Insurance for the Okanagan and BC Interior
Interior clients usually have three things on their minds: wildfire, the lake, and whether their cabin or condo can be rented out. The rules on that last one now differ even between neighbouring cities.
What's different about insuring here
- Wildfire is the big one. The 2023 McDougall Creek fire destroyed or damaged 189 structures. Together with two other central Okanagan fires that summer, it caused more than $480 million in insured damage, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada. In 2021 the White Rock Lake fire destroyed dozens of homes around Killiney Beach, Estamont and Monte Lake.
- Buy before the smoke. Insurers usually pause new policies and coverage increases when a wildfire is nearby. Set coverage up before fire season, not during it.
- Evacuation costs. Many home policies pay extra living costs if you're ordered out of your home. Check the limit and how long it lasts.
- Rental rules differ by city. Kelowna and West Kelowna are exempt from the provincial principal residence rule for short term rentals, though West Kelowna's own rules still require hosts to own and live in the home. Vernon, Penticton and Kamloops are under the provincial rule.
- Vacancy tax expanded. Kamloops, Vernon, Penticton, Summerland, Lake Country and Peachland joined the Speculation and Vacancy Tax area from 2024. Kelowna and West Kelowna were already in it.
- Boats and mussels. Anyone transporting a boat, including a canoe, kayak or paddleboard, must stop at every open invasive mussel inspection station on the way. Failing to stop can mean a $690 fine.
- Mountain passes. The Coquihalla, the Okanagan Connector and other Interior highways are winter tire routes from October 1. Check DriveBC for the end date on your route.
Coverage people here ask me about
- Home including high-value custom homesWildfire and evacuation coverage before fire season, including lakefront and view homes.
- Condo and townhomeCondos you rent out, with the right policy.
- MarineLake boats, wakeboats and trailers.
- ICBC AutoplanMountain pass drivers and second vehicles.
- Free policy reviewA second look at your current policy.
Questions people ask me
Can I buy home insurance while a wildfire is burning nearby?
Usually not. Insurers pause new policies when fire is close, so arrange coverage early.
Will my policy pay if I'm evacuated?
Many do, for extra living costs. Check your limit and time period.
Do I have to stop at boat inspection stations?
Yes, at every open station on your route when you're transporting a watercraft.
Is my cabin covered when nobody's there?
Most policies limit some coverage when a home is unoccupied for a stretch. Tell me how often you're there.
Working with me from the Okanagan and Interior
I'm based in Squamish and work with Okanagan and Interior clients by phone, email and e-signature.