Winnipeg Insurance Brokers Ltd. Unit 106-2565 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3J 0P4
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Many homeowners assume that a basic insurance policy will cover everything that could go wrong with their property. But in reality, many basic and comprehensive property insurance policies often leave gaps, and that’s where add-ons come in handy.
These optional protections can mean the difference between a small hiccup and a financial nightmare. And because Manitoba faces some very specific risks (like spring flooding or older sewer lines in more mature neighbourhoods), it’s worth knowing what’s available to you!
Here are some add-ons Manitobans could consider:
If you want to know a little more about home insurance and what it’s all about, take a look at our blog “Explaining Homeowner’s Insurance: Key Terms & Definitions You Need To Know.”
When it comes to water damage, it’s natural to assume that “flooding is flooding,” but insurance companies see it differently. Where the water comes from matters. And that’s what differentiates overland flood coverage from sewer backup coverage.
Without the right add-on in place, you could find yourself defenseless against one, even if you’re protected from the other.
Overland flood coverage: This protects you against water entering your home at ground level, like when the Red River swells or the spring thaw creates a pool around your property. Standard policies don’t usually include this automatically, so it’s up to you — especially if you live in a flood-prone zone — to add this crucial coverage.
Sewer backup coverage: This one is different. Sewer backup coverage kicks in if water or sewage backs up through drains, toilets, or sump pumps. Older sewer systems and sudden downpours can make this a very real risk. Even a minor back up can cost homeowners thousands in cleanup and repairs.
Your home’s water, sewer, and utility lines don’t stop at the boulevard, they run under your property. And if one of those underground lines break, the repair bill is on you, not the city/municipality. Replacing them can run a bill into the thousands. Adding (the very affordable) Service Line coverage helps cover those unexpected costs and keeps you financially protected.
Jewelry, artwork, collectibles, or instruments often have limits in a basic home insurance policy. If you have items worth more than the included caps, you likely won’t be covered. A policy for your high-value items makes sure your most prized possessions are protected without any gaps.
More and more Manitobans are running businesses from home, whether it’s a side hustle, freelancing, or full-on entrepreneurship. But there’s a catch.
Most of the standard home insurance policies don’t cover business equipment, inventory, or liability that’s tied to that work.
To fill that gap, you’ll want to invest in home-based business coverage. This makes sure that if your tech, inventory, or even a client visit goes sideways, you’re not left covering the bill. For anyone balancing work and family life under the same roof, this add-on is a key investment.
Each of these property insurance add-ons will affect your monthly premium differently.
Flood and sewer coverage may carry a higher premium in higher-risk neighbourhoods (which makes sense), while service line protection can be more affordable. High-value item coverage is going to depend on the appraised worth of what you’re insuring, and home-based business coverage will bump up your premiums.
The bottom line? A small increase today can save you thousands in uncovered losses tomorrow.
If you’re looking for ways to balance things out, check out our blog on ways you can get discounted home insurance by bundling and upgrading home features!
Insurance isn’t just paperwork. It’s peace of mind for the life you’ve built. If you’re ready to safeguard your home or property, give us a shout and we’ll get a personalized quote going.
Still have questions? We’re always here to help.
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We are committed to the communities where we live and work, and we demonstrate our commitment by taking part in sponsorship and volunteer programs.
We love it here, too.
We are committed to the communities where we live and work, and we demonstrate our commitment by taking part in sponsorship and volunteer programs.
Winnipeg Insurance Brokers Ltd. Unit 106-2565 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3J 0P4
Winnipeg Insurance Brokers Ltd. serves our clients and operates on Treaty One land; homeland of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Oji-Cree, Ojibway, Dakota, and Dene Peoples, and the homeland of the Red River Metis. Our drinking water comes from Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, in Treaty Three territory. We respect the treaties, the land, and the water that sustain us.