Preparing your home for winter in Calgary should go beyond shutting off exterior taps and booking your furnace service.
One area many homeowners overlook is their insurance coverage. Winter brings its own risks, and the best time to review your policy is before the first snowfall, not after an issue arises.
One area many homeowners overlook is their insurance coverage. Winter brings its own risks, and the best time to review your policy is before the first snowfall, not after an issue arises.
Here are three important insurance checks every Calgary homeowner should complete heading into winter.
1. Review Your Water Damage Coverage
Water-related claims are among the most common in Calgary once temperatures drop. Burst pipes, ice dams, and unexpected thaws can cause significant damage in a short period of time.
Take the time to review your policy to confirm:
- Whether you have overland flood coverage
- If sewer backup protection is included
- What your limits and deductibles are for water damage
- What is excluded under your current plan
If your home is older, has previous water issues, or sits in an area with high runoff, it may be worth increasing your coverage. Make sure you understand what your policy actually pays for so you’re not caught off guard.
2. Confirm Your Roof and Exterior Coverage
Insurers often have specific requirements when it comes to roof age, maintenance, and exterior materials. Winter weather can highlight weaknesses in shingles, soffits, and siding. Before snow starts to accumulate, verify that your roof meets the age and condition requirements outlined in your policy.
Homeowners should check:
- Whether their insurer requires documentation of roof updates
- If certain roofing materials impact eligibility or cost
- Whether wind or hail damage has limited coverage based on roof age
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be a good time to discuss how this affects your premiums or coverage limits. Read my winter maintenance checklist here!
3. Understand Your Liability Coverage for Winter Hazards
Once the snow falls, homeowners are responsible for clearing sidewalks and walkways within the required timeframes. Slip-and-fall incidents increase in winter, so it’s important to know how your liability coverage responds if someone is injured on your property.
Review your policy to confirm:
- The amount of liability coverage you have
- Whether there are specific winter-related restrictions
- If your policy covers incidents related to contractors or tenants
A quick call to your insurance advisor can help you confirm whether your coverage is adequate, especially if you regularly have guests, delivery drivers, or tenants on your property.
Final Thoughts
Winter in Calgary can be unpredictable, but your insurance coverage shouldn’t be. A short review now can prevent major financial surprises later in the season. If you’re unsure what your policy covers or whether you need additional protection, speak with your insurance provider before temperatures drop. Thinking about buying in November - read this!
If you ever need recommendations for trusted local insurance professionals or want insights on how certain policy details can impact real estate decisions, I’m always here to help.