As Canadians prepare for summer travel, Allstate Insurance Company of Canada is cautioning homeowners about the risks of property theft, particularly when travel plans are shared publicly on social media.
The insurer has launched a public education campaign on home protection and the importance of ensuring insurance coverage is up to date before leaving town.
Findings from a recent Léger survey commissioned by Allstate indicate that nearly one-third (32%) of Canadians who are active on social media post about their vacation either before or during their trip. That figure rises to 51% among respondents aged 18 to 34. These posts, while common, may unintentionally signal that a home is unoccupied.
Allstate’s claims data shows that property theft tends to increase in the summer months, with August recording the highest volume of theft-related claims over the past decade. The data also highlights that Fridays and Thursdays are the most frequent days for such incidents, regardless of the season.
While 62% of respondents said they are concerned about protecting their home from theft during their absence, Allstate is encouraging homeowners to go a step further by reviewing their insurance policies to confirm adequate coverage is in place. The company notes that an updated policy can help ease the financial impact in the event of a break-in or property damage.
Odel Laing, agency manager at Allstate Canada, emphasized the importance of combining practical measures with appropriate insurance: “While home security systems and other precautions can reduce risk, it’s equally important to make sure insurance coverage reflects your current needs—especially if your home will be unoccupied for an extended period.”
Allstate also recommends that policyholders limit the information they share online while travelling. Waiting until after returning home to post trip photos and details can help lower the risk of burglary.
The company advises homeowners to speak with their insurance representatives about any planned absences and to take steps to reduce exposure, such as setting up timers on lights, pausing mail delivery, and notifying trusted neighbours, alongside ensuring their insurance policies are current.
