Cottage and Seasonal Property Insurance in Canada
Vacationing at your cottage in Canada is a great way to spend your holidays. Whether it’s summer or winter, it’s a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and provides time to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Just like your home, your cottage needs insurance protection. Insurance is especially important if you leave your holiday home vacant for long periods. Knowing that your cottage has coverage while you’re away can give you peace of mind.
What Is Cottage and Seasonal Property Insurance?
Cottage and seasonal property insurance in Canada refers to insurance protection for homes that aren’t your primary residence. For Canadians, common vacation properties include cottages and ski chalets.
Generally, cottage insurance provides many of the same coverage options that home insurance does. A cottage insurance policy may contain property, contents and liability coverage.
How Much Does Cottage Insurance Usually Cost?
Like home insurance, your premium is calculated using factors related to your holiday home, such as its size, features, amenities and location.
One way to find a good cottage insurance price is by comparing options from several insurance companies. You may also be able to save by bundling cottage and home insurance. MyChoice can help you compare offers from Canadian insurance companies and find protection that suits your budget.
Ontario Premiums for Seasonal and Secondary Properties
Although the seasonal category has a lower median insured dwelling amount, its median premium is higher. The data does not establish one explanation. Occupancy, road and fire-service access, heating, winterization, rental use, water protection and the deductible can all affect a cottage quote.
| Property classification | Median insured dwelling amount | Median annual premium |
|---|---|---|
| Seasonal property | $347,506 | $2,031 |
| Secondary home | $547,210 | $1,556 |
Source: MyChoice Quote Database, 2026
These figures are observed medians from our internal data rather than guaranteed prices. Ask your insurer or broker about vacancy, seasonal use, rentals, water damage and outbuilding coverage.
What Risks Does Cottage Insurance Typically Cover?
Cottage insurance may protect you from perils such as fire, theft and severe weather. However, the details will depend on the insurance you purchase.
Two common types of coverage are:
Common coverage may include:
- Property damage caused by fire, water, severe weather or vandalism
- Theft
- Third-party liability
- Damage to outbuildings
What is and isn’t covered varies between insurers, so ask your broker about the details of your cottage insurance.
What Risks Are Not Covered by Cottage Insurance?
Examples of risks that may not be covered include:
- Vermin and wildlife damage
- Sewer backup
- Mechanical breakdowns
- Intentional damage
- Earthquakes
- Wear and tear
- Terrorism and war
- Other people’s belongings
You may be able to get protection against some of these risks by purchasing additional coverage.
How Is Cottage Insurance Different From Home Insurance?
Cottage insurance differs from home insurance because it is designed to protect a holiday property, often in a remote location.
Insurers calculate the risk differently because holiday homes aren’t usually occupied year-round and may be difficult for emergency services to reach. Because they are often unoccupied and far from major population centres, cottages may face a higher risk of theft, vandalism and fire.
Getting cottage insurance can be trickier or more expensive because of these additional risks.
Some Common Cottage Insurance Claims
Many cottage insurance claims are similar to home insurance claims. Water damage, fire and theft are some of the more common losses.
Common Cottage Insurance Questions
Is Cottage Insurance Cheaper Than Home Insurance in Canada?
Cottage insurance prices depend on the property, coverage and how the cottage is used. Remote properties may be harder for emergency services to reach and more difficult or expensive to rebuild. Bundling cottage coverage with home insurance may reduce the overall cost.
Can I Bundle Cottage or Cabin Insurance With Home Insurance?
Yes. Cottage or cabin insurance can often be bundled with home insurance. Ask your broker or agent whether a discount is available.
Do I Need to Tell My Insurance Broker That I Rent My Cottage?
Yes. Tell your broker or insurer whenever the cottage is rented. If the insurer is not informed, a related claim may be denied or the policy may be cancelled.
What Insurance Do I Need If I Rent My Cottage?
The insurance you need depends on how often the cottage is rented and the insurer’s requirements. You may need short-term-rental coverage, an endorsement or a separate rental-property policy.
Should I Have Contents Insurance for My Cottage?
Contents insurance may protect furniture, appliances and other belongings kept at the cottage. Some policies include contents coverage, but the limit and covered risks vary.
Does Cottage Insurance Cover Damage Caused by a Bear?
Bear damage may be covered under some cottage insurance policies. Check the policy wording. If it is not covered, ask whether additional animal-damage protection is available.
