Eavestroughs and WaterFlow
Over the winter, debris such as leaves and other natural matter can build up, blocking the eavestroughs and inhibiting the flow of water away from your cottage– this may cause water to enter your cottage if not dealt with. Clear any obstructions from the gutter, and if you are able to do so safely, from the entire roof as well. Soil erosion may also have occurred over the off-season. Take a walk around your property to ensure that there are no new pathways for water to flow towards your cottage and that no water is pooling near the foundation or supports.

Natural Debris and Pests
The cold season will have likely left branches, leaves and other debris scattered around your property; this should be cleared away when reopening your cottage. After a particularly stormy winter, you may return to your cottage to find trees that have fallen or appear to be susceptible to falling. If this is the case it may be wise to have an arborist visit your property to inspect and advise you on how to safely remove the tree. Small animals and insects may have taken refuge inside your home while you were away–keep an eye out for signs of unwelcome guests such as droppings, evidence of chewing, or burrows that lead underneath your house. If you continue to observe these signs and common solutions such as traps and pesticides have not yielded any results, call call a local exterminator for professional assistance.

Septic Systems
Though a septic system presents a minimal risk of backing up into your cottage when compared to a municipal system, it is still important to have your system inspected and pumped every 2-3 years. This regular maintenance of your septic systems prevents potential damage to your property and is also critical to reducing the chance of polluting the local ecosystems and impacting the quality of your lake water. For more information on septic systems, visit FOCA’s website.

Fireplaces and Woodstoves
May long weekends in Ontario don’t always feel like summer, and we might have to make use of our woodstove or fireplace to get us through the first few weekends at the cottage. Before you ignite any sparks, ensure that your home is equipped with a full fire extinguisher and fire handing tools, such as pokers and fireproof gloves. Check the stovepipe for any damage such as rust or shifting. Remove all coverings from your stove/ fireplace and check the chimney and flue for blockages. Lighting a small test fire will reveal any additional obstructions in the chimney. Remember that even at the cottage, regular chimney cleanings are a critical safety measure. Visit our Woodstove Safety post to learn more.

Boats
Spring boating requires extra caution as certain hazards, such as floating debris in the water or even ice, if the weather is still on the colder side, may be unexpected obstacles in your path. Be wary of these before you take your boat out, especially if it is relatively early in the season. Perform an inspection on your tanks and fuel lines, and ensure that your craft is supplied with all the necessary safety equipment (see the Transport Canada Safe Boating Guide, page 16). Finally, make sure that you have a valid Pleasure Craft Operator Card on your person or in the boat every time you use it.

The Drive
As you prepare for your first weekend away at the cottage, remember that a higher level of patience may be required for the trek. The excitement of ‘getting away’ for the long weekend is often challenged by the considerable traffic jams as thousands of people head to and from their holiday destinations. Plan for longer travel times, pack the car with your belongings beforehand and avoid overloading. Ensure that any roof or trunk racks, as well as the items attached to them, are properly secured. If you are towing a trailer, be aware of your blind spots and test its lights before you leave. Always drive as safely and distraction-free as possible and avoid texting while behind the wheel. On arrival, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy your piece of paradise!

The post 6 Tips for a Successful Cottage Opening appeared first on Cade Associates Insurance Brokers Limited.

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!

The post Summer’s End in Cottage Country appeared first on Cade Associates Insurance Brokers Limited.

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.

The post Weathering a Winter Storm appeared first on Cade Associates Insurance Brokers Limited.

PREPARING YOUR VEHICLES FOR WINTER

• Winter Tires – Winter tires should be near the top of your list when planning for winter. While all-season tires claim to be capable year-round, the soft rubber composition of winter tires allows for increased contact and therefore traction on the road during the cold of winter. Improved traction means better control and shortened braking distances.
  • If you have Winter Tires for your vehicle, you may qualify for a modest discount from your insurer on the renewal of your policy. Generally, to be eligible for the discount, you must have a set of four tires specifically designed for winter (not all-season) on your vehicle from November to April. We recommend you keep your receipt for the purchase or installation of the tires, if the Insurer requests them. Winter tires usually have a lifespan of about 5 years, so be sure to get your tires inspected or replaced regularly. The average Winter Tire discount is about 2% – 3%. If your vehicle qualifies for this discount, give our office a call or email so that we can apply the discount on renewal.

PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR WINTER

• Eavestroughs – Heavy snows can lead to a build-up of debris on your roof and a fast melt can test the drainage of even the most recently updated roofs. Be sure to clear out your eavestroughs of falling leaves and other clutter to minimize any backing up and potential leakage or drainage issues. Some home insurance policies include exclusions for water damage arising from the backing up of eavestroughs, so this maintenance is important. Be sure that all eavestrough drains run away from the foundation of the home as well.
• Heating System – No one wants to come home to a home without heat in the winter. Now is the time for a maintenance check of your furnace or other home heating system. If your furnace is over 20 years old, it is even more important to have the unit inspected annually for the sake of safety and continued operation.
• Fireplaces & Woodstoves – If you have a wood burning unit in your home, be sure to have the chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a WETT-certified contractor. (www.wettinc.ca lets you search for a local contractor). During the significant power failure in Toronto in the winter of 2013, many homeowners found themselves turning to fireplaces that hadn’t been used or cleaned in years. This is extremely dangerous, as a buildup of residue in the chimney can cause a significant fire hazard. Regular cleaning and maintenance is key!
• Driveways, Walkways & Sidewalks – With the snows of winter comes everyone’s favourite chore – shoveling! Be certain you have the tools necessary to maintain your driveways, walks and any sidewalks you may be responsible for clearing. Slip & fall claims are far more common in the winter, so ensure that your property is properly cleared and salted when necessary.
• Prepare for Power & Service Failures – Recalling the power failures of the past few winters which left homes without power for several days, we have all learned it is best to be prepared in case this coming winter creates another power failure. Be sure that you have enough supplies to last at least 3 days. The Ontario Government has some resources available to help you plan for an emergency, including building a kit and keeping necessary supplies on hand. If your power does fail, pay close attention to your plumbing system. Once the temperature of a home begins to drop, the chance for freezing in pipes skyrockets with a potential for significant water damage when the pipes thaw and rupture. If you suspect your heat will be out for a while, drain your plumbing system completely including all appliances to prevent this freezing damage. Learn more about freezing pipes here.

• Storing Seasonal Vehicles – Your summer cars, motorcycles, ATVs and other recreational vehicles are just about due to be put away for the winter. Conducting the storage maintenance routine specific to your vehicle now can prevent damage during the winter and make bringing the vehicle back out in the spring much easier.

The post Getting Ready for Winter appeared first on Cade Associates Insurance Brokers Limited.

In these few weeks before the May long weekend, plans for opening the cottage are getting underway.  As with every year, that first weekend of work up North can be a chilly one and most of us will be looking forward to getting a fire going.  Before that can happen however, it is important to make sure that your woodstove is in safe, working order and that you and your family are familiar with woodstove safety.

For your reference, we here at Cade have put together a list of some helpful information with respect to your woodstove so that you can be sure that you and your family have a safe and warm summer!

• Have your chimney cleaned at least once a year.  Depending on how frequently you use your woodstove (for example, are you using it just on chilly nights at your seasonal cottage or is it being used year-round), it might be a good idea to consider having your chimney cleaned twice a year.

• If you’ve just purchased your cottage property and do not know when the woodstove was last cleaned, be sure to have a professional come and inspect the chimney before you begin to use it.

• Before starting up that inaugural fire, inspect the woodstove’s chimney stack for damage.   Harsh winters such as this past one can affect the stability of the chimney which can lead to an unsafe woodstove.  Take the time to closely inspect the support straps in order to confirm that the chimney is straight and obstacle-free.  Replace any damaged materials and check the cap and screen to ensure that no critters decided to make your chimney their winter home.

• Keep a fully charged Class A fire extinguisher on hand and be sure to test all of the smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the cottage.

• Go over fire safety rules with your family.  Make sure everyone knows where the fire extinguisher is and what to do in case of an uncontrolled fire.

• Use properly dried hardwoods such as maple, beech, ash, hickory, or oak as the fuel for your woodstove’s fire.

• Do not use gasoline, charcoal starter fluid, or other flammable liquids to start your fire.

• Don’t let ashes build up in your woodstove.  A large buildup of ashes can eventually block the air intake from the draft registers and reduce the efficiency of your woodstove.

• For the extra ashes, have a metal container nearby and let them cool completely before disposing of them.

• Store wood and other flammable objects safely away from your wood-burning appliance in order to reduce the risk of fire.

Even if you take all of the above precautions, over time, burning wood leads to the buildup of Creosote.  Creosote can take the form of a sticky liquid, a flaky, black deposit, or a hard tar-like substance.  It is a highly combustible and unsafe material which, if left untended, can lead to a chimney fire.  The only line of defense against this byproduct is regular woodstove maintenance and cleaning.

By ensuring that you have your wood burning stove inspected by a WETT certified professional, you will gain piece of mind knowing that your woodstove is in optimal working order, is in good structural condition, and that it is burning in a way that complies with WETT standards and therefore does not compromise your and your family’s health and safety.

To all of you heading up North in the coming weeks, we here at Cade want to wish you a productive and pain free opening weekend.

Here’s to evenings around a safe and warm crackling fire!

The post Staying Safe & Warm: Tips and Information for Woodstove Safety appeared first on Cade Associates Insurance Brokers Limited.

Along with the desire for hot cups of tea, warm blankets, and pumpkin pie comes the necessary steps of closing down your summer retreat for the winter.

In order to lessen some of the stress, we have created this brief To Do list for that last weekend trek up North this year:

• Shut off the water supply and drain the pipes – Drain all of the pipes, bail out any reservoirs (i.e. any water left in the toilet bowl), and allow the taps to ‘breathe’ by leaving them open over the winter.
• Unplug all electrical appliances and devices – In order to avoid any power surges and unwanted electricity bills, remove all plugs from their outlets.
• Turn off all heating sources – If the primary heat at your cottage is supplied by baseboard electric heaters or central heating, turn the devices or thermostats off or down to their lowest possible setting.
• Clean out any woodburning units – Remove all ash and any unburned pieces of wood from the unit.  Additionally, close the damper flue in order to keep the weather (and critters) out of your cottage.
• Make sure the kitchen is squeaky clean and left without a spec of food – In order to avoid visits from any four-legged friends, be sure to leave the kitchen clean and to remove any food.  If you are to leave any dry goods up at the cottage, make sure to seal them in an airtight glass or metal container.  Plastic is not as effective as small critters can often chew through.
• If you are able, remove any valuable items – It is a sad but true fact that thieves sometimes take advantage of the uninhabited nature of a closed cottage.  If you have storage room at your home, consider removing TVs, stereos, or other valuable items from the cottage.  If any high value items are permanently stored at the cottage, make sure to leave the windows covered so that no one is able to see in.
• Move outdoor items inside for the winter months – Canoes, barbecues, and patio furniture should be moved into a storage shed or, if space permits, into the cottage itself in order to avoid weather damage and/or theft
• Take photos of the cottage – Consider taking photos of the cottage as well as any additional structures for reference in case anything is to happen over the winter months.
• Complete any minor repairs to the cottage and detached structures – By doing this prior to the deep freeze of winter and eventual spring thaw, you will mitigate further damage.
• Cover any openings to the cottage – In order to prevent raccoons and other fury tenants from making your cottage their winter home, consider installing a cover over your chimney and any other openings such as the dryer flue that might serve as a pathway into your cottage.
• Consider hiring a local snow removal company – In order to avoid excess accumulation of snow and ice on your cottage roof over the winter months, arrange to have a local snow removal company come at least once in order to remove some of the heavy buildup of snow.
• If you do hire a local snow removal company, consider having them maintain the drive and walkways – In order to maintain easy access to the cottage, consider having snow removed from the drive and walkways.  By keeping the paths of access clear, the cottage will be easier to get to in case of an emergency.
• Ask a friend or neighbour who lives near the cottage or hire someone to check on the cottage property – If you are unable to make the trip up north over the winter months, consider having someone check on the cottage periodically in order to ensure that all is in order.  If something unfortunate has happened, from a fire, to a break-in, to a roof cave-in, the sooner you are made aware and can deal with the issue, the better.

We here at Cade wish all those with plans to close up their cottage in the coming weeks the best of luck.

Stay safe and enjoy the fall colours!

The post Simple Steps to Prepare your Cottage for Winter appeared first on Cade Associates Insurance Brokers Limited.