Spring and much-anticipated warmer temperatures, budding leaves, and blooming flowers are coming. But along with those delightful seasonal shifts comes the dreaded possibility of spring flooding. How can you prepare to combat swift snowmelts and excessive rainfall that can lead to property damage — and a lot of headaches? Basement flooding is already on the rise across Canada, resulting in billion...
Water damage claims have become a big problem for Canadian homeowners. Reasons for the increase can be traced to climate change, lifestyle change, and aging infrastructure. Most homeowner policies cover water damage that happens suddenly and accidentally but may not cover sewer backups (where separate coverage is needed). Slow leaks and water seepage that occur over time may also not be covered; ...
Most Canadians are aware that their health insurance usually won't provide coverage when leaving the country but not everyone knows that coverage is also limited when visiting another province within Canada. If you're planning a trip to another province, it's important to learn your options and to secure coverage with a travel insurance policy before you leave for your trip. If you're a freque...
With energy costs rising, you probably have already sealed any cracks and drafts around your windows and doors to make your home more energy efficient, but have you considered the financial impact of heat loss through your ceilings? While drafts around doors and windows will cost a few more dollars in heating bills, heat loss through your roof can result in thousands of dollars in damage. Why? The...
A problem with your hot water tank could lead to leaks, bursts, flooding, and costly water damage. And if it’s installed in a finished basement or located in another finished area of the house, it could lead to a substantial insurance claim. But in many cases, leaks and bursts are preventable, or, at the very least, the damage can be mitigated. Common signs of hot water tank problems Usually, t...
We are three weeks into the start of a new year, and already the month of February is fast approaching! With the mild weather we have been receiving, it's the perfect opportunity to be outdoors, try new things, and go to new places. Thanks to Travel Manitoba for sharing 10 things to do this week in Manitoba! Potato Week Pump up for potatoes! Potato Week celebrates Manitoba potatoes, the grower...
The winter months are here and the snowbirds are preparing to head south. For those of us who still have to work, but may be able to slip away for a week or two during the winter months, here are some important insurance items to remember. When leaving your home, condominium, or apartment for more than 3 consecutive days during the normal heating season (this period of time may vary depending on ...
Winter may seem like the off-season when it comes to home maintenance. After all, there’s usually no leaves to rake or grass to cut. But, homeowners who put winter maintenance duties on the back burner are making a serious seasonal mistake that could come back to bite them later. Check out this list of the five winter maintenance mistakes homeowners make to ensure that you’re not overlooking somet...
Fall months are among the most active for deer. Dusk, as the sun begins to fall and when visibility is lower, is when you’re most likely to encounter a deer on the roadways. Sunrise accidents are also common. Here are some tips to help you (and the deer) stay safer this fall driving season. Stay focused Modern life brings both convenience and distractions, including cell phones, navigation devi...
If you find yourself out on the roads this Halloween, it’s important to stay alert and be mindful that you’re sharing the road with excited trick-or-treaters who only have candy on the brain. Here are our best safety tips to ensure you and the kids in your neighborhood make it home safely. WHEN YOU'RE DRIVING1. Drive slowly: Anytime you’re driving in residential or school areas where children are ...