Heather Wright

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

A recent Canada survey found 48% planned to leave their main home unattended for >1 day, while 81% of secondary-property owners expected to.
Yet only 15% would review policy requirements, 7% would notify an insurer, and just one-third considered coverage conditions before leaving their properties empty.
More than half would arrange a property check or final walk-through, but coverage may still change when a home sits empty for days.
Problems while away were common: 25% reported weather, electrical, plumbing, or security issues, rising to 62% among seasonal or secondary-property owners surveyed.
Before extended trips, Canadians should confirm check-in frequency, heating rules, and vacancy limits; after ~30 consecutive days, extra permission or separate coverage may be needed.