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I own a condo and rent it to someone else. Should I get Condo Insurance?
Absolutely! But, rather than a Condo policy, you’ll need a Rented Condo policy, also known as a Landlord policy. These differ significantly from a Condo policy where you live in the unit yourself as the exposures are somewhat different. You can get a quote for your Landlord insurance policy here. Those who use their Condo for occasional Airbnb rentals will require a different policy again, as the exposures are somewhat different. If you’re not sure which policy to purchase, don’t hesitate to contact one of our insurance advisors.
How much does condo insurance cost in BC?
One major benefit of condo insurance is that it is generally inexpensive to purchase. Despite condo insurance rates in Vancouver being on the rise recently, the annual cost of a typical condo insurance policy in Vancouver does not have to set you back more than $400-$500/year, depending on the insurance coverage you select. More than anything, however, for those who own or are looking to buy a condo in Metro Vancouver, or other parts of the province, it is important to find a condo insurance policy that fits the unique needs of both your individual unit as well as the strata corporation. Be forewarned that it is not always about the lowest rate when it comes to reviewing insurance quotes. Make sure your insurance company provides coverage for the areas you need, whether that’s a certain type of replacement cost coverage or special coverage to protect you from possible water damage.
What is condo deductible protection?
Your strata corporation has a policy insuring the whole building and common areas. They have a deductible, which is the amount that they are responsible for in the event of a claim. Condo deductible protection helps protect you if the deductible is assessed back on to you by your strata corporation.
If I make improvements or renovations to my unit, will they be covered?
While your Strata corporation’s insurance policy will typically cover original fixtures and fittings, your Condo Insurance will cover any improvements that you have made, including materials and supplies being used to conduct the upgrades. Be sure to review your Strata’s insurance policy to ensure your condo policy has enough coverages to match theirs to avoid being held liable for any gaps.
Is Condo Insurance mandatory in B.C.?
Condo insurance is not mandatory by law, however if you are applying for a mortgage, most lenders will impose this as a condition for mortgage approval. Whether mandatory or not, it is extremely important to protect your investment.
What does home insurance cover?
The basic coverages included in any homeowners policy are coverage for your home and its contents, as well as your personal liability, anywhere in the world. More specifically, for those who live in their homes year-round, your homeowners insurance will typically cover: The building (ie the dwelling) Detached Structures on the premises, like a garage, shed outhouse, etc The Personal Property you own, such as computers, books furniture, electronics, clothing, books, jewellery, etc Any trees and shrubs located outside and on the premises Your Additional living expenses, should you have to relocate as a result of a covered claim The loss of any rental income after making a claim, if applicable. Your homeowners insurance typically also covers the same things for your spouse and any relatives who are living with you in the same household. Keep in mind that you can typically customize your insurance policy to get the right type and amount of insurance for your specific needs, such as adding a high-end bicycle or an expensive piece of jewelry. It’s always good to keep your policy current and up to date with the value of the personal possessions of everyone on the policy to ensure you’re adequately covered.
What factors influence the cost of my auto insurance?
Several factors such as make and model of your vehicle, driving record, age and gender can affect the cost of your ICBC auto insurance.
What is Income Replacement benefit offered by ICBC?
The Income Replacement Benefit offered by ICBC is a part of the Enhanced Accident Benefits, designed to assist British Columbians injured in a crash who are unable to work due to their injuries. This benefit replaces the previous system where lower benefits were provided, and the non-responsible party had the option to sue for additional lost wages. Now, with Enhanced Care, individuals receive 90% of their net income as wage loss replacement, up to a maximum of $113,000 in annual gross income, in regular, non-taxable payments. This benefit is available for as long as medically needed and is accessible to those injured in crashes in Canada or the U.S. It's important to note that any income replacement received from other sources like employer benefits or Employment Insurance will be deducted from the ICBC payment. The benefit is intended as a temporary measure to support income loss during recovery, with different provisions for severe injuries and transitioning to retirement benefits at retirement age. For a comprehensive understanding, please refer to the full bulletin provided by ICBC: Income Replacement Benefit Bulletin.
What is the difference between new car replacement insurance and gap insurance?
The difference between New Car Replacement and GAP Insurance is this: GAP Insurance only pays the difference between what a person owes on their leasing contract and the vehicle’s actual cash value at the time of the loss. This means that you don’t owe anything for that vehicle but also aren’t left with anything to put towards a new one. A New Car Replacement policy pays the difference between the Actual Cash Value settlement received by the Lessor from the Primary Insurer, and the cost of the same make, model, and trim level vehicle, in the newest model year available. The New Car Replacement policy settlement can then be applied to a new lease or finance contract as a down payment towards the replacement vehicle.
What other types of coverage can I get from ICBC?
In addition to basic auto insurance, ICBC also provides optional coverage such as collision, comprehensive, all-perils, and specified perils insurance.
What should I do if I get into an accident?
After any emergency medical care, contact your broker or ICBC directly and follow the instructions provided by their representatives. Be sure to keep detailed record of all details and expenses associated with the incident.
What types of coverage are available for travel trailers?
Depending on the provider, you can typically get liability insurance coverage, collision and comprehensive coverage, damage due to theft protection, and emergency roadside assistance.
What should I look for in an international business insurance provider?
When choosing an international business insurance provider, it's important to look for a company with experience in providing coverage for businesses operating in your industry and geographic location. It's also important to choose a provider with a strong financial rating and a track record of paying claims promptly. InsureBC can help you find the right insurance provider for your needs.
How can I ensure that I have the right amount of coverage?
Working with an experienced international business insurance broker like InsureBC can help ensure that you have the right amount of coverage. Our experts can evaluate your business and recommend the types and amounts of coverage required to mitigate risks.
What information do I need to provide to get international business insurance quotes?
To get international business insurance quotes, you will need to provide information about your business, including its location, industry, and the types of coverage you require.
What is the role of international business insurance brokers?
International business insurance brokers help businesses find the right insurance coverage for their specific needs. They can provide expert advice on the types of coverage required and help businesses find the best insurance providers.
What kind of businesses need international business insurance with US exposure?
Any business that operates in the US or does business with US clients should consider getting international business insurance with US exposure. This can include businesses in industries such as manufacturing, hospitality, and technology.
What is US exposure in international business insurance?
US exposure refers to the risks associated with conducting business in the United States. This can include risks related to US laws and regulations, as well as risks associated with doing business with US clients.
Can I utilize the cash value in my Permanent Life Insurance policy to cover premiums?
Yes, one of the benefits of Permanent Life Insurance is the ability to use the accumulated cash value to pay premiums. As the policy builds cash value over time, you may have the option to tap into this value to offset premium payments. This feature provides flexibility and can help ensure that your policy remains in force even if you encounter financial challenges. However, it's important to understand the implications of utilizing the cash value, such as potential impacts on the death benefit and policy performance.
How do I select the ideal Permanent Life Insurance policy and insurer?
Choosing the right Permanent Life Insurance policy and insurer requires careful consideration. Start by assessing your long-term financial goals and protection needs. Consider factors such as the coverage amount, premium affordability, policy features, and customer service reputation of the insurer.
Can I transfer my Permanent Life Insurance policy to another person?
Permanent life insurance policies are generally non-transferable. The policy owner and the insured individual are typically the same person. However, you may have the option to change the policy's ownership or beneficiary designation, allowing you to transfer the benefits to another person or entity.
It is crucial to carefully review the terms of your policy contract and seek guidance from our agents regarding any potential transfers.
Are there any medical exams required to qualify for Permanent Life Insurance?
The medical exam requirements for permanent life insurance vary depending on factors such as your age, coverage amount, and the insurance company's underwriting guidelines. Generally, larger coverage amounts may require a medical exam, which typically includes a physical assessment, blood tests, and medical history review.
Is Permanent Life Insurance suitable for retirement planning?
Yes, permanent life insurance can be a valuable component of retirement planning. It provides lifelong coverage and builds cash value over time, which can be used to supplement retirement income or cover expenses during retirement. The cash value growth in permanent life insurance is tax-deferred, allowing for the potential accumulation of funds that can be accessed in retirement.
Can I convert my Term Life Insurance policy into Permanent Life Insurance?
Most term life insurance policies offer the option to convert to a permanent life insurance policy within a specified timeframe. This allows you to transition from temporary coverage to lifelong protection without the need for a new medical exam. It's important to review your policy terms and conditions to determine if conversion is available and understand any associated costs or limitations.
What should I do if I think I've been a victim of identity theft?
If you suspect that you've been a victim of identity theft, act quickly. Contact your bank and credit card companies, place fraud alerts on your credit reports, and file a police report. Contact your broker for more details on what steps to take.
Will Identity Theft Restoration Insurance prevent identity theft from happening?
No, InsureBC's Identity Theft Restoration Insurance cannot prevent identity theft from happening. However, it can help protect you financially in the event of an identity theft event.
Can I purchase InsureBC's Identity Theft Restoration Insurance online?
Yes, you can purchase InsureBC's Identity Theft Restoration Insurance online. Simply visit our website by clicking this link and complete the online application to get a personalized quote.
What is identity theft insurance?
Identity theft insurance is a type of insurance policy that helps protect you from financial losses resulting from identity theft. It typically covers expenses related to restoring your identity, such as lost wages, legal fees, and credit monitoring services.
What should I look for when choosing a boat insurance policy in BC?
When choosing a boat insurance policy in BC, it's important to consider the coverage options, deductibles, and premiums. You should also research the insurer's reputation for customer service and claims handling.
What factors affect the cost of boat insurance in BC?
The cost of boat insurance can vary depending on several factors, such as the type and size of your boat, its age and condition, where you operate it, and your driving record. Other factors may also come into play, such as whether you have safety equipment on board, such as life jackets and fire extinguishers.
An Insider Look at the Insurance Industry
Discover a wealth of knowledge on insurance-related topics, as our team of experts at InsureBC share their insights, advice, and tips to help you navigate the world of insurance with confidence.
The Ultimate Guide to Homeowners Insurance in BC - 2024
Do you know what homeowners insurance covers? And, what types of homeowners insurance coverage exist? Maybe you have heard from your family, realtors or mortgage brokers saying the importance of buying homeowners insurance. But why? If you can’t answer some or none of the questions I’ve asked, this article will help you understand all the important things about homeowners insurance so that you can make an informed buying decision when you’re ready.