What should Markham homeowners do before leaving a home empty for the winter?Call your insurer first, because many policies limit coverage after a home is unoccupied for a set period and may require regular checks. Keep the heat on, shut off outdoor taps, and consider turning off the main water valve. Arrange snow clearing and someone to check the home on a schedule. Forward or hold your mail, use timers on lights, and check your title from time to time, since vacant homes are targets for fraud.
Many Markham owners spend part of the winter in warmer places. A few weeks of planning helps the home stay safe, insured and free of surprises while you are away.
Michael John Lau, a REALTOR® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, one of the most active real estate teams in Markham and York Region, shares this list with clients who travel each winter.
Insurance first
- Ask how long the home can be unoccupied before coverage changes.
- Ask whether a person must check the home, how often, and whether it must be logged.
- Confirm coverage for frozen pipes and water damage.
Freeze protection
| Task | Why |
|---|---|
| Keep the furnace on at a safe setting | Prevents frozen pipes |
| Shut off and drain outdoor taps | Prevents split lines |
| Consider shutting the main water valve | Limits damage if a pipe bursts |
| Service the furnace before leaving | Reduces breakdown risk |
Snow, mail and security
- Arrange driveway and walkway clearing so the home looks lived in.
- Hold or forward mail and stop deliveries.
- Put lights on timers and consider a monitored alarm or cameras.
- Give a trusted person keys and your contact details.
Thinking about selling while you are away?
Michael John Lau can manage a sale with virtual updates while you travel.
Request a home evaluationSearch Markham homesPrefer to talk? Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885.
Protect your title
Vacant and mortgage-free homes are common targets for title fraud. Check your parcel register on OnLand from time to time, consider a credit freeze with Equifax and TransUnion, and open all mail from your lender and the land registry promptly.
If you rent it out instead
Renting while you are away changes insurance, tax and tenancy obligations. Short-term rentals are not permitted as of right in Markham’s residential zones. Ultimately, the decision is yours. The goal is to make sure you have all the information before you leave.
A little planning lets you enjoy the winter away with peace of mind. Call the Kaizen Real Estate Team at (647) 370-8885 or book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
Does home insurance cover a vacant home?
Many policies limit coverage after a set unoccupied period. Call your insurer before you leave.
Should I turn off the water when I leave for winter?
Many owners shut the main valve and keep the heat on. Confirm with your insurer and a plumber.
How often should someone check my home?
As often as your insurer requires; ask for the exact rule.
Do I need snow clearing if I'm away?
Yes. Clear walkways and driveways for safety and to keep the home looking occupied.
Are vacant homes at risk of title fraud?
They can be. Check your parcel register and consider a credit freeze.
Can I Airbnb my home while I'm away?
Short-term rentals are not permitted as of right in Markham's residential zones.
Michael John Lau and Neeraj Moolchandani are licensed REALTORS® with the Kaizen Real Estate Team, eXp Realty, Brokerage, 9763 Markham Rd, Markham, ON L6E 1A4. Licence #4784577. Call (647) 370-8885. Insurance points are general; vacancy rules vary by policy. Title fraud steps and the free credit freeze are from the Government of Ontario (2026). Short-term rental status is from Markham zoning sources (2026). This article is general information only and is not financial, legal or tax advice. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract with another brokerage.
