Preparing the Cottage for Winter: What Ontario Cottage Owners Need to Know

Updated October 2026

For many Ontario families, closing the cottage marks the end of another summer of boating, swimming, fishing and spending time with family and friends.

However, preparing a cottage for winter involves more than putting away the patio furniture and locking the doors.

Freezing temperatures, heavy snow, ice, windstorms and extended periods without anyone at the property can create significant risks. A small plumbing leak or roof problem that might be discovered quickly at your principal residence could go unnoticed for weeks or months at a seasonal cottage.

Proper winterization can help prevent expensive damage and is particularly important because cottage insurance policies often have different coverage conditions and restrictions than policies covering principal residences.

At L.D. Dermody Insurance Brokers, we encourage cottage owners to take the time to prepare their properties before winter and understand what their insurance company requires.

1. Shut Off and Drain the Water System

Frozen plumbing is one of the greatest risks to an unattended cottage during an Ontario winter.

When water freezes inside pipes, it expands and can cause pipes, fittings, toilets and other plumbing fixtures to crack or burst.

If the water supply remains connected, a broken pipe could release a substantial amount of water when temperatures rise.

Before closing your cottage, consider the following:

Shut off the main water supply.
Drain the plumbing system according to its design.
Drain or properly winterize toilets, sinks, showers and other fixtures.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for winterizing water heaters, pumps and filtration equipment.
Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses and water lines.
Protect plumbing traps and other components using products and methods appropriate for the system.

If your cottage uses a well, pressure tank, septic system or specialized plumbing equipment, additional winterization procedures may be necessary.

Consider hiring a qualified plumber if you are unfamiliar with the proper process.

Simply turning off the main water valve does not necessarily mean the plumbing system has been properly winterized.

Water remaining inside pipes or fixtures can still freeze and cause damage.

2. Understand Your Insurance Company's Winterization Requirements

This is one of the most important steps in closing your cottage.

Seasonal property insurance policies may contain specific conditions or exclusions relating to freezing and escape of water.

Some insurers require the plumbing system to be drained when a cottage is closed for the winter. Others may have conditions involving maintained heat, inspections or particular types of plumbing systems.

Certain seasonal policies may exclude freezing-related damage altogether.

The requirements depend on the insurance company, the coverage purchased and the wording of the policy.

Do not assume that maintaining heat or arranging occasional inspections automatically satisfies your insurer's requirements.

Before closing your cottage, confirm what precautions your particular insurance policy requires.

Failure to comply with applicable conditions could affect coverage if a loss occurs.

3. Decide Whether to Maintain Heat

Some cottage owners completely shut down their properties for the winter, while others maintain heat so they can continue visiting throughout the colder months.

The appropriate approach depends on the construction of the cottage, its plumbing system, the heating equipment and the insurance policy.

If you intend to maintain heat:

Have the heating system inspected and serviced as appropriate.
Confirm that the thermostat is functioning properly.
Consider installing a monitored low-temperature alarm.
Arrange for someone to check the property according to your insurer's requirements.
Have a plan for heating failures and power outages.

Remember that a power outage or furnace malfunction can allow the temperature inside a cottage to drop below freezing.

If the property will not be heated, make sure the plumbing and other water-containing systems are properly winterized.

Never use an improvised heating arrangement to prevent freezing.

4. Inspect the Roof Before Winter

Ontario cottages can experience substantial snow accumulation, particularly in areas exposed to lake-effect snow or severe winter storms.

Before leaving for the season, inspect the roof from a safe location.

Look for:

Missing, loose or damaged shingles.
Deteriorated flashing around chimneys and vents.
Signs of existing leaks.
Sagging or visibly damaged roof sections.
Tree branches that could fall onto the building.

Arrange for a qualified roofing contractor to address any concerns.

Snow accumulation can place significant weight on a roof, particularly when combined with ice or rain.

If your cottage is in an area that receives heavy snowfall, consider whether periodic professional snow removal or structural assessment may be appropriate.

Never climb onto a snow-covered or icy roof to remove snow yourself.

5. Clean Eavestroughs and Check Drainage

Before closing the cottage, remove leaves, pine needles and other debris from eavestroughs and downspouts.

Blocked drainage systems can contribute to water accumulating around the foundation and may increase the risk of ice buildup.

Make sure downspouts direct water away from the building.

Check that the ground around the cottage does not direct surface water toward the foundation.

If your cottage has a sump pump, consider how it will operate during power outages and whether it requires maintenance before winter.

Remember that coverage for groundwater, overland water and sewer backup varies considerably between cottage insurance policies.

6. Prepare the Property for Winter Storms

Strong winds, freezing rain and heavy snow can damage outdoor structures and equipment.

Before leaving:

Secure or store patio furniture, umbrellas and lightweight outdoor items.
Remove or properly secure seasonal awnings.
Inspect decks, railings and exterior stairs.
Close and secure windows, doors and shutters.
Check the condition of sheds, garages and other outbuildings.
Arrange for hazardous tree limbs to be removed by a qualified professional.

If your property has a dock, boat lift or other waterfront equipment, follow appropriate seasonal removal or winterization procedures.

Insurance coverage for docks, detached structures and waterfront equipment is not always included automatically and may be subject to special limits or exclusions.

7. Protect Against Rodents and Other Animals

When cottages are left unattended, mice, squirrels, raccoons and other animals may find ways to enter.

Before closing:

Remove food and other materials that may attract pests.
Store remaining supplies in secure containers.
Check for openings around doors, vents, foundations and utility penetrations.
Seal appropriate entry points without blocking necessary ventilation.
Inspect the attic, crawl space and storage areas for signs of animal activity.

Damage caused by rodents, insects and other pests is commonly excluded under property insurance policies.

Taking preventative measures can help avoid unpleasant surprises when you return in the spring.

8. Reduce the Risk of Fire

Fire prevention is especially important at cottages because emergency services may be farther away and a fire may not be discovered immediately.

Before leaving for the winter:

Have wood stoves, fireplaces and chimneys maintained as appropriate.
Remove ashes safely and ensure they are completely extinguished.
Unplug unnecessary electrical appliances.
Check for damaged electrical cords and equipment.
Store combustible materials safely.
Follow appropriate procedures for shutting down propane appliances and fuel systems.
Confirm that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are properly maintained.

If you plan to visit the cottage during winter, ensure heating equipment is safe to operate and that emergency access is available.

9. Secure the Cottage Against Theft and Vandalism

An unattended cottage may be more vulnerable to break-ins, particularly when neighbouring properties are also closed for the season.

Consider these precautions:

Lock all doors, windows and outbuildings.
Remove valuable electronics, tools and recreational equipment where practical.
Secure boats, trailers and other equipment.
Avoid leaving spare keys in obvious locations.
Consider an alarm or security monitoring system.
Arrange for a trusted neighbour or property caretaker to check the premises.

Some seasonal property insurance policies provide limited theft coverage or impose special conditions.

Review your policy to understand how theft and vandalism losses are treated.

10. Arrange for Someone to Check the Cottage

Even when a cottage has been properly winterized, periodic inspections can help identify problems before they become more serious.

For example, an inspection may reveal:

Storm damage to the roof.
Fallen trees or branches.
Broken windows or doors.
Signs of unauthorized entry.
Water entering the building.
Heating system problems.
Damage caused by animals.

If your insurer requires inspections, confirm how often they must occur and what the person checking the property is expected to do.

It can also be helpful to keep a written record of inspections.

A quick drive past the cottage may not satisfy a policy condition requiring someone to enter the building.

11. Is a Cottage Closed for Winter Considered Vacant?

Not necessarily.

A cottage that is routinely used during the warmer months and properly closed for winter may continue to be considered a seasonal dwelling under its insurance policy.

However, this is different from a property that has been permanently abandoned or is no longer being used as intended.

For example, if a cottage has been emptied of its contents and the owner has no intention of returning, the insurance company may view the risk differently.

The definitions and requirements vary by policy.

A cottage being closed for the season does not automatically mean it is vacant, but seasonal use does not eliminate insurance restrictions.

If the use or occupancy of your cottage changes, contact your insurance broker.

12. What if I Visit My Cottage During Winter?

Some cottage owners occasionally visit their properties for snowmobiling, ice fishing or winter recreation.

If you plan to use your cottage during winter, consider whether the property and its systems are suitable for cold-weather occupancy.

Questions to consider include:

Is the heating system designed for winter use?
Can the plumbing be safely restored and winterized again?
Is the driveway or access road maintained?
Can emergency vehicles reach the property?
Are smoke and carbon monoxide alarms functioning?
Does the insurance policy reflect how the cottage is being used?

If you are changing from seasonal use to regular year-round occupancy, advise your insurance broker.

The insurance company may need to reassess the property and its coverage.

13. What Happens if My Cottage Is Damaged During Winter?

If you discover damage at your cottage, take reasonable steps to prevent further loss, provided it is safe to do so.

Photograph the damage and contact your insurance broker or insurance company promptly.

Keep receipts for emergency repairs and any necessary temporary protective measures.

The insurance company may need to investigate the cause of the loss before determining whether coverage applies.

For example, water damage from a burst pipe may be assessed differently from water entering through a deteriorated roof or foundation.

If the damage resulted from freezing, the insurer may also review whether the required winterization or inspection conditions were satisfied.

Avoid authorizing major permanent repairs before discussing the situation with the insurer whenever practical.

14. Review Your Cottage Insurance Before Closing

Before leaving your cottage for the winter, consider asking your insurance broker:

Does my policy provide coverage for frozen pipes or escape of water?
Am I required to shut off and drain the plumbing system?
Are there heating or inspection requirements?
Is my cottage insured for seasonal or year-round use?
What coverage applies to snow, ice and wind damage?
Are detached buildings, docks and other structures adequately insured?
Are there special theft or vandalism restrictions?
What should I do if the cottage's occupancy or use changes?

Understanding these conditions before a loss occurs can help prevent disputes and unexpected financial expenses.

Your Cottage Winter-Closing Checklist

Before leaving your cottage for the season, use this checklist as a reminder of the main precautions to consider.

Confirm your insurance company's winterization requirements.
Shut off and properly drain plumbing systems where required.
Service or safely shut down heating equipment.
Inspect the roof and arrange necessary repairs.
Clean eavestroughs and check exterior drainage.
Secure windows, doors and outbuildings.
Store or secure outdoor furniture and equipment.
Prepare docks, boats and waterfront equipment for winter.
Remove food and take steps to discourage pests.
Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Arrange property inspections if required or appropriate.
Provide a trusted contact with emergency information.
Photograph the cottage's condition before leaving.

This checklist is intended as a general guide. Your property may require additional precautions depending on its plumbing, heating, construction and insurance policy.