When colder weather arrives, water damage from frozen and burst pipes becomes one of the biggest risks for homeowners. That’s why insurance policies include specific conditions that apply if you go away and your home sits empty for a few days during the heating season.
If these conditions aren’t followed, you could run into problems with your insurance coverage if water damage occurs. You might even have your claim denied.
Why Winter Absences Matter
When temperatures drop, pipes can freeze and burst quickly. If no one is home to notice the problem, water can run for hours—or even days—causing significant damage before it’s discovered.
Insurance companies focus on early detection because catching a leak quickly can greatly reduce damage. That’s why they set specific requirements when a home is left unattended during colder months.
Common Insurance Requirements
Every policy is a little different, but many home insurance policies state that if you’re away from your home for more than 48 or 72 hours in a row, you must take certain precautions. These usually include one of the following:
- Having a trusted person check on your home regularly (sometimes daily, depending on your policy), or
- Turning off the main water supply and draining the plumbing system
If these steps aren’t taken and water damage occurs, your insurance company may limit or deny coverage—even if the damage was sudden and accidental.
What to Do Before You Leave
If you’re planning to be away during the winter months, it’s a good idea to:
- Review your insurance policy or contact us to confirm what your insurer requires
- Arrange for a reliable person to check on your home at the required frequency
- If regular check-ins aren’t possible, shut off the water and drain the pipes
The Bottom Line
A little preparation before leaving your home in winter can prevent major water damage and help ensure your insurance coverage remains in place. Following your policy’s requirements protects both your home and your peace of mind.
If you’re unsure what your policy requires or would like us to review it, we’re always happy to help. Please don’t hesitate to contact us to go over your concerns.
FAQ
What home insurance coverage should I check before going on a winter vacation?
Some insurance policies stop covering certain losses if a home is left unattended for more than three days in a row. Because these limits can vary, it’s a good idea to review your policy or confirm the specific timeframe with your broker before you make travel plans.
How can I protect my home from winter-related damage while on vacation?
Set your thermostat so the temperature stays at or above 16°C to help protect your plumbing from freezing during cold weather.
For extra protection, consider shutting off the main water supply and opening all taps to drain the system before you leave.
Store important or valuable items off the floor, and use sealed plastic bins where possible to reduce damage if water enters the space.
Arrange for someone you trust to check on your home while you’re away. Many insurance policies require regular visits—sometimes daily—to confirm the heat is working properly and to catch any issues early before major water damage occurs.