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Do I need landlord insurance if I’m only renting out rooms or a separate section of my home (like a basement suite)?
Yes. If you’re renting out part of your home, whether it’s a basement suite, a secondary unit, or just a few rooms, you’ll need a home insurance policy that includes a rental suite. This type of policy is essentially landlord insurance built into your home insurance.
It makes sure you’re protected not only for the usual risks to your home, but also for tenant-related exposures, such as liability claims or damage caused by renters. This way, both your living space and your rental space are properly covered under one policy.
How much does landlord insurance cost?
You can get a quick online quote with InsureBC and adjust your coverage limits to see how it affects your premium. It’s a great way to explore your options and find a policy that fits your budget.
Keep in mind, the final cost depends on factors like the location, value of the rental unit, and coverage selections (such as liability, loss of rental income, or water damage).
If your rental is a strata property, we strongly recommend reviewing your strata documents especially the strata’s insurance deductible amounts for things like water damage, sewer backup, or earthquakes. Matching your landlord insurance limits to those deductibles ensures you're not left paying out-of-pocket if a claim falls back on you as the unit owner.
What is landlord insurance?
Landlord insurance is a policy designed for property owners who rent out their home, condo, or investment property. Unlike standard home insurance, which assumes you live in the property, landlord insurance recognizes the unique risks of renting. It protects against damage to the building, loss of rental income, liability claims, and optional add-ons like earthquake or sewer backup coverage.
What does renters insurance cover?
Three core protections:
- Personal property: Reimburses you for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings like clothing, furniture, appliances, and electronics. Coverage usually applies even if items are stolen outside your home (e.g., from your car).
- Personal liability: Protects you if you accidentally injure someone or cause damage to their property.
- Additional living expenses: Pays for hotel stays, meals, and other costs if your rental unit becomes uninhabitable after a covered loss, such as a fire or major water damage.
Is renters insurance required in BC?
Renters insurance is not legally required by law in BC. However, many landlords and property managers now make it a mandatory condition of the lease. Even when not required, carrying renters insurance is strongly recommended because:
- It ensures you can recover the cost of your belongings after a fire, theft, or other loss.
- It protects you from potentially large liability claims (which can be tens of thousands of dollars).
- It covers temporary housing costs if you’re forced out of your rental.
Are renters insurance and liability insurance the same?
No. Liability insurance is just one part of a renters policy. It protects you if you unintentionally cause damage or injury to others.
Renters insurance, however, goes beyond liability. It also protects your:
- Belongings – so you’re not paying out of pocket to replace them after a fire, theft, or other covered event.
- Living expenses – if you need to move out temporarily while your rental is repaired.
Think of it this way: liability coverage protects others, while renters insurance protects you and your lifestyle.
Are there any discounts available on ICBC auto insurance?
Yes, drivers can take advantage of several ICBC discounts such as good driving record, safe driver discount and low-risk vehicle discount.
Can I switch between ICBC auto coverage plans?
Yes, you can switch between ICBC auto insurance plans at any time. However, you may incur additional charges or fees if you want to make changes to your existing policy. Read more: https://www.icbc.com/insurance/Pages/FAQs.aspx
Can the policy be transferred to a family member?
Yes! If you transfer ownership to any of your immediate family members mid-term, your policy can be transferred to the new owner. The recipient of your vehicle would keep the same policy number, effective and expiry date.
Can the policy be transferred to a new vehicle?
Yes! If you purchase a new vehicle while mid-term in your current policy, we can process a transfer of the policy to your new vehicle. This will generate a new policy, with a new policy number, effective and expiry date. Any unused portion of the premium for your previous policy can be applied to the new insurance premium as transfer credit.
Do I have to buy New Vehicle Replacement insurance when I buy my car, or can I get it later on?
Our unique eligibility guidelines allow for any vehicle that is 5 years old or newer to qualify for New Car Replacement coverage. That means you are not required to have just recently purchased your vehicle to qualify and can purchase a policy any time between your vehicle being brand new, and 5 model years old. There is also no kilometre restriction, just as long as your vehicle has not been driven on average more than 40,000 km a year since it was new.
Do I have to buy the same vehicle as I had previously?
No, after a total loss you are not required to buy the same vehicle as you had previously. You are more than welcome to choose a different or better vehicle, or even take the cash settlement if you’d like, however we will only pay up to the replacement value of the same make, model, and trim package as the vehicle that you had previously. It will be in the most current model year.
What kind of coverage does international business insurance offer?
International business insurance can provide a range of coverage, including property insurance, liability insurance, commercial auto insurance, and workers' compensation insurance. It can also provide coverage for political risk, kidnap and ransom, and other specialized risks.
Who needs international business insurance?
Any business that operates internationally should consider getting international business insurance. This can include businesses that have overseas offices, employees who travel internationally, or those that conduct business with clients overseas.
What is international business insurance?
International business insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for businesses that operate internationally. This can include coverage for property, liability, and other risks associated with conducting business abroad.
What happens if the principal fails to fulfill their obligation?
If the principal fails to fulfill their obligation, the surety company steps in and pays the damages up to the bond amount. The principal then has to reimburse the surety company for the payment made.
Can I cancel my surety bond?
Yes, you can cancel your surety bond, but you need to give a written notice to the obligee and the surety company. The cancellation terms and conditions are usually specified in the bond agreement.
How long does it take to get a surety bond?
The processing time for a surety bond application varies depending on the type of bond, the obligee's requirements, and the complexity of the obligation. Generally, it takes a few days to a week to get a surety bond.
How can a small business get group health insurance?
Small businesses can get group health insurance through insurance brokers like us, InsureBC, or directly from insurance providers.
Will group health insurance save money?
Group health insurance often provides cost savings as the risk is spread out over many people, which can lead to lower premiums per individual.
What sets InsureBC's Group Benefits Insurance Plan apart?
Our commitment to providing independent advice, shopping the market on our client’s behalf, and finding the most suitable product at the best value available sets us apart. With more than 80 years of combined expertise, our clients can trust us to find the best policy for their needs.
Discover the unique advantage of InsureBC today. Get in touch with us to find out more about our Group Benefits Insurance Plan and learn how we can contribute to the success of your business.
How does a Group Benefits Insurance Plan work?
Your business pays a premium to the insurance provider, which then covers eligible health-related expenses incurred by your employees.
What is a Group Benefits Insurance Plan?
A Group Benefits Insurance Plan is a comprehensive insurance package that businesses offer to their employees. It typically includes health insurance, dental coverage, disability insurance, and other benefits.
What are the Tax Implications for getting a disability insurance benefits?
The taxation of your benefits hinges on the party responsible for paying the insurance premiums. If you cover the premiums using after-tax dollars, it is customary for your benefits to be exempt from taxes. However, it is advisable to verify the specifics of your individual policy by consulting with your insurance broker.
Can I get a boat insurance quote online in BC?
Yes! InsureBC offers hassle-free online boat insurance quotes for BC residents. Simply visit our website and fill out the online form to get started.
Do I need boat insurance in BC?
In most cases, yes. Boat insurance is not legally required in BC, but it is highly recommended. Without insurance, you could be held personally liable for any damages or injuries you cause while operating your boat. Additionally, many marinas and yacht clubs require proof of insurance before allowing you to dock or store your boat.
What is boat insurance in BC?
Boat insurance is a type of insurance that provides coverage for your boat, as well as any liability you may have while operating it. It can protect you financially in case of accidents, theft, or other unforeseen events.
How long does visitor insurance for Canada cover me?
Visitor insurance for Canada typically covers you for the duration of your trip to Canada, up to a maximum of one year. Contact your broker for more details.
What is private health insurance for visitors to BC?
Private health insurance for visitors to BC is offered by insurance companies and covers additional benefits not covered by MSP, such as prescription drugs, dental care, and ambulance services. Private health insurance may also offer higher coverage limits than MSP.
What are the types of visitor insurance for Canada?
There are two types of visitor insurance for Canada: public health insurance and private health insurance. Public health insurance is provided by the province of British Columbia (BC) to eligible visitors, while private health insurance is offered by insurance companies and covers additional benefits not covered by public health insurance.
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