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CONSUMERS | Resources
FAQs
This section provides answers to the questions frequently asked by consumers. For specific questions concerning your insurance needs, please contact an insurance broker.
Do you sell insurance?
No. We are the national trade association that represents property & casualty insurance brokers across Canada. To find an insurance broker in your area, click here.
How do I become an insurance broker?
In Canada, insurance brokers must be licensed. Licensing requirements vary from province to province. Contact the insurance brokers association in your province to find out more.
How do I find an insurance broker?
Word of mouth is often the best source. Ask a friend, a neighbour or a co-worker if they can recommend a broker. Or click on our broker locator.
What is the difference between an insurance broker and an insurance agent?
An agent works for one company and can only offer you the products of that company. An insurance broker has access to the products of several insurance companies and can find the best combination of coverage, price and service. In other words, an insurance broker works for you.
How can I control my insurance costs?
For all policies:
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Review your policies with your insurance broker to ensure that you are adequately (but not over-) insured. |
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Raise your deductibles for all policies. Accepting the risk for small losses can save you money. |
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Report insurance fraud to the appropriate authorities. |
For car insurance:
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Not all cars are created equal; some cost less to insure because of lower repair costs and risk of theft. Ask your broker before you buy. |
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Install an anti-theft system. |
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Avoid tickets. The better your driving record, the lower your premiums. |
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Avoid claims by preventing collisions. Drive defensively, sober and awake. |
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Where possible, take public transportation to and from work. |
For commercial insurance:
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Ensure that your employees are aware of safety and hiring practices as well as your workplace’s harassment policies. |
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Consult with your insurance broker before expanding into different geographical areas. Costs may vary dramatically. |
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Ask your broker about arranging a complete loss prevention audit to identify possible hazards and offer solutions to reduce exposure to a broad range of risks– from injuries and fire to fraud and theft. |
Why are insurance premiums increasing?
There are several reasons for premium increases - even on claims-free policies. For more information, please refer to our brochure.
Do brokers charge fees?
Generally, no. However, brokers are provincially regulated and rules vary from province to province. You may want to check with the regulator in your province to find out what is the standard. You can find a list of the provincial regulators here.
Can you help me with my claim?
No, but your insurance broker can. Assistance with a claim and serving as your advocate in dealing with the insurance company are among the many services offered by a broker. If you bought your insurance directly from an insurance company, however, you must deal directly with that company’s claims department.
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