Gone for Winter? If You Don't Visit Your House Every 4 Days, Your Insurance is Void

❄️ The Frozen Pipe Nightmare

You packed your bags and flew to Florida for two weeks. While you were enjoying the sun, the furnace in your Toronto home malfunctioned. Temperatures plummeted, a pipe burst, and your basement is now an indoor swimming pool. You call your insurer. They ask one single, devastating question: "Who checked on your house while you were gone?" If the answer is "Nobody," your claim is denied.

Gone for Winter?

This is not a myth. It is a standard exclusion clause in almost every North American home insurance policy.

During the "Heating Season" (typically October to April), insurers are rightfully terrified of water damage caused by frozen pipes. If you leave your home unattended without adhering to strict guidelines, you are effectively voiding your contract.

The "24-72 Hour" Rule (Not Just 4 Days)

While some older policies allowed for 96 hours (4 days), in 2026, many providers have tightened this window. Most policies now require a "Competent Person" to enter and inspect your home every 24 to 72 hours to ensure the heating system is operational.

📝 What the Fine Print Says:

Coverage for water damage caused by freezing is excluded if you are away for more than the specified number of consecutive days, unless:
1. You shut off the main water supply and drained the pipes.
OR
2. You arranged for a trustworthy person to enter the dwelling daily or every other day (check your specific policy limit).
OR
3. You have a monitored heating alarm connected to a 24-hour station.

Vacancy vs. Unoccupancy

There is a critical legal distinction between going on vacation and moving out.

Term	Definition	Consequence
Unoccupied	You live there, but are away temporarily (Vacation/Business).	Standard policy applies (subject to the visitation rule).
Vacant	All furniture removed, or you moved out. Typically >30 Days.	Policy VOID immediately unless you purchase a specific "Vacancy Permit."

If you have moved out and the house is listed for sale, your standard homeowner's policy likely covers nothing after 30 days. You must notify your broker immediately.

Chief Editor's Verdict

Relying on a neighbor to check your house is risky. What if they forget? What if they lie? The risk is yours, not theirs.

The safest option: Shut off the main water valve and run the taps until dry before you leave for the airport. If there is no water in the pipes, there can be no flood. It is the only 100% guarantee.

⚖️ Legal Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or insurance advice. Insurance policies vary significantly by provider and province/state. Some policies require daily checks (24 hours), while others allow up to 96 hours. Always read your specific policy wording regarding "Unoccupancy," "Vacancy," and "Heating Season" requirements. Failure to comply with these terms can result in a complete denial of your claim.