Steers Insurance Blog

Post-tropical storm Fiona could cost the Canadian property and casualty insurance industry between $300 million and $700 million, ratings agency DBRS Morningstar said in a commentary Tuesday.

When the unexpected happens, many people debate whether or not they should make a home insurance claim. Maybe they’re worried about losing their claims-free discount, risking a denied claim, or waiting too long for their insurance company’s contractor to complete repairs. But remember, the whole point of home insurance is to protect you when you need it most — the last thing you should be worried about is whether or not you should make a claim. So, if you ever find yourself debating “to claim or not to claim,” ask yourself these three questions.

Hurricane season is underway. Here are some simple steps you can take before, during, and after a hurricane to protect your space and keep your family safe all season long.

The sun is shining, the weekend is here, and you're itching to head out on the open road. Road trips are full of unplanned adventures: some good, some not so good. Beyond the essentials that should always be in your car (like a first aid kit, booster cables, a spare tire, your vehicle's registration, proof of insurance, phone and charger), here are 10 things to keep in your car so you're prepared for anything a road trip might throw at you.

When creating an emergency survival kit for the home, consider the supplies you might need to last you and your family for a minimum of three to seven days. In case of emergencies that may require that you leave your home quickly, such as a wildfire, prepare your kit well in advance, and keep it in an easily accessible location so you can take essential items with you if you must evacuate with little notice.

In Nova Scotia, the weather is constantly changing. One minute it’s sunny and the next it’s raining or snowing. At OTC Insurance we want to make sure you’re covered for whatever Mother Nature throws at you. While autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year in Nova Scotia it is also the height of the hurricane seasons and as we continue to see an increasing number of severe weather events, it’s important to make sure you have the right coverage and are prepared for all weather events.

With gas prices on the rise, every cent counts when filling up at the pumps. Whether your daily commute takes ten minutes or two hours, changing how you drive can significantly improve your gas mileage — giving your wallet and the planet a break.

Have you considered the ramifications of neglecting to get the proper pollution insurance for your business?

Across Canada, rates of reported carjackings are rising. According to Équité Association, around 80,000 carjacking cases were reported in the past year. As a precaution, police are warning drivers to stay diligent and take extra measures to protect themselves, when parked and when on the road. To reduce your risk of experiencing a carjacking, consider these preventative measures to keep yourself safe:

While backyard bonfires are a common activity for many over the summer months, they do come with risks, including property damage, injuries, and even accidental ignition of widespread wildfires. It’s important to know the risks that come with bonfires, be aware of any outdoor fire restrictions, and take proactive measures to prevent property damage and injuries if you choose to host one. Always follow your municipal bylaws, check for fire bans, and take these safety precautions if you’re hosting or attending a backyard bonfire: