Spring is finally here! While the season brings warmer weather and fresh blooms, it also comes with risks—especially for homeowners. Melting snow and spring rains can lead to water damage, one of the most common and costly home insurance claims in Canada.
Why Spring Home Maintenance Matters
Winter takes a toll on homes. The snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can cause hidden damage that only becomes evident as the weather warms. Water can seep into basements, cracks in the foundation can widen, and sump pumps might fail under the stress of spring flooding.
Steps to Protect Your Home
- Inspect Your Foundation: Look for cracks and seal them before water finds its way inside.
- Check Your Roof & Gutters: Remove debris and ensure water can flow away from your home.
- Test Your Sump Pump: Ensure it’s functioning properly to prevent basement flooding.
- Review Your Home Insurance Policy: Does it cover overland flooding or sewer backup? If not, now is the time to add this coverage.
Why Insurance Matters
Many homeowners assume their standard policy covers flooding, but that’s often not the case. Overland flooding and sewer backups require additional endorsements. Without the right coverage, you could be paying thousands in repair costs.
📝 Pro Tip: Document your belongings with photos and store them safely—this makes insurance claims easier and faster!
📌 Want to make sure your home is protected? Download our Spring Home Maintenance Checklist today!
What Happens If You Damage Someone’s Property While Driving?
Accidents happen. Whether you’re backing out of a driveway or misjudging a turn, causing damage to someone else’s property is always stressful. But the good news? If you have auto insurance, you may be covered—depending on your policy.
Understanding Third-Party Liability Coverage
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory in Canada and protects you when you cause damage to someone else’s property. This could be another vehicle, a fence, a building, or even public property like street signs.
What If Your Coverage Limit Is Too Low?
Every policy has a limit on how much the insurance company will pay. If the damage exceeds your coverage limit, you’ll have to pay the remaining costs out of pocket. This is why experts recommend choosing a higher liability limit—just in case!
📢 Want to review your liability coverage? DM me ‘AUTO HELP’ and let’s go over your policy together!
What Happens If You Drive Someone Else’s Car?
Borrowing a friend’s car for the weekend? You might assume their insurance covers you, but it’s not that simple. In Canada, auto insurance typically follows the car, not the driver. That means if you’re not listed on their policy, things could get complicated in case of an accident.
Are You Covered?
If the car owner has a comprehensive policy that includes permissive drivers, you might be covered. However, if they only have basic coverage, you could be personally liable for damages.
What To Do Before Borrowing a Car
- Ask the owner about their insurance policy.
- Ensure they have comprehensive or collision coverage.
- Consider adding a non-owner car insurance policy if you frequently borrow vehicles.
📌 Not sure if you’re covered? DM me ‘DRIVE SAFE’ and let’s go over your policy!
What to Do If You Hit a Pothole
Springtime means potholes—lots of them. You’re driving along when suddenly, BAM! Your tire hits a massive pothole. But does your auto insurance cover the damage?
Does Insurance Cover Pothole Damage?
It depends on your policy. If you have collision coverage, you might be eligible for reimbursement after paying your deductible. However, if you only have liability coverage, you’ll have to cover the cost yourself.
Steps to Take After Pothole Damage
- Document the Damage: Take photos of your tire, wheel, and the pothole.
- Get a Repair Estimate: Visit a mechanic to assess the cost.
- Check If You Can File a Claim: Some municipalities reimburse drivers for pothole-related damage if the pothole was reported but not fixed in time.
📌 Want to check if you’re covered? DM me ‘POTHOLE’ for a quick insurance guide!
Does My Insurance Cover Rental Cars?
Planning a vacation and renting a car? The rental company will likely offer you insurance, but do you actually need it?
When Are You Covered?
If your personal auto policy includes comprehensive or collision coverage, it may extend to rental cars. Some credit cards also provide rental car protection—but only if you book with that card.
When You Should Buy Rental Insurance
- If your personal auto policy doesn’t include rental car coverage.
- If you want extra protection beyond your standard policy.
- If your credit card doesn’t offer rental car insurance.
📌 DM me ‘RENTAL’ and I’ll help you check if you’re covered before your next trip!
Spring Flooding – Are You Protected?
Spring showers bring flowers—but they can also bring flooded basements. Many homeowners don’t realize that standard home insurance policies often don’t cover flooding.
Types of Water Damage Coverage
- Overland Water Coverage: Protects against flooding caused by rain, melting snow, or overflowing rivers.
- Sewer Backup Coverage: Covers water damage from backed-up drains or sewer lines.
- Comprehensive Water Damage Coverage: A combination of both, offering the highest level of protection.
Why You Need Flood Insurance
Without the right coverage, water damage repairs can cost thousands. Even a small amount of water can ruin flooring, drywall, and electrical systems.
📌 DM me ‘FLOOD’ now to check if your home is fully protected this spring
