Homeowner resource centre

Are you a homeowner? If so, there are a number of things that you need to keep in mind. For example, do you know how changes to building bylaws and codes affect your insurance?

This resource centre highlights many of the unique considerations faced by homeowners. Please take a few minutes to review the articles below. If you have a specific question that you would like us to answer, please email us and we’ll do our best to respond.

Are you a condo owner? Check out our condo owner resource centre for information and advice specific to condos.

For hundreds of other helpful articles created specifically for homeowners, landlords, and tenants, visit our resource centres.

Insuring vacant dwellings

There are many reasons why your home may become vacant and uninhabited. However, once this does happen, your original house or condo insurance policy coverage may change. Learn what these changes could be, how to protect a vacant home, and how this relates to renovating your home.

Guaranteed building replacement - The complete guide

Does your home insurance policy offer "guaranteed building replacement cost coverage"? Square One will teach you what protection this coverage actually provides, how to find the replacement cost of your home, and the best way to protect yourself against the unexpected.

Insuring your landscaping, fences and gardening equipment

Did you know that your home's landscaping can be covered under your home insurance policy? Square One explains how your gardening equipment, fences, shrubbery, and precious plants can be covered, as well as the limits to this insurance.

What is an Active House?

Learn how homeowners can reduce their impact on the environment with an Active House. Discover the features and benefits of this type of home and why you may want to consider this type of house.

What are net-zero or net-energy homes?

Looking to reduce your carbon footprint? Learn what a net-zero or net-energy home is and the features and benefits of these types of new homes.

Snowbird's guide to winterizing your home

As a retiree, you're probably eager to travel to a warmer location. Use these tips to protect your home, belongings and liability while you're away.

9 effortless tasks for closing down your pool after summer

One of the tasks that go hand-in-hand with the end of the vacation season is closing your pool, whether it’s an in-ground affair or the above-ground version. Learn all the tasks that need to be done before summer ends.

Winter garden damage – Repair and clean up

Even the best gardeners suffer damage during the winter. Here are some common winter concerns and the remedies you can employ to keep your garden healthy.

Pool maintenance tips and tricks

Properly maintaining your home's pool during the spring and summer is important so you can enjoy it to the fullest. Learn how to clean the pool, what chemicals to use and even pool covers to consider.

8 tips for renting out your home while on vacation

Renting your home, condo or vacation property is tempting, as the income can help reduce the cost of your own vacation. Becoming a landlord requires work.

Energy efficient homes and buildings in Canada

The more energy efficient a home, the more cost effective it is and the better it is for the environment. Energy use in a home can be traced to five areas.

Homeowner alert: The Craigslist contractors to avoid

Using contractors from Craigslist can be a great way to find someone who can renovate your home for a cheap price. However, that low price could cost you more in the long run if you’re scammed. Learn the ins and outs of using a renovation contractor from Craigslist.

Everything you need to know about homeowners insurance

This guide helps homeowners not only understand all the aspects around home insurance, we also give you tips so you can save money on your insurance policy too. Learn about different coverage types, terms to know, what’s covered and more. Get all your questions answered in one guide.

How to conduct an energy audit in your home

An energy audit is an assessment of your home’s energy efficiency. In this guide, learn how to determine the source of air leaks, check home insulation and appliances, and other tips to save energy around the home.

Dealing with noise complaints and disturbances

Learn how to deal with complicated and loud neighbours as a homeowner, condo owners, renter or landlord. This guide reviews everything you need to know with advice from lawyers.

Fee simple ownership guide

Learn what fee simple ownership is, how it works and it's differences from a leasehold. This guide also covers leasehold terms, insurance considerations and other commonly asked questions.

Land surveying in Quebec: What is a land survey and why do you need one?

Learn about land surveying and why it is important for homeowners. Includes details about how land surveying works in Quebec.

What are property taxes?

Learn all about property taxes. We cover what property taxes are, how to calculate them, plus lots of other info homeowners should know.

Rental tips for airbnb

Check out Square One's 21 tips for Airbnb hosts to make sure you're getting the most (and the best) bookings for your short-term rental.

Iron ochre in your home

Learn about iron ochre and what it means for a homeowner, including what it is, causes, treatments, and home insurance considerations.

Getting your backyard ready for summer

Get your backyard ready for summer weather with these tips for taking basic care of your lawn, your fences, and the rest of your backyard.

Learning about chimney maintenance

Learn to properly maintain your chimney for ensure safety and efficiency. Plus, tips for fireplace usage and home insurance considerations.