If you own a home in Ontario, you likely already understand the importance of having home insurance. But understanding what actually gets claimed , and why, can help you avoid headaches, prevent losses, and make smarter decisions about your coverage.
Whether you’re in the GTA, Hamilton, Kitchener, Ottawa, or anywhere in between, knowing the top home insurance claims in Ontario can give you a clearer sense of what’s worth checking in your policy, before something happens.
Let’s walk through the five most common types of home insurance claims in Ontario and what you can do to reduce your risks.
1. Water Damage (It’s More Common Than You Think)
Water damage is hands down one of the most frequent home insurance claims in Ontario. And it’s not always dramatic flooding. In fact, slow leaks, burst pipes in winter, and sewer backups are often the culprits.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that not all types of water damage are automatically covered. Standard home insurance policies may exclude overland flooding or sewer backups unless you’ve added those protections as endorsements. That’s especially important if your property sits near a river, or if you live in a dense urban area with older infrastructure.
Prevention tips:
- Install a sump pump and backwater valve
- Check for signs of moisture around the foundation
- Keep your eavestroughs clear
Policy tip: Ask your broker if you have sewer backup and overland water protection. These are becoming must-haves for homes across Ontario.
2. Wind and Hail Damage
From spring storms in Southern Ontario to strong fall winds in more exposed areas, wind and hail claims are another leading reason homeowners contact their insurers. This type of damage often affects roofs, windows, siding, and sometimes outdoor equipment.
The good news? Wind and hail damage are generally covered under standard home insurance in Ontario. But there’s a catch. If your roof is older, insurers may only cover the depreciated value, not full replacement.
Prevention tips:
- Inspect your roof and flashing at least once a year
- Trim large trees near the house
- Secure patio furniture and garden tools before a storm
Claim tip: Take photos of damage as soon as it’s safe to do so and call your broker early. It helps with documentation and can speed things up.
3. Theft and Break-ins Home Insurance Claims
While break-ins aren’t as common as water damage, they still rank high among home insurance claims in Ontario, especially in suburban neighborhoods and during vacation season when homes may be unoccupied.
Theft-related claims usually cover stolen belongings and damage to doors, windows, or locks during a break-in. However, your policy may have sub-limits for certain valuables like jewelry, electronics, or artwork.
Prevention tips:
- Use smart locks and motion-sensor lights
- Install a monitored alarm system (many insurers offer discounts for this)
- Avoid broadcasting vacation plans online
Policy tip: If you own high-value items, ask about a personal articles endorsement. It ensures they’re properly covered.
4. Fire and Smoke Damage
Fires can be devastating. Thankfully, home insurance policies in Ontario cover damage caused by fire and smoke, including replacement of your belongings, repairs to the structure, and additional living expenses if you need to stay elsewhere during repairs.
While fire claims are less frequent than water damage, they tend to be more expensive. And even small kitchen fires can lead to large claims due to smoke residue.
Prevention tips:
- Check smoke alarms regularly and replace batteries every six months
- Avoid overloading electrical outlets
- Never leave cooking unattended, even for a minute
Claim tip: Keep a current inventory of your belongings (photos or a spreadsheet can work) to help speed up the claims process.
5. Liability Claims
Liability claims may not be top of mind, but they’re an essential part of your home insurance coverage. These claims happen when someone is injured on your property and holds you legally responsible. Think of a delivery driver slipping on your icy walkway or a neighbor’s child getting hurt on your backyard trampoline.
These incidents can lead to serious legal expenses, which is why liability coverage is one of the most important, yet most overlooked, parts of your policy.
Prevention tips:
- Salt driveways and walkways in winter
- Repair uneven steps or cracked pavement
- Use gates or safety nets around pools and trampolines
Policy tip: Review your liability limits. Many Ontario homeowners choose to increase coverage to $2 million for added peace of mind.
What to Know About Claim Denials
One of the most frustrating experiences a homeowner can face is when home insurance denies a claim. In Ontario, common reasons include:
- Lack of maintenance (e.g., failing to fix a leak that led to mold)
- Excluded events (e.g., flooding without an overland water endorsement)
- Not reporting a loss within the required timeframe
The best way to avoid disappointment is to understand exactly what your policy covers, and what it doesn’t. That’s where a broker comes in. They can help you review your coverage and spot any gaps before a loss occurs.
Home insurance in Ontario isn’t just about checking a box for your mortgage provider. It’s about protecting your family, your investment, and your peace of mind.
Understanding the most common home insurance claims helps you stay one step ahead, and helps you avoid surprises when you need support the most.
If you’re not sure whether your current policy covers what matters most, it’s worth taking a few minutes to review it with a trusted broker.
At Levitt Insurance, we specialize in helping Ontario homeowners find affordable, complete coverage without the confusion. We’ll walk you through your options, explain how your current policy stacks up, and help you make informed choices that fit your life and your budget.
Request a free quote or policy review today, we’re here when you need us!
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