Insurance Question: Do parking tickets affect my driving record or my insurance rates?

By Joseph Huynh Auto Insurance General Info

As Ontario’s cities develop and grow, everyone gets to enjoy the emerging businesses, the expansion and improvement of infrastructure, and the growth of cultural diversity. However, along with these benefits come more difficulties for drivers. In the city of Toronto, in particular, parking can be quite challenging due to various factors such as the city’s population density, limited parking spaces, and the high demand for parking in certain areas.

Even the most experienced drivers can make mistakes that will lead to a parking ticket. When that happens, you might be worried about the impact that these sanctions will have on your driving record, as well as your vehicle insurance rates.

What happens after I receive a parking ticket?

Parking bylaws are designed and enforced to help reduce traffic congestion and maintain ease of traffic flow within city streets. Some of these regulations include a three-hour limit for parking on public roads, parking bans in areas designated as no-stopping zones, such as school zones during specific times, among many others.

If you violate one of these bylaws, a parking enforcement officer may issue you a parking ticket. The ticket will include details about the violation, such as the location, time, and nature of the offense. Your parking ticket will also indicate the amount of the fine you are required to pay for the violation. In Ontario, the cost of a parking ticket can range from $15 to $450 depending on the type you receive and the city you get the ticket in.

You can pay for your parking violation online, by mail, or in-person. In Toronto, you have fifteen days to provide payment for a parking ticket. Failing to pay the fine by the specified deadline can prevent you from renewing your driver’s license and from getting your plate stickers. You will be required to pay any outstanding fines you have in order to obtain a renewed license or license plates.

Do parking tickets affect my driving record or my insurance rates?

In Ontario, parking infractions are usually administered by the municipality in which you received it and are not reported to the Ministry of Transportation, which administers driving records.

Insurance companies will check your driving record to assess how much you will pay. If you recently received a parking ticket, this is good news as it means this will not affect your insurance rate in the province. However, to ensure that you keep your car insurance premiums as low as possible, it is important to familiarize yourself with and respect the rules of the road and traffic laws in your area.

Which driving violations affect my insurance rates?

Moving violations are a type of traffic offense that happens when a vehicle is in motion and the driver violates a specific traffic law or regulation. Some of these are:

  • Speeding

  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

  • Reckless driving (i.e. in a manner that shows a disregard for the safety of others)

  • Failure to use a seat belt

  • Tailgating

The infractions listed above are serious, and will have a substantial impact on your insurance premium, as will the presence of several tickets or violations.

To learn more about obtaining a customized car insurance policy, contact one of our brokers today. At Oracle RMS, we are here to help inform our customers and clients through every step of the way and after they’ve purchased their policy plan.

Does Your Business Need Trade and Contractor’s Liability Insurance?

By Joseph Huynh Commercial Insurance General Info

In the world of construction and trade, every project holds the promise of growth and success. However, along with opportunities come risks that can potentially disrupt the smooth course of your endeavors. This is where trade and contractor’s liability insurance steps in as a crucial shield for businesses and professionals alike. 

In the construction and trades sectors, various risks are inherent due to the nature of the work involved. These risks can range from accidents causing property damage or bodily injury to third parties to mistakes or errors that lead to financial losses for clients. Trade and contractors’ liability insurance can help mitigate these risks by covering the costs associated with legal claims, lawsuits, settlements, and judgments arising from such incidents.

Whether you’re a seasoned contractor or a budding tradesperson, understanding the significance of this insurance is paramount in ensuring the longevity and security of your ventures. In this blog, we delve further into what trade and contractors’ liability insurance is to help you confidently navigate the world of trades and construction insurance.

What is liability insurance for tradespeople and contractors?

Trade and contractors’ liability insurance is a type of general liability insurance coverage specifically designed to protect businesses and professionals operating in the construction and trades industries. This insurance provides financial protection if the insured party (contractor or tradesperson) is held legally responsible for bodily injury, property damage, or other types of liabilities that may arise during their work.

What is the meaning of contract works?

“Contract works,” also known as “contractors all risks” (CAR) insurance, refers to an insurance policy designed to provide coverage for construction projects, including the materials, equipment, and work being carried out. This type of insurance is meant to protect contractors, builders, and project owners against a range of risks that can occur during the construction process.

Contract works insurance typically covers the following aspects:

  • Physical damage
  • Third-party liability
  • Contactor’s equipment
  • Materials in transit
  • Delay or business interruption
  • Professional fees

Contract works insurance is especially crucial for construction projects because of the numerous potential risks that can disrupt or damage the work. A construction site is inherently exposed to various perils, from accidents causing damage to ongoing structures to unexpected events like fires or storms.

This type of insurance helps provide financial protection to project owners, contractors, and other stakeholders by covering the costs of repairing or rebuilding damaged work, replacing stolen equipment, addressing third-party claims, and managing the financial impact of project delays.

What is the meaning of trade works?

“Trade works” typically refers to the specific tasks, activities, or services that professionals or tradespeople perform within a particular industry. In the context of construction and trades, “trade works” specifically refer to the specialized skills and services carried out by various tradespeople who contribute to the construction, renovation, or maintenance of buildings and infrastructure.

In the construction industry, trade works encompass a wide range of specialized trades, each with its own set of skills, tools, and expertise. Some examples of trade works include:

  • Electrical work
  • Plumbing work
  • Carpentry
  • Masonry
  • Painting and decorating
  • HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning)
  • Roofing
  • Flooring
  • Landscaping
  • Welding and metalwork

What is not covered by trade liability insurance?

Trade liability insurance, also known as general liability insurance or public liability insurance, provides coverage for a wide range of liabilities that businesses and tradespeople may face. However, there are certain exclusions and limitations to what is covered by this type of insurance covers. Here are some common situations and risks that may not be covered by standard general liability insurance policy:

  • Professional liability, including claims related to professional mistakes, errors, or advice (errors and omissions insurance).
  • Intentional acts or deliberate wrongdoing by you or your employees.
  • Car accidents if your business uses vehicles for work purposes (commercial auto insurance).
  • Product liability if your business manufactures, sells, or supplies products. (product liability insurance)
  • Property damage to your own property, as general liability insurance generally doesn’t cover damage to your own property. (property insurance or builders’ risk insurance)
  • Contractual liabilities that are not covered by general liability insurance.
  • Environmental risks and pollution-related claims (environmental liability insurance).
  • Fines and penalties imposed by regulatory agencies due to non-compliance with laws or regulations.

Is trade and contractor’s liability insurance important?

Trade and contractors’ liability insurance is essential for businesses and professionals in construction and trade industries. It is an investment in your business’s stability and growth. It’s a proactive step to manage risks, protect your assets, comply with legal requirements, and reassure clients that you are a responsible and reliable professional in the construction and trades industry. Below are some key reasons why this type of insurance is crucial:

Financial Protection

Construction and trade-related work can involve various risks, including property damage, bodily injury to third parties, and legal claims. Liability insurance helps protect your business from the potentially significant costs associated with legal defence, settlements, and judgments arising from such incidents.

Legal Requirements

Certain types of contractors are legally required to have specific insurance coverage in many provinces and territories. For example, some provinces may require contractors to have workers’ compensation insurance to cover employees in case of workplace injuries. Additionally, liability insurance may be mandated by regulatory bodies or licensing authorities for certain trades.

Liability Protection

Regardless of legal or contractual requirements, liability insurance is highly recommended for contractors. It provides protection against legal claims and potential financial losses arising from property damage or bodily injury caused by your work or your employees’ actions.

Risk Management

Liability insurance encourages risk management practices within your business. Knowing that you’re covered for potential liabilities can lead to more cautious and safety-conscious behavior, reducing the likelihood of accidents and claims.

Reputation Protection

Being covered by liability insurance helps protect your business’s reputation. Accidents and claims can lead to negative publicity, but having insurance in place demonstrates your commitment to addressing issues responsibly.

Contractual Requirements

Many clients and project owners may require contractors to carry certain types of insurance coverage as a condition of working on a project. This is particularly common in larger construction projects where clients want to ensure that contractors have the financial capacity to address potential liabilities.

Unexpected Events Protection

Accidents and unexpected events can still occur, no matter how careful you are. Liability insurance provides a safety net to help you navigate such situations without risking the financial stability of your business.

Client Confidence

Having liability insurance can make clients more confident in hiring your services, as they know they won’t be financially burdened in the event of an accident or damage caused by your work.

Do all contractors need to work with an insurance policy in Canada?

In Canada, the requirement for contractors to have insurance policies can vary depending on factors such as the province or territory in which you operate, the type of work you do, and the specific contracts you undertake. However, having insurance is generally advisable for contractors to protect themselves, their businesses, and their clients. This protection offers security against potential liabilities, safeguards business assets, enhances professionalism, and provides peace of mind. Liability insurance, in particular, is highly recommended to cover legal claims arising from property damage or bodily injury.

Researching and understanding the insurance requirements and recommendations for your specific province or territory is essential. Consulting with an insurance professional who specializes in the construction and trades industry can help you determine the appropriate types and levels of coverage for your business. Ultimately, while not all contractors are legally obligated to have insurance in Canada, having the right insurance policies can significantly benefit your business by protecting you from various risks and ensuring that you meet the expectations of clients and regulatory authorities.

No matter your industry, or business size, we have your back. Contact Oracle RMS to learn about ways we can deliver trade and contractor’s liability today.

2023 Goals

New Year’s Resolution: Make Sure You’re Covered

By Blog Editor Auto Insurance General Info Health Insurance Home Insurance Life Insurance No comment

Happy New Year! Now that it’s 2023 and we’re beginning a brand new decade, this means it’s time for new goals and resolutions. Some examples of the most common New Year’s resolutions are to live life to the fullest, save more money, get organized and more.

While starting a new decade may seem exciting and motivating to many, have you looked at the bigger picture and thought about making sure you’re covered by purchasing the right type of insurance for 2020? Although majority of Canadians have insurance  in one form or another, surprisingly, there are few who would rather take the risk than be protected or they simply ignore getting insurance as they believe it is too expensive. However, having insurance should be part of your New Year’s Resolution because it will ensure you are financially secure to face any type of problem that may occur in life.

Below are the most important types of insurance policies you should purchase:

  1. Home Insurance

The biggest purchase that you’ll ever have to buy is a home. With home insurance, you will protect your home and the contents in it against unexpected risks. It will also protect you from paying a large sum of money in the event of serious damage caused to your home or destruction. Personal liabilities like slip and falls on your property or inside your home, damaging a third party’s property or accidentally injuring someone else are examples of what home insurance will cover. For those who don’t own a home and are currently renting, it is essential to have tenant insurance, which will provide coverage for the renter’s belongings and liability. For more information on tenant insurance, click here.

  1. Auto Insurance

For all car owners, auto insurance is not only a requirement, but it is also mandatory in all of Canada. Driving without insurance is a very serious offence and can result in a fine of a minimum of $5,000.00. Auto insurance will provide coverage for all listed drivers on the vehicle, the vehicle itself and any loss or damages. It will cover you if you’re involved in a car accident with another vehicle that also has damages or if someone is injured, including yourself. With the help of your insurance company, they will help provide the medical and rehabilitation care, financial assistance if you are unable to work and financial protection if you’ve hurt someone that results in a lawsuit.

  1. Life Insurance

There comes a time in life, where you are no longer making decisions for yourself. Eventually you will make decisions for your family instead. In doing so, you will want to put some thought into purchasing life insurance. It can protect the financial security of your family by giving them a tax-free payment after you’ve passed away. The amount and type of coverage you choose will depend on your needs and circumstances since there are four types of life insurance policies that you can purchase: term life insurance, permanent life insurance, participating life insurance and universal life insurance. Keep in mind that life insurance is age-branded, which means that as each year passes by, your policy can become more and more expensive. In addition, the cost of these four types of life insurance also depends on your gender, health, medical history and lifestyle.

  1. Health Insurance

Changes in your health can impact your financial plans. By purchasing health insurance, you will receive coverage that protects your savings from the many healthcare costs not covered by government plans. According to Health for All, there are an estimated 200-500,000 people in the country that do not have health insurance. This is a shocking number for many as Canada is known for their universal health-care program.

  1. Disability Insurance

There are four types of health insurance products that provide protection you could potentially need later on in life. The one you should most likely consider is disability insurance. This is because it will help protect your income, in case you’re no longer able to work temporarily or permanently, due to a life changing injury or illness. By contacting your Oracle RMS licensed broker, you will receive more information on the different types of disability insurance coverage options that are available.     

Worried About Cost?

If part of your New Year’s Resolution is to also save more money, take advantage of the insurance discounts you can get on your home and auto insurance policies. For example, when you combine your home and auto insurance from the same insurance company, you are qualified to receive a discount to lower your overall premium! For more available discounts on your home insurance policy, click here. In addition, for more available discounts on your car insurance policy, click here.

Contact Oracle RMS Today!

The types of insurance products to have are reflected on what’s most relevant for you, your situation and your lifestyle. It truly depends on a number of factors. By contacting Oracle RMS on purchasing insurance, we will advise you on what coverages to have and what coverages to not have, considering that some insurance companies will insist you purchase unnecessary coverages. We will also provide information on optional coverages that are available.

All in all, by ensuring you are insured and secured, there’s no doubt you will achieve your 2023 New Year’s resolution!

5 Reasons Your Insurance Claim Might Get Denied

By Sofia Perez General Info

Consider, for example, if you’re in a grocery store parking lot. Someone backing out accidentally strikes the side of your car and leaves a sizable dent in your passenger-side door. Suffering any kind of loss is an emotional time, and it can be even more stressful to have to pull yourself together and submit a claim to your insurance provider.

But what if that claim gets denied?

Filing a claim is an extremely intricate process, one which requires great attention to detail. Claims can be denied because of minor errors, such as submitting for non-covered services, not being filed on time, inconsistent information, and more. By being proactive and understanding your insurance coverage, many of these situations can be avoided, and clients can get their claim approval easier. Highlighting some of the most popular claim submission mistakes may benefit clients in the future when they are submitting a claim of their own and can reduce the odds of making a mistake.

Read on for five of the most common reasons why an insurance claim gets denied.

1. Violating the conditions of your policy.

Insurance policies contain very specific sets of rules that must be followed. These are known as Statutory Conditions. If those rules are breached or violated for any reason, and your insurance carrier finds out, there is a chance your claim could be denied. One of the most common policy violations is using a personal-use vehicle to do commercial deliveries. Because commercially used vehicles are considered “higher risk” and are used more often than personal-use vehicles, they’ll need special coverage. Not disclosing that your vehicle is being used for deliveries or other business purposes counts as a violation of the conditions of your policy and if you’re involved in a wreck while doing deliveries, any claim you might submit could be denied.

2. Failing to disclose information to your provider.

Honesty is the best policy when it comes to keeping your insurance provider in the loop. You should always update them on any changes that need to be made, as they have a right to deny any claim if there is reason to believe that the information you have provided them is not true. Something as small as an incorrect address could result in troubles with your coverage. Thereare plenty of situations where you’ll need to phone your home or auto provider to inform them of changes to your situation, including:

  • If you change your address
  • If you buy a vehicle
  • If the primary driver of the vehicle changes
  • If your vehicle usage changes
  • If more people will be driving your car
  • If a driver on a vehicle receives a license suspension
  • If you no longer meet the qualifications of an insurance discount
  • …etc.

 3. Not submitting all the necessary information.

Missing documentation is another common reason for a claim being denied. While processing a claim, an insurance company might need to verify the details regarding the loss, and they’ll ask for certain documentation to complete this verification. Documents can include a variety of information, including bills, licenses, invoices, evidence of the accident, or anything else of relevance. If these documents are not submitted, you could risk your claim being denied. This can be resolved, however, by re-submitting the claim with the proper documentation (so long as you re-submit the claim within an applicable timeframe to do so.)

4. Illegal activity was connected to the loss.

This might seem obvious to most, but plenty of policyholders will still try to submit claims where illegal activity was connected to the loss. If you use your vehicle for illegal activities or you live in a home where illegal activities are being conducted, your claim could be denied. Here are some examples:

  • You were driving with a suspended license and got into a wreck. This will likely result in a claim being denied but could also risk a policy cancellation.
  • You were convicted of a DUI during the time of an accident.
  • You fail to disclose a criminal record within the past 3 years.

Policyholders who submit claims that are connected to illegal activity may not only risk having their claim denied, but also their insurance cancelled, depending on the circumstances.

5. The claim was not filed on time.

Following a loss, you’ll have a specific amount of time to file a claim, which will then be submitted and considered for payment. If you fail to submit a claim before its due date, it will be denied. Even if all the documentation in the claim, all the information, etc., it can be denied if it’s not submitted in time. This also applies to re-submitted claims, if they are submitted after the filing date has already passed.

In Summary 

Insurance coverage is designed for peace of mind as it ensures coverage and shares risk when you need it the most. It’s a must-have to reduce the impact of loss and provide protection for you and your loved ones. If something happens, it’s important to be aware of the claims process, know what is covered in your policy, and submit on time to avoid risking your claim being denied. An annual review of your policy or policies is always a good way to keep on top of things.

For more general insurance tips, see our resources here.

Consider working with an insurance broker to review the coverage detailed in your policy or get a free quick quote today with Oracle RMS and one of our brokers will get in touch with you ASAP.

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For more details visit www.oraclerms.com or call now at 1-855-884-6150 to talk to our licensed insurance agents. You can also write to us at info@oraclerms.ropstam.dev

 

Explore Ontario in 2022 and Receive a Staycation Tax Credit

By Ari Rush General Info

 

Should you stay in Ontario for your 2022 vacation? Read here to learn more about the Staycation Tax Credit.

Introduction 

Have you been planning a much-needed vacation in 2022? If your answer to that question was “Yes.”, a staycation with your loved ones could be exactly what the doctor ordered. Simply by taking a leisure trip within Ontario, you could get your travel costs partially reimbursed by a tax credit.

Curious about the Staycation Tax Credit? We’re about to tell you everything you need to know. Keep reading to find out more.

What is the Staycation Tax Credit and How Does It Work?

Let’s say that you decide to travel within Ontario in 2022. Here’s how you can take advantage of the Staycation Tax Credit:

First, you take your road trip while keeping your receipts. And then, during the 2022 tax season, you can apply for the tax credit as long as your expenses meet the following criteria:

  • You took your staycation within 2022;
  • You’ve spent a month or less inside of accommodations like hotels and motels;
  • You’ve covered GST;
  • You’re travelling for fun; and
  • You haven’t been reimbursed for your expenses by an employer

With the credit allowing Ontario residents to claim a maximum of $1,000 per person and $2,000 per family, you could be receiving a bit more money next tax season. 

Could a 2022 Ontario Road Trip Be in Your Future?

When you’re looking for places to go and things to do, it’s hard to beat a road trip. Here are just a few of the reasons why an Ontario-based trip could make for the best vacation you’ve had in years:

  • You can explore Ontario on your own terms;
  • It’s an affordable vacation plan because you really just need money for gas, food, and accommodations; and
  • You can visit a number of amazing places as long as you don’t forget to update your auto insurance policy

Visit Amazing Places With Family and Friends!

Between the CN Tower and landmarks like Rideau Canal, Ontario residents have no shortage of iconic destinations to choose from. But with lesser-known but equally compelling attractions like the Phantom Piper and Flowerpot Island around, there’s something to be said for taking the path less travelled. 

Have Fun, Stay Safe, and Update Your Travel Insurance

Are you planning to take an extended trip within Ontario borders? We can help you out! Our brokers will assess your circumstances and your travel plans before recommending the perfect auto insurance policy for your trip.

Cyber Safety: What to Know

By Ari Rush Cyber Insurance General Info

In 2016, 28 percent of Canadian businesses reported being subjected to a cyber-attack. But even without these numbers, many businesses today rely on a combination of email, online payment processors, and cloud databases to stay operational.

We’re about to cover some of the most common ways that hacks have been known to occur. And then, we’ll give you our top tips for protecting your data.

Keep reading to find out more.

How Do Cyber-Attacks Happen?

There are a few common methods that hackers use to gain unauthorized access to data:

  • Phishing Emails: These are fake emails that look like they come from a trusted source. Bad actors then use pages and forms to reach your login credentials.
  • Weak Passwords: Although “123” might be simple to remember, cyber attackers can often guess easy passwords.
  • Old Software: Older versions of software often have bugs and vulnerabilities. Hackers will exploit this information to access your data.
  • Malware: If someone accidentally visits an infected site or downloads a virus, your passwords and your data could be exposed.

Here’s How You Can Protect Your Company From Cyber-Attacks

We’ve talked about the methods that are commonly used for executing hacks. But that doesn’t explain how you can protect your business. Here are some strategies you can use to make your business a tougher target for hackers:

  1. Have Employees Use Password Managers

Password managers allow your company to generate strong passwords while also storing them in a single and accessible place. When everyone has strong passwords, your data is better protected.

  1. Use Two-Factor Authentication As Much As Possible

If you’ve ever had a pin sent to your phone, then you’ve already seen two-factor authentication in action. This extra layer of security can do a lot to help you keep your data secure.

  1. Have Company-Wide Security Standards

When employees understand how to protect their passwords and how to avoid malware, you’re less likely to see people falling for phishing schemes. With this approach, you can make cybersecurity a part of your onboarding process.

Protect Your Business by Getting Cyber Insurance Through Oracle RMS

Alongside your other contingency plans, it may be a good idea to talk to an Oracle RMS broker about how you can use cyber insurance to manage the aftermath of a cyber-attack. If clients lose critical information or your company is required to make payments due to a data breach, this coverage option can help you protect your bottom line. Get your free cyber insurance quote today.

 

 

 

COVID Car Checklist

By Ari Rush Auto Insurance General Info

Whether you’re a parent, a student, or a working professional who’s returning to work in person, there’s one major adjustment that you may have to make this fall:

Chances are that you’ll be driving more often.

Here’s a checklist you can use to ensure your car will be ready for the road when you need it.

Your COVID Driving Checklist

Item #1: Check Your Battery

If you haven’t been driving much during the pandemic, your car battery might have less juice in it than you think. Why? Because even if your vehicle is sitting in your driveway, your car still has electrical components in it that can drain your battery. Before you jump back into the daily commute, you may want to check your charge.

Item #2: Assess Your Oil Levels

In order to run smoothly, your engine parts need to be lubricated by oil. If you drive your car while your oil levels are low, you can quickly find yourself doing serious harm to your vehicle.

Item #3: Make Sure You Have the Right Tires

If your car hasn’t been driven for an extended period, there’s a solid chance that your tires will have more pressure on them than they before. Now is the perfect time to either pump up your tires or buy new ones.

Item #4: Your License

When you haven’t driven for a while, it’s easy to forget about keeping your license updated. That’s why it’s important to find out when or if your license is expiring.

Item #5: Your License Plate Stickers

For those who let their cars stay in the garage during 2020, keeping license plate stickers up to date is another task that it would have made sense to put off. When will they expire? Have they already expired? Before you hit the road, you’ll want to make sure that your stickers are where they need to be.

Item #6: Update Your Insurance

During the pandemic, you may have opted to save on your auto insurance by not insuring one of your cars. If you haven’t taken out a new policy in a while, this might be a good time to speak with an Oracle RMS insurance professional about your auto insurance options.

Conclusion

As you spend more time on the road, it’s important to make sure that you, your loved ones, and your vehicle are adequately protected as you travel. Request a free auto insurance quote through Oracle RMS today.

Unhealthy Trees: How to Spot

By Ari Rush General Info

Trees can make for a stunning backyard view. But all it takes is one fallen branch or tree for you to be left with a hefty repair bill.

However, the good news is that trees don’t usually snap in half out of nowhere. There are often warning signs that can let you know that a tree check-up may be in order. Keep reading to see our list.

Sign #1: You’re Seeing Fungus

This one might be hard to spot unless you’re looking closely. But if you’re seeing fungus around the roots of your tree or on the trunk, your tree’s problems could be more than superficial – you could be looking at an early indicator of decay.

Sign #2: The Tree’s Branches are Falling

All you have to do to check for this indicator is look up while standing under your tree. Does it look like every other branch is falling off or being held up by other branches? Your tree may not be in the best of health. And if you see this sign accompanied by rot, then you definitely know that something’s wrong.

Sign #3: You’re Not Seeing Bark in Any of the Usual Places

The presence of tree bark, or the lack thereof, can often tell a larger story about the overall health of your tree. Sections that don’t have bark can indicate the start of an infestation or a portion of the tree that has already died.

Sign #4: Leaves are Deformed or Dying Prematurely

Are there sections of your tree that don’t have leaves? Are the leaves on this tree dropping sooner than they should be? If you’re noticing that the leaves are unhealthy or simply thin, your tree could be in trouble.

Sign #5: Your Tree is Leaning

Even though trees aren’t necessarily supposed to stand perfectly straight, you don’t want to see them leaning. Once your tree has reached this stage, you’re one bad snowstorm away from a disaster. Don’t hesitate to speak with a professional about your options.

Conclusion

Sometimes even the most careful homeowners can have bad luck. If the tree in your front yard falls and hits your house, fence, or your neighbour’s car, to name a few examples, it’s important to make sure you have the right home insurance policy. Speak to an Oracle RMS broker to make sure that you have the right home insurance policy is up to date. Request your free home insurance quote today.

Winter Preparation Checklist

By Ari Rush General Info

Whether you love winter or you hate it, there’s no denying that ice and snow can take a physical toll on your belongings. How can you protect your personal property? Do you have a house, a boat, a car, or a motorcycle that needs winter-proofing?

Here’s our list of top tips for each.

Item #1: Your House

They say that your house is your castle. Here are some ways that you can make your house winter-ready:

  • Make sure your furnace and your heating systems are ready to go
  • Trim and prune any tree branches that look like potential hazards
  • Update or upgrade your home insurance so that you have the coverage you need in a worst-case scenario

Item #2: Your Car

Your exact course of action will depend on whether you’re driving your car this winter or you’re storing it.

If you’re storing your vehicle:

  • Fill up your gas tank
  • Get a protective cover
  • Consider adding more air to your tires to combat deflation

If you’re planning to drive your vehicle:

  • Use winter tires for maximum safety
  • Make sure you have a working plugin if you park outdoors
  • Keep booster cables and window scrapers in the car

Whether you’re storing your car or you’re driving it this winter, you’ll also want to make sure that you have adequate auto insurance.

Item #3: Your Boat

There’s nothing better than having a seaworthy vessel during boating season. Here’s your boat winterization checklist:

  • Take out the battery
  • Clean and wipe down the inside of your boat
  • Make sure your boat insurance policy is up to date before summer

Item #4: Your Cottage

If you want to keep your property in good shape, then you’ll want to consider these winterization tips:

  • Install an alarm system to protect against thieves
  • Don’t leave water sitting in your pipes during the colder months
  • Take out a new cottage insurance policy or renew your current one if you haven’t

Item #5: Your Motorcycle

If you want to feel the wind in your hair next spring, you may want to take these steps to keep your motorcycle safe during the winter:

  • Take out the battery
  • Fill up exhaust pipes to discourage insects from making themselves at home
  • Cover your motorcycle to protect it from the elements
  • Have a motorcycle insurance policy that fits your needs

Are You Ready for Winter This Year?

Some years, it seems like winter has taken everyone by surprise. Whether you’re a motorcyclist, a homeowner, or the proud owner of a boat, there are steps you can take to keep your property protected during the colder months. How’s that for winter-ready?

Buildings Under Renovation Are at Risk for Theft

By Ari Rush General Info Home Insurance

During the warmer months, contractors and renovators across Canada often find themselves dealing with a problem that has nothing to do with costs or builds:

Construction site theft.

What causes it? How can you keep your tools safe while protecting your bottom line? 

We’re about to answer these questions and more. All you have to do is keep reading.

Why Are Thieves Targeting Construction Sites?

In 2021, CTV ran a story on the increasing amount of lumber thefts occurring on construction sites. As it turns out, there are several reasons why renovation and construction projects often seem to be vulnerable to theft. 

For starters, job sites are often busy. Between staff members, temp hires, and random people passing by, there are plenty of folks in and around the area who have the means and the opportunity to walk away with building materials and other equipment in hand. When you factor in the rising cost of lumber, it becomes even easier to see why construction projects are such favourable targets for thieves.

Here’s How You Can Protect Your Projects

  • Secure Your Site Perimeter: Theft on job sites is often a crime of opportunity. A simple fence can go a long way towards making tools and building materials less accessible to thieves.
  • Lock up Your Valuables: Sometimes the best way to protect your valuables is to put them under lock and key. If transporting tools off-site isn’t an option, a storage container may be an option worth exploring.
  • Maintain Solid Records: When a piece of equipment has disappeared, every second counts. By having a system that keeps track of serial numbers and inventory, you can quickly and efficiently get a hold of law enforcement or file an insurance claim as necessary.
  • Take Out Builder’s Risk Insurance: Even when you’ve vetted employees and tracked equipment to the best of your abilities, on-site theft can still happen. Builder’s risk insurance works by insuring buildings during the construction process. Depending on what has been stolen, these thefts can cause project delays. Having the right insurance policy can help you avoid having to cover expenses out of pocket.

Protect Your Construction Site With Oracle RMS

Theft is a costly reality that Ontario-based contractors and renovators are increasingly having to contend with. Having the right insurance coverage can go a long way towards keeping projects running smoothly even if materials are stolen. Your Oracle RMS insurance professional will be able to go over the particulars of your project. Contact us or request your free builder’s insurance quote today.

Got a renovation or a new construction project underway? Theft is a possibility that you may have to plan for. Find out more here.