Basics - An introduction to cottage life

This section of the site is for the new cottage owner, or someone just considering making a purchase. It will give you a sense of what is involved in owning a vacation property as well as giving you some checklists for safety, opening and closing the cottage each year, and other information that will be added as the seasons move on.

Some of the articles in development include:

• The Zoning Board;
• Insurance;
• Pests;
• Island Living; and
• Security

Here are a few preliminary security tips:

• There should be a five meter clearing around the cottage - this is both for fire safety and visibility.
• If you have neighbours within ear shot, invest in a loud alarm system.
• Do not store fibreglass boats or canoes near the building - they are very flammable; do not store extra fuel for motor boats in or near the structure either.
• Never leave keys near the building, under mats or rocks.
• If you do not use the cottage often, do not leave tempting items like electronics, watercraft unguarded, especially not within sight.
• Deadbolts and unbreakable window guards help keep thieves out.