Your insurer and your empty house

What Quebec home insurance policies often say, in plain words. Your contract has the last word: check it or call your broker before you leave.

The few-days rule

Many policies limit coverage for water damage from frozen pipes when the home sits empty for more than a few consecutive days (often four) during heating season. To stay covered, insurers generally ask for one of two things:

• that a competent person comes regularly to check that the heating is working; or
• that the water is shut off and the pipes and appliances drained.

The required frequency varies by insurer: weekly, twice a week, sometimes more. Some also ask for written proof of the visits.

The 30-day rule

Beyond a 30-day absence without notice to the insurer, many policies reduce coverage, water damage included. An extended-absence endorsement usually settles this, sometimes at no cost, as long as its conditions are met, including the visits.

How Nid Chaud helps

• Visit frequency is set to what your insurer requires, not to a fixed package
• Every visit is dated and documented: checklist, photos, videos, indoor temperature
• You have a complete visit log in your portal, to hand to your insurer in case of a claim
• We follow your instructions: water on or off, thermostat setting, sump pump, detectors

Before you leave

1. Tell your insurer your travel dates and ask, in writing, how often the house must be visited.
2. Decide with them whether the water should be shut off. Bring the answer to the welcome visit.
3. Leave us your broker's details and your emergency contact.