Protecting Your Seasonal Property During the Off-Season

Owning a seasonal property is a dream for many, offering a retreat from the daily grind and a haven for relaxation. However, when the season ends and the property is left vacant, it becomes exposed to various risks. Ensuring that your seasonal property is adequately protected during the off-season is crucial. At Waypoint, we offer a range of insurance policies tailored to meet the unique needs of seasonal properties.

Waypoint provides a variety of insurance policies for seasonal properties, each designed to address different requirements. Some properties may also serve as rentals, necessitating different coverage criteria. Our offerings range from basic and broad to comprehensive coverage, with the option to insure the property to its replacement value for enhanced protection. The choice of policy depends on your property’s specific needs and characteristics.

Differences in Coverage for Seasonal Properties

Insurance coverage for seasonal properties differs significantly from that of primary residences. Generally, the rates for seasonal properties are higher, and the coverage is more restricted. Discounts that typically apply to primary homes are often not available for seasonal properties. Additionally, the fire rating is frequently a factor due to the remote locations of many seasonal homes, which can further impact the cost and availability of coverage.

Common Risks for Vacant Seasonal Properties

Leaving a seasonal property vacant increases its vulnerability to several risks. The most common issues include water losses, glass breakage, vandalism, and frozen pipes. These problems occur more frequently in properties that are not occupied year-round, making it essential to have appropriate measures and insurance coverage in place.

Requirements to Maintain Coverage

Many companies impose specific requirements to maintain insurance coverage while the property is vacant. These can vary, but common conditions include leaving heat on to prevent pipes from freezing and turning off the water supply if the property is not in use. Meeting these requirements helps mitigate the risk of damage and ensures that your insurance remains valid.

Common Exclusions and Limitations

Property owners should be aware of standard exclusions and limitations in their insurance policies for seasonal properties. These exclusions often include water damage, flood, vandalism, glass breakage, and malicious acts. While it is sometimes possible to purchase additional coverage for these risks, it usually comes at a higher premium. Understanding these exclusions is essential for ensuring that you have the necessary protection.

Consider implementing several best practices to ensure your seasonal property is adequately protected. Inform a neighbour or local contact when you are away for extended periods and request that they check on the property regularly. Turning off the water supply and leaving basic heat on can prevent frozen pipes while draining the pipes adds an extra layer of protection. Additionally, insuring the property to its replacement value and ensuring coverage for any contents that remain on-site year-round are crucial steps in safeguarding your investment.
Protecting your seasonal property during the off-season requires careful planning and the right insurance coverage. At Waypoint, we offer policies tailored to meet the unique needs of seasonal properties, ensuring that your retreat remains a safe and secure haven, no matter the season.

Learn more about coverage for seasonal properties by connecting with one of our knowledgeable brokers today at 1-866-674-2816 ext. 847 or by filling out the form below.