Foire aux questions

Special policies are available for long-term unoccupied properties like estate homes.

Always inform your broker/insurer of any property occupancy change.

Yes, but make sure your policy includes explicitly this coverage.

Yes, specific policies exist for unoccupied properties undergoing renovation.

Yes, but check the policy details, as some types of water damage may be excluded.

Install security systems, conduct regular inspections and choose a higher deductible.

Vacant homes present unique risks (vandalism, undetected damage) that are not covered by standard policies.

Generally, special insurance is required after 30 to 60 days of vacancy.

In case of an incident in Quebec, inform your insurance broker immediately. Document all details of the incident and do not admit liability. Your insurance company will handle the investigation, negotiation and, if necessary, legal defence. In Quebec, the limitation period for civil liability claims is 3 years. Carefully follow your insurer's and broker's instructions for handling claims.

In Canada, general liability insurance covers general risks related to your operations, while professional liability (or E&O) insurance covers errors or omissions in providing your professional services. Many Canadian businesses require both types of insurance coverage for complete protection.

General liability (GL) insurance in Quebec and Canada generally includes product liability coverage, but it's important to understand its scope and limitations :

1. Standard CGL coverage : Your CGL insurance typically covers claims for bodily injury or property damage caused by your products to third parties.
2. Scope of protection : This coverage applies to cases where defective products, inadequate labelling, or insufficient operating instructions have caused damage.
3. Important distinction : Liability insurance generally does not cover the costs associated with product recalls. Product recall insurance is a separate policy.
4. Product recall insurance : This separate coverage pays for the costs of withdrawing defective or dangerous products from the market.
5. Limits and exclusions : Check the specific limits of your product liability policy and discuss potential exclusions with your insurance broker.
6. Risk management : Implement rigorous quality control and documentation procedures to strengthen your position in the event of a product-related claim.

It's essential to consult your insurance broker to assess your specific product liability needs as part of your CGL coverage. In addition, discuss the suitability of separate product recall insurance for your Canadian business based on your activities and the risks associated with your products.

The geographic coverage of your general liability (GL) insurance can vary considerably depending on your policy. While many standard CGL policies in Quebec cover incidents in Canada and the U.S., consulting your insurance broker before undertaking business activities outside the country is crucial.

Here are some essential points to keep in mind :

1. Mandatory validation : Before doing business abroad, contact your insurance broker to verify the exact scope of your current CGL coverage.
2. Limited coverage : Your standard policy may not offer adequate protection for international operations.
3. Possible extensions : You may need a specific extension to your existing CGL policy for worldwide coverage.
4. Separate policies : A separate international liability policy may sometimes be required.
5. Specific risks : Foreign operations may present unique risks not covered by your standard Quebec CGL policy.

Your Quebec insurance broker is best positioned to assess your specific international coverage needs and recommend any adjustments to your CGL policy. Don't hesitate to consult your broker well before any business activity outside Canada to ensure optimum protection for your Quebec business.