Unattended Homes: What a Recent Quebec Survey Reveals

By Christian Gagné, CPA · Published October 17, 2026

An Agence QMI article published by the Journal de Montréal on October 8, 2026, presents the results of a TD Insurance survey about homes left unattended. The findings show a significant gap between homeowners’ concerns and the concrete measures taken before departure.

The article also reports that more than half of respondents would ask someone to check their property, while only 22% would shut off the water supply or protect installations against freezing.

What these results mean in practical terms

An alarm, camera or smart thermostat can provide useful information, but those tools do not see everything. A discreet infiltration, unusual odour, damaged window or problematic snow accumulation may require a physical presence.

Four steps to plan before you leave

1. Confirm the insurance conditions: ask about the required frequency and checks during an absence.
2. Create a checklist: heating, doors, windows, visible signs of leakage, alarms and exterior conditions.
3. Name a primary contact and a backup: clarify who may enter, who must be called and who can authorize an intervention.
4. Document the visits: retain the date, photos and any anomalies observed after each visit.

A visit does not replace licensed professionals

Home watch is intended to observe, document and report. It is not a technical inspection and does not replace a plumber, electrician, heating technician or other licensed professional when a problem is discovered.

A one-time option or a weekly presence

• Documented Visit starting at $99: for a short absence or a specific need.
• Home Watch at $249 per month: one visit every seven days with a dated photo report.

Taxes extra. Insurance requirements vary by policy. Confirm them with your insurer; our visits can be adapted to the requested items but do not, by themselves, guarantee coverage.

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