Erika Holderer, MBA

Coverage doesn't end automatically when owners travel, but policies may set conditions for extended absences, including home checks to confirm heat stays on.
Standard policies typically cover frozen-pipe damage in heated areas when reasonable steps maintain warmth, but vacant-home rules can exclude frozen-pipe and water claims.
Before leaving, review inspection requirements, arrange a trusted checker, and share contact details so they can spot leaks, heating problems, or other damage quickly.
Keep heat working, insulate vulnerable pipes, seal drafts, and know the main water shut-off. Exterior-wall, basement, and crawl-space pipes need extra attention.
Some policies tie coverage to length of absence, so ask an insurer or broker whether travel plans change coverage before you leave.
Simple preparation lowers the chance of leaks, freeze damage, and break-ins, helping Canadian homeowners protect coverage and avoid costly winter surprises away.

Canada: 48% Plan Unattended Homes

By 2031, Canada data centre construction is projected to reach $8.6B, with individual projects often topping $5B-$15B and testing lenders and insurers.
At this scale, standard builder's risk placement no longer fits. Carrier engagement must start earlier, backed by stronger technical presentations and engineered program structures.
Capacity exists, but success depends on clear visibility, maximum-loss studies, and presenting layered risk coherently to both domestic and international carriers simultaneously.
Canada is still early in captive adoption, yet brokers in this space need fluency with retention strategies before major tech firms bring them.
Labor strain can lift quality risks, while clean handoff from construction to operational coverage will define program quality after financial close in Canada.