The 5 Best Insurance Companies in Ottawa
Having insurance is an essential part of financial planning. And if you’re looking for the best insurance plans, you’re on the right track.
We want to help you find the best insurance for your needs, lifestyle, and budget. Whether it’s life, health, or liability insurance, we’re here to guide you in the direction of the best insurance companies in Ottawa.
But first, let’s talk about the average cost of insurance in Ottawa.
How Much Does The Best Insurance in Ottawa Cost?
There are different kinds of insurance and it pays to do a bit of research on what exactly you want to be insured.
Life insurance premiums are primarily based on your age, health, and your life insurance product. Other factors like your smoking habits, family history, and policy terms affect the cost of your life insurance.
Health insurance, although often covered by your employer, can also be beneficial for the coverage of services like prescription drug plans, eyeglasses and eye examinations, and visits to a psychologist.
Liability insurance often pertains to protection against claims resulting from bodily injuries or property damage.
The table below summarizes the most common types of insurance you can get in Ottawa.
| Life Insurance (a term life insurance policy lasting 20 years and providing a death benefit of $500,000) | Roughly $126 per month |
| Health Insurance for an individual | $400 to $500 per month |
| Health Insurance for families | $1000 to $2000 per month |
| Liability Insurance | $500 to $2000 per year |
| Property or Home Insurance | $700 to $2000 per year |
| Auto Insurance | $1200 per year, or $100 per month |
| Boat Insurance | $200 to $500 per year |
The Best Insurance Companies in Ottawa
Now that you’re familiar with the types and costs of insurance, let’s get to our list of the best and most trusted insurance providers in Ottawa.
1. Tanner Insurance
| SERVICES | Personal Insurance, Car Insurance, Home Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Boat Insurance, Group Insurance |
| WEBSITE | https://tannerinsurance.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 200-2435 Holly Ln, Ottawa, ON K1V 7P2, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: +1 613 232-5704 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Mondays to Fridays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Since 1922, Tanner Insurance has been providing the Ottawa community with insurance products at competitive rates.
They offer insurance for home, auto, boat, and many other vehicles. Their agents take the time to make sure that clients get the coverage they need while also saving them money.
They also offer general liability and commercial insurance to protect what’s important for their customer’s business. They serve the business community by offering customized and specific insurance solutions for their commercial customers.
Their years in the industry have allowed them to grow and adapt to the needs of their clients. They are committed to providing the best options available by having their brokers custom tailor the policy to fit their client’s specific lifestyles and needs.
Clients can rest assured that they will be provided with the best insurance value that combines coverage, service, and price. And should an issue arise regarding the insurance coverage, Tanner Insurance will be the client’s advocate, using their professional experience to best represent their client’s interest.
Pros
- Transparency in insurers and the percentage of the compensation each provides
- Provides reduced group rates on home and auto insurance
- Group insurance for employees are available with no setup or administrative fees
- Competitive price
Cons
- No available life or health insurance
- Claims assistance are not available 24/7
Customer Reviews
A five-star review from Charles Chiu via Google says:
“Tanner insurance has helped me with insurance on multiple properties. Each time the review of options and coverage has been thorough and performed quickly. Their access to local insurance companies has helped save me lots of money compared to one-size-fits-all offerings from larger companies like TD. Thank you for the 5 star service!”
Another review from Joanne Jabbour reads:
“I wish I was referred a lot sooner! Perry So is the absolute best! It was a matter of minutes and I already had an amazing car insurance quote, all finalized and ready to go in less than an hour in total. Provides top quality service, making the process as smooth as possible.”
2. Desjardins Insurance Agent
| SERVICES | Auto Insurance, Motorcycle Insurance, Property Insurance, Identity Coverage, Life Insurance, Liability Insurance, Business Insurance |
| WEBSITE | https://www.desjardinsagents.com/home |
| ADDRESS | 2285 St. Laurent Blvd Unit D-3, Ottawa, ON K1G 4Z7, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | +1 613 737-5095 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Mondays to Fridays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
As one of the top insurers in Canada, Desjardins Insurance helps their clients make accurate and informed financial choices. They offer auto, home, life, health and business insurance products.
Desjardins also provides options for customers looking for term insurance and those who are looking for a more permanent insurance. They offer insurance options focused on affordability, or on lifelong protection and cash value to cater to their customers’ needs.
One unique insurance Desjardins offers is identity fraud insurance. If a client becomes a victim of identity fraud, they will get expense reimbursement and personal help for the recovery process.
They also offer savings solutions for both individuals and businesses. Extensive resources on different kinds of insurance their clients can get, how to make their client’s investments grow through mutual funds, and potential retirement plans are available for their customers.
They also have immediate, personal claims assistance available 24/7.
Finally, on top of the products and services they offer, they are also involved in their community through the Desjardins Foundation which awards scholarships and gives grants to support special projects that benefit young people.
Pros
- 24/7 personal claims assistance
- Comprehensive plans for different client needs
- Provides life insurance
- Provides online resources on insurance and investments
Cons
- Does not offer health insurance
Customer Reviews
A review from Basil K via Google says:
“I recently switched over to Ken McCafferty for my two vehicles. They gave me a great quote I couldn’t refuse and better coverage than I had before. They are always there to answer any questions or concerns. I am recommending them to all my friends and family.”
Another review from Allie McNamara reads:
“We have had the pleasure of dealing with Linda as our agent for years. Linda has provided us with excellent customer care and is extremely knowledgeable, always looking out for our families best interest. We highly recommend using Linda for all your insurance needs!”
3. Halpenny Insurance Brokers Ltd.
| SERVICES | Commercial Insurance, Auto Insurance, Home Insurance, Group Home & Auto Insurance |
| WEBSITE | https://halpenny.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 1550a Laperriere Ave #104, Ottawa, ON K1Z 7T2, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: +1 613 722-7626 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Mondays to Fridays: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
Halpenny Insurance Brokers started in 1912, making them both the oldest and largest independent insurance broker in Ottawa offering home, personal, auto and commercial insurance.
They provide value by finding the best coverage for their commercial clients and giving them long-term support. They serve industries like aviation and aerospace, construction, manufacturing, and many others, addressing diverse risks.
They have a record of satisfactory resolution of insurance claims. In fact, previous customers can attest to Halpenny having helped them keep their businesses and employees secure.
They also provide auto insurance, helping their customers find the right coverage for their vehicle’s make and model. Furthermore, they cover multiple types of personal watercraft like jet skis and sailboats.
They also help protect their customers from property-related problems they may face as a condo unit or homeowner.
Halpenny has also multiple convenient ways for their customers to pay their insurance. Customers can pay directly online, pay via e-transfer, direct deposit, or mail a cheque.
Pros
- 24/7 claims assistance
- Online payments are available
- Comprehensive plans for different client needs
Cons
- Does not offer life or health insurance
Customer Reviews
A review from Albert Tan via Google reads:
“Sonya Cross responded promptly to my enquiry with accuracy on rates and services. She handles all my insurance for home, vehicles and condos for rentals. She is reliable and trustworthy. Highly recommended.”
Another review from Hassan D says:
“Everything was so fast and so easy. I have two at fault accidents and a ticket, Lezlie managed to get me an affordable rate and I was able to start the policy the next day. Over 250 people leaving a 5 star review is what made me chose this broker. Very happy with my choice thanks again!”
4. Rhodes & Williams Insurance Brokers
| SERVICES | Personal Insurance, Auto Insurance, Property Insurance, Group Insurance, Recreational Insurance, Business Insurance, General Insurance |
| WEBSITE | https://www.rhodeswilliams.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 1050 Morrison Dr, Ottawa, ON K2H 8K7, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: +1 613 226-6590 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Mondays to Fridays: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
Rhodes & Williams offers auto property, watercraft, recreational, and group insurance. Each category has a more extensive insurance policy and add-ons so their clients can customize their depth of coverage, at a premium and deductible that fits their budget.
They provide their customers support that goes beyond insurance products like insurance insights, sponsored events in their community, and a glossary for insurance concepts.
They have also developed a useful app, the Rhodes & Williams app, which offers an easy way for clients to keep their account information accessible and where insurance resources can be viewed. The app can also update clients on their claim information, manage their policy, and view payment details.
Commercial and business insurance solutions are also available from Rhodes & Williams.
Aside from general liability and technology insurance, they also offer specialty classes like business acquisitions. This is a kind of coverage that makes a business more attractive to purchasers and also protects sellers from potential legal action.
Rhodes & Williams also made it convenient for their customers to pay their insurance. Customers can pay directly to them, through their bank, or by credit card.
Pros
- Rhodes & Williams app is available
- Online payments are available
- Comprehensive plans for different client needs
Cons
- Does not offer life or health insurance
- Claims assistance not available 24/7
Customer Reviews
A positive review from Lou Madore via Google says:
“I had a great experience with Mandy. She is very efficient, professional and I received a quick response to our needs. We saved money when we contacted her. I would recommend your company to our friends and family for sure. I am sure that at some point, we will contact you again. Thank you”
A review from Jack Macfarlane reads:
“Tommy helped me get insurance for my vehicle. Very quick and smooth experience. Would highly recommend them to anyone looking for insurance!”
5. Smith Petrie Carr & Scott Insurance Brokers Ltd
| SERVICES | Property & Auto Insurance, Commercial Insurance, Life Insurance, Living Insurance, Employee Benefits |
| WEBSITE | https://www.spcs-ins.com/ |
| ADDRESS | 359 Kent St #600, Ottawa, ON K2P 0R6, Canada |
| CONTACT DETAILS | Phone: +1 613 237-2871 |
| OPERATING HOURS | Mondays to Fridays: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
Smith Petrie Carr & Scott is a one-stop-shop for all insurance needs. This is because they offer advice and counsel on a wide range of products and options including life insurance, health insurance, as well as commercial, home and auto insurance.
Their Life and Living Benefits Department can provide family protection for the death of a family member. This ensures that the remaining family members have the continued financial resources to maintain their standard of living despite any loss of income.
They also offer mortgage term insurance, which will cover the full amount of the initial mortgage balance for the life of the policy.
Other valuable insurance products that they offer include disability insurance, individual health and dental plans, critical illness insurance, and long-term insurance.
The health insurance can cover prescription drugs, dental services, home care and nursing, vision care, and medical equipment.
Pros
- Offers individual health and dental plans
- Travel and health insurance are available
- Offers long-term care insurance
- Comprehensive plans for different client needs
- 24/7 claims assistance
- Convenient payment options without service fees
Cons
- Commercial insurance products are less comprehensive
Customer Reviews
A five-star review from Chantale Sauvé via Google says:
“Been with Smith Petrie Carr & Scott for many years and I would recommend them to anyone! I can always count on speedy responses and Wendy always provides me with tons of context and information to make informed decisions. Couldn’t be happier honestly!”
Jennifer Diggens also left a review via Google saying:
“I have been getting my tenant and car insurance through Smith Petrie Carr & Scott for the past seven years. They are responsive and a company that has gained my trust. Jessica Lopes provides exceptional service!”
FAQs on Insurance
We hope that our list of the best insurance companies in Ottawa helped you move a step closer to financial freedom.
Know any other great insurance companies in Ottawa? Let us know so we can check if they qualify to be on this list.
If you’re specifically looking for car insurance, be sure to check the best car insurance providers in Ottawa.