When your renewal arrives, look beyond the monthly payment. Check coverage, driver information and effective dates. If you are considering another insurer, confirm the new policy before arranging the end of the old one.
Start before the expiry date
Set yourself a review reminder about a month ahead. FSRA says you should normally receive renewal information approximately 30 days before expiry. Check your actual documents and contact your broker if they have not arrived. FSRA’s policy and renewal guidance
Confirm the policy term, payment arrangement, automatic-renewal provisions and any requests for updated information. Automatic payments are convenient, but they are not a coverage review.
Understand what changed
Renewal pricing may reflect insurer rate changes, repair and claims costs, the vehicle, driving history, address, mileage or coverage selections. Do not assume that any reported incident must be the cause of an increase. Ask whether records are accurate and which rating factors apply. FSRA on premium factors
Ontario auto rates are regulated, and FSRA reviews insurers’ rate-change applications. The useful conversation is about accurate information, eligible discounts and competing coverage options. A broker cannot promise an arbitrary price reduction through bargaining. FSRA’s rate approval guidance
Compare like with like
Use the same VIN, actual drivers, parking address, use and estimated mileage for competing quotes. A lower monthly figure may reflect a higher deductible, reduced coverage or different payment terms.
Check these items side by side:
- Third-party liability limits
- Accident benefits selections, limits and eligible people
- Collision, Comprehensive and other vehicle-damage coverage
- Deductibles, temporary transportation and other endorsements
- Total annual cost, instalment terms and available discounts
If you consider raising a deductible, first decide whether you could comfortably pay it after a covered loss. It may reduce the relevant premium, but the amount depends on the quote. Winter-tire, multi-policy and other discounts each have eligibility conditions. FSRA’s savings guidance
Include the 2026 accident benefits changes
Since July 1, 2026, standard medical, rehabilitation and attendant care benefits remain mandatory, while other accident benefits are optional. Existing renewal benefits and limits continue unless changed by written agreement. However, the eligible-person scope for optional benefits changed on July 1, regardless of renewal date. FSRA’s reform fact sheet
Review household members, drivers and benefit needs. Report changes to commuting, deliveries or other vehicle use when they occur rather than waiting for renewal. Compare workplace benefits carefully before removing an option from your auto policy.
Switching insurers: confirm the new coverage first
Complete the new insurer’s requirements and obtain confirmation of coverage, including the precise effective date and time and proof of insurance. Once you know the new policy will start as intended, follow the old insurer’s cancellation or non-renewal process. Specify the desired end date and keep written confirmation.
Do not stop payments as a substitute for cancelling. Midterm cancellation may involve a charge, and a refund may not be a simple daily calculation. Ask for the amount before deciding. FSRA warns that a cancellation for non-payment may lead to higher future premiums. FSRA on cancellation and payment
Do not drive a vehicle requiring insurance during a gap. At the same time, not every voluntary period without a policy automatically results in a surcharge or refusal. The reason and applicable rules matter. If the car will be unused, discuss appropriate storage or coverage arrangements in advance.
Keep the final records
Save the accepted quote, policy and endorsements, proof of insurance, payment schedule and any cancellation confirmation. Check that actual charges match the documents, and raise discrepancies promptly.
Contact A-Z Insurance with your renewal documents to review the coverage, information and available options.
Phone: 905-707-2929. Email: info@azinsure.ca.
This article provides general information checked on October 11, 2026. It does not guarantee savings or acceptance. Coverage, premiums, cancellation charges and effective dates depend on the policy and insurer’s confirmation.