10 tips for closing up the cottage

The last fall leaves cling to their branches, and the long, cool nights predict the incoming deep freeze.

But before you nestle up with a book and a cup of cocoa, it's time to close up the cottage, which, let’s face it, can be an overwhelming endeavour.

As you put the boat to bed and soak in the last starry nights at your cabin, camp, or cottage, there are some go-to steps to set yourself up to protect your property over the winter season.

In a TD Insurance survey, only 15% of respondents who intend to leave their home unattended said they plan to check what maintenance tasks their insurance policy may require them to complete before they go.

But more than 4 in 5 cottage, cabin, or secondary property owners plan on leaving their second home for extended periods of time, according to the survey.

"Many homeowners take for granted that putting preventative measures in place isn't a one-time job," said Lydia Roy, Vice President, Product, Pricing and Underwriting, General Insurance at TD.

One in four Canadians have faced issues at their property while away, according to the survey. Among those intending to leave their home unattended this fall or winter, nearly three in four are concerned about potential issues, such as power outages, theft or break-ins, frozen or burst pipes, and storm or weather-related damage.

"Getting home insurance is the first step, but taking measures to meet the requirements of that insurance makes for a problem-free off-season," Roy said.

"An insurance policy is active not passive; you must think critically, re-visit procedures regularly, and proactively solve problems. Knowing your insurance policy helps you think about your property from the foundation up."

As a cottage or cabin owner, here's what you might want to check off your list as you close for the winter:

1. Check your insurance policy

Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy before you close your cottage or cabin. The policy may include specific requirements for leaving your property unattended. Make sure you understand what’s required of you as a property owner. Doing so could minimize the chances of a denied claim, should you experience any damage to your property over the winter months.

2. Shut off the water

Turn off the main water valve and drain the pipes, water heater, and toilets. Consider blowing out the lines and adding plumbing antifreeze to taps and toilets. Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter claims and are often denied if the plumbing wasn't drained or heat wasn't maintained.

3. Assess the power situation

Consider what should stay powered on over the winter. If you leave heat and sump pumps running, they can prevent frozen pipes and flooding. On the other hand, switching circuits off reduces fire risk. Re-read your insurance policy to help inform your decision.

4. Remove your valuables

An unoccupied cottage is an easy target for break-ins, and many policies limit or exclude coverage for theft from an unoccupied property. Removing your valuables is the safest bet.

5. Check for critters

An empty cottage invites mice, squirrels, and other unwelcome critters to nestle in for a reprieve from a long, cold winter. These guests can chew wiring, nest inside insulation, and cause damage that might not be covered by insurance. Seal entry points before closing for the season.

6. Check the roof and dock for damage

Heavy snow loads and ice can place stress on a weakened roof and lift or crush a dock. And because insurers may deny claims for damage tied to normal wear and tear, poor maintenance, or ice movement, it's a good idea to inspect and make any repairs before you leave.

7. Plan site visits to the property

Make time to regularly check in on your property. If you can’t visit your cabin yourself, call on friends, neighbours, or a property management company to visit the property if needed.

8. Clean and secure heat sources

Have the chimney and wood stove cleaned and shut off or secure propane tanks.

9. Trim trees, clean gutters, and check drainage

Trim dead or overhanging branches that could fall on the roof under the weight of snow, and clear gutters and drainage to prevent ice dams and water backup.

10. Clear out food

Remove all food from your fridge and pantry and unplug any non-essential appliances.

What to do if damage or theft occurs at the cottage while you're away

The TD Insurance survey results revealed that three in five Canadians who have left a property unattended for a period of time have worried they forgot to do something to protect it, from locking up properly to turning things off or making sure no windows were left open.

If damage does occur over the winter, documentation of closing procedures can help support a claim and demonstrate the steps you took to protect the property.

• Keep a log of your closing process
• Take photos of the cottage contents and property at closing
• If a professional winterizes the cottage, keep a receipt
• Log winter inspection visits
• Notify your insurer of any changes
• Report any damage
• If damage occurs, take immediate steps to prevent further damage

About the TD Insurance survey

This TD Insurance survey, conducted using the Leger Opinion panel, ran from September 23 to 28, 2026, with a nationally representative sample of 1,505 Canadian adults. The results have been weighted by age, gender, and region (and in Quebec, language) to match the population, according to Census data. For comparison purposes, a probability sample of 1,500 has an estimated margin of error of ±2.5%, 19 times out of 20.