Checklists and tools for BC insurance decisions.

Ten questions to ask before your policy renews — replacement cost, water endorsements, liability limits, and scheduled items.

• Confirm dwelling limit matches current rebuild cost
• Ask about guaranteed replacement cost
• Add sewer backup and overland water endorsements
• Review personal liability limit ($1M vs $2M)
• Schedule jewellery, bikes, art, and collectibles above sub-limits
• Confirm secondary suite is properly disclosed
• Review earthquake deductible and endorsement
• Check identity theft and equipment breakdown add-ons
• Review claims-free / bundling discounts
• Confirm mortgagee information is current

The core certificate of insurance every BC GC or municipality asks for — before you set foot on the jobsite.

• $2M–$5M Commercial General Liability with products/completed operations
• Additional insured wording ready for GCs and municipalities
• Tools and equipment coverage (owned, rented, borrowed)
• Commercial auto on the work truck and trailer
• Installation floater / builders risk if applicable
• WorkSafeBC clearance letter
• Bid / performance bonds if required
• Warranty (2-5-10) if new residential construction

The five gaps we find most often when reviewing small business policies.

• Cyber liability (ransomware, wire-fraud, breach notification)
• Business interruption / extra expense
• Professional liability (E&O)
• Off-premises property, tools, and stock in transit
• Employee dishonesty / crime endorsement

What to do in the first 48 hours after a home, auto, or business loss.

• Get everyone safe and call emergency services if needed
• Mitigate further damage (shut off water, board up, tarp)
• Document with photos and video before cleanup
• Save receipts for emergency repairs and living expenses
• Report the claim to Countyline — we advocate on your behalf
• Do not admit fault at the scene of an auto claim
• Keep a claim diary (dates, names, reference numbers)