The law legalizing cannabis in Canada is now into force. This is a big change: a substance that was illegal is now authorized.

But how does this affect your home insurance?

Legally purchased cannabis

If you buy cannabis legally at a Société québécoise du cannabis (SQDC) store, it will be viewed in the same way as anything else that you own.

Keep in mind, however, that in case of loss, you as the insured person must provide evidence (such as bills or receipts) of what you owned. This will apply to your legally acquired cannabis.

Smoke cannabis regularly? Let your insurance company know

if you regularly smoke in your home – whether tobacco or cannabis – your insurance provider may view this as something that increases the risk of fire. For this reason, if you regularly smoke cannabis, you should let your insurance company know.

You should also let your insurance company know if you are growing cannabis for medical purposes.

Cannabis cultivation and possession: do as the law says

Your home insurance policy has an exclusion clause for any good that is viewed as illegal. This is why, if you choose to grow cannabis or keep a certain quantity of it in your home, it is important to comply with the law. Doing otherwise might jeopardize your compensation in the event of a loss.