With longer, hotter summers, wildfires are becoming a major insurance concern across Canada—especially in provinces like British Columbia, Alberta, and parts of Ontario. If your home is located in or near a wildfire-prone area, your insurance coverage may look very different.

How Wildfire Risk Affects Insurance

Insurers use wildfire mapping, vegetation density, and proximity to fire services to assess risk. Homes in high-risk zones may face:

• Higher premiums or deductibles
• Coverage restrictions or special conditions
• Mandatory mitigation requirements
• Fewer insurer options

Key Coverages to Review

• Fire & Smoke Damage – Covers rebuilding and cleanup after wildfire loss
• Additional Living Expenses – Pays for temporary housing during evacuation
• Debris Removal – Critical after total or partial loss
• Guaranteed Replacement Cost – Rising rebuild costs can exceed limits

Ways to Reduce Risk (and Costs)

• Create defensible space by clearing brush and trees
• Use fire-resistant roofing and siding
• Install ember-resistant vents and screens
• Document upgrades and share them with your broker

Final Thought

Living in a wildfire zone doesn’t mean going uninsured—but it does require smart planning and proactive risk management. The right broker and prevention steps can make all the difference. 🇨🇦

Brokers can contact Total Risk Managers to discuss a risk.

This article is general information for insurance brokers. It is not advice, and it is not a quote or an offer of coverage. Policy wording decides what is covered. Coverage is arranged through a licensed insurance broker.