Is tenant insurance required in Canada?
It depends on the lease and landlord. Many rentals require proof of tenant insurance, but rules and lease terms vary by province and situation.
Move-in service checklist
Tenant insurance checklist for Canadian renters
Landlords often ask renters for proof of tenant insurance before keys are released. Compare options early so you are not rushing into a policy the day before move-in.
Before you compare
- Ask when proof of insurance is due.
- Confirm the address, lease start date, and named insured details.
- Compare liability coverage, contents coverage, deductible, and monthly cost.
- Ask how roommates, pets, storage lockers, and bikes are handled.
- Keep your policy documents with your lease paperwork.
What to compare
Monthly and annual price
Liability and contents coverage
Deductible
Roommate and sublet rules
Cancellation/change rules
Proof-of-insurance delivery
When to handle this
Before applying: ask whether insurance is required.
After approval: compare policies before signing final paperwork.
Before move-in: send proof if the landlord requires it.
After move-in: update the policy if your address, roommates, or coverage needs change.
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When should I arrange tenant insurance?
Start comparing after you know the address and expected lease dates, and finalize coverage before the proof deadline or key handoff.
Does tenant insurance cover roommates?
Not always. Ask the provider how roommates, partners, sublets, and shared belongings are handled before buying.
What should I compare besides price?
Compare liability limits, contents coverage, deductible, exclusions, cancellation rules, and how quickly proof can be issued.