Ontario cottage life is one of the great joys of Canadian summers. But as the season winds down, closing your cottage properly is more than just a checklist of chores; it’s a safeguard for your property, your peace of mind, and your insurance coverage. Failing to winterize or notify your insurance company of a vacant property can lead to costly mistakes and even denied claims.
1. Shut Off and Drain Water Systems: Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and expensive) cottage insurance claims. Before you leave, shut off the water supply, drain pipes, toilets, and appliances, and consider adding antifreeze to drains.
2. Secure Your Property Against Theft and Damage: An unoccupied cottage can be a target for break-ins. Remove valuables, lock up, and if possible, install security cameras and motion-sensor lights.
3. Maintain Heat or Protect Against Cold: If you’re leaving heat on, set the thermostat to a safe temperature and have someone check in regularly. If you’re shutting everything down, be sure the property is fully winterized.
4. Check Your Roof and Gutters: Ontario winters are tough. Clear gutters of leaves and debris so snow and ice don’t cause backups and damage. Inspect the roof for loose shingles or weak spots.
5. Insurance Implications of Vacant Property: Leaving a cottage vacant without the proper insurance coverage is a serious risk. Many policies have restrictions or conditions regarding vacancy, and failing to notify your insurer could mean a claim is denied if damage occurs. For example, if a frozen pipe bursts while the property is unoccupied and your insurer wasn’t aware, you may not be covered.
6. Notify Your Insurance Broker: One of the smartest closing steps is also one of the simplest, contact your insurance professional. They can confirm whether you need additional coverage for vacancy, make sure liability is in place, and provide advice on protecting your investment year-round.
BONUS TIP: Another smart step in winterizing your cottage is considering hiring a local property manager. Hiring someone in the area to check in on your cottage through the colder months provides peace of mind and can help prevent costly damage. A property manager can monitor the home for issues, arrange for snow to be removed from the roof when it poses a risk, and ensure that the property remains safe and maintained. In fact, some seasonal property insurance policies require that a responsible adult visit the property regularly to keep coverage valid, making this not only a practical but also a potentially necessary investment.
Closing your cottage is about more than sweeping floors and storing patio furniture. Taking the right steps now helps prevent expensive surprises later and ensures your insurance will work for you when you need it most.