Moving: Don’t forget to notify your insurer

Published on May 27, 2016
3 mins reading time

Moving? Your insurance needs and premium could change, especially if you’re going from a house to an apartment. Here’s how to make sure you’re properly protected during and after your move.

What your insurance covers during the move

In Quebec, most moves take place on July 1st, a fixed date that’s well known across the province. During this period, certain protections apply:

You’re moving on your own

Most comprehensive home insurance policies cover damage to your belongings during transport to your new residence. They protect your belongings at your new home (located in Canada) as well as at your old one. This coverage is generally valid up to 30 days before your scheduled moving date.

Good to know: Your insurance policy must be active at the time of the move. Check which risks are covered, as some protections are not included in all basic policies.

A friend is injured while helping you move

If fault or negligence is proven (for example, a tool left on the floor), your personal liability coverage could be triggered. In other cases, their personal accident insurance may be able to help them.

A friend damages one of your personal belongings while helping you move

If your friend has insurance with valid liability coverage, it could compensate you. That’s why it pays to choose your helpers carefully.

Are you hiring professional movers?

Make sure your moving company holds insurance covering its professional liability. Ask for a copy of the contract or the name of the insurer and the home insurance policy number to verify the information.

In the event of loss or damage to your belongings—such as items in the moving truck—the mover’s insurance will compensate you. This applies to both local and long-distance moves.

Are your stored belongings protected?

Most comprehensive home insurance policies cover stored belongings against theft for a period of 30 days. Your insurer must be notified, of course. They will then add a note to the policy indicating that the belongings are temporarily off-premises.

Expert’s insight

“Depending on where you choose to store your belongings, certain restrictions may apply. As soon as your moving date is confirmed, notify your insurer. They will tell you what is and isn’t covered. In addition, they can update your file and ensure your new home is properly protected.”

Suzanne MichaudVice President, Insurance​, CAA-Quebec

What influences your insurance premium after the move

Your insurance company will reassess your risk level for your new home or apartment based on many factors:

  • Region, city, and neighbourhood (including crime rates: theft, vandalism)
  • Number of units in the building
  • Type of construction (age, size, condition, materials)
  • Heating system, presence or absence of a wood stove
  • Distance between fire protection features and your home: fire station or fire hydrant
  • Presence of a home security system or sprinklers
  • Selected deductible
  • Previous claims
  • Value of your belongings—consider doing a home inventory if you haven’t already

And of course, the level and amount of coverage desired.

Who is covered under your home insurance policy?

Your home insurance policy protects the belongings and personal liability of:

  • The policyholder
  • Their spouse (married or living together for at least one year)
  • Their children
  • Anyone under 18 in their care
  • Full-time students who are dependants, even if they live elsewhere

What about a new cohabitation situation?

Moving in with a new partner but haven’t been living together for a year yet? Your belongings are not protected under their policy. In the event of a claim, you won’t be held responsible—but you also won’t be compensated.

Tip: Add both names to the policy and declare the total value of your combined belongings.

In conclusion, regardless of when you’re moving, notify your insurer as soon as possible. This will allow them to provide services tailored to your situation and ensure your new home is fully protected from day one.