Life is made up of a series of little moments. These moments can be planned or unexpected, unnoticed or life-altering, and changes to your insurance policy may be the last thing on your mind. We are here to remind you of the importance of protecting yourself during these times. A quick email or phone call to your trusted Northern Insurance client account manager is all you need to do to ensure your insurance solution has everything you need to keep you covered through all of life’s changes.

Here are some common examples of when updating your insurance broker may not always come to mind, but should:

• • Home Improvements or Upgrades: Renovations can increase the value of your home. Your home insurance policy is designed to cover the rebuilding cost of your home in the event of insurance peril. Depending on the extent of your renovation, your policy may need to be updated. Call to inform your broker of your plans and they’ll make sure you have the coverage you need.
• • If you are away from your home for an extended period of time, for vacation or even for renovation purposes.
• • Switching to winter tires from November to April: In addition to keeping you much safer in winter conditions, you can save money on your insurance policy, with new changes that took effect this January 1st (2016) in Ontario.
• • Paying off your mortgage: Did you know you could qualify for a discount?
• • Is your vehicle paid off? It’s important to keep this information up to date.
• • You’ve changed jobs: This can change how often you use your vehicle. Do you now use your vehicle for business? Do you commute a shorter distance? Have you retired?
• • You’re moving: Moving can result in changes to the rating territory where your vehicle is now parked or within driving distance to work. Moving also means your personal property policy may need to be updated.
• • You’ve become a landlord: Whether you are purchasing a home as an income property or moving out of your currently owned home and having a tenant move in. It is important to know that there are different aspects to insuring a home inhabited by a tenant. You’ll need a different type of policy to properly protect yourself and we can let you know quickly, what coverage you’ll want to have.
• • Is your home vacant? Maybe your last tenants have moved out and your property will be empty for an unknown amount of time?  Although you may not think so, these changes matter and can be easily adjusted.
• • New Drivers or Vehicles: Sometimes a new driver will start using your vehicle. Maybe your daughter just got her G2. Perhaps your business has hired a new driver for one of your fleet vehicles. An additional driver could change the risk on your personal or commercial auto policy.
• • Contents in Storage: Have you recently moved some of your belongings into a long-term storage facility? Many of us have. However, your personal property policy (home, condo or tenants) has specific limitations both in terms of value and length of storage. Knowing what limitations your policy has and what options are available to provide protection can make all the difference.
• • Started a Home Based Business: Have you started your own business, out of your home? There are several things to consider here when it comes to your insurance. We are happy to discuss your needs and walk you through the most suitable options for you and your business.
• • You’ve gotten married or started a family: Life Insurance needs can change with any of these life events, as well as auto insurance and liability levels. You may also want to start thinking about starting an RESP for your newest addition.

We all want to experience the best moments in life, but it’s important to be prepared for the difficult ones too. If you are unsure whether changing circumstances impact your insurance, contact us and our advisors will give you peace of mind and ensure your insurance solution has the protection you, your family, and your business needs.