Preparing for a home insurance quote

Checklist for your insurance quote

Here is a practical summary list of the information to gather before requesting your home insurance quote online or by phone.

Essential details about the house or condo to insure

Home dimensions

Home dimensions are used to calculate replacement cost. If your home were completely destroyed by fire, how much would it cost to rebuild? What quantities and prices of materials would be required? What are the labour costs?

All of this is included in the calculation based on the size of your residence. Debris removal and demolition costs are also considered.

Year of construction

The age of the home or condo is an important factor for the insurer. They will also want to know the overall condition of the property. Materials used (e.g., laminate or granite kitchen countertops) and renovations completed over the years are reviewed.

Fire risk factors to declare

Proximity to fire services

The distance between your home and the nearest fire station or fire hydrant can affect your home insurance premium. The closer these services are, the faster and more effective firefighter response will be in case of fire—reducing the risk of major loss or damage to your home.

Type of heating system and installation date

The type of heating you use—electric heating, wood heating, oil heating—affects your insurance risk. Some systems are more likely to cause fires than others, and aging equipment increases the risk of failure.

Oil heating systems also raise environmental concerns in case of leaks. A defective oil tank (major repairs and replacements are prohibited), whether indoors or outdoors, can result in very high decontamination costs. To be properly protected, additional coverage is often required in your home insurance policy.

Fireplace (wood, natural gas, etc.)

If a fireplace heats your living room or basement, fire risks increase. Do not be surprised if you are asked how many cords of wood you burn each year—it simply indicates how frequently you use your fireplace.

Type of electrical panel and wiring and installation date

Check your electrical panel. If it has switches, it is a breaker panel. If it has screw-in glass fuses, it is a fuse panel—an older model.

Many insurers recommend replacing fuse panels with breaker panels to reduce overheating and fire risks.

Also verify the type of electrical wiring (copper, aluminum, etc.), especially if your home was built before 1980. This type of wiring can become dangerous as it deteriorates.

Type of detectors and alarm system

Do you have smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, or floor water leak detectors? Do you have a monitored alarm system or video surveillance system? These are positive factors for your insurer.

Good to know: Anything that promotes quick action by you or firefighters is viewed favourably by insurers.

Water damage risks: What your insurer wants to know

Roof type and installation date

If your roof has asphalt shingles, its lifespan is about 20 to 25 years. If it is approaching this age, the insurer may consider it a risk and could even refuse to cover claims caused by an aging roof. Have it inspected or replaced if necessary to reduce the risk of water infiltration.

Water heater type and installation date

A water heater typically lasts 10 to 12 years. At that point, the likelihood of water damage increases significantly. Your insurer may refuse coverage for damage caused by a failing water heater. Notify your insurer when you replace your unit to remain properly insured.

Backwater valve, sump pump, or catch basin

If your home is less than 20 years old, it should have a backwater valve. This prevents municipal water from entering your home and reduces the risk of sewer backup.

Having these devices that reduce sewer backup damage (definitely unpleasant!) can lower your insurance premium.

Swimming pool and spa

Damage to your swimming pool or spa is not automatically covered by home insurance. You must add additional coverage to your policy.

For above-ground pools, ask about the annual depreciation rate used by insurers. Make sure the maximum reimbursement amount meets your expectations.

For in-ground pools, the cost is included in your home’s replacement value. It is important to notify your insurer if you install one.

Water damage caused by your pool or spa to your home is covered under basic home insurance. However, this does not apply in cases of freezing or thawing. If damage affects third-party property, your personal liability coverage applies.

Other factors that affect your coverage and insurance premium

Previous insurance claims

You must describe and estimate prior claims affecting your home (water damage, fire, vandalism, wind damage, etc.). If you recently purchased the property, ask the previous owner about past damage.

Pets

Owning pets can affect your personal liability insurance. Do you own a dog considered a “dangerous breed?” Your insurer needs this information to adjust your coverage.

Tempted to withhold this detail? If your pet causes an incident, your insurer may deny your insurance claim. Many insurers refuse coverage for certain dog breeds or exotic pets.

Value of your personal property

You must determine a coverage amount in case you need to replace all your personal property. Creating a home inventory helps you select the right amount—and provides documentation if you ever need to file a claim.

Good to know: After a stressful event like theft or fire, it can be difficult to remember everything in your home.

Property rental

Planning to rent out your cottage, house, or condo—even short term? Discuss this with your insurer to obtain appropriate coverage options. With the growth of the sharing economy, some people also rent out their swimming pool or parking space. You must inform your insurer of this as well.

Comparing home insurance quotes: 3 key checks

Always answer your insurer’s questions honestly—misrepresentation could void your coverage in case of damage or loss. To compare quotes effectively, make sure that:

• Coverage options included are equivalent
• Total insurance amounts are similar
• Price is compared monthly or annually, excluding insurance premium tax (IPT), to avoid confusion

Understanding types of home insurance policies

There are three main types of home insurance products:

• For homeowners
• For renters (tenant insurance / student insurance coverage)
• For condo owners

Each policy can then be customized based on your desired types of coverage:

• All-risk insurance: The most comprehensive coverage
• Named perils insurance: Typically covers only listed losses such as fire, theft, and vandalism

Good to know: CAA-Quebec’s Home No-Stress Policy® is an all-risk policy that includes exclusive endorsements offered by CAA-Quebec.