It may seem unusual, but the fact is that having a pet at home can increase your risks. And if you fail to let your insurance provider know that you own one or more pets, they can refuse to compensate you for a claim. Or, worse, cancel your insurance policy altogether.
That’s why it’s so important to let your insurance provider know if you have any pets at home. Generally speaking, your insurance premium will be adjusted in order to cover any potential damage that your animal could cause or be subject to. Every pet is different, so your safest bet is to contact your broker, who will be able to provide you with more information and help you make the best possible decision.
By adjusting your insurance policy to include any pets, you could be covered for any damage to your belongings or home caused by your pet. You can also be covered should your pet die in a fire or natural disaster. If your pet harms someone, this can fall under your home insurance’s liability coverage.
Note that restrictions apply!
Thinking about adopting a dog? Check that the breed is covered by your insurance provider. Some breeds present an elevated liability risk, and most insurance providers today will refuse coverage for new owners of Dobermans, pit bulls (American Staffordshire terrier, bull terrier, Staffordshire bull terrier), rottweilers, and any associated mixed breeds.
Do you already own one of these dog breeds? It’s best to let your insurance provider know that owning your dog presents as few risks as possible. For example, your insurance provider will take into consideration that your yard in fenced in, your dog has been to obedience classes, your pet wears a muzzle and is always on a leash outdoors, how old your dog is and their full history (an older dog with no previous issues will be more easily covered), proof that your pet has been microchipped, and how many pets you own. Other pets, such as a python or tarantula, can also pose an issue for insurance providers.
Note that your pet must be for personal use only, meaning your home insurance will not be valid if you earn money with your pet (sled dog, or a pet used for exhibitions, racing, breeding, etc.).
What should you do?
Want to adopt a pet? Have questions about any current pets? Then contact your AccèsConseil broker. They’ll be able to help you navigate the issue with your home insurance provider.
Remember that failing to declare a pet because this may increase your insurance premium can result in supplementary costs in the event of an incident. The Civil Code of Québec stipulates that it’s the home owner’s responsibility to declare any change that may modify their insurance premium. Best to be honest!
Contact us for more information!
Special collaboration with Sonia Pelletier, Personal Insurance Director at AccèsConseil.