With much of Canada under yellow and orange cold and snow alerts in Environmental and Climate Change Cnaada's new color-coded warning system, brokers have been urged to reinforce winter loss-prevention and coverage basics with clients.
The national framework tags every "Warning", "Advisory", and "Watch" with a color banner to show expected severity and disruption, making it easier for consumers to recognize when action is needed.
“Winter storms and extreme freezing temperatures can cause extensive damage to homes, businesses and vehicles,” said Rob de Pruis, national director, consumer and industry relations, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC). “While we can’t stop a winter storm or the potential aftermath, there are steps we can take to help mitigate the risks and better protect our property – and now is the time to act.”
IBC's call comes as severe weather continues to drive record losses. Insured damage from severe weather hit $8.55 billion in 2024, the costliest year on record and far above the historical norm of about $2 billion annually.
Prevent frozen pipes and clarify water coverage
IBC urged homeowners to insulate pipes near exterior walls, basements and crawl spaces, seal drafts around windows and doors, and know where the main water shut‑off is located.
It is also an opportunity to clarify that home policies are not seasonal, the organization said, adding that there is no separate “winter” coverage.
Instead, policies list insured perils, such as damage caused by freezing, wind, hail or fire. Resulting damage from frozen and burst pipes is generally covered when the pipes are in the heated portion of the home and the insured has taken reasonable steps to maintain heat, but claims may be denied if policy conditions around vacancy or maintenance are not met.
Manage absences, emergency planning and power outages
IBC also stressed that if clients are away, they should maintain heat in the dwelling and have a competent person check the property at intervals set out in the policy. Many Canadian wordings specify how often such checks must occur in winter; failing to comply can void coverage for frozen pipes and water damage. IBC said brokers can review these clauses with snowbird and frequent‑traveller clients.
The bureau also recommended emergency preparedness plans and safety kits for home, car and office, along with readiness for power outages. Clients should have flashlights and portable lighting, be cautious with candles, and keep key electronics charged ahead of storms.
Address roofs, snow removal and exterior hazards
Brokers can also remind homeowners to inspect attics for frost and, when safe, check roofs and eavestroughs for ice dams and large icicles, which are recurring causes of winter water ingress.
IBC further advised clearing snow and ice from sidewalks and front steps once snowfall ends, both to reduce slip‑and‑fall risk and to comply with municipal by‑laws. Keeping snow away from gas meters, appliance vents, exhaust vents and basement windows helps prevent safety hazards and mitigates basement seepage during freeze‑thaw cycles. Moving valuable items from basements to higher levels can reduce the severity of any flooding or sewer back‑up loss, the IBC said.
Reinforce safe winter driving and optional auto cover
IBC continues to recommend avoiding driving in severe storms where possible. If travel is necessary, drivers should clear snow and ice from vehicles, adapt to conditions, give snowploughs space and carry extra windshield washer fluid.
For brokers, winter is a natural time to confirm that clients who want protection from wind‑, hail‑, ice‑ and water‑related auto damage have purchased comprehensive or specified perils cover, which remains optional in many provinces.
High winds, living expenses and brokers’ advisory role
IBC noted that damage caused by high winds is typically covered in standard home policies, including damage from flying debris and water or snow entering through openings created by wind or hail. Where insured damage makes a home unfit to live in, the IBC said many policies provide additional living expenses for temporary accommodation and that brokers should check the limits match current rental and hotel costs.
“Canadian winters are tough and seem to be getting even tougher,” de Pruis added. “Do what you can to help protect yourself, each other and your most valuable assets by winterizing your home, avoiding slips and falls, and being a good winter driver.”
