As Canadians prepare for Canada Day celebrations and summer travel, the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is reminding homeowners to be aware of seasonal risks and to review their home insurance coverage.
The IBC enumerated certain events below that homeowners should note during this season.
Backyard gatherings are a staple of summer, but they also come with increased liability. IBC noted that homeowners and tenants are legally responsible for injuries that occur on their property. Most home insurance policies include personal liability coverage, which may cover incidents such as slips and falls on walkways, decks or driveways.
Alcohol adds another layer of risk. If a guest becomes impaired and is later involved in an incident, the host could face liability. IBC encouraged Canadians to understand the limits and terms of their liability coverage and consider whether additional coverage, such as a personal umbrella policy, may be warranted.
Summer also sees a rise in fire-related claims, often linked to barbecues or fireworks. IBC warned that while fire is typically covered by home insurance, misuse or failure to comply with local regulations may impact claims.
Residents are encouraged to follow safety precautions, such as setting up grills away from structures, regularly cleaning grease buildup and ensuring fireworks are handled safely and legally. Insurance coverage may be affected if damage results from negligence or prohibited activity.
With school breaks and Canada Day prompting many to travel, IBC stressed the importance of safeguarding unoccupied homes. Many insurance policies require homeowners to take specific steps to maintain coverage during absences.
Tips include stopping mail delivery, using light timers and avoiding social media posts that indicate the home is empty. IBC noted that unattended homes can be vulnerable to break-ins, and failing to follow policy conditions could result in denied claims.
“As families across the country celebrate and travel this summer, it's important to ensure their insurance coverage is aligned with their plans,” said IBC. “Taking the time to understand your policy and speaking with your insurance representative can go a long way in preventing financial loss.”
