Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Does Auto Reform change who is covered by my policy?

    Yes. Also beginning July 1, 2026, any optional accident benefits that you select for your auto policy will only apply to the named insured, the spouse of the named insured, dependants of the named insured and of the named insured’s spouse, and persons specified in the policy as drivers of the automobile.

  • Can I increase coverage later if I change my mind?

    Yes, in most cases you can adjust optional accident benefits at renewal or mid-term, subject to underwriting rules.

  • Are these changes retroactive?

    No. Policyholders can choose to remove optional accident benefits from their policies beginning July 1st. They do not need to wait until policy renewal to make these changes, as long as it is after July 1st. Additionally, who is covered under your auto policy will change automatically on July 1st.

  • Does this affect my ability to sue after an accident?

    No. The reform focuses on accident benefits, which are no-fault benefits paid by your insurer. Your legal rights regarding liability claims remain governed by Ontario’s existing auto insurance laws.

  • Is this change permanent?

    The reform is intended as a long-term structural shift toward a choice-based model. Future governments or regulators could introduce adjustments, but the July 2026 framework is designed to remain in place unless formally amended.

  • Will my policy automatically change at renewal?

    Not entirely. While who is covered by your insurance policy will automatically change on July 1, 2026, the accident benefits that you have on your policy will remain the same unless you decide to remove them or modify your coverage limits.

  • Does this apply to all Ontario auto policy holders?

    Yes. The reform applies to Ontario auto insurance policies province-wide. However, the impact of this change depends on the coverage options you decide to select or remove following July 1.

  • Does this affect collision or comprehensive coverage?

    No. Collision and comprehensive coverages are not affected by the 2026 Ontario Auto Reform.

    Those coverages relate to damage to your vehicle, not injury-related accident benefits.

  • Does Ontario Auto Reform affect liability coverage?

    No. The reform does not change third-party liability coverage. Liability coverage continues to protect you if you are legally responsible for injuring someone else or for damaging their property.

  • How should I decide what level is right for me?

    Ask yourself three simple questions:

    1. If I couldn’t work for 3-6 months, how would I pay my bills?
    2. If I needed help at home, who would provide it?
    3. Do I have savings to cover unexpected recovery costs?

    Your answers will help determine your accident protection priorities.

  • What’s the most common mistake drivers might make with this reform?

    Failing to review accident benefit options could mean losing protections unintentionally. We strongly encourage you to speak with a licensed insurance broker before opting to remove any optional accident benefit coverages from your policy.

  • What is the safest coverage option?

    The safest option is to keep or enhance your accident benefits coverage, so income and care support remain available after a serious injury. It may cost slightly more per month, but it reduces financial uncertainty during recovery.

  • I already have benefits through work — do I still need accident benefits?

    Possibly. Workplace plans vary. Some don’t cover certain therapies, have benefit caps, or exclude caregiving support. Accident benefits can supplement workplace coverage rather than duplicate it. A short review of your coverage can help prevent overlap or gaps.

  • Who should strongly consider keeping income replacement coverage?

    Drivers who are self-employed, paid hourly, or on commission, or in single-income households, should seriously consider keeping income replacement benefits. If your income depends directly on your ability to work, removing wage protection increases your financial risk after an accident.

  • How do I know if my workplace disability coverage is enough?

    Review how much income your employer plan replaces, and for how long. Many workplace plans replace 60–70% of income and may include waiting periods. If there’s a delay before benefits begin or a coverage cap, accident benefits can help bridge that gap.

  • Why would someone remove specific accident benefits coverage options?

    Some drivers already have strong workplace benefits and prefer not to duplicate coverage.

    Others prioritize lower monthly insurance costs and accept higher financial responsibility in exchange for those savings.

  • How much do increased medical, rehab and attendant care limits typically cost?

    Increasing medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care limits typically range from $5 to $20 per month, depending on the amount of coverage selected. For drivers concerned about exposure to serious injury, this is often the most impactful coverage enhancement you can make to your auto insurance policy.

  • If I remove caregiver or dependant benefits, what changes?

    You would not receive payments to help cover childcare or homecare costs during recovery. That means arranging and funding childcare or dependant care using your personal savings instead.

  • What happens if I’m seriously injured, and my medical limits run out?

    Once standard medical and rehabilitation limits are exhausted, additional treatment costs could become your responsibility unless you selected higher limits.

  • What happens if I’m injured in an accident and didn’t opt into income replacement?

    You would not receive any wage replacement through your auto insurance policy. If you’re unable to work, your income would depend on workplace benefits, personal savings, or other financial resources.

  • Is it worth removing accident benefits to save money?

    It depends on your situation. If you have strong workplace disability coverage and lots of personal savings, you may be comfortable with less protection. If not, saving a few dollars per month could mean giving up meaningful support after an accident.

  • How much can I realistically save by removing accident benefits?

    In many cases, savings range from $1 to $10 per month, depending on which accident benefits are removed.

  • Does the Auto Reform mean my auto insurance premiums will go down?

    While opting out of certain optional accident benefits may lower your insurance premiums slightly, savings are often modest depending on the accident benefit you are removing – sometimes only a few dollars per month.

  • What happens if I don’t keep optional accident benefits?

    If you choose not to add optional accident benefits, you will not receive those protections (or any associated payments) after an accident. Choosing minimum coverage options means accepting greater personal financial responsibility in the event of an auto accident.

  • What accident benefits become optional?

    Accident benefits that become optional after July 1, 2026, include income replacement, non-earner benefits, caregiver benefits, lost educational expenses, housekeeping and home maintenance, damage to personal items, dependent care benefits, visitor expenses, funeral benefits, death benefits, and indexation benefits.

  • What accident benefits are still mandatory?

    Medical and rehabilitation benefits remain mandatory, covering treatment expenses such as physiotherapy, prescriptions, and other recovery-related costs not covered by OHIP. Attendant care benefits also remains mandatory, helping cover the cost of a home or facility-based aide or caregiver if you’re unable to care for yourself following an auto accident.

  • Does the Ontario Auto Reform eliminate mandatory accident benefits entirely?

    No, three accident benefits will remain mandatory after the July 1st changes: medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care coverage. However, the majority of accident benefits will now be optional for Ontario auto policy holders.

  • Why is Ontario making the Auto Reform change?

    The province’s goal is to introduce a more flexible, choice-based model. This allows drivers to tailor their coverage to their situation and avoid paying for benefits they feel are irrelevant, or coverages they may already have through workplace private plans. The reforms are overseen by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA).

  • When does the Ontario Auto Reform Start?

    The reforms are expected to take effect on July 1, 2026. Policies written or renewed after that date may reflect the new optional benefit structure. We recommend reviewing your coverage with a broker to avoid surprises at renewal and make sure your coverages reflects your needs.

  • What is Ontario Auto Reform?

    Ontario Auto Reform is a provincially mandated change to how accident benefits are structured in auto insurance policies. It moves Ontario toward a choice-based model in which many benefits can be added or removed based on an auto policy holder’s needs.

  • Attendant Care Benefits

    Attendant care benefits help pay for a caregiver or aide if your injuries prevent you from caring for yourself. This support may be provided at home or in a care facility and can include assistance with activities such as bathing, dressing, mobility, and daily living tasks. These benefits ensure you receive necessary personal care during recovery.

  • Medical and Rehabilitation Benefits

    Medical and rehabilitation benefits help pay for treatment and recovery expenses after an accident. This may include services such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, occupational therapy, medical equipment, and certain prescriptions that are not covered by OHIP or other health plans. The goal is to help you regain mobility, independence, and function during recovery.

  • Indexation Benefit

    Indexation benefits adjust certain weekly payments and coverage limits over time to reflect inflation. This helps maintain the real value of benefits if recovery extends over a longer period.

  • Increased Medical, Rehabilitation, and Attendant Care Limits

    Drivers may increase the standard limits for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and attendant care. Higher limits provide additional protection in the event of a serious injury requiring extended treatment or long-term care.

  • Funeral Benefit

    Funeral benefits help cover certain funeral and final expenses related to a fatal motor vehicle accident. This can reduce the financial burden on surviving family members when arranging final services.

  • Death Benefit

    Death benefits provide a lump-sum payment to eligible surviving family members if an insured person dies as a result of a motor vehicle accident. The benefit is intended to provide immediate financial support during a difficult time.

  • Damage to Personal Items Benefit

    This benefit helps cover damage to personal belongings caused by the accident.

    Examples may include glasses, mobility devices (such as wheel chairs and walkers), hearing aids, clothing, phones, or other items damaged during the collision.

  • Visitor Expenses Benefit

    Visitor expenses help cover certain costs for family members or loved ones visiting an injured person during extended treatment or recovery. This may include travel or accommodation costs in situations where recovery requires ongoing medical care away from home.

  • Lost Educational Expenses Benefit

    This benefit helps cover certain education-related costs if a student must withdraw from or delay a program due to accident-related injuries. It may help offset tuition or program costs that are lost because studies must be postponed.

  • Dependant Care Benefit

    Dependant care benefits help cover additional expenses for employed individuals who care for children, a spouse, aging dependants, or someone with special needs. If injuries make it difficult to manage caregiving responsibilities outside work hours, this benefit can help offset those extra costs.

  • Housekeeping and Home Maintenance Benefit

    This benefit helps pay for household services that the injured person cannot perform due to their injuries. Examples may include cleaning, laundry, yard work, or other basic home maintenance tasks.

  • Caregiver Benefit

    Caregiver benefits help cover the cost of replacing caregiving responsibilities if the injured person is the primary caregiver for dependants. This may include arranging childcare or assistance for an aging parent or family member with special needs who relies on the injured person for care.

  • Non-Earner Benefit

    Non-earner benefits provide financial support for individuals who are not employed but are unable to maintain their normal daily activities due to injuries.

    This benefit may apply to students, unemployed individuals, stay-at-home parents, or retirees whose lifestyle is significantly affected by the accident.

  • Income Replacement Benefit (IRB)

    Income replacement benefits may provide weekly payments if injuries prevent you from working after an automobile accident. The benefit helps replace a portion of your lost income while you recover and are unable to perform your job duties. This benefit is particularly important for individuals who rely on employment income.

  • Do I have to install an electrical surge monitoring system to insure my farm?

    While installing an electrical surge monitoring system like PrevTech may not be mandatory to insure your farm, many insurance companies encourage or offer incentives for taking such safety measures. Having a system like PrevTech in place can potentially lower your premiums and reduce the risk of claims related to electrical fires or damages.

  • When will the PrevTech discount be applied?

    If you qualify for a PrevTech discount, it will be applied at the time of purchase or installation, depending on the terms of the offer. Check any promotions or speak with a representative to confirm when and how discounts are applied.

    Some insurance companies will require PrevTech based on reaching a high insured value for the building and livestock. For instance if you have over $8,000,000 limit within a 75 feet area some of the Ontario farm mutuals may ask for this device as part of the insurance requirement.

    Other insurance companies based on the type of farm are also asking for a PrevTech when limits get over a certain limit. Hog and Dairy barns.

    Some insurance carriers do not give a discount but will pay towards the purchase of PrevTech devices.

  • What will a PrevTech installation cost me?

    The cost of PrevTech installation can vary depending on the size of your farm and the complexity of the electrical system. It’s best to request a personalized quote based on your specific needs. PrevTech offers a cost-effective solution with potential savings by preventing electrical failures and reducing the risk of fire damage.

  • Does PrevTech monitor other information about my farm? What does it do with my personal information?

    PrevTech primarily monitors your farm’s electrical systems, including voltage surges, power irregularities, and faults. Personal information collected is only used for system functionality and monitoring purposes. PrevTech complies with privacy laws and safeguards your data, ensuring that it is only accessible by authorized personnel to provide accurate alerts and maintenance suggestions.

  • What are the main benefits of the PrevTech electrical surge monitoring system?

    The key benefits include:

    Real-time fault detection – Identifies electrical problems before they cause serious damage.
    Overheating alerts – Helps prevent fires by detecting excessive heat in electrical systems.
    Proactive prevention – Experts monitor the network 24/7 and contact you when necessary.
    Tailored solutions – Customized to suit your farm’s unique electrical infrastructure

  • How does PrevTech work to protect my farm from electrical fires?

    PrevTech’s system provides real-time monitoring of your farm’s electrical network, detecting faults and overheating in equipment like wiring, breaker panels, and motors. This early detection helps prevent minor issues from escalating into fires. When a potential issue is identified, PrevTech experts immediately notify you and guide you through the steps to resolve the problem

  • Does all Cyber Insurance cover hacker ransom or extortion?

    The short answer is not always – it’s something your broker should clearly outline and discuss with you. It provides coverage for extortion related expenses such as hiring a consultant or negotiator and repair costs if the recovered data is locked or damaged.

  • Does my E&O Policy cover me for Cyber?

    Absolutely not – but it’s the #1 reason business owners think they don’t need Cyber Insurance.

  • What 3 common ways can my business get hacked?

    Malware is malicious software that hackers use to bug, steal and control your data and systems through link clicks and attachment downloads.

    Phishing involves the use of fraudulent emails to steal information or encourage malware downloads.

    DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) involves bombarding a business’s server with multiple simultaneous requests to stop it from fulfilling legitimate requests.

  • Why does my businesses need cyber insurance?

    When criminals infiltrate a network, steal data, or hold data hostage, the business they steal from can be legally and financially liable. As a small YOU ARE RESONSIBLE, one data breach can end up cost you thousands of dollars in customer notification expenses, legal fees, fines or settlements.

  • What does cyber Insurance cover?

    First Party Coverage helps cover expenses when your network is hacked or your data is stolen, and can include coverage for:

    • Cyber extortion payments;
    • Hiring experts to investigate breaches and assist with regulatory compliance;
    • Notifying affected customers;
    • Customer credit and fraud monitoring services;
    • Crisis management and public relations; and
    • Business interruption expenses, such as the cost of hiring additional staff, renting equipment, or purchasing third-party services.

    Third-party cyber insurance offers protection when a client sues your company for failing to prevent a breach at the client’s business, and can include:

    • Legal defense costs;
    • Out of court settlements with clients;
    • Judgments you are obligated to pay after a data breach; and
    • Other court costs.

  • What are the benefits of a Commercial Umbrella insurance policy?

    Your standard CGL policy can be depleted due to claims during your policy term, or; your business may be exposed to liability exposures that can exceed your existing coverage limits. Commercial Umbrella insurance expands your CGL limits and offers additional coverage. This coverage sits on top of your CGL insurance. It gives you extra peace of mind knowing that your business can continue to operate even after a significant liability event.

    Commercial Umbrella insurance offers additional limits which benefit businesses that could face liability events that exceed ordinary coverage limits. Some Commercial Umbrella insurance policies may even provide worldwide coverage, whereas CGL policies could be limited to only Canada and the United States. Commercial Umbrella insurance should be considered if:

    • Your business has multiple companies and properties
    • Your business travels worldwide or ships products worldwide
    • Your business has purchased only the minimum limits for liability insurance
    • Your business does exchanges in the United States

     

  • What Does Commercial Umbrella Insurance Cover?

    Commercial Umbrella insurance covers almost anything your CGL policy would cover, such as attorney fees, damages, and medical expenses – although with limits that extend above those included in the basic policy. While your CGL policy may offer $1 million in coverage, your Commercial Umbrella insurance policy could cover the remaining $500,000 – depending on whatever your policy limits are. Take, for example, an instance where your business is found liable for bodily injury at your place of business, and you are in the hole for $1.5 million.

  • What is the difference between Equipment Breakdown and Contents Insurance?

    Contents Coverage is designed to protect property as a result of external sources, such as water damage, fire, or natural disaster. This does not include coverage for unexpected breakdown or internal explosion – basically anything “inside.” Most spontaneous mechanical or electrical breakdown will not be covered by a Contents coverage policy, but an Equipment Breakdown Insurance policy may.

  • Who needs Equipment Breakdown Insurance?

    Any business or commercial enterprise that utilizes equipment or machinery should have Machinery Breakdown Insurance, including the following:

    • Restaurants
    • Electricians
    • Contractors
    • Retail stores
    • Landscapers
    • Manufacturers
    • Farmers

    This is just a small sampling of some of the businesses that may benefit from Equipment Breakdown Insurance. If you feel that your business uses machinery or equipment that is beneficial – or even critical – to its operation, then you should inquire about Equipment Breakdown Insurance.

  • How much does Equipment Breakdown Insurance cost?

    Equipment Breakdown Insurance is a necessary expense for you and your business – what would you do without your tools and inventory? The amount you will pay for your Equipment Breakdown Insurance may depend on the overall cost of your equipment. It will also vary depending on the insurance industry that you work in, the total value of your equipment, your claims’ history, and the type of machinery/equipment that you own. These are only a few factors. Talk with an insurance broker if you have any concerns about cost.

  • Does Equipment Breakdown Insurance have any exclusions?

    Like any insurance policy, Equipment Breakdown Insurance contains a number of exclusions that you may wish to familiarize yourself with. Equipment Breakdown Insurance covers equipment, tools, and inventory when they breakdown accidentally or unexpectedly, but note that newer appliances will have warranties to cover them for a certain period of time. Equipment Breakdown Insurance will not cover damage to items that is caused by gradual wear and tear, old age, rust, mould, infestation, or any issues that come as a result of lack of maintenance.

  • What is covered by Equipment Breakdown Insurance?

    Equipment Breakdown Insurance will cover your equipment, machinery, and tools should there be an unexpected breakdown as a result of an internal cause, including the following:

    • Mechanical/electrical breakdown
    • Explosion from pressure vessels
    • Explosion damage from piping steam, pressurized water, or piping steam

    Your Commercial Property Insurance should technically cover your equipment and machinery from external damages, such as flood, fire, or other weather-related events. However, they will not cover your equipment from internal causes – which is why you need Equipment Breakdown Insurance.

  • What can be insured by Equipment Breakdown Insurance?

    Most machinery and equipment can be insured under an Equipment Breakdown plan, including anything electrical, electronic, mechanical, or pressurized systems – including boilers, air conditioning and heating systems, and electrical systems, computers, telephone systems, etc. Some businesses that utilize production machines such as anything that conveys production or maintenance (mills, paper machines, presses, lathes, etc.) may require additional coverage.

  • What is Equipment Breakdown Insurance & Why Do I Need It?

    In short, “Equipment Breakdown Insurance” or “Machinery Breakdown” is coverage for your tools and equipment as a result of an unexpected or accidental malfunction or breakdown which does not have insurance ordinarily under a regular commercial policy. Equipment Breakdown Insurance offers coverage for property damage, business interruption – as long as it is included in your existing commercial plan – and equipment or inventory damaged by power surges and similar events.

  • How do I know if my business is underinsured?

    If the coverage limits on your commercial auto policy are too low to cover the full cost of a potential claim, you might be underinsured. To determine if you’re underinsured, consider the value of your vehicles, the potential damage they could cause to others in an accident, and whether your coverage adequately reflects your business needs. It’s a good idea to regularly review your policy with a broker to ensure you’re adequately covered.

  • How is IRCA Vehicle Insurance different than Fleet Insurance?

    While IRCA, or Individually Rated Commercial Auto insurance, is a type of Commercial Auto insurance, it functions similarly to a personal auto insurance plan, as each vehicle is rated for its risk factor based on its individual demographics. Those include insurance and claims history, driving record, coverage options and limits, etc. Individually Rated Commercial Auto insurance plans are distinct from Fleet Insurance. Some providers may offer one form of Commercial Auto insurance but not the other.

  • Do individually rated vehicles used for personal and business use need a separate commercial policy?

    Commercial vehicle policies might cover personal use. An IRCA policy is essential when you use your vehicle to transport materials, goods, merchandise, or tools. It’s also important if you deliver items to clients’ homes or stores. Don’t rely on your personal insurance to cover it and risk being stranded; get the facts.

  • Product Liability Insurance

    If your businesses sells a product or operates as a manufacturer, product liability insurance can come in clutch if your business finds itself facing a lawsuit due to the malfunction or breakage of a product it produces. Lawsuits can be hugely expense – which is why many businesses need liability insurance designed to the nature of what they do to spring back from a loss.

    Professional businesses may require professional liability insurance, and delivery services may benefit from commercial vehicle or fleet insurance. It all depends on the work you do! Ask your friendly local business insurance brokers about the specifics for your business.

  • Business Interruption Insurance

    Business interruption can be integral for many businesses that run out of a physical location and is especially helpful for retail businesses, manufacturers, etc. This insurance compensates businesses for ongoing wages following an insured event that disallows normal course of businesses, such as loss of income, employee wages, bills, rent, and more.

  • Property Insurance

    If your business operates out of a physical location, property insurance can cover your physical business structure as well as any commercial equipment, contents, inventory, appliances, and more from natural disasters, falling objects, theft, and vandalism. Depending on your provider and your location it may not cover certain events such as earthquakes or floods.

  • Business Liability Insurance

    “Business liability insurance” is a broad term that is used to encapsulate more defined policies which offer financial protection for business owners and corporations against any legal expenses that may come of third-party liability claims. Due to the costly nature of these claims, many businesses cannot afford to spring back from any subsequent losses.

    Business liability insurance may include your general CGL or Commercial General Liability Insurance, which covers expenses pertaining to claims that may come of alleged third-party bodily injury or property damage (slips and falls, as an example.)

    It also may refer to professional liability insurance, which is specific to businesses that offer professional services. It insures against claims of alleged negligence or errors/failure to perform a promised task.

  • Ontario Business Insurance

    Commercial insurance can mean a lot of things, especially as no one business is the same as another. Commercial business insurance is known for a number of basic items, but it can be expanded or altered entirely to cover the specifics of a certain commercial operation.

    Are you wondering, “Do I need business insurance in Ontario?” and you are the owner of a business – small, large, or just starting up – the answer is: yes. While insurance for business owners is not always necessary, it can be depending on the industry that you operate within, and even if not it is highly recommended to protect yourself, your business, employees, physical location, and more.

    Commercial insurance for your business may include –

  • What insurance coverage does my business need?

    It depends. Business insurance is designed to cover different businesses and can come with different options to secure you, your employees, and your assets. It will need to take into account the kind of work you do or the product that you offer, how long you have been in business, your physical location (if any) and your employees.

  • What are the disadvantages to cheap business insurance?

    With any business, although especially start-ups and small businesses that may not have large budgets to begin with, keeping costs low can be a priority. Many insurance companies will advertise the “lowest possible rates” for business insurance, but that can’t always be a good thing. Yes, saving money is good, but insurance is not a place where you want to cut corners. This can come back to bite you later.

    Cheap business insurance can mean you will have less coverage, less security, less support from your brokers, and rates can always rise in the future. This is only the bottom line – after a year or so, your rates may start to go up if there is increased risk and high usage.

  • How much does business insurance in Ontario cost?

    Small businesses in Ontario may pay between the ranges of $500-$1,000 but costs will vary immensely depending on the nature of the work you do, your risk exposure, physical location, years of experience, insurance history, revenue, and more. This is typically with a basic CGL policy of a $2,000,000 limit.

  • What is included in a farm insurance policy?

    Farm insurance typically covers a wide range of risks associated with agricultural operations, including barns & outbuildings, equipment breakdown, business interruption, livestock loss, crop damage, loss of income, liability, and pollution liability.

  • Do I need farm insurance if I’m a hobby farmer?

    While farm insurance is not legally required to operate a hobby farm, it is still highly recommended because it provides valuable protection for your assets and liabilities associated with agricultural activities.

  • What is the difference between a farm and a hobby farm when it comes to insurance?

    The difference between a farm and a hobby farm regarding insurance lies primarily in the level of activity and income generated from agricultural operations. A hobby farm, also known as a lifestyle farm or part-time farm, is typically operated for personal enjoyment or supplemental income rather than as a primary source of livelihood. A farm or commercial farm is typically operated as a business with the primary purpose of generating income from agricultural activities. Commercial farms often involve large-scale production of crops or livestock for sale in the market.

  • How many acres of land do you need for farm insurance?

    There is no minimum number of acres required for you to need farm insurance. Typically it is the operation of farming and the keeping of livestock that require a farm policy as these operations are excluded from personal liability coverage.

  • Who needs farm insurance?

    Generally, anyone involved in running a farming operation or the keeping of livestock requires a farm policy as these operations are excluded from personal liability coverage.

  • What are common risks farm insurance covers?

    Farm insurance typically covers a wide range of risks associated with agricultural operations, including barns & outbuildings, equipment breakdown, business interruption, livestock loss, crop damage, loss of income, liability, and pollution liability.

  • How can I get farm insurance?

    We recommend working with a farm insurance professional who can tailor a policy to your unique insurance needs. An Excalibur Farm Insurance Broker can work with you to collect the information required for a quote, including details about your operations, property, buildings, equipment, livestock, and any other assets you want to insure. Your broker will then compare price and coverage options from the farm insurance companies we represent, and then make recommendations about what coverage you should have and explain the most competitive premium pricing available.

  • Do you need Farm Insurance in Ontario?

    While farm insurance is not legally required in the province of Ontario, it is still strongly recommended. We encourage farmers to consider the risks associated with running their farming operation, including property damage, liability claims, livestock losses, crop failures, and more. Would you be prepared to absorb these financial or physical losses should they arise? That’s why farm insurance is such a valuable tool for protecting your livelihood as a farmer, covering insured damages and allowing you to stay financially secure in your agricultural operation.

  • What is the average cost of Farm Insurance?

    The cost of farm insurance varies widely based on factors like farming type, building and livestock value, equipment, and location. An insurance broker can help assess your coverage needs and premium management strategies.

  • Can I customize my farm insurance policy?

    Yes, you can and should customize your farm insurance policy to meet your needs and circumstances. Insurance providers understand that every farm operation is unique, and they often offer a variety of coverage options and endorsements that allow you to tailor your policy accordingly. Some of the ways you can customize your farm insurance policy include, coverage types, coverage limits, ability to exclude certain coverages, deductibles, and endorsements.

  • Are all farm types eligible for insurance in Ontario?

    Yes, all types of farming operations are insurable in Ontario. Beef, dairy, hog, poultry, goat, sheep, horse, and cash crop are the most common types of farming operations in Ontario. Certain niche agricultural operations, like rabbit raising, beekeeping, pumpkin patches, corn mazes, jam production, and Christmas tree farming may be more difficult to insure, but usually insurance options exist for all farm types.

  • Farming is not my primary occupation; does this affect my coverage?

    No, even if farming is not your primary occupation, the type of insurance coverage and the risks associated with insuring your farm will remain the same. Insurance companies may offer specialized policies for part-time or hobby farmers that provide tailored coverage packages for someone with minimal farming activity. These policies typically take into account factors such as the size of the operation, the types of crops or livestock involved, and the level of risk associated with the farming activities.

  • What are the different types of farm insurance?

    Farm insurance is available for a number of different agricultural operations, including beef, dairy, hog, poultry, goat, sheep, and horse. Additionally, cash crop farming has unique insurance needs for losses related to grain production.

  • Does my home insurance policy cover my farm?

    Standard home insurance policies are not enough to provide coverage for farms in Ontario. Farmers need specialized farm insurance that addresses their unique risks, liability needs, and assets. It is important for farmers to work with knowledgeable insurance professionals to customize a policy that protects their farm operations appropriately. If you’re looking for advice and pricing information, you can contact us at 1-888-298-7343 and ask to speak with an Excalibur Farm Insurance Broker.

  • What is accident benefits coverage in Ontario?

    The Accident Benefits portion of your auto insurance policy will cover medical bills, up-to a specific limit, in the event you are injured in a car accident, regardless of who was at fault for the accident. Coverage includes medical and rehabilitation expenses, income replacement (if you are unable to work), non-earner benefits (if you are unemployed and unable to function), caregiver benefits, housekeeping for severe injuries, and death/funeral benefits. Policy limits and eligibility criteria may apply, with strict time limits for claims. You also have the option of increasing your accident benefits to a higher limit. This coverage acts as a safety net to aid recovery following an auto accident.

  • What car insurance coverages are optional in Ontario?

    In Ontario, the following car insurance coverages are optional:

    – Collision Coverage

    – Comprehensive Coverage

    – Specified Perils

    – All Perils (Collision Coverage, Comprehensive Coverage, Plus Additional Perils)

    – Increased Third-Party Liability Limits

    – Increased Accident Benefits

    – OPCF Endorsements

  • What happens if an uninsured driver hits you in Ontario?

    In Ontario, it is mandatory to have Uninsured Automobile Coverage which covers injuries and vehicle damage, in the event of an accident with an uninsured driver or a hit-and-run. Optional Accident Benefits also cover your injuries regardless of fault. If you have Collision Coverage, your vehicle damage from a known uninsured driver is covered (after you pay your deductible). Uninsured drivers face hefty fines, license suspension, and are liable for your damages. Ontario law protects insured drivers in these situations through their own policies.

  • Who needs critical illness insurance coverage?

    Employees may purchase critical illness coverage because:

    • They want coverage for critical medical services that other plans may not offer,
    • They want to have payment for treatments not covered by a traditional policy,
    • They want their daily living expenses paid for if they are ever critically ill, allow them to focus on getting better rather than paying bills,
    • They need transportation expenses for getting to and from treatment centers
    • If they are terminally ill, or need a restful place to recuperate, they can use their payout to take a vacation with family and friends.

  • What does critical illness insurance cover?

    Critical illness covers numerous serious illnesses, including heart attacks, strokes, organ transplants, coronary bypass, and cancer. It covers costs that are not covered by traditional plans, as the money can be used for anything the insured likes, including child care, transportation etc.

  • What is critical illness insurance?

    Critical illness insurance is coverage designed to provide a single lump-sum payment that you may use however you’d like if you ever experience any serious conditions outlined in your policy, like cancer, a stroke, or a heart attack. No one recovers the same or has the same recovery costs.

  • What is the difference between Critical Illness Insurance and Disability Insurance?

    Disability insurance is designed to provide income for employees if they are unable to work as a result of an injury or illness. On the other hand, critical illness pays a tax-free lump sum payout following a serious illness (so long as that illness is covered by the policy.) While disability insurance is a monthly payment that replaces some of your income (usually 60-70%), critical illness insurance is a one-time lump-sum payment that you can use however you’d like.

  • Who needs disability insurance coverage?

    A few groups of people may benefit from acquiring disability coverage. The sole provider of the family, especially if they work outside of the home, may need disability insurance to protect their earning potential. Parents, especially single parents, should acquire disability coverage. Those who have recurring injuries that prevent them from working to their full potential may need disability coverage, and finally employees who work in physical demanding roles (like construction) should acquire disability coverage to protect their earned income.

  • What does disability insurance cover?

    Disability insurance covers you and provides payments for your regular income replacement if you are permanently disabled due to an injury/illness or if you temporarily can’t work due to an injury or illness. There are different kinds of disability insurance benefits. Short-term disability insurance benefits may only last a few months until you’re recovered, assuming you’ll go back to work once you’re well, whereas long-term disability insurance policies cover you under the assumption you cannot perform your original occupation.

    Long-term disability insurance policies are customizable, so what they cover may vary, and they may also include benefits for things like student loan protection, retirement contribution protection, and cost of living adjustment.

  • What is disability insurance?

    Also referred to as DI or disability income insurance, disability insurance is a type of insurance coverage that covers the beneficiary’s earned income against the risk that a potential disability could create. It basically works when you cannot. If an accident or an illness stops you from working, disability insurance offers a tax-free monthly benefit to ensure you can cover your daily living expenses.

  • Is permanent life insurance worth the higher cost?

    That all depends on your personal needs. Permanent life insurance policies are more expensive than term life insurance policies, and as far as needs and financial situations go, term life insurance is typically the more ideal option for the general population. However, if you require lifetime coverage, permanent life insurance is the way to go as your beneficiaries will receive a death benefit no matter when you pass (so long as you keep paying for your policy.) Some permanent life insurance policies contain a cash value account that grows at a rate specified by the policy, which you can borrow money from to use as collateral. Note, however, that the cash value only exists as a separate thing from the

  • How much does life insurance cost?

    It depends on your age and existing health conditions at the time you purchase your policy. Insurance costs increase as you age, and you could acquire health conditions that make it difficult for you to get insured.

  • Am I too young to buy life insurance?

    It’s never too early to purchase life insurance. Purchasing life insurance early means you can lock in lower rates while you’re still young and healthy. If you are single and aren’t planning a family, you may not need life insurance, but if you have a spouse and/or want children in the future, it might be a good idea to buy a life insurance policy.

  • How much life insurance coverage do I need?

    The answer is enough to cover your dependents’ needs and give your dependents the quality of life that they would otherwise have if you were alive. Life insurance should be enough to cover your debts, any education costs your dependents require, income replacement, etc.

  • What are the benefits of life insurance?

    Financial security for your loved ones, peace of mind, and covered expenses in the event of your death. With life insurance, there’s one less thing for your family to worry about in the stressful and unexpected circumstances of your passing.

  • What type of life insurance is right for me? What life insurance coverage do I need?

    It depends. There are multiple kinds of life insurance, grouped into the two major categories known as term and permanent. What you require depends on your needs, what would happen to your loved ones in the event of your passing, your current financial circumstances, and more. You should purchase life insurance coverage that is sufficient enough to cover your dependents’ needs in the event you should pass. This means things such as income replacement, covering education costs, and paying off debts. Working with a broker is a great way to ensure you know what type of life insurance you need

  • What does life insurance cover?

    Life insurance is designed to cover the unexpected death of the policyholder. The lump sum may be used to pay for funeral expenses, education for dependents, financial support for a spouse, and other expenses. There are some unique circumstances where life insurance won’t pay out, such as if the death was a result of criminal activity or, with some insurance providers, suicide.

  • What is life insurance?

    Life insurance is an agreement that is shared between the policyholder (you) and the insurer (the insurance company) where the insurance company promises to pay a specified beneficiary or beneficiaries a sum of money should you unexpectedly pass away during the policy period. Depending on the extent of the policy, things like terminal illness, disability, or critical illness may also trigger this payout.

  • How Much Does Tenant Insurance Cost?

    An extremely basic tenant insurance policy may cost only around $10/month, but since we advise increasing from the bare minimum and acquiring enough insurance to sufficiently pad your personal liability and contents coverage, you’ll find you may pay within the $20-$40 range for your tenant insurance policy. Rates for tenant insurance varies based on the kind of unit that you rent, how many tenants are in that unit, the total value of your contents, any prior tenant/home claims under your name, and the physical location/postal code of the unit.

  • What is Tenants’ Legal Liability Coverage? Why Is It Important?

    In Ontario, tenant’s legal liability coverage is automatically included in your tenant insurance package. It is used to cover the losses or damages of a property resulting from the actions of a renter that is occupying a space at the property.

    This is important because, A) it is sometimes required by the landlord as a means to protect themselves from the cost of damages a tenant could cause to the physical space and B) mitigates the risk of any legal issue, since the insurance pays for the cost of the damages or losses caused by the tenant.

  • Why Do I Need Tenant Insurance? What If My Landlord Already Has Coverage?

    Chances are, your landlord will already have their own insurance coverage. The “master policy,” or your landlord’s insurance, is designed to cover the physical property, including the structure of the building and all common areas. It will also cover the landlord’s liability.

    However, the master policy does not cover the tenant’s personal liability, nor will it cover their belongings. Some master policies may cover furniture or appliances that came with the individual units, but will not cover anything you’ve brought in to make your house feel like a home. As such, it’s important that every tenant acquire their own policy, to fill the gaps that a landlord policy will cover. Tenant insurance is inexpensive and sometimes required by landlords.

  • How Much Tenant Insurance Coverage Do I Need?

    It’s important that you purchase enough coverage to fully protect all your belongings as well as give you a decent financial “cushioning” for your legal liability. Most policies will start at around $100,000 in liability insurance, but we recommend increasing that amount to at least $1 million.

    For your contents, most insurance companies will recommend at least $30,000 to $40,000 in coverage, or more if you own a larger collection of highly-valued items, such as jewelry or even artwork. Insuring high-value items can cost you a little more on your monthly premiums, but it’s worth it to have all those belongings fully insured.

  • What Does Tenant Insurance Cover?

    As mentioned above, the majority of tenant insurance policies contain coverage for the individual’s personal contents, their personal liability, and may include additional living expenses. The insured can purchase a form of coverage known as “all risk” – which insures against every peril save for those specifically excluded in the policy documents. The tenant’s personal liability is insurable up until a specific stated amount, which the insured may be able to raise for a slightly increased premium.

    Tenant insurance also covers tenant’s legal liability, which is used to protect both the tenant and landlord and absolve the tenant of any costs that may occur if they cause unintentional damages to the building itself.

    Additional living expenses coverage tends to vary in what it covers. It may what is considered “necessary living expenses” – i.e., clothing, food (takeout, restaurants, groceries), hotel costs, childcare, etc., until the insured’s unit is liveable again. It will not cover frivolous expenses, such as a stay at a 5-star hotel, or an extravagant meal at the most expensive restaurant in-town. Discuss with your broker if you are unsure of what is considered a necessary living expense.

  • What Is Tenant Insurance?

    Tenant insurance, also commonly referred to as renters insurance, is a type of insurance policy that is designed specifically for people who live in properties that they do not own – i.e., tenants. As “tenants,” these individuals are not responsible for the maintenance or for any damages/losses that occur to the physical property. They can, however, be held liable for damages or injuries to third-parties, and their personal property contained within their rented homes and not owned by the property owner is still their responsibility. To protect their personal liability and contents, tenants purchase tenant insurance, or renters insurance. Tenant insurance includes coverage for the individual’s belongings up until a specific limit against a broad range of certain perils and generally also contains a component which may insure the individual if they are ever held liable for a third-party’s injuries or property damage.

    As an added, some policies can be further customized. Some policies may contain a coverage known as “additional living expenses,” which insures the individual for any necessary expenses that they may incur during a period where their unit is unlivable due to a loss.

  • Cyber Liability Insurance

    Sometimes, accidents do happen. But no one should ever have to deal with repercussions of a cyber attack on their own. Through Cyberboxx, Excalibur Insurance now offers Cyber Liability for families and individuals that can secure your home and the way you live your life if an attack does occur.

    Cyber Liability offers coverage that protects families against numerous cyber vulnerabilities. This may include instances of identity theft, cybercrime, cyber attacks, ransomware, cyber bullying, reputation injury, and cyberstalking. The recovery process following a cyber attack can be huge and interrupt you and your family’s way of life but with the right coverage, you can have peace of mind.

  • Phishing Scams

    Phishing scams generally come in the form of seemingly legitimate emails that contain malicious attachments or links which can download viruses onto your computer. Phishing scams are the top cause of data breaches among families and businesses, however not everyone can detect what a phishing email looks like. Inform your family of what a phishing email may appear like and inform them of what to do if they receive one.

  • Secure Network

    If you work from home without having a proper security system to defend your network against hackers, you may want to set up a network that is dedicated for work purposes solely. Otherwise, ensuring your personal WiFi network has a strong password is a solid start.

  • Secure Passwords

    The simpler your passwords and the more you reuse a single password, the likelier chance you have of having to deal with hackers stealing your personal information. If you use the same password across numerous accounts, hackers can gain access to numerous accounts very quicky. Consider using a mix of upper and lower case letters, numbers, symbols, and nothing with any relevance to your personal info. If you cannot remember numerous passwords across various accounts, consider a password manager.

  • Home Security & Cyber Attacks

    The best way to mitigating your risk of cyber attacks is taking the necessary steps to preventing them. It all boils down to ensuring that your home security is sufficient enough to protect you from hackers, data breaches, and phishing scams.

  • What Should I Know About Cyber Attacks?

    Here’s the thing – cyber attacks can be sneaky, and they can impact you and your family by a variety of means. In some instances, you may already be compromised by a hacker and not know it. Surprise instances of cyber attack may come in the form of an unexpected charge to your credit card or the realization that an email with a malicious attachment has been sent to your friends by your account. Cyber attacks can do loads of damage before you even realize they have happened.

    Cyber attacks can come in many different forms, including:

    • Phishing scams – Emails that ask for sensitive information or that contain malicious attachments and/or links to fake websites
    • Account hacking – Weak passwords that allow hackers to breach your private accounts and steal information
    • Cyberbullying and cyberstalking – Targeted harassment done online
    • WiFi breach – Compromised WiFi networks

     

    During the COVID-19 pandemic, many individuals began working from home. Unfortunately, this also caused the rate of identity theft, personal cyber attacks, and ransomware to rise. There are many ways you can reduce your risk of cyber attacks.

  • What is Cyber Insurance?

    The very term “Cyber Insurance” sounds like something out of a science fiction novel. Generally, cyber insurance is something utilized by commercial enterprises to safeguard their large databases from malware and cyberattacks, but individuals are compromised by fraud, identity theft, and phishing scams every day. It’s not just businesses that are being affected.

    Excalibur Insurance presents Cyber Liability through Cyberboxx to protect individuals and families from cyber attack, cyber extortion, online fraud, data breach, and even cyber bullying. Because home insurance generally will not cover instances of cybercrime specifically, many families may need acquire their peace of mind against cyber attacks via separate coverage. Enter Cyber Liability Insurance.

  • Does home insurance cover a builders risk?

    Home insurance does not provide builder’s risk coverage. Builder’s risk insurance is a type of property insurance that covers a building or structure while it is under construction or renovation. It protects against damage or loss to the structure and materials in the construction process. If you are undertaking a construction project, it is essential to obtain builder’s risk insurance to protect your investment during the construction phase.

  • Can your home insurance provider cancel your policy?

    Yes, your policy could be cancelled (or dropped.) If you are dropped, you will not receive a renewal at the expiration date of your existing policy and you will need to look for a new provider. If this is the case, your previous provider will inform you that you will be dropped so you can look for new coverage in the meantime.

    Your insurance company can cancel you at any point (you will receive notification) due to circumstances such as misrepresentation, non-payment, or increase in risk exposure. You may be made aware of your cancellation between 10 to 30 days.

  • What won’t home insurance cover?

    Policies will vary from provider to provider but there is a number of items that will likely not be included in your policy. If you have an all-risk policy, you have coverage for all damage apart from those that your insurer mentions explicitly. Frozen pipes, wear and tear, vacant properties, and certain valuables may not have coverage.

    Certain disasters will also not be included in your home insurance coverage, such as flooding, and earthquakes. You may be eligible to purchase these as an add-on, depending on where you live. For some valuables, you can buy higher limits of coverage.

  • How do home insurance deductibles work?

    A deductible is the amount you pay out before your home insurance provider steps in to cover the rest. For instance, say you suffered a loss or damages that was covered under your home insurance policy that cost you around $4,000. If your deductible was $1,000, you would need pay that amount for any repairs or replacements before your company paid out the remaining $3,000. You can adjust your deductible amount, but the rule of thumb is that the higher your deductible, the lower your rates.

  • Will home insurance cover my jewelry?

    Maybe. Depending on the valuables you own, your home insurance may include coverage for these items up to a stated limit. If your home insurance is not enough to cover your valuables, you may purchase an additional jewelry or collectibles rider.

  • Do I need home insurance if I don’t own my home?

    Your landlord may put a clause in your lease which requires you to purchase tenant’s insurance, which covers your liability and your possessions. If not, it is still a wise idea to purchase tenant’s insurance for a small cost per month to protect everything that your landlord’s insurance will not. Your landlord may already have a policy that covers the physical structure of your unit (excluding modifications or additions) and their liability, but not your contents or liability.

  • Is home insurance mandatory in Ontario?

    No, home insurance is not mandatory in the province of Ontario. However, if you do not own your home or have a mortgage, you may be required to purchase coverage. If you live in a rental home, you may want to consider tenant’s insurance, as your landlord’s insurance will not cover your liability or possessions. If you do own your home, home insurance is not a requirement,  but is highly recommended to protect you and your family’s biggest investment.

    If you need to do repairs or rebuild following an insured loss, you can get the financial compensation you need without having to pay solely out of pocket. Your home insurance can also offer financial protection if a claim from a third party leads into a lawsuit.

  • When should I get home insurance?

    If you have a mortgage, your lender will require you to purchase home insurance before you can “close” on your new home. You will want to take the time to shop around for the best policy for your needs (or work with an expert broker like Excalibur, who can do that for you.)

    Otherwise, it’s a good idea to start looking for home insurance as soon as you’ve signed a contract to purchase a new home. This gives you time to get insured before you close.

  • How do I get lower home insurance premiums?

    Because home insurance depends on so many different things, the cost of home insurance can vary. If budget is a concern of yours, you may be looking for ways to lower your home insurance premiums. Here are a few ideas:

    • Raise your deductible
    • Install home security systems
    • Bundle your home and auto from the same insurer
    • Shop around
    • Be “claims – free”
    • Ask about discounts

  • How much does home insurance cost in Ontario?

    There is no one number that can summarize the cost of home insurance in Ontario. To get an accurate sample of how much home insurance would cost for you, apply for a quote – it’s free!

    There are several variables that impact the cost of home insurance, and every provider will underwrite risk very differently, making for a lot of variation.

    Applying for a quote with Excalibur is the best way to see how much home insurance will cost for you. Doing so only takes a few minutes of your time and can start you on your way to great coverage at the lowest rates available.

  • How are home insurance premiums calculated?

    Home insurance premiums are calculated based on your circumstances and coverage amounts.  The following factors may play into how much you will pay for your home insurance:

    • If you live close to a fire station or hydrant,
    • Your area – how high the incidence of break-ins or vandalism is where you live,
    • Your home systems: electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation,
    • Age of your home,
    • Past claims,
    • Luxury additions: pools, trampolines, etc.,
    • If you are near a large body of water,
    • …and more.

  • How much home insurance do I need?

    It depends. Everyone’s circumstances look different. You and your family may live in a duplex, a two-story, a mansion, etc… Your insurance should reflect your needs. Home insurance is a safety net that can offer financial compensation if your home is damaged or destroyed. It can also help you if a guest or third-party should file a claim against you for unintentional bodily injury or property damage.

    Depending on the crime rates where you live, the features of your home, the size of your home, replacement value, weather, etc., your home insurance needs and premium will look very different than those of your neighbour’s. Thankfully, an Excalibur broker can work closely with you to determine your exact coverage needs so that you can choose a policy that works best for you.

  • What is the average cost of cottage insurance in Ontario?

    Your cottage insurance costs in Ontario will vary based on a number of factors, like how often you occupy your cottage, if you rent it out, how big it is, and more, so it’s difficult to lay out a single average cost. Excalibur Insurance has some figures:

    • Your average cottage insurance policy may range between $85 and $125/month.
    • Annually, your cottage insurance will average out to between $1,000 and $1,500.

    You can determine how much your cottage insurance will cost by requesting a quote from Excalibur Insurance quickly today!

  • How long can I leave my cottage unoccupied?

    It depends on your insurance provider, but generally a cottage is “intended” to be unoccupied for extended periods of time, like during the winter. You may be required to install various safety features, like burglar alarms or smoke detectors, or even drop by once in a while to ensure everything is up to par. Depending on your frequency of use, you may want to discuss with your insurance broker to see what your cottage insurance policy states.

  • Seasonal Property Insurance: A Breakdown

    Seasonal property or seasonal home insurance is financial protection for your cottage and any outdoor structures your family may own from the risks they face, such as vandalism, fire, and more. Your cottage insurance also includes contents insurance for the belongings stored inside your seasonal dwelling and liability coverage. Just think of what might happen if your cottage were to catch fire and sustain serious damages without the right cottage insurance. Could you afford to pay for all your losses alone?

    Your family doesn’t have to worry. An Excalibur broker gets to know (and should know!) your situation, the total rebuild for your cottage, what your coverage needs look like, and which insurance companies best reflect your requirements and budget.
    Your average cottage insurance policy includes protection for the following items –

    Your Cottage Building

    While the risks you have coverage for will depend on the type of policy you have purchased, your policy will include coverage for your cottage building as well as any outbuildings against either the risks as stated in your policy (if you have named perils coverage) or everything aside from any exclusions listed (if you have all perils/risks coverage.) If you have the former, i.e. “the basic policy,” you may have the option of adding other coverages to expand your existing protection.

    Personal Items

    Your cottage insurance includes protection for any personal items stowed in your seasonal dwelling up until your stated limits. If you own any items of higher value (jewelry, fur coats, collectibles, antiques), there is a chance you will need to increase your limits or purchase a “floater” to cover these belongings.

    Seasonal Property Liability

    Liability coverage for your cottage is just as important as it is for your home. This is especially true if you own any recreational items like ATVs, boats, snowmobiles, etc., as these items pose additional risks to you and any guests visiting your cottage. The liability portion of your cottage insurance should be enough to protect you and your family against cases of damages or accidental injury while using your recreational vehicles or if there is an accident while visiting your cottage. Consider the weight of your potential legal fees, liability claims and judgements. If these exceed your limits, you may be forced to pay out of pocket for the difference.

    Seasonal Home Insurance Endorsements

    You may be eligible to purchase additional cottage insurance coverages which can supplement your existing insurance against a number of different exposures. Some of the coverages that may be available to you can include:

    Watercraft Coverage

    If you own any boats or other water vehicles, your cottage insurance may not already include coverage for them. You may be required to purchase add-on insurance.

    ATV Coverage

    If you own any ATVs or off-road vehicles, you may be required to purchase add-on insurance so that they are covered.

    Wildlife Damage

    Damage by raccoons, squirrels, and bears is not always included with your cottage insurance. Thankfully, you can purchase add-on coverage so that you are protected against any losses due to wildlife.

    Excalibur’s cottage insurance brokers can do the work for you and suggest protection options for your seasonal property. With our expertise and knowledge, we can help guide you towards making the right decisions for you and your family’s peace of mind.

  • What happens if my EV is damaged by an electric charging station malfunction?

    Generally, if you had comprehensive coverage, your electric vehicle may be covered. This would be treated similarly to any other non-collision damage event.

  • Are there any government incentives for insuring electric vehicles in Ontario?

    Currently, there are no specific insurance incentives for electric vehicles in Ontario. However, there is a program known as the Incentives for Zero-Emissions Vehicles (iZEV) in Canada, as well as tax write-offs for businesses. The iZEV program essentially offers point-of-sale incentives for customers who either purchase or lease a zero-emission vehicle. Two incentives exist – one for $5,000 for battery-electric, longer-range plug-in hybrid vehicles, and another for up to $2,500 for shorter-range plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. To be eligible for the program, vehicles must meet all of Canada’s Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, be meant for use on roads, highways, and public streets, and have at least four functioning wheels and be able to drive on highways.

  • Will installing a home charging station affect my insurance premiums?

    While installing a home charging station will do nothing to impact your electric vehicle insurance premiums, it may impact your home insurance. Make sure to inform your insurer about any plans you have to add a home charging station to ensure you have adequate protection in place should anything happen.

  • Why do electric vehicles cost more to insure than their gas-powered alternatives?

    Take, for example, the Ford Fusion. Where a traditional gas-powered model might cost you anywhere between $1,600-$1,900/year to insure (on average) its electric-powered alternative may cost you upwards of $2,000. Some of the reasons why electric vehicles cost more to insure is due to the higher cost for replacement parts, the cost to replace damaged electric vehicle batteries, and the higher expense for repairs due to specialized training required to fix electric vehicles.

  • What is the average cost of electric vehicle insurance?

    Electric vehicle insurance costs range astronomically due to the fact that each electric vehicle is priced vastly different. You may find that you could end up paying anywhere between $1,500 and $4,600/year for your electric car insurance in Ontario, depending on various factors. These figures, however, are only estimates and we advise you to get a quote to gauge a more accurate figure for your electric car’s insurance premiums.

  • What is the cheapest electric vehicle to insure?

    Currently, the cheapest electric vehicles to insure are the Nissan Leaf and the Kia Soul EV. However, this may stand to change as electric vehicles evolve, gain higher safety ratings, and become more popular on the roads. If budget is a top priority for you, we advise keeping insurance rates in mind when shopping for your next electric vehicle.

  • Are my EVs batteries covered if they’re damaged in an accident?

    Typically, if you have collision coverage or DCDP coverage in a not at-fault accident, your EV’s batteries will be covered if they are damaged in an accident. If your EVs batteries were damaged or gave out due to your neglect or lack of maintenance, however, they probably wouldn’t be covered.

  • Are there discounts for driving an electric vehicle?

    Yes, some insurers do offer discounts if you drive an electric vehicle, to incentivize you to make more green choices. You may want to check with your insurer about potential discounts for “driving green.” Another green way to potentially reduce your insurance costs is to go paperless!

  • Do I need to buy special insurance for my electrical vehicle (EV) in Ontario?

    Electric car insurance works the same way as traditional car insurance does. Sure, EVs may need special parts and services, but that doesn’t mean their insurance works differently. Insurance may be costlier in some instances, but Ontario’s mandatory automobile insurance laws still require EVs to be insured with the same level of protection as any vehicle on the road.

  • Are electric vehicles more expensive to insure than traditional vehicles in Ontario?

    While the cost of electric car insurance is not guaranteed to more expensive than traditional vehicle insurance, you may find your rates slightly higher due to the more costly nature of electric vehicles. EVs often have expensive, tech-savvy features, and may have a higher market value than their gas-powered alternatives. Rates still vary based on your common car insurance factors, like usage, driver’s record, replacement cost, commute distance, postal code, and so forth.

  • What’s The Bottom Line?

    Sometimes your basic auto insurance just isn’t enough. Ontario requires that drivers purchase a base minimum of liability per provincial requirements but that still leaves many vehicle owners underinsured when their cars and trucks suffer from depreciation over the years. If a no-fault accident was to take place where your vehicle was written-off, what would you do? Gap insurance is great, but Optiom Prime can protect your family’s prized investment when you need it most.

    Depreciation can decrease your vehicle’s value up to 20% in the first year and 15% per year following. That can be a huge financial impact without having the right coverage. Optiom can mend the gap and give you and your family the peace of mind you deserve.

    Optiom Prime is underwritten by underwriters at Lloyd’s and administered by Optiom Prime Inc.

  • What is Diminished Vehicle Value Benefit?

    If you are involved in a no-fault accident, your Optiom Prime will pay a fixed amount if the necessary repairs exceed over 25% of the declared value of the vehicle (when the accident took place.) The vehicle’s value at the inception of your policy will determine the fixed payout amount (ex: if the vehicle value is between $5,000-$10,000, the guaranteed payout will be $1,000, and so on.)

  • What is the Key Fob Reimbursement Benefit?

    Optiom Prime can reimburse you the cost to replace your vehicle’s key fob if you lost it. This includes up to $500 if vehicle’s keys are stolen or lost.

  • What is the Rental Vehicle Reimbursement Benefit?

    If you have rental vehicle coverage provided by your primary auto insurance provider which ends before your vehicle can be replaced or repaired, Optiom Prime can reimburse you for the continual rental vehicle costs until the repairs/replacement is complete.

  • Partial Loss Deductible Reimbursement Benefit

    If you need to pay out for a deductible on your primary auto insurance, Optiom Prime can reimburse you if there is a loss where your vehicle is repairable. Optiom Prime can pay up to $500 of your deductible if your vehicle can be repaired following an insured loss.

  • Should I buy gap insurance from a dealer?

    Some dealers may offer the chance to purchase gap insurance when you buy or lease a new vehicle, but it might pay to assess whether the price is worth it next to what an insurance company may ask for traditionally. Moreover, an insurance broker will know your circumstances and your needs. In the end, it’s your decision, but don’t leap to buy if you have not already checked out all your options.

    Optiom Prime is special, and Excalibur Insurance is one of very few insurance brokers in Ontario that offers this protection if your vehicle is written off in a collision or accident. You can request a quote with Excalibur and start protecting your family budget today.

  • How much does gap insurance cost in Ontario?

    Typically, gap insurance comes relatively inexpensive and is purchased when you buy your new vehicle from the dealership. Your costs will vary according to the typical factors such as purchase price of the vehicle and expected usage of the vehicle.

    Optiom Prime, on the other hand, may cost between $25 and $35 per month and covers the purchase price of your vehicle, not just the remaining difference between the depreciated value of your vehicle and your current loan.

  • Is gap insurance worth it?

    It depends. If you owe more than what your vehicle is worth at any point, gap insurance is likely worth your money. This is especially true if you have put down anything less than 20% and having gap insurance for the first few years that you own your car is probably a good idea. In the event that your car is ruined, you will not have to pay out-of-pocket for the difference between your actual cash value and how much you owe to your lender.

    Optiom goes above and beyond as it ensures the purchase price – not just the difference between the actual cash value of your mini van and your standing loan amount. While gap insurance can certainly help, Optiom helps you acquire a far more reasonable payout.

  • What’s the difference between Optiom vs Gap Insurance

    Option Prime and gap insurance sound very similar on paper, but Optiom is far superior in terms of what it can cover. For example, gap insurance can provide coverage if your mini van has a loan that is greater than its value due to depreciation as a result of high mileage and interior damage done by your kids. Optiom Prime ensures you get your purchase price in the event of a loss, and not just the difference between the loan amount and ACV of your mini van.

  • How does Optiom work?

    Your primary auto insurance carrier will pay the market value of your car as part of the mandatory comprehensive and collision coverage you would need to carry. Optiom Prime is an additional policy, although not mandatory, it will pay the difference to ensure you get the amount you paid if your vehicle is written off in an accident.

    If you currently have lease or loan obligations and your vehicle is a total loss, Optiom Prime will contribute to that too. Like other endorsements, Optiom Prime is an additional purchase that supplements your existing insurance. You may also add optional coverage (for an additional premium) for new and used vehicles.

  • Why Optiom Prime?

    Because cars lose value overtime. You and your family likely treasure your vehicle, and you’ve used it plenty over the years. It’s seen a lot of soccer practices, trips to and from work and school, roadtrips, and so on. Unfortunately, as all things do, your vehicle will age and wear and with newer models on the market, it just won’t be worth the same as it was when you bought it.

    Due to this, many auto insurance policyholders find themselves “underwater.” When their vehicle is written off in an accident, they won’t receive a settlement in line with the vehicle’s current financed value. Instead, they will only get the current market value – which can end up costing the policy holder additional cash out of pocket in the event of a loss.

    Optiom Prime coverage premiums are locked-in when you purchase a policy, and there is a guarantee for no re-qualifications (for your vehicle) or increases as long as you maintain your insurance. You will continue to be eligible for coverage for up to 7 years for newly purchased vehicles and up to 5 years for used ones.

  • Market Value Vs Optiom Prime Payout

    Put simply, take your $40,000 vehicle. This was the market value at the time it was purchased. Over time, that value changes – regardless of how much you paid initially. At the time of loss, your vehicle has about $18,000 of market value. Optiom Prime, however, will value your vehicle at the original purchase price of $40,000 and would offset the loss by paying you the $22,000 remaining.

  • Why You Should Purchase Gap Insurance

    Gap insurance in Canada is also sometimes referred to as guaranteed auto protection. It reimburses a vehicle owner if the auto insurance payout is less than the outstanding lease/loan amount. Gap insurance is especially important for those people who have put no money down for their vehicle and opted for a long payoff period.

    What does gap insurance cover? How does gap insurance work? It might be easier explained with an example.

    Imagine this scenario: you own a vehicle that has been completely wrecked and written off as a total loss. You are then owed the full value of that current vehicle. As is the case with any average vehicle, this car is now worth 20% less than what it was worth a year ago when you purchased it. If your collision insurance pays out $18,000 but you owe a total loan of $20,000, you’re in the hole for that remaining shortfall of $2,000.

    If you had gap insurance, your gap payout would be that $2,000 shortfall. This means you won’t be left on the hook if your vehicle was written off in a wreck or collision.

    Gap insurance is great, but it provides coverage only for the difference between the loan amount and actual cash value or “ACV” of your vehicle in the event of a loss. With Optiom, you purchase an insured limit that is similar to the purchase price of your vehicle. Even years later, you can still receive your purchase price back should you suffer a loss.

  • What is Optiom Prime?

    If you bought your vehicle new, Optiom Prime will reimburse your written-off vehicle for the difference between your primary insurance carrier’s market value payout and the amount the vehicle was worth when you purchased it for up to seven years after the fact. If you bought your vehicle used, Optiom Prime will reimburse you for up to five years after purchased. This includes any HST tacked on.

    Is it worth the money to buy it? If you believe that you currently owe more money on a vehicle than your auto policy would pay out in the event of a claim, Optiom is worth the buy. Optiom is a little like guaranteed auto protection. It reimburses a vehicle owner if the auto insurance payout is less than the outstanding lease/loan amount. This is especially important for those people who have put no money down for their vehicle and opted for a long payoff period.

    In a way, Optiom is similar to gap insurance.

  • Optiom Prime: Turbocharging Your Auto Insurance

    Imagine this: you buy a brand-new vehicle for $40,000 and take it home. You and your family use this vehicle daily for over four years, and then it gets in an accident. To your dismay, your vehicle is totalled. Luckily, you have auto insurance coverage that will reimburse you. Right?

    Not exactly. Yes, your auto insurance carrier may write you a small cheque for the vehicle that was written-off, but only as much as it was worth (the depreciated value) at the time of the accident.

    That’s where Optiom Prime comes in. Optiom Prime will reimburse you for what you paid, unlike your average auto insurance policy. Here’s how it works.

  • What do I do if I disagree with my insurance provider’s assessment of fault?

    If you believe your insurance provider’s assessment of fault is dissatisfactory and doesn’t reflect what happened, you can call up the claims adjuster who was handling your case. See which rule within the Fault Determination Rules was applied in your case.

    If you can, offer any new information to your insurance company’s attention. They may revise or reconsider their decision only if relevant information to the case is provided.

    If your insurance company refuses to revise the decision or if you still disagree, you can reach out to your insurance company’s complaint officer and be guided through the company’s complaint-handling protocol.

  • How does my insurance provider determine whether I am at-fault in an accident?

    Whether partially or fully, there is always fault assigned – even in provinces that follow the no-fault rules. Insurance companies gauge fault to determine an individual’s premium percentage increase, if any. The more at-fault incidents or partially at fault accidents you’re involved in, the more likely you are to be labelled a high-risk driver.

    Insurance companies use what is known as Fault Determination Rules, which adhere to regulations laid out by the provinces Insurance Act. Drivers can be assigned fault on a percentage basis, so anywhere from 0% at-fault to 100% at-fault.

    You can find Ontario’s Fault Determination Rules here: https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900668″>https://www.ontario.ca/laws/regulation/900668

  • What are the best high-risk auto insurance companies?

    Not every auto insurance company offers high-risk insurance, but Excalibur works with a few of the best high-risk auto insurance providers around.

    Jevco Insurance Company provides high-risk insurance for drivers who are finding it difficult to acquire insurance in Ontario through standard companies. They offer customizable policies that recognize the different experiences, driving habits, and characteristics of each driver.

    Echelon provides non-standard automobile insurance in numerous provinces throughout Canada, including Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, PEI, and Nova Scotia, for those who are unable to obtain insurance from standard carriers due to license suspensions, driving infractions, and more.

    Coachman Insurance Company’s insurance programs are specially designed to provide auto insurance to rehabilitating drivers. They recognize the need to drive and repair a driving record by building up a consistent history again. They offer a second chance at affordable insurance.

  • Why is high-risk insurance so expensive?

    When insurance companies calculate your premiums, they’re virtually calculating your likelihood of being involved in an accident or making a claim. If you are statistically more likely to make a claim, your insurance rates will reflect that. High-risk drivers are perceived as more likely to make a claim – riskier (i.e., “high risk”) – and therefore will be charged higher rates. Car insurance can be much more expensive for those who have had numerous recent claims and/or driving violations, like at-fault accidents, speeding tickets, and DUIs.

  • How much is high-risk insurance in Ontario?

    Unfortunately, high-risk insurance in Ontario tends to be more expensive than your average auto insurance policy. There’s really no way around it. Depending on your risk profile, you might be paying anywhere between 25% to 250% more than your average driver.

  • How long will I be considered a high-risk driver?

    You will no longer be considered a high-risk driver once some of your tickets fall off your record. Most traffic tickets, suspensions, or policy cancellations, etc. will be removed from your record after three years. At-fault incidents and criminal convictions, however, can remain on your record and keep you labelled a high-risk driver for up to six years.

  • Why would you need high-risk auto insurance?

    To remain insured. Few standard auto insurance providers will insure high-risk drivers, meaning you’ll need to place your policy with a non standard insurance company through an experienced high risk  insurance broker. High-risk insurance does typically cost more, but the high-risk label isn’t permanent.

  • How does high-risk insurance work?

    High-risk insurance functions similarly to standard auto insurance, in that it covers your vehicle and supplies the necessary coverage to render your vehicle “road-legal” but three criteria may differentiate it from your typical policy. One, your insurance will likely cost more. Two, your payment options will be reduced (because many drivers are high-risk due to cancellations for non-payment), and three: insurance coverage will be limited. Your liability limits may be capped, and you may be required to pay higher deductibles in the event of a claim. You will be stuck with having to carry high-risk auto insurance until your high-risk label comes down. This, unfortunately, is only done with time.

  • What is high-risk or non-standard auto insurance?

    In insurance, high-risk means that your risk appetite is higher than that of the average driver’s. This may be because you are a young driver with a poor driving record or little driving experience, because you have been involved in too many at-fault accidents, you have a history of being cancelled due to non-payment, you have had a DUI charge, or other risk-related characteristics. High-risk drivers do not qualify for standard auto insurance and so, in order to remain insured, must acquire “non-standard auto insurance” (or high-risk auto insurance) which may differentiate from your standard policy in a number of ways.

  • Do I need to buy travel trailer insurance?

    Because travel trailers are towed behind your vehicle and do not operate on their own, they do not require their own auto policy and it is not mandatory to purchase travel trailer insurance. However, they do not have coverage under your car insurance for damages or collisions and it is recommended you purchase a proper travel trailer insurance policy to have peace of mind. Recreational vehicles that can be driven and operate on public roads (like motorhomes) may require insurance to be used.

  • What is the average cost of trailer insurance?

    Because you and your travel trailer are unique, there is no single cost that accounts for all the travel trailer insurance policies out there. However, you can compare quotes with Excalibur Insurance’s Trailer Quoting Widget, in partnership with Aviva Insurance, to have a better idea of how much your travel trailer insurance will cost. Here are some average figures:

    • Per month, your travel trailer insurance may cost between $25 and $40.
    • This averages out to around between $300 and $500 annually.

    With our quoting widget, getting a travel trailer insurance quote is quicker and allows you to get on with your next family adventure faster.

  • What are the different types of travel trailers?

    Trailer is a broad term used to encompass a variety of different trailer types. These may include travel trailers, which attach to your car or truck by a hitch. There are fifth wheel trailers, which have more space than your average trailer, are more stable, and typically the safest. Camper trailers are similar and towed behind your vehicle/can be interchangeably used to refer to travel trailers. Horse trailers are used to pull horses or other livestock safely behind a vehicle. Finally, there are also stationary trailers which may be insured like travel trailers apart from the collision component (as they do not move.)

  • Is trailer insurance covered by my car insurance policy?

    Your car insurance may offer liability coverage for your trailer, but this is likely to apply only when your trailer is hitched to your car. Any physical damages, theft, or vandalism to the physical structure of your trailer or to its contents may not have coverage. For this, you will need to purchase separate travel trailer insurance.

  • What is a high risk driver?

    Being a high-risk driver typically means that insurance companies consider you more likely to be involved in an accident or have a claim compared to the average driver. Several factors can contribute to being classified as a high-risk driver, including:

    • Driving Record: If you have a history of traffic violations, such as speeding tickets, distracted driving, impaired driving, or at-fault accidents, insurance companies will view you as a high-risk driver.
    • Young Age or Inexperience: Younger drivers, especially teenagers, are often considered high-risk due to their lack of driving experience. Insurance companies may also classify individuals with limited driving experience as high-risk.
    • Driving Habits: If you have a history of frequent insurance claims or driving long distances regularly, insurers may consider you a higher risk.
    • Previous Insurance Claims: If you have a history of filing multiple insurance claims, regardless of fault, insurance companies will view you as high-risk.
    • Lapse in coverage: If you have gone without car insurance for a period of time, it can be harder to get affordable coverage again.
      Being classified as a high-risk driver typically results in higher insurance premiums compared to other drivers. However, there are still insurance options available for high-risk drivers, including specialized high-risk insurance companies or government-run insurance pools.

    These options may offer coverage at higher rates but can help ensure that you are still legally insured to drive. Improving your driving record and maintaining a clean driving history, will reduce your risk profile over time and lower your insurance premiums.

  • What does full coverage mean?

    Full coverage typically refers to an auto insurance policy that includes a combination of liability coverage, comprehensive coverage and collision coverage.

    • Liability coverage: This covers bodily injury and property damage that you may cause to others in an accident for which you are deemed at fault. It typically includes both bodily injury liability (which covers medical expenses, lost wages, and legal fees) and property damage liability (which covers repairs or replacement of the other party’s vehicle or property).
    • Comprehensive coverage: This covers damage to your vehicle caused by incidents other than a collision, such as theft, windstorm, fire, vandalism, falling objects, and hitting an animal.
    • Collision coverage: This covers damage to your own vehicle when it is involved in a collision with another vehicle or a stationary object.

    Keep in mind that the specifics of what “full coverage” entails can vary depending on the insurance company and the policy options you select. Additionally, full coverage doesn’t necessarily mean you’re covered for every possible scenario; there will always be limitations and exclusions in your policy.

  • Will auto insurance cover…?:

    An Unlicensed Driver – If you do not have a driver’s license, you cannot purchase auto insurance in Ontario.

    Stolen Items – If your vehicle is broken into and the thief makes off with your backpack, GPS, laptop, or other items, your claim is not covered by your auto insurance. Since property was stolen from your vehicle, your claim would fall under your home or property insurance.

    Windshield Replacement – Comprehensive insurance coverage will replace a broken windshield, subject to your deductible .

    Vandalism – Comprehensive insurance coverage will cover vandalism to your vehicle.

    Engine Failure – No, engine failure is not covered by your auto insurance policy, because it is often caused by improper maintenance of your vehicle.

    Pre-Existing Damage – Pre-existing damage to your vehicle is not covered by your auto insurance policy.

    Medical Bills – The Accident Benefits portion of your auto insurance policy will cover medical bills, up-to a specific limit, in the event you are injured in a car accident.

    Hail Damage – Comprehensive insurance coverage will repair your vehicle in the event of hail damage.

  • Why is auto insurance so expensive in Ontario?

    Auto insurance rates tend to be higher in the province of Ontario. Why? Unfortunately, this is largely due to rising instances of insurance fraud, poor weather, and distracted driving cases that have risen in the last couple of years in the province. Moreover, vehicles are more expensive , vehicle repairs are more expensive , and Ontario has over 8 million licensed drivers.

    If it seems like a losing battle, try not to be overwhelmed! Excalibur can offer you many ways to save on your auto insurance rates, like raising your deductible, opting for public transport where possible, and ensuring you are receiving all of the eligible discounts.

  • Can auto insurance companies raise rates?

    Each insurance company sets their rates based on their loss experience and the make-up of their customers, including their ages, driving experience, and operating region. Since Excalibur Insurance is a brokerage, we are not responsible for setting any of the rates – we simply let customers know what rates are available to them in the market.

  • Can auto insurance be cancelled at any time?

    Yes, auto insurance can be cancelled at any time. However, depending on your insurance company, you may still have to pay a portion of your premium based on how much time is left on your policy. Additionally, your insurance company can also cancel you or choose not to offer you a renewal, if you have multiple accidents, tickets, or cancellations for non-pay. Speak with a broker to determine which insurance companies will write you depending on your insurance history.

  • How are auto insurance premiums calculated?

    The cost of auto insurance premiums are calculated based on your age, gender, convictions, driving history, years of experience, distance of your commute, model of your vehicle, operating region, and more. Since there is a lot that goes into an insurance quote, premiums can change dramatically from person-to-person.

  • What is an auto insurance deductible?

    A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before the insurance company will begin to cover the cost of repairs. For example, if your deducible is $1000 and you get in an accident that cost $7500 to repair. You would pay the first $1000 to the repair shop, and your insurance would cover the remaining $6500.

  • How much auto insurance coverage do I need in Ontario?

    Every auto policy in Ontario will likely provide a minimum of $200,000 for liability coverage in Ontario, if such a claim should ever arise. This is the bare minimum that the provincial minimum coverage requirements allow. However, due to the severity of lawsuits and their frequency, many insurance carriers will recommend you carry much higher coverage limits. Discuss with your broker about what your liability limits should be.

  • Is auto insurance in Ontario mandatory?

    In Ontario, all drivers are required to have liability coverage. Liability coverage provides protection for bodily injury or property damage as a result of the operation of an automobile. Failing to have insurance coverage leaves you liable for any damages should an at-fault accident occur. Additionally, drivers who can’t produce proof of insurance could be faced with fines, vehicle seizure, license suspension, and criminal charges.

  • Why are my auto insurance rates going up?

    Insurance premiums increase when the insurance industry experiences a period of time where they pay out more in claims than they receive in premiums. This is known as a “hard market.” You can learn more about why insurance premiums go up by checking out our YouTube video titled “Why Are My Insurance Rates Going Up?” or our blog titled “Why Did My Insurance Go Up?”

  • When should I get auto insurance?

    If you are not planning on buying your own vehicle, your parents can add you to their insurance policy as an occasional driver of their vehicle. If you are planning to buy a vehicle, you need get auto insurance the same day. When you’re shopping around for a new vehicle, you can contact a broker to compare quotes on different models to find the cheapest premium for you. Once you’ve purchased a vehicle, insurance coverage is legally required before you’re able to pick up your new car from the dealership.

  • Which auto insurance company is the best?

    There are dozens of car insurance companies across Ontario, that all offer different rates for auto insurance. Some companies offer discounts for young drivers, while others prioritize experience and an accident-free driving record. When you find an insurance company that goes above and beyond to meet your unique needs, it’s truly something to rave about. In fact, many people have found that same feeling about The Excalibur Insurance Group. To date, we’ve received over 400 reviews from our customers.

  • How much does auto insurance cost in Ontario?

    Technically, there is no single overarching number that sums up the cost of auto insurance for every driver in Ontario. Your auto insurance rates will depend upon a few different variables, such as the make/model of the car you drive, the drivers listed on your policy, and the length of your average commute, to name a few. You can expect to pay more if you have young and experienced drivers named on your policy, drive long distances during high traffic times, and/or have experienced an accident in the past.

    Excalibur has provided the following figures for you to get a better idea of how much auto insurance can cost in Ontario:

    • You can expect to pay an average of $1,500 year for auto insurance in Ontario.
    • This means you may be paying anywhere between $125 and $150 month for your auto insurance policy.

  • How do I compare auto insurance quotes in Ontario?

    You could call up your prospective insurance companies and compare quotes directly, but that could take a lot of time out of your day and no one wants to spend hours of their day on the phone. A brokerage – like Excalibur – has access to many of the best auto insurance companies on the market and can compare rates for you with the same requirements in mind. This can be done quickly and hassle-free with Excalibur.

  • Which auto insurance policy is best for me?

    Your insurance needs are different than those of your neighbour’s, so you need an insurance broker that recognizes that. An Excalibur Insurance broker will ask you all the questions needed to guarantee that you have the right coverage and the best auto insurance policy for your needs. Additionally, your broker will walk you through the coverage options available to you, including comprehensive coverage, collision coverage, and increased liability limits. Once you determine your optimal coverage plan, your broker can help you find the best coverage at the best price.