Insurance for Your Seasonal Property in Ontario

Now that spring has finally arrived in Ontario, it’s a good time to start thinking about insuring your cottage or other seasonal properties.

Here at the Ostic Group, we recommend doing a couple of things when you open up your cottage or other vacation property:

• Check the plumbing for leaks. Cold temperature can cause damage to pipes in unwinterized cottages, if they weren’t drained properly. Evaluate plumbing and get any repairs done immediately.
• Check for mice or other visitors. When a property is left alone for a long period of time, other critters like to move in. Look for signs of other residents and take steps to remove them if you find anything.
• See what needs upkeep. Notice any peeling paint, loose shingles or rotting decks? Get stuff repaired before your property suffers further damage from the elements.
• Check the boat engine. If you have a power boat, make sure you check the engine before you use it. Get a pro to service it, if it needs maintenance.

Got a cottage in the Muskokas or the Kawarthas? A holiday home in Southampton or Grand Bend? These family getaways are great candidates for protection with seasonal property insurance.

Make sure you talk to a broker at The Ostic Group about whether you may need extra coverages added to your basic insurance package:

• Other Structures: Coverage for outbuildings like boathouses and garages is often inadequate under a basic package. Make sure you’re not underinsured on these important parts of your property.
• Boats: If you have power boats or even sailboats, canoes and rowboats at your cottage, then you may need additional coverage for them. Ask your broker!

Contact your insurance broker at the Ostic Group for info on seasonal insurance.