Resources for Homeowners and Tenants in British Columbia

Earthquakes are a prevalent and constant looming threat for those who live on the west coast of the Americas. You can’t exactly hide from the ground shaking and with BC so close to a fault line it’s only a matter of when the next time a large earthquake strikes the province.

Having an emergency earthquake kit is essential if you are a resident of British Columbia. For years, we’ve heard lots of chatter about an impending “big one.” Below, you’ll find everything you need for your emergency earthquake kit - fingers crossed, that you’ll never need to use it!

Check out our detailed moving checklist for your next move in British Columbia.

Let’s be real. No one likes moving. Whether you’re moving next door or moving to BC from another province, it’s a stressful experience. 

Being a landlord comes with its share of responsibilities, and one crucial aspect that often gets overlooked is the necessity of requiring tenants to have insurance. Tenant insurance offers a myriad of benefits that not only protect the landlord but also ensure a smooth and hassle-free renting experience. In this article, we'll delve into the reasons why landlords should make tenant insurance a non-negotiable requirement.

Owning a seasonal property in Canada offers a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether it's a cozy cottage by the lake or a ski chalet in the mountains, these retreats provide opportunities for relaxation and recreation.

British Columbia has several great insurance companies, like Travelers Canada, Cansure, Peace Hills, Wawanesa, & Aviva. These are companies that are always improving their standards and customer satisfaction goals. What may be a great fit for one person, will often not be the best fit for another. Insurance companies all have a different ‘appetite’ for what type of risks they like to insure. This is why brokers like us are here to assist you and match your needs and circumstances with the right insurer.

Insurance is a very confusing thing to manage for the average person; after all, why should people know the difference between an actuary and an advisor? With this in mind, we at Bluecouch have created a detailed A to Z glossary on the ins and outs of the craft.

When it comes to protecting your condominium, understanding the ins and outs of condo insurance is crucial. Unlike traditional homeowners insurance, condo insurance must align with the unique aspects of condo living, where certain elements are covered by the condo corporation’s policy, and others fall under your personal policy.

Tenant insurance in Canada is an essential consideration for renters. It provides financial protection against loss or damage to personal belongings and liability coverage in case someone is injured on the property or if you cause damage to the building.

Property damage can occur due to various natural and human-made disasters, including floods, wildfires, storms, and accidents.

Insurance policies are designed to provide financial protection against unforeseen events
such as accidents, natural disasters, and other risks. However, understanding the intricacies
of deductibles and claim payments is crucial for policyholders to make informed decisions
and maximize their coverage benefits. In this article, we delve into the concepts of
deductibles and claim payments, providing clarity on how they work and offering tips for
navigating them effectively.

Home insurance is a vital aspect of homeownership, providing financial protection against potential losses due to unforeseen events. However, the cost of premiums can be a significant expense. Here are ten strategies to help you save money on your home insurance without compromising on coverage.

As climate change accelerates, Canada is witnessing a growing frequency of extreme weather events, including floods that have devastating impacts on communities and homes. Traditionally, standard home insurance policies in Canada cover a wide range of risks, such as fire, theft, and liability, but they typically do not include protection against overland flooding. This has made flood insurance an increasingly vital addition for homeowners across the country.

When it comes to protecting your most significant investment—your home—choosing the right home insurance provider is crucial. In Canada, the home insurance market offers a wide range of options, making it essential to compare providers and policies carefully. This article will guide you through the key factors to consider when selecting a home insurance provider that suits your specific needs.

In the digital age, purchasing insurance online has become increasingly common. But with convenience comes the question of reliability. Is online insurance just as dependable as the traditional method? Let’s delve into the world of digital insurance policies to find out.

If your home is uninhabitable and you have to temporarily relocate after a covered loss, your homeowners’ policy may reimburse you for any resulting increases in your normal day-to-day living expenses.

If your policy provides Loss of Use coverage, your policy will reimburse you for Additional Living Expenses (ALE) for the period of time reasonably required to make your home habitable again. This time period is commonly referred to as the “period of restoration.”

Your dwelling and most of its contents – such as your roof, laptop, and furniture – may
lose value over time due to factors such as age and wear and tear. This loss in value is
commonly known as depreciation.
Under most insurance policies, claim reimbursement begins with an initial payment for
the Actual Cash Value (ACV) of your damage, or the value of the damaged or
destroyed item(s) at the time of the loss.