At Merit Insurance, we understand that leaving your home unattended, whether for a winter escape, extended travel, or seasonal living, requires careful planning. Ontario’s changing weather, from freezing temperatures to heavy snowfall and spring thaws, can increase the risk of damage when no one is home.

Taking the right steps before you leave can help protect your property and ensure your insurance coverage responds properly if something unexpected happens.

Review Your Home Insurance Before You Go

Before travelling, it’s important to understand how your policy treats unoccupied homes. Many insurers have specific conditions related to:

• How long can a home be left unattended
• Minimum heating requirements during winter
• Expectations for regular property checks
• Coverage limitations for water damage or freezing

Protect Your Plumbing From Ontario Winters

Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter claims in Ontario.

Before leaving:

• Shut off the main water supply and drain pipes if possible
• Insulate exposed pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces
• Keep your thermostat set between 12–15°C (55–59°F)
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air circulation

If you’ll be away for an extended period, professional winterization may be worth considering.

Maintain Heat and Monitor Your Home

Even when empty, maintaining heat helps prevent damage to pipes, flooring, walls, and electrical systems.

Helpful options include:

• A smart thermostat with remote access and alerts
• Temperature monitoring devices
• A trusted neighbour or family member checking the home during cold snaps

Prevent Snow, Ice, and Roof Damage

Ontario winters can be hard on roofs and eaves.

Before leaving:

• Clean gutters to prevent ice dams
• Trim overhanging branches that could break under snow
• Arrange for snow removal if needed to avoid excessive build-up

Reduce the Risk of Water Damage

Water damage can happen year-round, especially during spring thaws or heavy rain.

Steps to take:

• Test your sump pump and consider a battery backup
• Ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation
• Shut off water to appliances like washing machines

Secure Your Home

Unoccupied homes can attract unwanted attention.

Before leaving:

• Lock all doors and windows, including secondary entrances
• Use timers for interior and exterior lights
• Consider security cameras or monitored alarm systems

Arrange Regular Property Checks

Many Ontario policies require that someone checks on the home while it’s unoccupied.

Choose someone who can:

• Walk through the home periodically
• Look for leaks, temperature issues, or signs of damage
• Contact you or a professional if something doesn’t look right

Document and Prepare

Before you go:

• Take photos or videos of key areas of your home
• Leave emergency contacts and instructions with your designated checker
• Make sure they know where the water shut-off valve is located

At Merit Insurance, we believe protection starts with preparation. The Merit Difference means clear communication, proactive advice, and helping you understand your coverage before a claim ever happens.

If you’re planning to be away, connect with our team. We’ll review your policy, explain what your insurer expects, and help make sure your home and your coverage are properly prepared while you’re gone.