Your Ultimate Home and Auto Insurance Savings Checklist

December 12, 2025

January has a way of snapping us back to reality. One minute you’re clinking glasses and counting down at midnight, and the next you’re staring at your bank account, wondering how you could possibly rack up so many receipts in a single month.

But when it comes to your Home and your Auto Insurance—two of your biggest life expenses—you can save money by being just a little more intentional. No extreme budgeting. No cutting out coffee. Just a few smart updates, a couple of quick winter checks, and a little help from the right advisor.

Consider this a simple new year checklist that can help you avoid claims, lower your premiums, and protect your finances all year long.

1. Start With What Changed (Most People Forget This Step)

If you only do one thing this January, make it this.

Insurance companies calculate your rates based on the information they have, and if that information is out-of-date, you could be missing out on savings or leaving yourself open to gaps during a claim. Here’s what to review:

New Valuables From the Holidays: Did you get new jewellery? Expensive tech? A designer bag? Tools? Most home insurance policies have limits for high-value items, and many require them to be “scheduled” (listed separately) to be fully covered. A quick email to your broker now could save you thousands later. Learn more.
Home Upgrades: Renovated the basement? Replaced the roof? Updated plumbing or furnace? These upgrades can lower your premium because they reduce the risk of damage. But keep in mind: big renovations can also increase your home’s value, so your current coverage might not be enough. Let your insurer know so you can protect your home and maybe even save on your policy.
Car Usage Changes: Working hybrid now? Moved closer to work? Driving way less than last year?
Lower mileage = lower risk = potential savings.
Household Changes: Newly licensed teen? Roommate moved out? Partner drives the car more than you? These changes can affect rates, too.

This step takes less than 10 minutes, but it’s one of the easiest ways to cut costs and avoid frustrating surprises.

2. Boost Your 2026 Budget With Easy, Overlooked Discounts

Even small adjustments to your insurance can make a noticeable difference in your budget. These commonly overlooked discounts are easy to apply and could save you hundreds—or even thousands—without changing your coverage.

Here are the discounts people forget about:

Bundle Your Home & Auto Insurance: This can save as much as 15–20%, depending on the insurer. If you haven’t bundled yet, you’re leaving money on the table. Learn more.
Winter Tires Discount: A must in Canada. If your insurer offers it and you’re not using it, you’re missing out.
Security Upgrades: Monitored alarm systems, water leak sensors, sump pump monitors, and smart-home security can all earn you discounts while preventing costly incidents. Learn more.
Telematics for Safe Drivers: Telematics programs track how you actually drive—things like braking, speed, and time of day. If you brake gently, avoid late-night driving, and don’t speed, your insurer might reward you with significant savings. Learn more.
Higher Deductible (only if your savings can handle it): A higher deductible means you take on more risk, but it can lower your monthly premium. Only do this if you have emergency funds in place.
Membership Discounts: If you’re part of a professional association, you may qualify for exclusive savings. Learn more.

January is the best time to review your insurance, since many people are renewing their policies and resetting their budgets.

3. Winter-Proof Your Home (And Avoid Claims That Raise Your Rates)

Winter is the most common season for claims—and many of those claims are completely preventable.

Here’s a fast home checklist that saves money long-term:

Prevent Frozen Pipes: Keep the heat consistent, open cabinets near plumbing, and insulate any exposed pipes. A burst pipe is one of the most expensive claims a homeowner can face.
Stop Ice Dams: Clean your gutters, check attic insulation, and clear snow from your roof edges. Because ice dams → water damage → massive repairs → higher premiums.
Reduce Slip-and-Fall Risk: Shovel promptly, lay down salt, and add motion-sensor lighting. If someone slips on your property, you’re responsible.
Test Your Sump Pump: Don’t wait until the snow starts melting to find out it’s not working. A quick test early in the year can help you avoid a flooded basement (and a very costly insurance claim) months later. Learn more.

4. Keep Your Car Winter-Ready (Your Premium Will Thank You)

Winter driving is no joke—and avoiding accidents is one of the most reliable ways to keep your premiums down.

Here’s your winter auto checklist:

Install Winter Tires: Not all-season. Not “all-weather.” Winter tires. The braking distance alone is worth it—and the discount doesn’t hurt either.
Check Your Battery & Fluids: Cold weather drains batteries fast. Low washer fluid + slush = bad visibility. It’s the little things that cause the biggest claims.
Build a Quick Emergency Kit: You’ll need a blanket, scraper, flashlight, power bank, and some water. Simple, but essential.
Clear Snow Off the Entire Car: Roof included. Flying ice is a real hazard—and yes, it can lead to a claim.
Drive Gently and Leave Extra Space: Not as much fun, but very necessary.

Winter accidents aren’t always avoidable, but reduced risk means better long-term pricing.

5. Talk to Your Broker (They’ll Help You Save More Than You Think)

You don’t have to sort through all of this on your own. A quick conversation with your broker can go a long way, especially at the start of the year when budgets, needs, and risks are shifting.

At PROLINK, we can help you:

Spot discounts you might be missing.
Compare options across multiple insurers.
Flag any gaps or outdated coverage.
Suggest smart policy adjustments based on your lifestyle.
Explain how certain claims could impact your rates.
Lower your rates without compromising essential coverage.

It’s simple, it’s fast, and it can make a real difference in what you pay throughout the year.

January doesn’t need to hit like a blizzard. A couple of smart updates and a bit of winter prep can help you cut risks, boost your protection, and uncover savings before the year even gets rolling. Try tackling one or two items from this checklist. And if you want a second opinion (or just a sanity check), PROLINK’s here to guide you.

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PROLINK’s blog posts are general in nature. They do not take into account your personal objectives or financial situation and are not a substitute for professional advice. The specific terms of your policy will always apply. We bear no responsibility for the accuracy, legality, or timeliness of any external content.