Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Car Insurance
Car insurance rates in Toronto are influenced by several factors. The city's high population density leads to more traffic and, consequently, more accidents. High rates of vehicle theft, vandalism, and insurance fraud in some urban areas also contribute to higher premiums. Insurers use your postal code to assess these risks, which is why rates vary significantly even within the city.
In Ontario, if you lend your car, you are also lending your insurance. If your friend gets into an at-fault accident while driving your vehicle, your insurance policy is the one that will be used, and it could cause your premium to increase. It's crucial that any regular drivers of your vehicle are listed on your policy.
If you are found to be at-fault for an accident, it will be recorded on your insurance record and will likely cause your premium to increase upon renewal. The level of increase depends on the severity of the accident, your claims history, and whether you have "Accident Forgiveness" coverage. In Ontario, fault is determined by your insurer based on the Fault Determination Rules set out in the provincial Insurance Act.
Yes, most driving convictions, including speeding tickets, will impact your insurance rates. Insurers consider tickets a sign of risky driving behavior. The severity of the increase depends on the type of offense, with more serious violations leading to a larger premium hike. Tickets typically stay on your driving record and affect your insurance for a minimum of three years from the conviction date.
The first step is to stay calm and ensure everyone is safe. If anyone is injured, or if the total damage appears to be over $2,000, call the police immediately. If no one is injured and the damage is minor, you must exchange information with the other driver(s), including names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, and insurance details. You must also report the accident to your own insurance company as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours.
A lapse in insurance is a gap where a driver didn't have valid coverage. This can happen if you cancel your policy and don't immediately get a new one, or if your policy is cancelled for non-payment. Insurers view a lapse as a major risk factor, and it will almost certainly lead to much higher premiums when you try to get a new policy. In some cases, a long lapse can even make it difficult to find an insurer willing to cover you.
Yes, you are required to add any licensed household members who will be regularly driving your car to your policy. Failing to do so is considered misrepresentation and can lead to a claim being denied or your policy being cancelled. It is best to inform your insurer as soon as a child gets their G2 license.
Your standard personal car insurance policy does not cover commercial activities like rideshare or food delivery. Using your vehicle for these purposes without proper coverage can result in a claim being denied. You must inform your insurer about this use, as you will likely need to add a specific endorsement or purchase a commercial auto insurance policy.
Home Insurance
While not legally required by the province, it is a contractual requirement if you have a mortgage. Lenders insist on it to protect their financial investment in your property.
Replacement cost is the amount it would take to rebuild your home from scratch today. Market value is what your home would sell for on the real estate market, including the land. Your insurance is based on the replacement cost, not the market value.
A basic policy covers damage to your home and personal belongings from specific perils like fire, theft, and windstorms. It also includes personal liability coverage, which protects you if you are sued for accidentally injuring someone on your property.
Standard policies do not cover damage from events like overland flooding, earthquakes, or sewer backup unless you purchase optional endorsements. Damage from wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or pests is also generally not covered.
To file a claim, you should first ensure everyone is safe and take steps to prevent further damage. Then, document everything with photos and videos. Next, contact your insurance company's claims department as soon as possible to report the incident and start the process.
Making a claim, especially an at-fault or large claim, will often cause your premium to increase upon renewal. Filing multiple claims in a short period can also affect your rates or even your eligibility for a policy.
Premiums are determined by factors such as your home's age and construction, its location, your claims history, and the amount of coverage you choose. Older homes, high-risk locations, and a history of claims can all contribute to higher rates.
Yes. You should always inform your insurer about significant renovations, as they can change your home's replacement cost and coverage needs. Failing to do so could result in a claim being denied or your home being underinsured.
A standard policy provides very limited coverage for a home-based business. You should inform your insurer of any business activities and purchase a specific endorsement or a separate commercial policy to properly cover your business assets and liability.
Condo Insurance
You are covered by two policies. The condo corporation's insurance covers the building's exterior and common areas (lobby, gym, hallways), while your personal policy covers the interior of your unit, your personal belongings, upgrades you've made, and your personal liability.
It is not legally mandatory, but it is almost always required by your mortgage lender. Your condo corporation's bylaws may also require you to carry personal liability coverage.
A typical policy covers your personal property against common perils like fire and theft, as well as damage to any upgrades you have made. It also includes personal liability coverage and can cover additional living expenses if you are temporarily displaced.
Standard policies generally do not cover damage from overland flooding, earthquakes, or sewer backup unless you purchase an endorsement. It also excludes damage from normal wear and tear, pests, or lack of maintenance.
This is a crucial optional coverage that protects you from being charged a portion of a large claim made by the condo corporation. If a major disaster occurs in a common area and the cost exceeds the corporation's insurance limits, they may assess each unit owner for a share of the extra cost, which this coverage would pay.
First, take steps to prevent further damage and ensure your safety. Then, document the damage with photos and videos. Next, contact both your own insurance company and your condo corporation to report the incident and begin the claims process.
The SIUD is a document provided by your condo corporation that defines what a "standard" unit includes. You are responsible for insuring any improvements or upgrades you have made to your unit beyond this standard, which is why it's important to have a copy of this document.
Rates are affected by your unit's location, the age of the building, your personal claims history, and the amount of coverage and deductibles you choose. The claims history of the entire condo building can also impact your rates.
Making a claim, especially a large one, will often cause your premium to increase upon renewal. However, the impact depends on the type of claim, your claims history, and your specific insurer's policy.
A standard policy does not cover you if you rent out your unit. You must inform your insurer of this change in use and purchase a landlord or rental endorsement to ensure you have proper coverage for your unit and liability.
Tenant Insurance
Renter's insurance is a policy that protects you as a tenant. It primarily covers your personal belongings against a variety of risks, provides liability coverage, and can pay for additional living expenses if you are displaced from your home due to a covered event.
While not legally required by the province, it is a very common requirement in lease agreements. Your landlord can legally require you to have it as a condition of your tenancy to protect their property and their own liability.
The cost is generally very affordable, often ranging from $15 to $30 per month. The price depends on the value of your belongings, where you live, the security features of your building, and your claims history.
Renter's insurance does not cover the building structure itself (that's the landlord's responsibility). It also typically excludes damage from events like overland flooding, earthquakes, pests, or wear and tear unless specific endorsements are added.
The best way to get an accurate estimate is to create a detailed inventory of all your possessions, including the purchase price and date. Take photos or videos of your items and keep a copy of your inventory in a safe place, such as a cloud storage service.
Liability coverage is arguably the most important part of your policy. It protects you from costly lawsuits if you accidentally cause a fire, a flood, or an injury to a guest in your apartment. Without it, you could be held financially responsible for significant damages.
No. Your policy only covers your personal belongings. If you have a roommate, they will need to purchase their own separate renter's insurance policy to protect their possessions and personal liability.
Yes, most policies provide "off-premises coverage," which protects your personal property from theft or damage even when you are traveling, at work, or temporarily staying somewhere else. The coverage limits for off-premises items are typically a percentage of your total coverage.
No, adding a roommate typically does not increase your premium because their belongings are not covered under your policy. However, you should inform your insurer of the change in occupancy, as it may be relevant to your coverage details.
Motorcycle Insurance
In most regions, you need a specific motorcycle license or endorsement, which is different from a standard car license. This usually involves a graduated licensing system with multiple stages, such as a learner's permit (requiring supervision), a restricted license, and a full license. You will typically need to pass a written knowledge test and one or more practical riding skills tests. Always check with your local transportation authority (like the DMV or MTO) for the exact requirements.
A good beginner bike is one that is lightweight, has a manageable amount of power, and allows you to comfortably place your feet on the ground. Look for bikes with a lower engine displacement (typically in the 250cc to 500cc range), a neutral or upright riding position, and ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). Popular beginner categories include standard/naked bikes, small cruisers, and dual-sport motorcycles.
The "All The Gear, All The Time" (ATGATT) philosophy is critical. The absolute essentials are:
- A certified helmet: Look for DOT, ECE, or SNELL certification.
- A riding jacket: Provides abrasion resistance and often includes armor for your back, shoulders, and elbows.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from impact and abrasion.
- Riding pants: Jeans offer minimal protection; proper riding pants (textile or leather) are far superior.
- Over-the-ankle boots: Protect against ankle injuries and provide better grip.
Basic pre-ride checks should be done before every ride. This is often remembered by the acronym T-CLOCS (Tires, Controls, Lights, Oil, Chassis, Stands). Key tasks include checking tire pressure, ensuring your chain is properly tensioned and lubricated, checking oil and fluid levels, and testing your lights and brakes. More in-depth maintenance like oil changes and valve adjustments follows a schedule found in your owner's manual.
It can be, especially for new riders or high-performance bikes. Insurance rates are based on risk factors including your age and riding experience, your driving record, the type of motorcycle (supersport bikes are the most expensive to insure), where you live, and the amount of coverage you choose. Completing a certified riding course can often lower your premiums.
Trailer/Camper Insurance
Check your vehicle's owner's manual for the "maximum towing capacity." This is the absolute maximum weight your vehicle is rated to pull. You must ensure that the trailer's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)—its maximum loaded weight—does not exceed this number. Never guess; always verify the manufacturer's specification.
This depends on the trailer's weight. Most jurisdictions have a law requiring trailers over a certain weight (e.g., 3,000 lbs or 1,360 kg) to have their own independent braking system (usually electric or surge brakes). If your trailer has electric brakes, your tow vehicle will also need a "brake controller" installed in the cab.
Winterizing prevents water lines from freezing and bursting. The basic process involves:
- Draining all tanks (fresh, grey, and black).
- Bypassing and draining the hot water heater.
- Using an air compressor to blow out all the water lines or, more commonly, pumping non-toxic RV antifreeze through all pipes, faucets, and the toilet until you see the pink fluid emerge.
Grey Water: This is the relatively clean wastewater from your sinks and shower. It is held in the grey water tank.
Black Water: This is the waste from your toilet, containing sewage. It is held in the black water tank. The two must be kept separate and dumped properly at a designated RV dump station.
Perform a safety check before every trip. Ensure the trailer coupler is securely latched onto the hitch ball, the safety chains are crossed and attached, the trailer's wiring is connected and all lights (brake, turn, running) are working, and the trailer tires are properly inflated and in good condition.
Dirt Bike Insurance
Generally, no. Most dirt bikes are built for off-road use only and lack the required equipment for public roads (like headlights, brake lights, turn signals, mirrors, and a horn). Some bikes, known as "dual-sports," are street-legal from the factory. While it's sometimes possible to convert a dirt bike to be street-legal, the process can be complex and varies significantly by jurisdiction.
2-Stroke: These engines are lighter, have a more abrupt power delivery ("power band"), and are simpler mechanically. They require you to mix oil with the gasoline and generally need more frequent top-end maintenance (pistons/rings).
4-Stroke: These engines have a smoother, broader, more predictable power delivery. They are heavier and more complex, but their engine oil is separate from the gas, and they typically have longer service intervals.
You can ride on private property (with permission) and in designated public riding areas. These include Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) parks, state/provincial forests with marked trails, and private motocross tracks. It is illegal to ride on public roads (unless street-legal), sidewalks, or private land without permission.
Sizing involves both seat height and engine displacement. You should be able to touch the ground with at least the balls of your feet for stability. For engine size, beginners should start small (e.g., 125cc-250cc) to learn fundamentals without being intimidated by the power. Experienced riders may opt for more powerful 250cc or 450cc models depending on their riding style.
Dirt bike gear prioritizes impact and roost (debris kicked up by other riders) protection. In addition to a motocross-specific helmet, you need:
- Goggles: To protect your eyes from dirt and debris.
- Motocross Boots: These are much stiffer and taller than road boots for maximum ankle and shin protection.
- Knee and Elbow Guards/Braces: Essential for protecting your joints in a fall.
- Chest Protector: Protects your torso from roost and impacts.
ATV Insurance
This is highly dependent on your location. Most jurisdictions require ATVs to be registered and plated. For riding on public trails, you will often need a trail permit. While a driver's license isn't always required for off-road use, many areas mandate that riders (especially younger ones) complete a certified ATV safety course.
Sport ATVs are built for recreation and performance. They are lighter, faster, have long-travel suspension, are typically 2-wheel drive, and feature manual clutches.
Utility ATVs are built for work and general trail riding. They are heavier, have features like cargo racks and a towing hitch, and almost always have 4-wheel drive and automatic transmissions.
Only if the ATV was specifically designed for two people. These are called "2-up" or touring models and have a longer seat, raised rear footpegs, and passenger handholds. It is extremely unsafe and often illegal to carry a passenger on an ATV designed for a single rider.
Rollovers are the most significant risk. To prevent them, practice "active riding" by shifting your body weight to counterbalance the machine during turns, on hills, and over obstacles. Never ride beyond your skill level, understand the machine's limits, and always wear a helmet.
Similar to dirt bikes, ATVs are generally not permitted on public roads. However, some rural municipalities or townships may have bylaws that permit ATV use on the shoulder of certain roads to access trails. Always check local regulations before riding on any roadway.
Moped/Scooter Insurance
It depends on the engine size and top speed. In many places, "limited-speed" scooters or mopeds (e.g., under 50cc and with a top speed below 50-70 km/h) can be operated with a standard driver's license. Faster, more powerful scooters require a full motorcycle license. Check your local laws for the exact classification.
Almost certainly not. Most scooters and all mopeds lack the speed to safely keep up with highway traffic and are legally prohibited from using them due to minimum speed limit laws. They are designed for urban and suburban surface streets.
They can be, but you must be a proactive and defensive rider. The biggest challenge is visibility—making sure car drivers see you. Wear bright or reflective clothing, use your signals, and always be aware of your surroundings, especially cars making turns. Wearing a helmet and other protective gear is just as important as on a motorcycle.
Historically, a moped had pedals in addition to a motor (Motor + Pedals = Moped). A scooter has a step-through frame and a platform for the rider's feet. Today, the terms are often used interchangeably, but the legal definition based on engine size and speed is what determines licensing and insurance requirements.
Excellent. This is one of their main advantages. Most modern scooters, especially those in the 50cc to 150cc range, can achieve fuel economy of 2.5 L/100 km (90+ MPG) or better, making them incredibly inexpensive to operate.
Snowmobile Insurance
Yes. In nearly every region with an organized trail system, you must purchase a seasonal or daily trail permit. This fee goes towards trail grooming, maintenance, and insurance. The permit is usually a sticker that must be visibly affixed to your snowmobile.
A high-quality helmet with a dual-pane or heated shield is the most critical item. It provides impact protection and, crucially, prevents your shield from fogging up or icing over, which can completely obscure your vision in cold temperatures. A warm, waterproof snowmobile suit, gloves, and boots are also essential for preventing hypothermia
Yes. Liability insurance is mandatory in most places, especially if you plan to use public trails or cross any public roads. It covers you in case you are at fault in an accident that causes injury or property damage.
Before heading out, perform a quick inspection. Check your fuel and oil levels, ensure your track is properly tensioned and not damaged, check the condition of your skis and carbides (the steering runners), and test your throttle, brakes, and all lights (headlight and taillight).
Proper summer storage ("summerizing") is key to ensuring it starts in the winter. Key steps include:
- Adding fuel stabilizer to the gas tank and running the engine to circulate it.
- "Fogging" the engine to coat internal parts with oil and prevent corrosion.
- Removing the battery and storing it on a tender.
- Lifting the rear of the sled to take pressure off the track and suspension.
- Covering the machine to protect it from dust and pests.
RV/Motorhome Insurance
For most Class B (camper vans) and Class C (cab-over) motorhomes, a standard car license is sufficient. However, for larger Class A motorhomes, you may need a special license or endorsement depending on its weight (GVWR) or if it has air brakes. Always check your local jurisdiction's rules for heavy vehicles.
Be prepared for low numbers. Fuel economy varies widely with size, weight, and driving style, but a general range is 6-12 miles per gallon (approx. 20-40 L/100 km). Driving slower (e.g., 60 mph / 100 km/h) and avoiding rapid acceleration will yield the best results.
A campsite with full hookups provides three main connections for your motorhome:
- Electricity: To power your lights, air conditioning, and appliances without using your generator or batteries.
- Water: A direct connection to the campground's potable water supply for your sinks and shower.
- Sewer: A direct connection that allows you to dump your grey and black water tanks without moving the RV.
There is a learning curve. You must be mindful of your vehicle's height (to avoid low bridges) and length. A key skill to learn is managing your "tail swing"—when you turn, the rear of the motorhome swings out in the opposite direction. Practice in a large, empty parking lot and always try to use a spotter when backing up.
Monitor the level indicators inside your RV. Always keep your black tank valve closed until the tank is at least 2/3 full to ensure there is enough liquid to flush out solid waste. It's best practice to dump your black tank first, then dump the grey tank to help flush out the sewer hose. Use RV-specific toilet paper and tank chemicals to help break down waste and control odors.
Boat/Watercraft Insurance
Yes, but it's not a "license" in the same way as a driver's license. You need a Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), often called a "boating license." This card is legally required to operate any motorized pleasure craft in Canada, regardless of the boat's size or engine horsepower. You get the card by passing a test from a Transport Canada-accredited provider. It's good for life and must be carried with you whenever you're operating a boat.
The required equipment varies by the size of your boat. For a typical pleasure craft up to 6 metres (about 20 feet), you must have the following items on board and readily accessible:
- One Canadian-approved lifejacket or PFD of the appropriate size for each person on board.
- A sound-signalling device (a pealess whistle or a horn).
- A buoyant heaving line (15 metres / 50 feet).
- A manual propelling device (a paddle) or an anchor.
- A bailer or manual water pump.
- A Class 5BC fire extinguisher if the boat has any type of motor.
- A watertight flashlight or 6 Canadian-approved flares (if the boat is over 6m).
- Navigation lights if operating between sunset and sunrise or in restricted visibility.
This is a critical rule to understand. Operating a boat while impaired by alcohol or drugs carries the same criminal penalties as driving a car while impaired. Open alcohol is only legally permitted on a boat if it is equipped with permanent sleeping facilities, a permanent galley (kitchen), and a permanent toilet. Furthermore, the boat must be docked or anchored. On a typical day boat like a bowrider, fishing boat, or personal watercraft (PWC), having open alcohol is illegal, just as it is in a car.
These numbers are part of your Pleasure Craft License. In Ontario, it is mandatory for any pleasure craft with a motor of 10 hp (7.5 kW) or more to have a license from Transport Canada. This license is free, valid for 10 years, and serves to identify the vessel. This is different from "Registering" a vessel, which is a more formal process required for commercial boats or those with a marine mortgage.
Yes. PWCs are classified as boats and must follow all the same rules, including carrying safety equipment and having an operator with a PCOC. However, there are additional age restrictions; you must be at least 16 years old to operate a PWC. Many municipalities in Ontario's cottage country also have specific bylaws that restrict PWC use by time of day or prohibit them entirely on certain smaller lakes. Always check for local restrictions.
To legally tow a person for any watersport activity in Ontario, you must have three things:
- A responsible boat operator.
- A dedicated spotter who is constantly watching the person being towed.
- An empty seat on the boat for every person being towed, in case you need to bring them aboard quickly. Towing is only permitted during daylight hours (from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset).
Yes. The most important rule is the universal, unposted speed limit of 10 km/h (6 mph) whenever you are within 30 metres (100 feet) of the shore. This "shoreline speed zone" is enforced to prevent wake damage to docks, property, and shorelines, and to protect swimmers. Some waterways, like the Trent-Severn Waterway, also have posted speed limits in narrow channels or near locks.
Properly "winterizing" your boat is crucial to prevent damage from freezing temperatures and heavy snow. Key steps include:
- Fuel System: Add fuel stabilizer to a full tank of gas and run the engine to circulate it.
- Engine & Drivetrain: Change the engine oil and filter. Drain the engine block and manifolds of water and circulate marine-grade antifreeze through them to prevent cracking.
- Plumbing: Drain all fresh water tanks, pumps, and toilets, and add non-toxic antifreeze.
- Interior & Battery: Remove all electronics, valuables, and lifejackets. Remove the battery and store it indoors on a trickle charger.
- Covering: Use a heavy-duty, well-supported cover or have the boat professionally shrink-wrapped to withstand the weight of snow and ice.
While it is not legally mandated by the provincial government to have insurance on a private pleasure craft, it is a practical necessity. Virtually every marina, yacht club, and storage facility in Ontario will require you to provide proof of liability insurance before they will allow you to use their docks or services. It is highly recommended to protect you from liability and to cover your significant investment.
In addition to needing a PCOC, there are national age and horsepower restrictions that apply in Ontario:
- Under 12 years old: May operate a boat with up to 10 hp (7.5 kW) engine without supervision.
- Age 12 to 15: May operate a boat with up to a 40 hp (30 kW) engine without supervision.
- Age 16 and over: No horsepower restrictions. Note: Since almost all PWCs have engines greater than 40 hp, this effectively means you must be 16 years of age to operate one.