When planning a trip, we often think about our suitcase, passport, sunscreen… but rarely about civil liability insurance. However, this is a detail that can make all the difference if something unexpected happens abroad.
What is civil liability, anyway?
It’s protection that covers damage you might accidentally cause to others. For example, if you spill your coffee on a colleague’s laptop while working remotely in Bali, or if your child breaks a window in a rental property in Spain, civil liability comes into play.
Good news: it often covers you abroad
In most cases, your home insurance in Quebec includes civil liability coverage that is valid anywhere in the world. This means you don’t need to take out new insurance just for this aspect, as long as your stay is temporary.
But be careful, there are limits
- Length of stay: some policies cover trips up to a certain number of days (often 90 or 180).
- Exclusions: Damage related to a professional activity, motor vehicle rental, or behavior deemed negligent may be excluded.
- Amount of coverage: Make sure the amount (often $1 million or $2 million) is sufficient for the standards of the country you are visiting—some destinations are more “expensive” than others when it comes to lawsuits!
What if you are staying abroad for a long time?
If you are leaving for several months (work, studies, temporary expatriation), it is best to talk to your broker. They can check whether your current policy remains valid or recommend additional insurance, particularly international civil liability insurance.
Your civil liability doesn’t take a vacation, but it does have its conditions! Before you leave, a quick call to your broker could save you a lot of trouble (and a few cold sweats). He or she will be able to answer all your questions.
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