How to Winterize a Cottage in Ontario and Avoid Costly Insurance Claims

As temperatures drop in Ontario and cottage season winds down, now is the time to protect your getaway from winter’s harsh conditions. Whether you visit your cottage every few weeks or close it completely for the season, proper winterization helps prevent costly insurance claims that often come from issues like frozen pipes, animal damage, snow load, or storm-related wear. With the right steps and a bit of seasonal maintenance, you can safeguard your property all winter long and avoid surprises when you return in the spring.

Why Cottage Winterization Helps You Avoid Insurance Claims

Winter can be especially hard on cottages because many sit empty for long stretches without heat, activity, or regular check-ins. Most winter-related cottage insurance claims in Ontario come from issues that could have been prevented with routine maintenance. Insurance is meant to protect you, but policies also require you to take reasonable steps to maintain your property.

Common winter risks include:

• Frozen pipes that burst and cause extensive water damage
• Ice dams and roof leaks caused by poor drainage or snow load
• Wind damage to poorly secured exterior structures
• Rodent and animal intrusion that leads to structural or electrical damage
• Power outages that cause interior temperatures to drop below freezing
• Vandalism or theft during long periods of vacancy

Most seasonal and holiday cottage insurance policies outline expectations such as maintaining heat, draining pipes, securing the premises, or having someone check the property at set intervals. Failing to winterize properly can reduce or even void coverage for certain types of claims.

Understanding your policy conditions, combined with effective winter preparation, is the best way to ensure a smooth, stress-free off-season.

Exterior Winter Prep to Prevent Damage and Claims

The outside of your cottage faces the full force of Ontario winters. Taking time to secure your exterior now can prevent structural issues, reduce moisture problems, and help you stay compliant with your insurance requirements.

Roof, Gutters, and Snow Load

Your cottage roof is your first line of defence against winter weather. A little preventative work can prevent leaks, collapse risks, and major interior damage.

• Clean all gutters and downspouts so melting snow drains away properly. Ice dams form when water has nowhere to go, and they can lift shingles, soak insulation, and damage walls.
• Inspect shingles, flashing, and vents for gaps or loose sections. Even a small flaw can turn into a major leak after repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
• Check attic ventilation and insulation to prevent heat escape that can melt rooftop snow.
• In heavy snowfall regions, consider snow guards, heat cables, or roof reinforcement. Insurers may deny snow load claims if maintenance was neglected.

Doors, Windows and Seals

Drafts and gaps make it easy for cold air and pests to enter. Both can lead to costly repairs or insurance complications.

• Install weather-stripping around doors and windows.
• Seal any cracks in frames or siding to block moisture and rodents.
• Ensure window locks and door deadbolts function properly. Theft and vandalism claims may require evidence of “reasonable security”.
• If using storm shutters or boards, make sure they are fitted securely and labelled for easy removal in spring.

Outdoor Property and Landscaping

Winter storms can cause significant damage to outdoor structures, furniture, and landscaping.

• Store or secure patio furniture, boats, water toys, and tools. Wind-driven objects can damage siding, windows, and neighbouring properties.
• Trim back branches near the roof, driveway, or power lines. Snow-laden limbs can crack or fall, causing structural loss.
• Clean out sheds and lock outbuildings. Not all policies cover content theft from unsecured outdoor structures.
• If your cottage is near the water, safely store docks or floating structures to avoid storm damage.

To ensure your coverage aligns with your winter plans, explore cottage insurance options through PetleyHare.

Interior and Utilities: The Hidden Dangers That Lead to Winter Claims

While exterior preparation protects the shell of your cottage, interior winterization protects the systems most likely to fail when temperatures drop. Water, heat, and electricity are the biggest sources of winter claims if not handled properly.

Water Systems and Frozen Pipe Prevention

A burst pipe can flood your cottage with thousands of litres of water. Most seasonal insurance policies require specific steps to prevent this type of loss.

• Turn off your cottage’s main water supply completely.
• Drain all interior plumbing lines, including sinks, toilets, bathtubs, washing machines, dishwashers, and outdoor taps.
• Add plumbing antifreeze to toilets, sink traps, and floor drains. This prevents freezing in areas that are difficult to fully drain.
• Insulate vulnerable pipes in crawlspaces, basements, and unheated rooms.
• If you keep the water system active, understand your policy’s minimum heat requirements and occupancy expectations.

Many frozen pipe claims are denied if maintenance steps were not followed, even if you have comprehensive water coverage.

Thermostat and Electrical

Your heating decisions affect everything from humidity levels to frost prevention.

• If you’re keeping the heat on, set the thermostat at 10°C or higher to prevent freezing in walls and plumbing.
• If you’re shutting the heat off, ensure every water line is winterized and drained properly.
• Install a remote thermostat monitor that alerts you if temperatures drop. Many insurers now recommend, or even require, remote monitoring for seasonal properties.
• Check electrical panels for signs of wear and turn off non-essential circuits to reduce fire risk.

Unplug and Protect Valuables

Cottages often contain seasonal equipment, electronics, tools, and specialty items.

• Unplug appliances and electronics to prevent electrical surges.
• Remove valuable items that could attract thieves, especially if you do not have theft coverage.
• If leaving certain items behind, record serial numbers and take photos for insurance documentation.
• Use motion lighting, smart cameras, or timer lights to make the cottage appear occupied.

If you have questions about theft coverage, connect with a broker.

Review Your Cottage Insurance Before You Lock Up

Preparing your cottage physically is only part of winter readiness. The other key component is reviewing your cottage insurance policy to ensure your coverage matches your off-season routine.

Important areas to review include:

• Vacancy and occupancy rules
• Requirements for regular winter check-ins (every 7, 14, or 30 days, depending on policy)
• Water damage exclusions for frozen pipes
• Coverage limits for contents, tools, and seasonal gear
• Whether you have theft coverage for unoccupied months
• Snow load and ice damage coverage
• Endorsements for seasonal property insurance or holiday cottage insurance

Every insurer has different requirements for seasonal and secondary properties. Always review your specific policy wording. If anything seems unclear or you are unsure whether your maintenance plans meet policy conditions, reach out to a broker before closing your cottage.

Final Tips Before Closing Your Cottage for the Winter

A few final steps from our team at PetleyHare to help you feel confident that your cottage is safe all season long.

Before locking up:

• Walk through every room to confirm water is off, pipes are drained, and appliances are unplugged.
• Check window locks, door deadbolts, and storage buildings.
• Set your thermostat (if heating), verify your remote monitor is working, and turn off unnecessary breakers.
• Leave clear instructions for your caretaker or neighbour if they will be checking in.
• Update your inventory list with photos and receipts for insurance purposes.

Avoid winter surprises. Make sure your cottage insurance is ready for Ontario’s coldest months.