(for homeowners during a long absence of >30 days)
- Reference you home insurance policy or speak with your insurance broker to make sure your absence from home will NOT affect your insurance policy. There may be other coverages you can explore with your insurer. Many home insurance providers in Ontario follow the 30-Day Rule regarding home vacancy. Some home insurance providers may adjust your insurance costs if you happen to be away for extended periods. It is unlikely, in the event of a claim during your absence, that your insurance provider won’t find out you were away.
- What is the 30-Day Rule? In Ontario, if a home is left unattended, empty or unoccupied for a period greater than 30 days, the 30-day insurance rule applies. In this case, your home may be considered vacant. This can lead to your home insurance policy being voided.
- Place lights on timers with rotating on/off times to give the appearance that someone is home
- Turn off the main water line into your house. It is also advisable to bleed the water lines so they cannot freeze and burst during your prolonged absence.
- Pour plumbers antifreeze in the sink and shower/bath p-traps, as well as in the toilet.
- Use an air exchanger / humidity control unit and set to desired levels.
- Set your heat to 15 degrees to prevent freezing of pipes.
- Turn off and unplug as many appliances as possible.
- Clean out your refridgerator (and the freezer portion), and turn off the unit. Leave baking soda in the unit to prevent unwanted odors.
- Ensure your lawn is maintained and driveway cleared while you are away.
- Hire a qualified house sitter to perform basic duties while you are away such watering plants, mowing the lawn, and snowplowing the driveway. They can perform routine checks on your home to make it look occupied in your absence.
- Leave important contact info for your home sitter (or whomever you have looking after your home in your absence) to include your emergency contact information, as well as contact information for professionals such as an HVAC, Plumber and Electrician in case such services are required.
- Install a security system with inside/outside cameras as well as door and window sensors. Having a security system that is monitored is better (either by a reputable home security company or many security systems today have monitoring available through your own mobile device or laptop).