Boat Winterization: What Insurance Coverage Should You Check Before Winter?

Your boat will soon be out of the water for several months. But will your boat insurance still protect it the same way once it’s in storage? Freezing temperatures, fires, theft, and storage-related damage can lead to significant losses, even when your boat is no longer in use.

Before proceeding with boat winterization, take the time to review the coverage, exclusions, and conditions of your insurance policy. Here are the key points to check to avoid unpleasant surprises during winter in Quebec.

1. Coverage during the lay-up period

Some marine insurance policies specify a lay-up period during which the boat must remain out of service.

Check the dates stated in your policy and any applicable restrictions. Your insurer may require the boat to be taken out of the water by a specific date or limit certain types of coverage during this period.

If you plan to continue boating late into the fall or launch your boat earlier in the spring, let your broker know. This will allow you to determine whether your coverage period needs to be adjusted.

2. Damage caused by freezing temperatures

Freezing temperatures pose a significant risk to boats stored in Quebec. Water left in the engine, pipes, or plumbing systems can cause cracks and costly damage.

Keep in mind that freeze damage is not automatically covered. Some policies include exclusions related to improper winterization or inadequate maintenance.

Before winter, review your insurer’s requirements and the circumstances under which damage caused by freezing temperatures may be covered.

Also, keep your maintenance and boat winterization invoices, along with documentation of the work performed.

3. Coverage for theft, fire, and physical damage

A boat in storage remains exposed to several risks, including fires in storage buildings, equipment theft, vandalism, and damage caused by the collapse of a support structure.

Review your physical damage coverage to confirm which events are insured and what exclusions apply.

Pay close attention to deductibles and coverage limits as well. Certain equipment, particularly electronics and outboard motors, may be subject to specific conditions.

Also, check whether your trailer and accessories are covered under the same policy or require separate protection.

4. Storage location and conditions

Where you store your boat can affect your insurance coverage.

Whether you choose a marina, an indoor storage facility, or your own property, make sure the location and type of storage match the information you have provided to your insurer.

Some policies may impose requirements concerning site security, anti-theft devices, or boat support systems.

If you change marinas or decide to store your boat on a trailer at home, notify your broker before moving it.

When storing your boat at a marina, also review the storage agreement to understand the facility’s responsibilities in the event of damage.

5. Liability coverage during winter

Liability coverage also deserves your attention, even when your boat is out of the water.

An incident involving your boat could cause damage to someone else’s property. It is therefore important to check whether your liability coverage remains in effect during storage and which situations are covered.

Before reducing or suspending certain types of coverage for winter, ask your broker to explain the possible consequences.

Review your insurance before winterizing your boat with Nauti Expert

Proper winter preparation involves more than physically protecting your boat. Your insurance should also reflect the risks your boat will face during the months it spends in storage.

Nauti Expert, a division of Groupe Lanthier Assurances located in Brossard, helps boat owners with their marine insurance needs. Before winterizing your boat, have your policy reviewed to verify your existing coverage, clarify exclusions, and determine whether any adjustments are needed for your situation.

Contact Nauti Expert to review your boat insurance before winter arrives.

 

FAQ’s

Is my boat still insured during winter storage?

Boat insurance may continue to cover certain risks during storage, including theft, fire, and physical damage. However, the exact protection depends on the coverage, exclusions, and lay-up conditions specified in your policy.

Does boat insurance cover freeze damage?

Not necessarily. Some policies exclude freeze damage when boat winterization is considered inadequate. Check your policy’s conditions and keep documentation of the work performed.

Does my home insurance cover a boat stored on my property?

Do not assume that your home insurance automatically covers your boat and trailer. Separate marine insurance may be necessary to provide adequate protection against theft, fire, and other damage during storage.

Can you suspend your boat insurance during winter?

Certain types of coverage can sometimes be adjusted during the lay-up period. However, suspending your insurance entirely could leave your boat unprotected against significant losses. Consult your broker before making any changes.