What does home insurance cover in Ontario?
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Home insurance plans offer you security against common perils (risks) found in Ontario. This includes things like fire, theft, vandalism, storm damage, and more. Coverage is divided into two broad categories – property and liability:
Property coverage for your Ontario home
The first component of your policy is protection for your property – your structure, and your personal items. All the following are included:
Building
You have protection from threats such as water, fire, and weather events.
It covers your dwelling and attached structures such as your deck, garage, and other permanent fixtures. This includes your landscaping. Coverage amounts are up to the replacement value of your home.
Detached structures
Your plan also covers detached structures. This includes your garage, shed, pergola, gazebo, pool house, play equipment, and more. Receive up to 20% of your replacement cost.
Personal contents
These are the things that you have within your home. This includes your clothing, furniture, appliances, electronics, and décor. There are limitations on what is included in contents insurance. Additional coverage will be needed for some items (jewellery, collectibles, etc.). Receive up to 80% of the replacement cost.
Additional living expenses
Get compensation if you need to move out of your home while it is being repaired after a claim. Additional living expenses provide compensation for hotel, food, rent, storage, and other expenses. Coverage is up to 30% of the replacement cost.
Liability protection for your home in Ontario
Accidents happen. As a homeowner in Ontario, you are personally liable if someone is injured on your property. You are also liable if you, a family member or a pet causes damage to another person's belongings. This is what is included:
Personal liability
You’ll have liability coverage to protect you if someone is injured while on your property. It can cover legal fees, settlements, and other costs related to personal liability claims against you. Plans offer up to $5 million in coverage.
Voluntary medical payments
Your insurer will cover medical payments for anyone who is injured while at your place. They have access to this for up to one year from the incident. This can include physiotherapy, minor surgeries, and other medical procedures. Plans offer up to $10,000.
Voluntary property damage
You are protected if you or a family member in your household accidentally causes damage to another person’s possessions. For example, your kids are playing hockey and shoot a puck through your neighbours window. Your insurer will cover you for up to $6,000.
