Cold-weather insurance claims increase | CityNews Vancouver

A local insurance provider says freezing temperatures across the Lower Mainland have led to an increase in cold-related insurance claims.

On Monday, Daniel Mirkovic, president and CEO at Square One Insurance, says he received 42 claims related to cold weather, many of which included frozen pipes.

“We’re not really shocked that that’s the volume and claims continue to come in,” he said.

While he says these issues often arise in older homes, built before 1965 when building codes were updated, he admits they can show up in newer homes as well.

Overall, he adds, the claims have been fairly well distributed across the Lower Mainland.

To avoid having to call an insurance provider in the first place, Mirkovic says the number one thing people can do is make sure their homes are heated properly, especially if they’re headed out of town.

“It’s imperative that you ensure heat is maintained and you arrange for someone to come into your home and confirm the heat is maintained,” he said.

“Otherwise, you may not have any coverage under your home insurance if the pipes freeze and subsequently burst.”

If pipes do freeze, Mirkovic recommends leaving faucets on a very slow drip, so when the pipes begin to thaw, pressure doesn’t build up within them.

For fire sprinklers, he says that’s an entirely different situation that often requires a professional.

Ultimately, Mirkovic says it’s essential homeowners don’t slack on making sure they have the proper insurance in place.

“On average we’re probably looking at $25,000 to $50,000 per claim, so it’s really important that you have insurance.”

He says renter policies can start at $12 per month, while homeowner policies can range from $40 for a condo to $75 for a home.

-With files from Maria Vinca