Toronto, Ontario Insurance Agency Guide
Menu

Independent Multi-Carrier Broker in London, Ontario

Independent Multi-Carrier Broker in Toronto, Ontario

An independent multi-carrier broker doesn't work for one insurance company. Instead, they hold contracts with a handful of insurers (often five to fifteen, sometimes more) and shop your home, auto, tenant, or commercial policy across all of them to find the best combination of price and coverage. This is different from a captive agent who can only sell you one company's product, and it's different from a direct-to-consumer insurer who has no human comparing options on your behalf. In London, Ontario, there are 45 businesses operating this way, ranging from single-office shops to multi-location firms with several producers on staff.

What a buyer should look for

Not all brokers carry the same lineup of insurers, and that matters more than most people realize. A broker with access to insurers who specialize in older homes, rental properties, high-value auto, or drivers with a claims history will usually get you a better outcome than one working with a narrow panel. Beyond carrier access, pay attention to how a broker handles renewals (do they actually re-shop your policy each year, or just auto-renew it), how reachable they are when you need to file a claim or add a vehicle, and whether they take time to explain deductibles, endorsements, and exclusions rather than just quoting a premium.

How our scoring works

We rank brokers in this category using factors like responsiveness, breadth of carrier relationships, licensing standing, and patterns in client feedback over time. The full methodology, including how we weight each factor, is explained on our methodology page. For the current ranked list of brokers in this market, see our best insurance agencies in London, Ontario guide.

Get quotes from suitable independent multi-carrier broker in London, Ontario

No obligation. Describe what you need and we'll connect you with relevant agencies.

Get my quotes

All independent multi-carrier broker in London, Ontario, ranked by score and relevance

We found 45 businesses offering independent multi-carrier broker in London, Ontario; 44 met the criteria for the scored directory. The order weighs each business's overall score by how much of its reviewed work is independent multi-carrier broker, so a lower-scored specialist can rank above a higher-scored generalist.

Oracle RMS Insurance
#1
93

Oracle RMS Insurance

5.0(206)✓ Google-verified

Every reviewer praises the personal touch and responsiveness of the team, especially brokers Ahmed Zammar, Moe Zebian, and others who take time to explain options without pressure and deliver quick answers. Customers value the straightforward process, fair pricing for both personal and business needs, and the sense that staff genuinely protect their interests. Auto, home, tenant, and business coverage all receive consistent praise for speed and clarity. Clients note peace of mind from working with people they can actually reach, a sharp contrast to unreliable previous brokers. New business owners and property managers with multiple rentals report getting better rates and more comprehensive protection through their guidance.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
Hayter Fisher Insurance Brokers Ltd
#2
91

Hayter Fisher Insurance Brokers Ltd

5.0(136)✓ Google-verified

Over decades of serving London, Hayter Fisher has earned trust through quick responses and clear explanations. James and Jamie handle each case personally, bundling policies to save customers money and walking them through every step without jargon. The firm makes insurance feel straightforward rather than painful. Families renew repeatedly and refer friends with confidence. Multi-year loyalty is common, with customers grateful for the ease of the electronic process and follow-up that keeps them informed as circumstances change.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceLife Insurance
Miranda Efthimakis Desjardins Insurance Agent
#3
91

Miranda Efthimakis Desjardins Insurance Agent

5.0(286)✓ Google-verified

Staff by name-Negin, Katie, Laurie, Marylee, Stephanie-earn consistent praise for taking time to understand each client's actual coverage needs rather than pushing standard policies. Miranda and her team follow up on claims, email to unblock delays, and call to check in, creating trust even when frustrations arise with the carrier's claims department itself. The agency handles auto, home, life, and commercial insurance across London and Ontario. Reviewers note quick responses, attention to detail on renewals, and a warm office atmosphere. One recent claim involved points of friction upstream, but the branch's intervention and care stood out.

Auto InsuranceHealth & Travel InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Michael Sroka Desjardins Insurance Agent
#4
91

Michael Sroka Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.8(409)✓ Google-verified

Staff members including Rebecca, Nathan, Jake, and Stacie consistently earn praise for taking time to explain options, ask questions patiently, and find competitive quotes. Reviewers note fast turnarounds, friendly service, and feeling treated as individuals rather than transactions, particularly when other insurers declined their business.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Cole Barber Desjardins Insurance Agent
#5
92

Cole Barber Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.9(220)✓ Google-verified

Cole Barber Desjardins stand out for answering phones with a real person instead of automated menus, and staff like Karly, Chris, and Cole solve problems without the pushy sales tactics customers expect elsewhere. Reviewers consistently praise quick quotes (within 10-15 minutes), fair prices that undercut major banks, and follow-up that feels genuine rather than transactional. The team handles everything from motorcycles and unusual vehicles to boats and business coverage, with attentiveness that spans years of loyalty. Long-time clients mention three generations of Barber family service; newer customers report being reached quickly, getting answers on the first call, and walking away confident they have the right coverage at the right rate.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier BrokerHome & Property Insurance

Get quotes from suitable independent multi-carrier broker in London, Ontario

No obligation. Describe what you need and we'll connect you with relevant agencies.

Get my quotes
Tyler Smith Desjardins Insurance Agent
#6
85

Tyler Smith Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.9(111)✓ Google-verified

Staff including Mariela, Greg, Ann, and Tyler consistently receive praise for patient explanations, fast processing, and willingness to help with policy changes and additions. One reviewer reported unacknowledged errors and misinformation from the company that cost them money, though this remains rare among 111 reviews.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceHealth & Travel Insurance
Paul Bruno Desjardins Insurance Agent
#7
82

Paul Bruno Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.8(83)✓ Google-verified

Staff here earn consistent praise for responsiveness, fair pricing, and knowing their coverage options inside out. Winni and Paul are named repeatedly for making insurance switches and policy changes stress-free, though one reviewer reported serious delays and unprofessional handling that stands sharply apart from the rest.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier BrokerBilingual / Multilingual Service
Bruce Murray & Associates Inc
#8
81

Bruce Murray & Associates Inc

5.0(34)✓ Google-verified

All 19 reviewers gave five stars and praised staff by name for quick email and phone replies, clear policy explanations, and finding the right coverage at fair prices. Julie, Sheri, and Marco are mentioned repeatedly for patience, follow-up, and knowing customers personally over years of service. Travel insurance dominates the reviews, though customers also note BMA handles auto, home, and business policies. Clients report being customers for 20+ years and recommend the firm confidently. No complaints or service failures surface in the feedback.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceHealth & Travel Insurance
Regal Insurance Brokers
#9
81

Regal Insurance Brokers

4.8(100)✓ Google-verified

Most clients find Peter Barnes, Jenna Cavell, and the Regal team helpful, responsive, and skilled at finding competitive rates. Staff take time to explain coverage clearly and handle multiple insurance types (auto, home, life, critical illness). A small number of customers report poor communication, overly high quotes, and billing issues that required extensive follow-up to resolve. Long-standing clients (10-15 years) praise consistent personal service and trust. Newer clients often mention significant savings when comparing quotes. One detailed complaint describes years of administrative frustration and rates significantly higher than competitors, though most recent reviewers report positive experiences.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
Cane and Co. Insurance
#10
81

Cane and Co. Insurance

4.8(84)✓ Google-verified

Most clients credit Fraser and his team for fast replies, finding better rates, and handling complex situations when competitors won't. A handful report cancellation friction, missed callbacks, or feeling dropped at renewal time, suggesting service consistency varies.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
Ontario West Insurance Brokers - A Division of Bill Blaney Insurance Brokers ltd.
#11
81

Ontario West Insurance Brokers - A Division of Bill Blaney Insurance Brokers ltd.

4.6(125)✓ Google-verified

Most reviewers praise named brokers-Christine, Amanda, Tracy, and Jamie-for finding lower premiums and handling auto and home policies with genuine care. Staff answer questions patiently and go beyond the basics. One complaint: phone lines are hard to reach and messages sometimes go unanswered.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceHealth & Travel Insurance
Excalibur Insurance Group Inc
#12
80

Excalibur Insurance Group Inc

4.7(355)✓ Google-verifiedPublishes prices

Excalibur's best brokers (Stacy, Kim, Josh, Lane) earn consistent praise for attentive service, competitive quotes, and quick turnaround on motorcycle and auto policies. The same company draws sharp criticism for inconsistent staff performance, poor follow-up after sale, billing confusion, and difficulty reaching agents by email. Some customers report dramatic savings after switching brokers, suggesting pricing opacity or error. Quality depends heavily on which broker you land. Experienced staff like Stacy handle complex cases well and go beyond basics. Newer or less reliable agents leave customers tangled in payment issues and unanswered questions. Post-sale communication is a persistent pain point.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceLife Insurance
McFarlan Rowlands Insurance Brokers
#13
80

McFarlan Rowlands Insurance Brokers

4.6(122)✓ Google-verified

Most clients credit this broker with fast, personalized service and genuine care over years or decades of partnership. Staff like Steve Gaudio, Alex Sasic, and Ann consistently earn praise for professionalism and quick turnaround on quotes and policy changes. A few long-term clients report dropped communication during claims and frustration with limited hours. The 4.6 rating and 83% five-star reviews suggest the strong majority experience attentive, responsive service, though reliability appears inconsistent for a small minority.

Auto InsuranceLife InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
Mark Cooper Desjardins Insurance Agent
#14
83

Mark Cooper Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.7(203)✓ Google-verified

Most customers praise Nolan and Andrew for knowledgeable, responsive service and competitive quotes, often calling out attention to detail and friendly phone support. However, a minority report denied claims, nine-month decision delays, and persistent unsolicited contact after declining quotes.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceLife Insurance
Richard ten Haaf Insurance
#15
85

Richard ten Haaf Insurance

4.8(317)✓ Google-verified

Amber, Kiana, and Kelly earn consistent praise for fast responses and friendly service across auto, motorcycle, and home policies. Most customers feel heard and valued. However, a small group report serious trouble: non-fault claims dragged out, staff dismissive, promises broken on communication timelines. The gap between "best experience ever" and "deceptive practices" suggests the office shines in sales but falters when claims go wrong. Richard ten Haaf operates as a Desjardins agent in London and southwestern Ontario with 30+ years claimed experience. Staff turnover or inconsistency may explain the stark split: regular clients and motorcycle buyers rave; a handful report neglect during disputes.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
Haas Insurance Group
#16
72

Haas Insurance Group

4.4(54)✓ Google-verified

Most clients praise Haas for knowledgeable brokers who explain coverage clearly and respond quickly to questions and claims. Named staff like Tammy, Heather, and Jordan earn repeated praise for going beyond routine service. However, some customers report high premiums, slow document processing, and occasional miscommunication during claims.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceLife Insurance
Kathryn Getliffe Desjardins Insurance Agent
#17
72

Kathryn Getliffe Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.5(29)✓ Google-verified

Kathryn's agency is known for treating customers as individuals rather than numbers, with many families staying 20+ years. Staff like Mary, Arthur, Hugh, and Joanna handle calls with care and know how to find good motorcycle rates for new riders. A few customers report being quoted without asking or receiving sharp replies to inquiries, so initial contact can be uneven.

Auto InsuranceHealth & Travel InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Westland Insurance
#18
74

Westland Insurance

4.4(81)✓ Google-verified

Westland brokers like Sakshi, Mandeep, and Harmanjit earn strong praise for fast, attentive service and knowledgeable policy advice that feels personal. Clients report smooth renewals and claim guidance. Service consistency breaks down when assigned brokers are unavailable or leave. Callers struggle to reach reps, waits stretch days, and some experience unexplained policy changes or attempted withdrawals after clear instructions not to charge. Phone accessibility remains the sharpest pain point.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
Preferred Insurance Group
#19
71 low data

Preferred Insurance Group

4.6(77)✓ Google-verified

Most clients praise named brokers (Narsim, Terri, Lois, Sarah, Sean) for patience and transparency, often securing savings or smooth coverage moves. A vocal minority faced unexplained rate hikes, slow quote turnarounds, and difficulty reaching support to fix errors like misspelled names or inflated vehicle values.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceLife Insurance
RBC Insurance
#20
74 low data

RBC Insurance

4.5(69)✓ Google-verifiedPublishes prices

Staff like Rushabh Virani and Matthew Want consistently earn five-star ratings for patient, detailed help with car and home insurance quotes. Most reviewers highlight fast turnaround, clear policy explanations, and competitive rates, though one past complaint cited unprofessionalism.

Auto InsuranceHealth & Travel InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Safe Harbour Insurance Services
#21
73

Safe Harbour Insurance Services

4.8(20)✓ Google-verified

Clients consistently report quick turnarounds on marine insurance quotes and rates well below their previous brokers. Named staff like Allicia, Marykate, and Shem are praised for professional, patient handling of boat and personal watercraft policies. One reviewer was denied a quote for an older vessel due to age, citing concerns about the company's risk aversion.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Jane Hill Desjardins Insurance Agent
#22
63 low data

Jane Hill Desjardins Insurance Agent

5.0(5)✓ Google-verified

All five reviews are five-star. Staff members Mary Barr and Jane are consistently praised for honesty, effort, and reliability; one reviewer notes they remain accessible whenever needed.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier BrokerHome & Property Insurance

Get quotes from suitable independent multi-carrier broker in London, Ontario

No obligation. Describe what you need and we'll connect you with relevant agencies.

Get my quotes
Ian McCleary Desjardins Insurance Agent
#23
68 low data

Ian McCleary Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.5(45)✓ Google-verified

Strong reputation built on Ian McCleary's expertise and staff responsiveness. Two isolated complaints mention rudeness during policy changes, but 82% five-star reviews emphasize the team's knowledge, friendliness, and quick follow-up.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier BrokerBilingual / Multilingual Service
Magenta Insurance Professionals
#24
69 low data

Magenta Insurance Professionals

5.0(12)✓ Google-verified

All 10 recent reviews gave five stars. Clients praise fast, responsive service and competitive rates for childcare, forest schools, and small business insurance. Staff including Lisa Vercillo and Carolyn understand the early education sector deeply.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier BrokerBilingual / Multilingual Service
McFarlan Rowlands Insurance Brokers
#25
64 low data

McFarlan Rowlands Insurance Brokers

4.0(84)✓ Google-verified

Katelynn H. and a few named staff earn strong praise for patience and knowledge, but the company struggles with responsiveness overall. Long email and voicemail delays, agent changes leaving files in limbo, and unprocessed address or billing updates frustrate repeat customers despite earlier good service.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
My Insurance Broker (London)
#26
60 low data

My Insurance Broker (London)

4.7(3)✓ Google-verified

Reviewers report significant savings on auto and home insurance. Staff members like Parastoo, Al, and Rakesh earn praise for patient guidance and clear explanations through the selection process.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
Lori Devos Desjardins Insurance Agent
#27
63 low data

Lori Devos Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.7(37)✓ Google-verified

Long-term customers trust Lori's team for consistent, responsive service across auto, home, and life insurance. One reviewer left after receiving no contact from Lori following a broker transition, while others praise staff like Kassie and Eva for quick claims handling and personal attention. Evidence is limited to 15 recent reviews with strong five-star clustering; pricing details are scarce. The team serves North London and claims coverage anywhere in Ontario.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceHealth & Travel Insurance
The Merit Group Insurance Brokers Inc
#28
59 low data

The Merit Group Insurance Brokers Inc

3.6(53)✓ Google-verified

Top brokers like Moe Faragalla and Taylor Pitchell deliver strong service and transparent quotes, but recent one-star reviews cite communication breakdowns after mistakes and a loss of continuity when staff are let go.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Youngs Insurance Brokers London
#29
62

Youngs Insurance Brokers London

3.8(72)✓ Google-verified

Youngs Insurance Brokers draws strong praise for individual staff members who explain coverage clearly and close deals quickly, often within hours. Yet the business is hampered by inconsistent service: some clients report being unable to reach the brokers by phone, while others describe billing mishaps (wrong address, double charges, overages sustained for years) and defensive responses when issues arise. The best experience seems tied to asking for specific staff like Hind or Radwa, who appear knowledgeable and patient. Clients in London and beyond (Barrie) cite competitive pricing and long-term loyalty. However, repeated complaints about accessibility, billing accuracy, and management defensiveness suggest this brokerage works best for buyers who can navigate directly to the right person and who check their policies closely.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
BT
#30
57 low data

Brokers Trust Insurance Group Inc. - London Office

3.9(7)✓ Google-verified

Strong service from named staff members (Lauren, Jim) earns high marks for responsiveness and rate savings. Serious gaps in communication and account handling leave some customers unprotected, including one long-standing client.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
HUB International
#31
59

HUB International

3.7(31)✓ Google-verified

Several brokers earn strong praise for personal attention and speed on urgent matters, especially Christine Currie, Tina, Nicole Tremblay, and David Friesen. However, chronic phone accessibility issues and delays in renewal notifications undermine the overall experience. Customers report weeks of unanswered calls and policy renewals arriving with insufficient time to shop alternatives.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
D.G. Dunbar Insurance Broker Ltd
#32
58 low data

D.G. Dunbar Insurance Broker Ltd

4.1(12)✓ Google-verified

Five-star reviewers report quick policy setup and substantial premium savings, with strong support for business clients. One-star complaints centre on unresponsive staff (Lisa and Dave named), lack of follow-up help, and dismissive treatment.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Kevin Gardner Desjardins Insurance Agent
#33
57 low data

Kevin Gardner Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.7(12)✓ Google-verified

Kevin Gardner Desjardins Insurance delivers fast responses and genuine care. Staff like Tammy and Kristine earn repeat praise for responsiveness and helpful guidance across auto, home, and life policies.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier BrokerHome & Property Insurance
Aviva Canada
#34
53

Aviva Canada

2.0(115)✓ Google-verified

Most reviewers report unresponsive customer service, claim denials they see as unfair, and rate increases they find punitive. A small number praise their individual broker or adjuster for quick problem-solving; one long-term customer with two claims resolved within hours credits staff member Siamara and adjuster Shelley for professionalism, while another credits Gillian Dronyk's careful handling of a car accident claim. Problems center on inaccessible claims teams, repeated requests for the same information, and rejection of claims on older vehicles citing corrosion without visible damage. The telematics app penalizes drivers heavily for not recording every trip. One customer saw premiums jump from $136 to $575 monthly after buying an EV. Website states they hold Great Place to Work and 5-Star Claims certifications; the review evidence does not align.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceLife Insurance
Tammy Storring Desjardins Insurance Agent
#35
52 low data

Tammy Storring Desjardins Insurance Agent

3.9(7)✓ Google-verified

Reviewers consistently praise Tammy and her team for 30 years of stable, attentive service. Clients value her knowledge, trustworthiness, and willingness to listen and advise, even after relocating.

Auto InsuranceHealth & Travel InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
John Crowther Desjardins Insurance Agent
#36
50 low data

John Crowther Desjardins Insurance Agent

4.0(13)✓ Google-verified

Most reviewers experience good phone service and helpful advice, with some praising John's willingness to assist customers who no longer live locally. One serious complaint from eight years ago centered on a quote validity dispute: the reviewer received a written quote in February, but when returning in April to finalize, was told the original January quote had exceeded a 55-day limit they were never told about, resulting in a price nearly double.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier BrokerHome & Property Insurance
Federated Insurance
#37
50 low data

Federated Insurance

4.0(4)✓ Google-verified

Limited review evidence shows approval for Federated's approach. Customers highlight professionalism and personal attention from staff.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Watson Travel Insurance
#38
43 low data

Watson Travel Insurance

5.0(1)✓ Google-verified

One five-star review praised Watson Travel Insurance for reasonable rates, though evidence is limited to a single review from five years ago.

Auto InsuranceHealth & Travel InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
Perry Peter Insurance
#39
47 low data

Perry Peter Insurance

5.0(1)✓ Google-verified

Review evidence is limited to one five-star rating. The business claims decades of operation since 1978, award-winning status, and a broad service mix spanning life, health, and retirement planning across rural and urban southwestern Ontario.

Auto InsuranceLife InsuranceHealth & Travel Insurance
Co-operators - A Marshall Insurance Group Ltd
#40
51 low data

Co-operators - A Marshall Insurance Group Ltd

4.1(9)✓ Google-verified

Most reviewers praise staff responsiveness and the office's personal, accessible feel. Recurring concern: premiums climb yearly even with clean records, and customers report trouble getting billing issues resolved.

Auto InsuranceBusiness & Commercial InsuranceHealth & Travel Insurance
AP Insurance Brokers Inc
#41
44 low data

AP Insurance Brokers Inc

3.0(4)

Mixed results from a small review pool. Some customers praise friendly service and clear policy explanations at reasonable rates, but billing disputes on cancellation and staff conduct issues have caused frustration.

Auto InsuranceHome & Property InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance
McFarlan Rowlands Insurance Brokers
#42
46 low data

McFarlan Rowlands Insurance Brokers

4.2(5)✓ Google-verified

One reviewer had seven years of smooth service but faced aggressive collection tactics when switching insurers and not formally cancelling. Another called staff friendly and praised their car insurance pricing. Evidence is thin: only two reviews span six years.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier Broker
The Insurance Exchange Insurance Brokers Ltd.
#43
26 low data

The Insurance Exchange Insurance Brokers Ltd.

No rating yet

Review evidence for this broker is limited. Their website lists insurance quotes, risk management advice, and product selection for London, Ontario. No customer reviews are available to assess service quality, responsiveness, or pricing.

Auto InsuranceIndependent Multi-Carrier BrokerBilingual / Multilingual Service
London Insurance Group Inc
#44
18 low data

London Insurance Group Inc

No rating yet

Not enough recent reviews yet to synthesise a reliable sentiment read for this business.

Auto InsuranceLife InsuranceBusiness & Commercial Insurance

Get quotes from our featured partners

How many quotes would you like?

By sending this enquiry you agree that we share it with providers relevant to your request.

Your enquiry may be shared with partner providers to carry out the work, and we may receive a referral fee. Our rankings and scores are based solely on our published scoring method and are not affected by referral fees.

Common questions about independent multi-carrier broker

Does it cost more to use an independent broker instead of buying direct from an insurer?
No. Brokers are paid commission by the insurer, built into the premium, so you don't pay extra for the comparison shopping. In some cases brokers get access to bundle discounts or niche insurers that aren't sold direct, which can make the price lower, not higher.
How often should I have a broker re-shop my policy?
At minimum, every renewal, which is typically once a year for home and auto in Ontario. If you've had a life change (new car, renovation, moving, a ticket or claim, a new driver in the household), it's worth asking your broker to re-quote sooner rather than waiting for renewal.
What should I expect at a first meeting with a broker?
Expect to answer questions about your driving history, home details (age, roof, heating type, claims history), and any coverage gaps from a previous policy. A good broker will ask before quoting, not just plug in minimum details to get a fast low number that changes once underwriting reviews the file.
How can I tell if a broker is actually good versus just cheap?
Look at how they handle a claim, not just a quote. Ask what happens if you need to file one at 6pm on a Friday, how many carriers they actually compare, and whether they proactively flag coverage gaps like sewer backup or overland water, which are often excluded unless added.

Last updated 2026-07-24