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HOME : Just the FAQs Ma'amIce and Snow DamageWith the arrival of winter (ugh!), I couldn't help thinking about the terrible ice storm that hit Quebec and eastern Ontario last year. Now I'm wondering whether damage caused by ice and snow is covered under my insurance policy. I'll have to skate around the answer to that one a bit, because it all depends on the insurer. Different companies have different policies when it comes to covering snow and ice damage, so it's important that you check with your insurance provider. However, generally speaking, most home policies would not cover damage to television antennae or satellite dishes caused by the weight of ice or snow. If, on the other hand, your roof were to collapse from the weight of snow or ice, many - but not all - policies would cover the damage to the roof. And as for any damage to the contents UNDER the collapsed roof, don't worry - most homeowners or tenants package policies would come to your rescue. Now supposing your roof held up, but you lost electrical power in an ice storm, and your pipes froze and burst. That damage would be covered, but ONLY IF you were living in the house when it happened, or you had arranged for a competent person to check your house daily if you were absent more than four consecutive days. So if you are forced to vacate your house due to a power failure, be sure to check it on a daily basis, or arrange for someone else to do so. Just to be safe and sure, it's a good idea to drain all pipes and appliances including toilets and water heaters. Another consequence of a lengthy power failure might be spoiled food in your freezer. The cost of replacing the food would likely be covered, but again, there is a proviso: there would be NO coverage if your rambunctious rottweiller knocked out the freezer plug, because that is considered preventable on your part. Finally, as Old Man Winter tightens his grip, you'll want to hunker down in front of your fireplace or wood-burning stove. But first make sure the chimney and flue pipe are free of creosote, and burn only properly seasoned hardwoods. Finally, keep your walkways free of ice and snow. Although your homeowners policy will protect you if the delivery boy slips and breaks his hip, and sues you for his trouble, why not head this problem off at the pass? Note: Remember, policies vary, so when in doubt, Contact Us.
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