When the leaves fall and temperatures drop, it’s time to think about more than hot chocolate and cozy fires. Winter brings beauty but also risk. For cottage owners in Ontario and Alberta, harsh weather, frozen pipes and power outages can quickly turn into thousands of dollars in damage if your property isn’t properly prepared.
According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), water-related damage now accounts for over 50% of all home insurance claims, with frozen pipes and roof leaks being among the most common. Many of these losses happen in seasonal or secondary homes — meaning cottages are often the most vulnerable.
Why Proper Winter Preparation Matters
When your cottage sits unoccupied for long stretches, small issues can escalate quickly. A burst pipe can release hundreds of litres of water per hour. Ice buildup on a roof can lead to structural damage. And if your policy doesn’t cover seasonal risks, you could face expensive out-of-pocket repairs.
Fact: The average frozen-pipe claim in Canada costs more than $10,000 and that’s before cleanup or mold remediation. (IBC 2024)
The good news? With a little preparation and the right insurance coverage, you can prevent most cold-weather disasters.
9 Winter Cottage Preparation Tips
- Seal windows and doors: Prevent heat loss and drafts using caulking, foam or weather-stripping.
- Add thermal drapes: Heavy curtains help retain heat and lower energy bills.
- Inspect the roof and clean gutters: Remove debris and snow to avoid ice dams and leaks.
- Winterize your plumbing: Shut off and drain exterior lines and consider adding pipe insulation.
- Protect outdoor furniture and gear: Store patio sets, hoses and tools in a shed or garage.
- Check heating systems: Have your furnace, boiler or wood stove inspected before heavy use.
- Sweep the chimney: Prevent chimney fires and ensure safe airflow.
- Test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors: Replace batteries and confirm alarms are working.
- Trim trees and clear the yard: Heavy snow can cause branches to snap and damage roofs or power lines.
Bonus tip: If you leave your cottage unattended, lower your thermostat (not off!) to around 10°C to prevent pipes from freezing.
Factors That Impact Cottage Insurance Rates
Cottage insurance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Premiums vary based on:
- Location: Distance to the nearest fire hall or hydrant.
- Access: Is there a year-round road or only seasonal access?
- Primary heating source: Electric, propane or wood stove.
- Usage: Seasonal or year-round, personal use or Airbnb rental.
- Features: Docks, sheds, bunkies or outbuildings.
- Security: Monitored alarm or water-leak sensors can reduce risk.
How to Save on Cottage Insurance
Here’s how to keep your cottage protected and your premiums manageable:
- Bundle policies: Combine cottage, home and auto insurance for multi-line savings.
- Install water shut-off valves and leak detectors: Early alerts prevent major damage.
- Add security monitoring: Centrally monitored alarms often qualify for discounts.
- Stay claims-free: The longer your clean record, the better your rate.
- Ask about senior or loyalty discounts: Many insurers offer extra savings.
Why Gaps in Coverage Are Costly
If your cottage sits vacant or you rent it part-time, you could have a coverage gap without realizing it. For example:
- Damage from frozen pipes may not be covered if heat was off.
- Short-term rentals through Airbnb require a separate endorsement.
- Unreported renovations may affect your coverage eligibility.
Tip: Always inform your broker before you make changes to your property or its usage.
Final Thought
Whether you spend weekends at the lake or only visit in summer, your cottage deserves the same protection as your home. Taking time now to winterize and review your coverage can save you from big headaches later.
At My Insurance Broker, we help Ontario and Alberta cottage owners find protection that fits their property and lifestyle. From burst-pipe coverage to bundled savings, we’ll make sure you’re covered year-round.
Call 1-855-482-5001 or email info@myinsurancebroker.com for a free cottage insurance review before the snow falls or anytime at your convenience.