fraser — Fri, 06 Oct 2017 11:30:18 +0000

If you are a snowbird heading south for the winter, there are several key things you can do to help protect your vacant home. Taking these steps can help protect your home from theft, water damage, heating or electrical system malfunctions and other possible threats while you are away for an extended period of time. These tips are provided by Travelers Canada, the underwriter of the CottageFirst Insurance program!

Download the Snowbird’s Checklist for Preparing Your Home

1. Make Your Home Appear as Though It Is Continuously Occupied

Forward your mail, stop newspaper delivery, and ask a friend or relative to collect flyers or other items that may be left at your door.
Arrange for someone to remove snow after storms.
Put motion-sensitive exterior lights and interior lights on timers and set them to come on at varying times to discourage prowlers.

2. Take Steps to Protect Your Home from Thieves

Confirm that your alarm systems are in working order and have been activated.
Secure external doors and windows with deadbolt locks, security-type hinges and sturdy door frames that cannot be spread apart. Install slide locks or other equivalent security locks on sliding glass doors or French doors.
Store valuables that you are not taking with you in a safe deposit box or other secure offsite location.
Do not post your vacation or travel plans on social media sites, as potential thieves can use that information to learn that your house is vacant.

3. Protect Your Pipes to Avoid Water Damage by Turning Off Your Water Supply

If a pipe bursts or leaks while you are away, it may cause significant damage. Consider completely turning off the water supply if no one will be in the home for an extended period of time. If your home is heated by an older system, consult with your heating professional.
Drain your pipes of all water by opening the faucets, and flush your toilet to clear the water from the tank and bowl, then consider pouring antifreeze in toilet tanks and bowls to prevent any remaining water from freezing and cracking.* Always use non-toxic antifreeze rated for plumbing systems.
To help confirm that the pipes have been drained, consider having a plumber blow compressed air through the pipes.

4. Keep Your Home and Plumbing Warm if Your Water Supply Stays On

If you decide against draining your water pipes, keep the furnace running to help ensure the home stays warm and the pipes do not freeze.
Set the temperature at around 13°C or higher to help keep the interior of the floor and wall cavities, where the water piping is likely located above freezing temperatures. Keeping room and cabinet doors open also helps heat to circulate and warm the areas where pipes are located.
Shut off the water to washing machines and dishwashers and drain the appliances where possible, to avoid any leaks or broken hoses while you are away.
Turn off the heat source and water supply to hot water heaters (unless you have a boiler).
Consider shutting off and draining outdoor water faucets to prevent vandalism and freezing damage.
Have a water flow sensor and low temperature sensor installed on your main water supply pipe and hooked into a constantly monitored alarm system.

5. Perform Routine Maintenance Before You Leave

Have your heating system inspected and serviced before winter. Have your fuel tanks filled before you leave, and ask someone to check on heat and fuel levels regularly while you are gone.
Be sure to maintain electrical power if required to keep the heating system running. If electrical service to the home is to remain on, consider having a licensed electrical contractor inspect your main electrical panel, wiring and outlets, if necessary. This way, they can repair or replace anything that may be defective.
Have your roof inspected before you leave and clean your gutters to help prevent ice from building up.*
Remove dead trees or large overhanging limbs that could damage your house.
Unplug all unnecessary appliances before you leave. Make sure you can retrieve messages on your home answering machine or voicemail so it does not indicate FULL or unattended when someone calls.

6. Make Your Home Unattractive to Pests

Clean your home thoroughly to help discourage new “residents” from moving in.
Clean, defrost and unplug refrigerators and freezers, wiping them dry and leaving doors propped open to prevent mildew. Also clean the oven.
Inspect your home for openings that animals could use to enter. For example, make sure your fireplace flue is closed, as bats, birds and squirrels are known to get inside this way.
Check weather-stripping, insulation and exterior doors and windows to ensure no major deficiencies are present. Water and insects can enter through these openings.
Chimneys should be inspected by a chimney service and, if necessary, cleaned to ensure that they are free from obstructions such as nesting birds. Install chimney guard screen-caps to help prevent any infestation.

7. Be Ready for Emergencies

Call the non-emergency number of your local police department to see if they would like notice that the property will be vacant. If so, provide emergency notification numbers.
Install smoke detectors on at least every floor (preferably tied to a constantly monitored fire alarm system so the fire department will automatically be notified in case of alarm), and confirm that the sensors and system are tested regularly.
In higher wind-exposed or coastal areas, install storm shutters (or other mitigation measures, such as 5/8” marine plywood) to secure windows. Properly anchor personal property that will remain outdoors.
Ask a trusted friend, neighbor or relative to keep an eye on your home and be available in emergency situations. Give them access to your home and ask that they monitor heating, electrical and water systems. You may wish to hire a professional property management firm to provide this service to ensure it is completed on a regular schedule.
If the weather turns frigid, have your friend or property manager also check the roof for ice dams and inspect for leaks inside. Make sure they have your contact information and a list of local contractors they can reach if repairs or service are needed.

* Source: https://www.homeadvisor.com/article.show.How-Do-I-Winterize-a-Vacant-House.10834.html

Original Article: https://www.travelers.com/resources/home/safety/snowbirds-winterize-your-vacant-home.aspx

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Summer’s End in Cottage Country

Ross Fraser — Tue, 04 Oct 2016 14:54:54 +0000

Summer’s End in Cottage Country

Whether used year-round or exclusively in the warmer seasons, the start of fall and the onset of cooler temperatures means that cottagers everywhere will begin their preparations for winter! As we get started on these necessary chores to prepare our cottage before the snow flies, the following are a few important tasks that should be included on the ‘to do’ list to help reduce the chance of damage to your property!

Heating

As the temperatures start to drop, be sure to carefully check your heating system before activating it, especially if it has not been used this year. To avoid an unexpected fire, baseboard heaters in particular should be clear from furniture, window coverings and other items that might have collected nearby over the summer. If you are going to make use of a small plug-in space heater, first check your electrical system to be sure it can handle the draw. Then, be very careful with its placement, and while it is on, never leave it unattended.

Woodstoves and fireplaces are beautiful ways of warming your cottage during the colder weather. Again, if you haven’t used either since last winter or early spring, take a moment to check the unit/fireplace and make sure it is clean and ready for use. Inspect the chimney stack for damage or loosening of any support straps and/or buildup of creosote, check your fire extinguishers, clear any ashes and remove any flammables from the surrounding area. Click here for more tips on the safe use of your woodstove or fireplace!

Water

If your cottage is used only in the warmer seasons, and you turn off all power and board it up for the winter, then much of your activities on closing weekend will be all about your water system! The water pump should be shut off and all plumbing systems and appliances should be drained completely of their water. By draining your system and all connected appliances, freezing damage is avoided and the process of turning the water on next spring is much easier (and dryer!).

For year-round cottagers, it is important that your water lines be protected from the elements and that your cottage maintains a minimum level of heat throughout the winter to prevent freezing temperatures inside. No two insurance policies are alike, but many Insurers still include a ‘freezing exclusion’. We recommend that you confirm with your own insurance provider/agent/broker what exclusions exist on your own policy. Typically, if the temperature in your cottage falls below the level which would be sufficient to maintain reasonable heat, some policies will not respond to claims arising from the resultant freezing of the water pipes. An unexpected power failure or furnace breakdown during your absence might cause considerable water damage, which may not be insured. Some Insurers remove the ‘freezing’ exclusion if you install a monitored low-temperature alarm, and others if the owner takes ‘reasonable steps’ to ensure that the heating is operating properly while away from the property or coordinate regular visits by a reliable person. Regardless, year-round cottagers should speak with their broker/agent to review this exclusion as it relates to their policy.

Roofs

Eaves troughs and roofs should be cleared to allow for easy drainage of water and winter debris away from the roof and away from the cottage footings or foundations. While checking the roof before leaving, ensure that there are no areas at obvious risk of ice damming and that large overhanging branches are removed. Consideration should be given to hiring a contractor to clear snow off the roof throughout the winter, as heavy snow does put extensive strain on the roof and some insurance policies may not respond to collapse due to weight of snow or ice. Again, please review with your broker to be certain that your policy includes this important coverage.

Whether closing up for the season, or simply preparing for the cold, we wish all cottagers a fantastic Canadian winter ahead!

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Renovations & New Builds

Ross Fraser — Fri, 01 Jul 2016 17:10:52 +0000

Building New or Renovating a Home or Cottage

When constructing or renovating a property, insurance is an important piece of the puzzle that requires attention before the work begins to ensure your construction investment is properly insured. Designing a new building, or renovating an existing structure involves many different aspects of construction. You may be considering custom designed plans or a pre-designed package, but, regardless of which approach you choose, it is essential that you contact your insurance broker or agent before starting your project for guidance on the implications to your own insurance coverage. Many home and cottage insurance providers remove or significantly limit coverage on a dwelling that is under renovation or major construction. Specific insurance products are designed to fill the gap.

Builder’s Risk Insurance – New Builds and Renovations

A Builder’s Risk insurance policy insures the value of the completed construction project, offering coverage for insured property loss to your structure during a new build or significant renovation. This policy also insures building materials located on site that will be used in the construction, and may include coverage for soft costs such as architectural designs and permits. As the owner of the building under construction, it makes good sense that you own the Builder’s Risk insurance policy. Then, in the event of a claim, you work together with the Insurer to settle your loss. However, certain General Contractors may also offer to arrange this on your behalf as part of their contract with you. This insurance must be arranged before construction begins.

Depending on the scope of renovation, it may be possible to request an extension of your existing insurance policy during the course of construction. You should be sure to discuss both options with your insurance broker or agent to determine which coverage is the best and most cost-effective solution for your particular construction project.

Personal Liability While Building or Renovating

A construction project brings with it additional personal liability exposures to the property owner. Liability claims may arise from injuries or property damage to others allegedly resulting from your construction project. Be sure to speak with your insurance broker to ensure your existing personal liability coverage is extended to your construction site.

General Contractors

While there is excitement and a personal challenge in building or renovating your cottage or home, the value of a qualified, experienced General Contractor should be seriously considered. The expertise of a qualified general contractor is valuable and brings better accessibility and pricing with respect to Builder’s Risk insurance. Some policies will be unable to extend coverage without an insured General Contractor.

Proof of Commercial General Liability Insurance – It is important that the contract you sign with the General Contractor contains a clause that requires the General Contractor to provide you with a Certificate of Insurance, providing evidence of their Commercial General Liability insurance coverage.

Additional Insured Status – As Owner of the project and property, your name should be shown as “Additional Insured” on the General Contractor’s insurance policy. This request is typically satisfied at no additional cost to the General Contractor and is shown directly on the Certificate of Insurance.

WSIB – The General Contractor should provide a Clearance Certificate confirming they are registered with WSIB. This insurance, if in place, prevents them from suing you for their own injuries sustained while on your construction site. It is recommended that you visit www.wsib.on.ca to learn what is required of your General Contractor.

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Weathering a Winter Storm

Ross Fraser — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 22:30:02 +0000

What kind of Canadian winter would it be without a big snow storm! While these storms are a favourite for lovers of winter sports, they can also cause extreme disruption to travel, infrastructure, and day-to-day life. Remember that in serious emergencies, local governments expect households to be able to sustain themselves without assistance for at least 72 hours. If your local forecast has a winter storm on the horizon, take some time to consider how to best prepare. Many of the leading Canadian insurers offer suggestions about winter safety and how to avoid damage to your home and property, including the following by Travelers Canada:

Check Your Supplies

Make sure you have a snow shovel and some supplies for melting ice to keep your walkways and driveways clear and safe
Depending on how you heat your home, ensure you have a sufficient supply of heating fuel and fuel for your generator, if you have one.
If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, keep a supply of dry, seasoned wood in a place well clear of the fire itself.
Have warm clothing and blankets on hand, and stock up on non-perishable food items and necessary medications to last you and your family at least three days.

Prepare for Power Outages

If you think the coming storm may cause a power outage, turn your heat up now and close off any rooms not in use.
Check pipe insulation in your home. If you lose power, run the water at a trickle to prevent pipes from freezing.
Charge any battery-powered electronic and communication devices.
Keep a battery-powered radio on hand to stay aware of any change to the weather conditions.
Put your flashlights, batteries, first aid kit and other emergency supplies in a easy to find location.

Stay Warm and Safe

If you are going to rely on a fireplace or wood-burning stove, follow all regular safety precautions and visit our post about keeping your wood-burning stove and chimney in good working order.
Do not use an oven, range, or BBQ as a home heating device.
If you have a generator, only use it outside where there is sufficient ventilation.
Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they work properly.
Do not let candles burn unattended, and keep them away from any combustibles. Battery-powered LED lights are a safe, energy efficient alternative to candles.
If your roof has an ice dam prevention system, turn it on before the snow falls.

Stay Inside and Safe

Drive only if you absolutely must, and be sure your car has four snow tires, adequate fuel and an emergency supply kit.
If you go outside to shovel snow, know your limits and don’t overtax yourself.
Protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia by wearing layers of warm, loose fitting lightweight clothing.
Stay away from downed power lines.
Keep your pets inside or make other suitable arrangements for them.

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