What governing body can I go to for help in dealing with issues surrounding my insurance for my home

by Juie V.
(Mississauga, On, Canada)

We have had insurance with the same company for years and had a number of properties ensured, however at our home our vehicles have been broken into and damage done both to the vehicle and the contents. At the time following our insurance co recommendation we were forced to file a claim for the contents against the house as well as the vehicle.

In addition I have carried a rider on my policy for jewlery to protect my wedding ring for loss. five years ago however I was in costco shopping and realized my diamond had disapeared from my ring. Although we made every attempt to find it there was little chance. So since I had paid for this rider and at the time thhe broker indicated there woud be no problem if I had to ever use it.

Then the fire happened. There was mostly smoke damaged but the insurance co, hired several companies to fix the items which caused more damaged and increased the payout cost. I believe the total payout was $60,000

Now we are being held hostage for insurance not only did the insurer cancel the house policy but the cancelled our cottage policies which had no claims on it and it goes on.

The new company we found gave us insurance but now has demanded not only a premium but that we sign a waver for no theft insurance on the house. I can see if they place a waver on the outside but if the home gets broken into there is no coverage. In addition they sent a home inspector who did things like insist we point a chimney that is not in use anymore, as well claimed we had no fire extenquisher in the kitchen which we have and continue to have, as well we just had the electrical upgraded and inspected because of the fire and he claimed we had a deficiency, we fixed those and now we have more all of a sudden. What recourse does the owner have, and how many times can you be penalized, and for how long.

Ontario Home Insurance Questions After Claims

Hi Julie
Sounds like you have had a a lot of bad luck.

The government body that oversees insurers is the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO). The Insurance Bureau of Canada is another organization you can go to for information.

Many insurers cancel policies after 3 claims (within a certain time period) and many others will not take on an insured that has three claims within a certain time period (some are 3 years, others are longer).

Many insurers inspect homes that they take on, especially if there is reason to think that claims are likely. Asking that a chimney be repointed is common. If the chimney is in disrepair there is a chance that parts will fall off and hit someone causing serious injury.

And limiting coverages is also common if there is reason to be concerned that it will happen again.

You will have difficulty getting insurance for quite a few years. Once you've gone ten years without claims you'll be "attractive" to the insurers again.

Hope that helps a little.




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