The coldest months of the year often inspire the desire to escape to warmer places. Whether you’re planning a weekend away, a month-long vacation, or an entire winter season out of town, it’s crucial to prepare your home, vehicle, and insurance for peace of mind during your getaway. If you’re in Newfoundland or Nova Scotia, here’s a guide to make sure everything is covered before you lock up and head out!

Secure Your Home Before You Go

Before leaving for your winter adventure, it’s essential to make sure your home is safe and secure. Start by checking that all windows and doors are locked. If you don’t already have a security system, consider installing one for added protection. With an alarm system or cameras, you can monitor your property remotely, providing extra peace of mind.

Prevent Winter-Related Home Issues

Winter weather can be tough on an unoccupied home. Common issues like frozen pipes, leaks, and other damage can lead to costly repairs. To prevent these problems, set your thermostat to a safe temperature—ideally between 10°C and 15°C—so that pipes don’t freeze. If possible, ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check in on your home periodically. This simple step can help catch any issues before they turn into bigger, more expensive problems.

Let Us Know If You’ll Be Gone for 30+ Days

If you plan to leave your home or condo unoccupied for more than 30 days, it’s essential to notify your insurance provider. Insurance policies may have specific restrictions on unoccupied homes, such as limited coverage for personal belongings or civil liability protection. Some policies require that someone checks in on the property regularly. Knowing the details of your insurance coverage ahead of time will ensure you’re protected and avoid any gaps in coverage during your absence.

Take Extra Steps to Protect Your Home

Along with keeping your thermostat at a safe temperature, here are some additional measures to protect your home while you’re away:

• Timers for Lights: Set timers on lights to make it appear like someone is home and deter thieves.
• Unplug Appliances: Unplug unused appliances to reduce fire risk and save energy.
• Power Surge Protectors: Use surge protectors to safeguard electronics and appliances.
• Secure Valuables: Store valuables in a safe or locked storage to minimize risk of loss.
• Have Someone Check In: Ask a friend, family member, or neighbor to periodically check on your home.
• Install Smart Tech: Use smart devices like cameras and leak detectors to monitor your home remotely.
• Lock Up Outdoor Items: Secure outdoor furniture, tools, and equipment to prevent theft or damage.
• Unplug Appliances: Unplug any lights or appliances you won’t be using to avoid the risk of fire and save on electricity.

Adjust Your Auto Insurance for Savings

If you’re leaving your vehicle parked for an extended period, you might be able to adjust your auto insurance coverage. Let us know that your car will be sitting unused for a while, and we can help you find the right coverage. This adjustment could potentially save you money while your vehicle is not in use. Just because your car is parked doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have the protection you need, especially if something unexpected happens.

Stay in Touch While You’re Away

Even while you’re away, your Munn Insurance broker is just a call or email away. If you have any questions or need assistance with your home, car, or travel insurance, we’re here to support you—no matter where your travels take you. Whether you need to adjust coverage or just want to confirm that everything is in order, we’re always available to ensure you have peace of mind while you’re on vacation.

Enjoy Your Winter Getaway with Peace of Mind

Taking a few extra steps to prepare your home, vehicle, and insurance before you leave will help you enjoy your winter getaway without worry. Contact your insurance provider to discuss any changes to your coverage, review any state-specific requirements for the place you’ll be staying, and make sure everything is in order. Once that’s done, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your time away knowing that your home and car are well-protected.

Call Munn Insurance Today!

As you prepare for your winter getaway, don’t forget to ensure your home, car, and travel plans are properly protected. At Munn Insurance, we’re here to guide you through the process and help you make the right adjustments to your coverage. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Contact us today at 1-855-726-8627. Whether you’re planning a short trip or an extended stay, we’ll ensure you’re covered and ready for your adventure. We’re here to help you save, protect your property, and enjoy peace of mind during your winter escape. Safe travels!