Why a brokered tenant policy is different
As an independent Canadian brokerage, Summit compares multiple insurers to place tenant (renters) policies that match your lease requirements, belongings, and budget. Independence means no exclusive ties to a single carrier, so we focus on value, coverage fit, and service. For students and young adults, we also run streamlined programs through campus and housing partners, with premiums that commonly start around $17–18 per month depending on province and limits (program pricing varies and is not available in Quebec).
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Independent market access: We quote multiple insurers and MGAs and curate the best-fit option for your unit, building type, and risk profile.
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Transparent compensation: See how brokers are paid and how we disclose commissions and fees on How We Get Paid.
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Claims advocacy: If you have a loss, start with Summit and we’ll coordinate with the insurer throughout the claim. Details at Claim Services.
Availability by province (Canada; excluding Quebec)
Summit places brokered tenant insurance across much of Canada. Current availability is shown below; contact us if your province or territory is not listed.
| Province or Region | Availability |
|---|---|
| British Columbia | Yes |
| Alberta | Yes |
| Saskatchewan | Yes |
| Manitoba | Yes |
| Ontario | Yes |
| Quebec | Not serviced |
| Atlantic provinces (NB, NS, PE, NL) | Contact to confirm |
| Territories (YT, NT, NU) | Contact to confirm |
Notes
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Availability may vary by address, construction type, loss history, and other underwriting factors.
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Program pricing and student‑specific offers are not available in every province.
Representative Canadian carriers we quote
Carrier availability varies by province and subject to broker appointments and underwriting. Examples of Canadian insurers and MGAs that commonly offer tenant policies include:
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Intact Insurance
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Aviva Canada
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Economical (Definity)
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Travelers Canada
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Gore Mutual
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Wawanesa
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Portage Mutual
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Red River Mutual
Request a quote to confirm today’s panel for your location and lease.
What brokered tenant insurance typically covers
Most carrier forms include these core protections (final terms depend on the insurer and your selections):
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Personal property (contents): Replacement of belongings (furniture, clothing, electronics) for insured perils such as fire, theft, vandalism, and sudden/accidental water damage (limits and sub‑limits apply; some perils may require endorsements).
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Personal liability: If you unintentionally injure someone or damage others’ property—on or off premises—up to the limit you select.
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Additional living expenses: Extra costs (hotel/meals) if a covered loss makes your unit unfit to occupy.
Common optional endorsements
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Water protection (e.g., sewer backup/overland water; availability varies by province)
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Scheduled items (jewelry, fine art, bicycles) beyond standard sub‑limits
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Earthquake coverage (commonly considered in BC and other seismic zones)
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Identity theft and cyber extensions (select carriers)
Typical exclusions to consider
- Flood (unless endorsed), gradual/ongoing seepage, wear and tear, infestation, intentional acts, and building structure (that’s the landlord’s policy). Review exclusions and conditions in your quote packet before binding.
How the brokered process works with Summit
1) Brief intake (≈5 minutes)
- Share your address, unit type, estimated contents value, any high‑value items, and any landlord/lease requirements (e.g., minimum liability limits, proof of insurance).
2) We shop multiple markets
- We compare premiums, deductibles, water endorsements, sub‑limits, and service strength across available carriers.
3) Curated recommendation
- You receive a clear comparison and our recommendation based on coverage fit, total cost, and claims/service considerations.
4) Bind and proofs
- E‑sign and pay; we issue your policy documents. On request, we’ll send proof of insurance directly to your landlord or property manager.
5) Service and claims
- Need changes (roommate added, contents limit update, moving to a new unit, or cancelling at lease‑end)? Your Summit account manager handles it. If you have a loss, contact Claim Services and we’ll coordinate with the insurer.
FAQ: brokered renters policies
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Is tenant insurance mandatory in Canada?
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Not by law. However, many leases require proof of tenant insurance with a minimum liability limit. Even when not required, brokers strongly recommend it to protect your belongings and liability.
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How much does it cost?
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Pricing varies by province, building type, construction year, security features, prior claims, deductible, and limits. Typical premiums are often in the $20–$40/month range for many urban addresses, with student programs sometimes starting near $17–18/month where available.
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Can roommates share one policy?
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Some carriers allow multiple named insureds, but sub‑limits and claims impact are shared. Many renters prefer separate policies for clearer limits and claims history separation. If permitted by the carrier, ensure every roommate is properly named on the policy.
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What if I move?
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Tell your broker before you move. We’ll re‑rate for the new address and issue updated proofs. Moves between provinces may require a new policy. We do not service Quebec.
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What about homeshare or subletting?
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Standard tenant policies exclude business/short‑term rental exposures. If you sublet or host, tell us so we can place an appropriate form or endorsement.
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How do deductibles work?
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The deductible applies to covered property losses (not usually to liability). Higher deductibles typically lower premiums but increase your out‑of‑pocket at claim time.
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How do I file a claim?
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Start with Summit via Claim Services or your policy’s claims number. We’ll help report the loss, coordinate adjusters, and advocate through settlement.
Get a quote
Ready to compare carriers for your lease? Contact our team at Summit Cover for a fast, brokered tenant insurance quote across multiple markets (Canada only; excludes Quebec).