Extra Protection You Can Buy There is additional protection, otherwise known as optional coverage, you can buy depending on where your home is and how much peace of mind you require. These perils are not automatically included in any home insurance policy. If you want to be protected against these risks, you must purchase coverage separately. Earthquake This coverage is especially worth considering if you live in a quake-prone region, such as parts of Quebec — especially around Montreal — the Ottawa Valley and British Columbia. Earthquake insurance generally covers loss or damage to your property caused by the actual shaking of the earth. It is subject to a higher deductible than the other perils insured by your policy. Your ordinary homeowner’s policy, on the other hand, would likely not cover this peril. However, if the shaking were to cause a gas main to break and ignite, the damage as a result of the subsequent fire would probably be covered under your homeowner’s policy. The cost depends on where your house is and how it was built. Your insurer may be able to advise you of things you can do to cut the risk of earthquake damage to your home. Sewer Back-up This coverage is useful in some low-lying areas, especially if your area has storm and sanitary sewers combined. You may also want to install a back-flow prevention device, where permitted by local codes.