{"id":16320,"date":"2025-11-12T10:43:00","date_gmt":"2025-11-12T10:43:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/?p=16320"},"modified":"2026-03-06T10:21:07","modified_gmt":"2026-03-06T10:21:07","slug":"home-insurance-dwelling-coverage-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/blog\/home-insurance-dwelling-coverage-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Dwelling Coverage Explained: What\u2019s Covered (and Excluded) On The Structure Of Your Home"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"16320\" class=\"elementor elementor-16320\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-260ad659 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"260ad659\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e4c7132 e-con-inner elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"e4c7132\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Imagine this: dark clouds roll in, the wind picks up, and within minutes, a hailstorm pounds your neighbourhood. You watch helplessly as ice pelts your roof. Your shingles crack, eavestroughs bend, and water starts creeping in through the ceiling. When the storm passes, one question remains: <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">will your home insurance cover the damage?<\/span><\/i><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That\u2019s where dwelling coverage comes in.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For most Canadians, a home is their biggest investment and their family\u2019s safe haven. Yet surprisingly few homeowners know exactly which parts of the structure are protected under their policy, and which aren\u2019t.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A) is the key to avoiding costly surprises and ensuring your home can be rebuilt after disaster strikes. In this guide, we\u2019ll break down what dwelling building coverage really includes, the specific perils it protects you from, and the common exclusions that might leave gaps in your protection.<\/span><\/p><h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Is Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A)?<\/span><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dwelling Coverage (Coverage A) is the portion of your home insurance policy that pays to repair or rebuild the physical structure of your home if it is damaged by a covered peril. It forms the foundation of your protection, safeguarding the &#8220;bones&#8221; of your property, against risks like fire, wind, or hail.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on your policy, your coverage is typically based on either:<\/span><\/p><ul class=\"unordered-list\"><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Replacement Cost<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The amount it would cost to rebuild your home today using similar materials and craftsmanship, without deducting for age or wear.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Actual Cash Value<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The depreciated value of your home\u2019s structure at the time of the loss (rebuilding cost minus depreciation).<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Expert Note<\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This coverage ensures you aren&#8217;t left paying for major structural repairs out-of-pocket. At ONA, we generally recommend aiming for Replacement Cost coverage to ensure your home can be fully restored to its pre-disaster condition.<\/span><\/p><h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What Structures Are Included Under Dwelling Building Coverage?<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dwelling building coverage focuses strictly on the physical structure of your home, not your belongings or detached structures.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specifically, Coverage A typically includes:<\/span><\/p><ul class=\"unordered-list\"><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Structural Elements<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Exterior and interior walls, roof, foundation, and floors.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Built-in Systems<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Plumbing, electrical wiring, heating, and central air conditioning systems.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Attached Structures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Garages, carports, or permanent decks and porches connected to the house.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Fixtures &amp; Appliances<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Built-in cabinets, countertops, and appliances like built-in ovens or water heaters.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is critical to distinguish what falls outside of this coverage:<\/span><\/p><ul class=\"unordered-list\"><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Personal Belongings<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Furniture, electronics, and clothing fall under Coverage C.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Detached Structures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Sheds, fences, or detached garages usually fall under Coverage B.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are unsure which parts of your property fall under which coverage type, an ONA broker can review your policy to help you spot any potential gaps.<\/span><\/p><h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why Dwelling Coverage Matters for Homeowners<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your home is where your family feels safe and where your future is anchored. Dwelling coverage provides financial protection against unexpected disasters, helping maintain your home\u2019s value and your family\u2019s security.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your home suffers structural damage from a covered peril, dwelling coverage ensures you can rebuild without bearing the full cost yourself. It also helps prevent secondary financial strain, such as mortgage complications or property devaluation after major damage.<\/span><\/p><h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common Perils Covered by Dwelling Coverage<\/span><\/h2><h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Named Perils vs. Open Perils Policies<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To understand your protection, you must first know how your policy defines risk. Home insurance policies generally fall into two categories:<\/span><\/p><ul class=\"unordered-list\"><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Named Perils Policies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Cover <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">only<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the specific risks explicitly listed in your policy.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Open Perils (All-Risk) Policies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Cover any cause of loss unless it is specifically excluded.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Tip<\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Always review your policy to confirm which type you have, as this significantly impacts your claim eligibility.<\/span><\/p><h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Key Perils Typically Covered<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While details vary by insurer and region, most dwelling building coverage protects against the following standard risks:<\/span><\/p><ul class=\"unordered-list\"><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Fire and Smoke<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Damage from electrical faults, wildfires, or kitchen mishaps.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Windstorms and Hail<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Common in Ontario, these are frequent causes of roof and siding damage.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Lightning Strikes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Direct damage to the structure or electrical surges.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Explosions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Caused by gas leaks or mechanical malfunctions.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Vandalism or Theft<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Damage to the structure itself (e.g., broken doors or windows) during a break-in.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Falling Objects<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: For example, a tree branch crashing through your roof during a storm.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Weight of Ice, Snow, or Sleet<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Structural strain or roof collapse caused by heavy winter accumulation.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Local Insight<\/strong><b>: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In regions like Ottawa, wind and hail damage are among the most common claims we see. Ensure your policy\u2019s limits are sufficient to cover current local construction costs.<\/span><\/p><h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Typical Exclusions in Dwelling Coverage<\/span><\/h2><h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why Exclusions Exist and How to Spot Them<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Every insurance policy contains exclusions. They exist to prevent misuse and keep premiums affordable. However, these exclusions are often misunderstood.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some homeowners assume that \u201chome insurance covers everything,\u201d only to find out that gradual damage or neglect isn\u2019t included.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding what is not covered is just as important as knowing what is.<\/span><\/p><h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common Exclusions You Should Know<\/span><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following are standard exclusions that often catch homeowners by surprise:<\/span><\/p><ul class=\"unordered-list\"><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Wear and Tear<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Natural aging, such as peeling paint or curling roof shingles.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Neglect<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Damage resulting from a lack of maintenance (e.g., a long-term leak leading to rot).<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Earth Movement<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Damage from settling foundations, earthquakes, or sinkholes (unless added by endorsement).<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Specific <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/blog\/melting-snow-tips-to-prevent-water-damage\/\">Water Damage<\/a><\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Standard policies often exclude floods, sewer backups, or gradual seepage.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pest Infestations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Damage caused by termites, rodents, or carpenter ants is considered a maintenance issue.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Intentional Damage<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Any damage caused willfully by the insured.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><strong>Broker Tip<\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Many of these exclusions, specifically Sewer Backup or Overland Water, can be mitigated with endorsements. Ask your broker about adding these specific coverages to close the gap.<\/span><\/p><h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Misunderstood Exclusions and How to Avoid Surprises<\/span><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water damage is one of the most misunderstood areas of dwelling coverage. Many homeowners assume <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">any<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> water-related incident is covered, but that\u2019s rarely the case.<\/span><\/p><ul class=\"unordered-list\"><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Covered<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Burst pipes from sudden freezing (provided reasonable care was taken to heat the home).<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Excluded<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Seepage through a basement wall or overflow from a sump pump (unless you have specific endorsements).<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The best defense against coverage surprises is an annual policy review. As your home ages or undergoes renovations, your insurance needs evolve.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take the time each year to:<\/span><\/p><ul class=\"unordered-list\"><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Review Coverage A Limits<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Ensure they match current rebuilding costs, not just market value.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Update Your Policy<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: If you\u2019ve added a deck, finished a basement, or replaced a roof, let us know.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Check Endorsements<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Ask about filling gaps for water or earthquake damage.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Protect Your Home\u2019s Structure with Confidence<\/span><\/h2><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dwelling coverage is the backbone of your <\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/home-insurance\/\">home insurance policy<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><strong>,<\/strong> it\u2019s what helps you rebuild after disaster strikes. It covers your home\u2019s structure from perils like fire, wind, and hail, but it won\u2019t protect against wear and tear, neglect, or excluded water damage.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing what\u2019s covered (and what\u2019s not) allows you to protect your investment fully and avoid costly surprises down the line.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Condo owners should also review their <\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/condo-insurance\/\">condo insurance<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> regularly to ensure it complements their building\u2019s master policy and protects their unit fully.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Similarly, if you own a cottage or seasonal home, the right insurance coverage is just as important. These properties often face unique risks, especially during the off season, making <\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/cottage-seasonal-home-insurance\/\">comprehensive cottage and seasonal home coverage<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> a necessity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Whether it\u2019s your main residence, condo, or getaway property, make sure every structure you love is properly protected.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/contact-us\/\">Contact your ONA broker for a Coverage A review<\/a><\/strong><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or to <\/span><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/home-insurance\/#footerForm\">get a free quote<\/a>.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Avoid costly accidents with these 10 essential safety tips for homeowners. Oegema, Nicholson &amp; Associates shows you how to protect your property\u2014read the guide now!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":16338,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[27],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-16320","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-around-the-house"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16320","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=16320"}],"version-history":[{"count":49,"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16320\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":17342,"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/16320\/revisions\/17342"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/16338"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=16320"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=16320"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.ona.ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=16320"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}