Fall & Winter Home Maintenance Checklist for Ontario & Alberta

Winter storms in Ontario and Alberta cause millions in property damage each year. Use this fall home maintenance checklist to protect your house, lower risks, and keep your insurance effective.

Why Fall Maintenance Matters

In Canada, severe weather caused over $3.1 billion in insured damage in 2023 according to Insurance Bureau of Canada. Alberta saw more than $330 million in weather-related property losses last year, while Ontario ice storms caused over $340 million in insured damage in 2025.

Many of these losses were from preventable issues like burst pipes, clogged eavestroughs and damaged roofs.

Quick Exterior Checklist

• Clean gutters & downspouts – Prevent ice dams and basement leaks.
• Inspect your roof – Replace missing or cracked shingles before snow builds up.
• Shut off & drain outdoor taps – Frozen pipes are a top winter claim.
• Trim trees – Heavy branches can snap and damage your home or power lines.
• Seal windows and doors – Reduces drafts and keeps heating costs down.

Quick Interior Checklist

• Test furnace & replace filters – Stay warm and reduce breakdown risks.
• Check smoke & CO detectors – Winter is peak season for fires and carbon monoxide.
• Insulate pipes in basements/garages – Helps avoid costly bursts.
• Inspect fireplace & chimney – Clean creosote and remove blockages.
• Test your sump pump – Protects against melting snow and spring floods.

Tools & Garage Prep

• Tune up your snowblower – Be ready before the first storm.
• Stock up on de-icer or salt – Safer driveways and walkways.
• Make space in your garage – Protect your car from frost and storms.

Bonus: Car & Motorcycle Maintenance

Your home isn’t the only thing that needs attention before winter. Vehicles also take a beating during Canada’s cold season. A little prep now can prevent costly breakdowns later.

For Your Car

• Check your battery – Cold weather drains power; replace it if it’s older than 4–5 years.
• Install winter tires – In Ontario and Alberta, they can cut braking distance by up to 25%.
• Top up fluids – Antifreeze, windshield washer fluid and oil rated for winter temperatures.
• Emergency kit – Keep blankets, booster cables and a shovel in your trunk.

For Your Motorcycle

• Winterize your bike – Add fuel stabilizer, check tire pressure, and change oil before storage.
• Disconnect or trickle-charge the battery – Prevents spring surprises.
• Cover & store properly – Use a breathable cover in a dry, sheltered area.
• Check your insurance – Some riders pause coverage in winter, but theft and fire risks remain. MIB can help review the best options for motorcycle storage coverage.

Final Thought

Fall maintenance isn’t just about chores — it’s about protecting your family and your assets. By spending a little time now, you’ll reduce heating bills, avoid emergencies and ensure your insurance works when you need it.

Remember: A well-maintained home and vehicle show your insurer you’ve done your part — lowering risks and protecting your coverage.