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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.
How do I get my decal?
As of May 1st, 2022, you no longer need a decal on your licence plate
How do I know how much insurance is right for me?
It depends on multiple factors including vehicle type, where you live and use the motorcycle, as well as other unique circumstances. Your InsureBC broker can help determine which types of coverage are best suited for you and provide quotes accordingly.
How do I know if Private Auto Insurance is for me?
Get in touch with one of our 80 Autoplan locations who can assess your individual situation and help you determine whether a Private Auto Insurance carrier is for you. We’ll give you a number of car insurance quotes so that you can be sure you’re getting the best possible deal. Our offices can also assist you in obtaining a quote for your home insurance, travel insurance, business insurance and a number of other insurance products. Regardless of the insurance company, we will get you the most comprehensive coverage at the lowest possible price.
How do I make a claim for my new vehicle replacement policy?
All claims are processed in-house by our dedicated Optional Auto Division, Drivesure, and can be submitted in a number of different ways. You can submit your claim via an online submission form located on our website, through your issuing insurance agent or broker, or by contacting our auto department directly at 1-888-480-6641. Documents can be submitted via email or fax, and claims are processed within 1-2 business days of receiving all documentation.
How do I renew your license, or book a road test?
Visit the nearest ICBC Service location to you.
How much does Optional Auto Insurance cost in BC?
Similar to your Basic ICBC Auto Insurance, the cost for Optional Car Insurance depends on a number of factors, including your age, driving experience, the type and use of your vehicle, the limit of coverage you purchase and the size of the deductible you select. The higher your deductible, the lower your annual premium and vice-versa. Let one of our Autoplan agents assist you with getting an accurate quote for the most suitable insurance coverage.
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.
Can I switch insurance companies midway through my term?
Yes, you can switch insurance companies during your term. However, it's advisable to compare life insurance products before making any changes. You may also incur certain costs and penalties if you choose to switch companies during the term. It's best to speak with an insurance advisor to understand the exact costs before making a decision.
What happens if I outlive my 25-year term life insurance policy?
At the end of the term, you can choose to renew your policy or convert it into a permanent life insurance plan. This allows you to extend your coverage and benefit from additional features such as an accumulative cash value.
Can I purchase life insurance even if I have a pre-existing condition?
Yes, although it may affect your life insurance premiums, having a pre-existing condition doesn't automatically disqualify you from getting coverage.
What if I want to cancel my policy before the end of the term?
Most life insurance policies allow you to cancel at any time. However, you will not receive a refund for the premiums you've already paid. Your broker can provide more information on the cancellation process.
Can I get a 15-year term life insurance policy if I smoke?
Yes, but keep in mind that smokers generally pay higher life insurance premiums than non-smokers. For more details, we recommend reaching out to your broker.
What happens to my 15-year term life insurance policy at the end of the term?
At the end of the term, you have the option to renew your policy, typically at a higher premium, or convert it into a permanent policy without a medical exam.
What should I do if I think I've been a victim of identity theft?
If you suspect that you've been a victim of identity theft, act quickly. Contact your bank and credit card companies, place fraud alerts on your credit reports, and file a police report. Contact your broker for more details on what steps to take.
Will Identity Theft Restoration Insurance prevent identity theft from happening?
No, InsureBC's Identity Theft Restoration Insurance cannot prevent identity theft from happening. However, it can help protect you financially in the event of an identity theft event.
Can I purchase InsureBC's Identity Theft Restoration Insurance online?
Yes, you can purchase InsureBC's Identity Theft Restoration Insurance online. Simply visit our website by clicking this link and complete the online application to get a personalized quote.
What is identity theft insurance?
Identity theft insurance is a type of insurance policy that helps protect you from financial losses resulting from identity theft. It typically covers expenses related to restoring your identity, such as lost wages, legal fees, and credit monitoring services.
What should I look for when choosing a boat insurance policy in BC?
When choosing a boat insurance policy in BC, it's important to consider the coverage options, deductibles, and premiums. You should also research the insurer's reputation for customer service and claims handling.
What factors affect the cost of boat insurance in BC?
The cost of boat insurance can vary depending on several factors, such as the type and size of your boat, its age and condition, where you operate it, and your driving record. Other factors may also come into play, such as whether you have safety equipment on board, such as life jackets and fire extinguishers.
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