Published on this website: October 19, 2026
A-Z Insurance · Prepared on: 2026-10-12 · Information checked: 2026-10-12
An insurer’s announced rate decrease can sound like a promise of a smaller renewal bill. Before planning around that number, check what it measures and when it applies. This guide was prepared on October 12, 2026, using the public FSRA information available that day.
Start with the approval record
Ontario insurers must obtain regulatory approval to change the rates used to calculate auto premiums. FSRA reviews their applications, including assumptions about claims and expenses. An approval record can help you ask informed questions about your renewal. FSRA’s rate approval guidance.
In the FSRA rate approvals database, check the exact insurer, percentage and two dates. For example, Pembridge Insurance Company’s listed −1.45% change was approved June 17, 2026, with a renewal effective date of September 15, 2026. These are the record’s actual dates, not an October announcement. The percentage represents an expected average across the insurer’s renewals. Individual premiums can increase, decrease or remain unchanged. A 0.00% entry likewise does not promise an unchanged bill for every customer.
Check the insurer named on your policy
Start with the insurer’s full legal name on your documents. A familiar group or brand can include more than one insurance company. Match the record to that name rather than assuming every company in a group has the same change.
Save the relevant record alongside your renewal offer. Ask your broker which approved change applies to your policy and whether the renewal effective date is relevant to your term. Avoid applying a renewal percentage to a new-business quote or a midterm change without checking.
Why your own price can differ
FSRA identifies several factors behind an individual premium, including the vehicle, driving record, address, kilometres driven, coverage and deductible. Insurers also have different claims experience for different risk groups. A clean driving record is valuable, but it does not by itself fix the renewal price. FSRA’s guide to rating factors.
Provincial and GTA average premiums are another type of statistic. They describe a broad insured population; they are not a recommended price for your household. Keep a regional average, an insurer’s approved percentage and your actual dollar quote separate. FSRA’s explanation of average premiums.
Turn the headline into useful questions
Have your current policy and renewal offer ready, then ask:
- Is the insurer name and renewal date matched to the correct approval record?
- Are the vehicle, drivers, address, use and mileage accurate?
- Which coverage, deductible or discount details differ from last year?
- Can you explain the dollar change and compare alternatives using the same requested protection?
FSRA recommends shopping before renewal and considering coverage and service alongside price. Several quotes may help you compare options, but no published percentage identifies the cheapest insurer for every driver. FSRA’s shopping guidance.
Review your actual documents
A-Z Insurance can help you review your auto insurance options. Bring the renewal offer and the rate record that prompted your question so the discussion starts with your policy’s details.
General information checked October 12, 2026. This article does not quote a premium or guarantee savings, eligibility or coverage. Your insurer’s confirmed quote and policy documents determine the terms that apply.