Frequently Asked Questions
You've got questions.
We've got answers.
Have questions about insurance? You're not alone! From coverage details to claims processes, we’ve compiled answers to the most common inquiries to ensure you have all the information you need.
General Insurance
How do deductibles work, and how can they impact my premium?
A deductible is the out-of-pocket amount for a claim before your insurance coverage kicks in. For example, if your deductible is $500 and your car costs $800 to repair, you’ll be responsible for $500 and we’ll pay the remaining $300. Luckily, you have options for deductibles, and we’ll help you choose the right one.
What do you suggest is a good amount for my deductible?
Like beads of sand in an hourglass, everyone is different. Your insurance needs are unique, and we’re committed to helping you choose the right deductible and premiums. Giving you the choice allows you to be part of the process and control your costs. The most common amounts for auto insurance are $500 and $1000.
How are you and your policies different from big companies like the other guys?
We are independent, and we work for you. That’s a great motto, but what does it mean? It means we can shop around for the best policy among many insurance companies and give you options.
How do I know if I should put a claim through or pay it on my own?
It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially with car insurance, due to the nature of liability. With home insurance, there are a few more factors to consider. Is the claim greater than your deductible? Did you purchase an accident waiver? We can help you before you even file your claim. For example, we can help you understand the cost or potential cost of the claim. Don’t worry about calling and asking for our advice - we’re on your side!
How do I get ahold of a claims adjuster?
You don’t need to worry about that - just get ahold of us, and we’ll do the rest!
How do claims impact my future premiums?
Filing a claim may impact your future premiums depending on the type of claim, its severity, and the frequency of claims. We can advise you on the potential impacts and help you weigh your options before filing.
I just moved to Ontario. What do I need to provide for home and auto insurance?
For us to provide the best pricing available for you, you must provide your insurance history from your previous province or state. This can be a letter of experience from your prior insurance company. In the case of auto insurance, a driver's abstract from provincial or state transportation authority.
What’s the advantage of working with a brokerage like Erion over a direct insurance provider?
As a brokerage, we work with multiple insurance companies to find the best policy for your needs and budget. Our role is to be your advocate, providing choice, personalized service, and guidance.
Can I make changes to my policy at any time?
Yes! Life is constantly changing, and so are your insurance needs. Whether moving, buying a new vehicle, or making changes to your home, you can update your policy anytime by contacting us.
Home Insurance
How do I know how much I should insure my contents for?
A home inventory list can help you understand the costs of replacing items and you can assess that against the limits offered under your insurance policy. However, most clients find that a comprehensive policy provides more than enough coverage limits.
Do I need water insurance coverage for my home?
Water insurance coverage can be complex, and every home has its own unique risks when it comes to water damage. Factors like your property’s proximity to bodies of water or the local sewer system can affect coverage options and costs. Our team of insurance brokers is here to help you navigate these complexities. We’ll work with you to find the right coverage for your specific needs and explain important coverage details and limitations.
I'm going on vacation for a week. What do I need to do?
Have fun, relax, and read a good book. Oh, and ensure that someone is checking on your home daily. They should look for water leaks, temperature changes within the house, and signs of forced entry.
Definitely DO NOT announce your vacation on social media. It’s hard to relax on holiday with a big red target on your back.
Do I need insurance if I’m renting a home?
It is highly recommended that you purchase insurance protection. From water damage to accidental fires, you could be held responsible for costly repairs. Protect yourself and your belongings with tenant insurance and gain peace of mind.
What is a replacement cost?
Replacement cost is the amount we would pay to replace your home if it were damaged beyond repair. Replacement cost isn’t just the value of your home - it could also include permit costs, labour, removal of debris, etc.
What factors have an impact on my home insurance?
There are many factors that determine your home insurance. The big ones are:
- The deductible you’ve chosen
- Your home replacement cost
- The age of your roof
- Your location
- The type of wiring in your home and whether you have breakers or fuses
- Your home’s heating system
Can I insure a secondary or vacation home?
Yes! We can help you find coverage options for a second home or vacation property. There are unique considerations, so we’ll work together to find the right policy for your needs.
Will my homeowners' insurance cover home renovations?
It depends on the type of renovation. Some upgrades might require adjustments to your policy, especially if they increase the value of your home. Contact us before any major projects to ensure you’re properly covered.
Will my home rate change on renewal?
Yes, home insurance rates are reassessed annually. Since insurance is built on a shared-risk system, factors like claims and shifts in the market can affect premiums. Rest assured, we’re here to guide you through any changes and ensure optimal coverage.
Can I get a discount if I bundle my home and auto insurance?
You bet! Bundling your home and auto insurance can offer savings, plus the ease of managing all your insurance needs with Erion. We make it simple and convenient to keep everything under one roof.
Auto Insurance
Can I get a discount for having winter tires?
Absolutely! In Ontario, having winter tires on your vehicle during the colder months can make you eligible for a discount on your auto insurance. Make sure to let us know if you use winter tires.
I bought a new car. What paperwork do you need to add it to my policy?
Congratulations! We just need three things to add your new car to your policy:
- The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- A copy of the ownership
- A copy of the bill of sale to tell us the value so we maximize your coverage in the event of a loss
My child is getting their G1. Do I have to add them to my policy?
No, not for G1. But this could be a good entry point for starting an insurance relationship. Talk to us about how you can benefit.
My child just got their G2 driver's license. What do you need to add them as an occasional driver?
It’s really simple - we need four things to get coverage in place:
- Your child’s birthdate
- Their driver’s license number
- The date they passed their G2
- A copy of the driver training certificate from the local MTO or Service Ontario kiosk
Will my auto rate change once I turn 25?
YES - Happy Birthday to you! We’ll take the edge off your ‘quarter-life crisis’ by applying a discount to your auto insurance.
Can I lend my car to a friend or relative? What happens if they get into an accident?
Yes! Friendship is wonderful! The vehicle owner can permit any licensed driver to still benefit from insurance coverage.
Does my insurance cover rental vehicles?
If you have rental car coverage, your current auto insurance extends to rental vehicles. This is useful if you frequently rent cars and want peace of mind that you’re covered.
How high should I set my car insurance deductible?
The choice is yours! If you want to save money on your premium, you can choose to pay a higher deductible. The risk is more money out of your pocket in the case of a claim.
What factors have an impact on my car insurance premium?
Many factors determine your car insurance premium. Some include:
- The make, model and year of your vehicle
- The deductible you’ve chosen
- Where you live and work
- Your daily commute, average annual driving distance, etc.
- Your driving experience
- The amount of coverage you require
What should I do if I’m involved in an accident?
First, make sure everyone is safe and call emergency services if needed. Exchange information with the other driver, document the scene, and contact us as soon as possible to start the claims process. We’ll walk you through every step.
Does my insurance cover me if I drive for a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft?
Driving for rideshare services can require specific coverage that may not be included in a personal auto policy. If you plan to drive for a rideshare company, let us know, and we’ll discuss the best coverage options to keep you protected.
Will my auto rate change on renewal?
Yes, auto insurance rates are reviewed each year. Insurance is a community-based system, so factors affecting the entire pool, like claim costs and market changes, can impact your rate. As your broker, we’ll help you navigate changes and get the best coverage possible.
Can I get a discount if I bundle my car and home insurance?
Absolutely! Bundling your car and home insurance can lead to a discount and make it easier to manage your policies in one place. With Erion as your broker, bundling is simple and convenient.
Business Insurance
What types of business insurance do you offer?
We offer a wide range of options, including liability coverage, property insurance, cyber insurance, and more. We’ll work with you to identify your business's specific needs and customize a plan that’s just right.
How can business insurance help protect me from liability issues?
Business liability insurance helps protect you if someone claims your business caused injury or property damage. It can cover things like legal fees, settlement costs, and medical expenses, so you don’t have to pay these costs out of pocket.
My business is home-based. Do I still need business insurance?
Yes, standard home insurance often won’t cover business-related risks. Business insurance can protect your equipment, inventory, and liability needs, even if you’re running your business from home.
What is cyber insurance, and does my business need it?
Cyber insurance protects you from losses due to data breaches, hacking, or other cyber risks. If you store sensitive customer or business information, cyber coverage is a crucial layer of protection in today’s digital landscape.
Can I customize my business insurance policy?
Absolutely! Every business has different needs, and as your broker, we can help you find flexible coverage options that match your unique requirements. From industry-specific protection to business interruption coverage or increased liability limits, we’ll work with you to tailor the right policy.
How does business interruption insurance work?
Business interruption insurance helps cover lost income and ongoing expenses if your business operations are halted due to a covered event, like a fire or natural disaster. This can help keep your business afloat during downtime.
Will my business insurance cover employee injuries?
Business insurance includes liability for customer injuries, but employee injuries are usually covered under workers' compensation insurance. We can discuss options to ensure comprehensive coverage for your team.
What factors affect my business insurance premium?
Factors like your industry, location, revenue, and claims history can influence your premium. Our brokers work to find competitive rates that provide the coverage your business needs.
Does my small business need general liability insurance?
Yes, general liability insurance is essential for most businesses. It covers bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury claims, helping to protect you from financial loss due to lawsuits.
Can I add coverage for specialized equipment or tools?
Yes, we offer options to add coverage for specific equipment, machinery, or tools essential to your business operations so you’re not left in the dark if something goes wrong.
How do I know if my business needs professional liability insurance?
If you provide professional advice or services (like consulting or design), professional liability insurance protects you against claims of negligence or errors. It’s essential for professions where mistakes can lead to financial losses for clients.
Recreational Insurance
What types of recreational vehicles can be insured?
We cover a wide range of recreational vehicles, including ATVs, motorcycles, boats, RVs, trailers, and more. We’re here to help you find coverage that fits your specific lifestyle.
Is my recreational vehicle covered when I’m transporting it?
Yes, in most cases, your recreational vehicle can be covered during transport, whether on a trailer or towed behind your car. Let us know your plans, and we’ll make sure you have the proper protection.
Does recreational insurance cover damages due to weather or natural events?
Many recreational insurance policies cover damages caused by specific weather events, such as hail, wind, or floods. However, it’s best to discuss details to ensure complete protection.
Is liability coverage necessary for my ATV or boat?
Liability coverage is crucial for recreational vehicles like ATVs and boats. It protects you from financial responsibility if you accidentally injure someone else or damage their property while enjoying your vehicle.
Can I get coverage for accessories or equipment on my recreational vehicle?
Yes, you can add coverage for accessories, such as trailers, equipment, or specialized gear. We’ll work with you to protect the value of everything you need for your adventures.
Do I need separate insurance for each recreational vehicle?
Yes, each recreational vehicle may need its own policy. However, some insurers offer multi-vehicle discounts or bundled packages to help you save while covering all your recreational assets.
Will my recreational insurance cover out-of-province or international trips?
Some policies provide coverage for trips outside your home province or even internationally. If you plan on travelling with your recreational vehicle, it's essential to check these details.
Do I need insurance for my trailer, even if it’s not motorized?
Trailers often require insurance to protect against theft, damage, and liability. Whether motorized or not, trailers can be valuable assets worth protecting.
How much liability coverage should I get for my recreational vehicle?
The amount of liability coverage depends on how and where you use your vehicle. Higher coverage may be advisable if you frequently use your vehicle in public areas or high-traffic zones. We’ll help you get the right coverage for your needs.
Can I suspend coverage on my recreational vehicle during the off-season?
Some policies allow you to adjust or suspend coverage during the off-season. This can help reduce costs while protecting your vehicle from theft or vandalism when it is stored.