Additional Insured and Certificate of Insurance in Ontario

Tenants in Ontario often hear about "additional insured" endorsements and certificates of insurance when renting units where landlords require proof of liability coverage. These terms describe how a landlord, property manager, or third party can be listed on an insurance policy so they have protection if a tenant's actions cause damage or injury. As a renter you should know when a landlord may request to be named, how to ask your insurer for the correct form, and what limits and exclusions mean for your coverage. This guide explains practical steps, what documents to expect, and how to use official Ontario tenancy resources if questions or disputes arise.

What these terms mean for tenants

A certificate of insurance is a document from an insurer that summarizes an insurance policys coverages, limits and named insureds. An "additional insured" endorsement is a change to a policy that extends some liability protection to another person or entity named on the policy. For tenants, this usually matters when a landlord or property manager asks to be named so they can claim against the tenants liability coverage if something goes wrong.

Common situations where landlords ask to be named

• When tenants run a business from a rental unit and the landlord wants added protection.
• When a tenants activities might increase risk to shared property, such as communal laundry rooms or storage areas.
• When a landlord requires proof of up-to-date liability insurance in a lease or move-in agreement.

What to check on a certificate of insurance

When you receive a certificate or endorsement request, look for the named insured, the insurer name, the policy numbers, effective and expiry dates, liability limits, and any endorsements or exclusions. Check whether the landlord is listed as an "additional insured" and whether that endorsement covers the types of claims the landlord intends to protect against.

How to ask your insurer and document the process

Contact your insurance provider and request a certificate of insurance showing the requested endorsement. Use plain language: ask for a "certificate of insurance" and an "additional insured endorsement." Ask the insurer to send the certificate directly to you and, if required by the landlord, to the landlord as well. Keep a dated copy of all correspondence.

• Call your insurer and make the request in writing so you have a record of the date and details.
• Ask for the exact endorsement name to confirm what protections are added.
• Save the certificate and any emails as proof in case of future disputes.

When you should get help or dispute a request

If you believe a landlords request is unreasonable (for example asking for coverage that far exceeds typical tenant liability or demanding you pay for the landlords property insurance), raise the issue in writing and ask for clarification. If the landlord insists and you cannot reach an agreement, you can contact the Landlord and Tenant Board for guidance or to file an application about rights and obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006.^[1][2]

For practical tenant information about responsibilities after signing a lease, see What Tenants Need to Know After Signing the Rental Agreement. For details on landlord and tenant duties that affect insurance requests, see Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If you are also looking for available rentals or want to compare typical lease requirements in your area, consider Houseme - your rental solution in Canada as a place to view listings and local lease examples.

FAQ

Can a landlord require me to add them as additional insured?

Landlords can ask to be named, but tenants should confirm with their insurer what that endorsement covers and whether the insurer will add the endorsement without charging an extra premium.

What should I check on a certificate of insurance?

Confirm insurer name, policy dates, liability limits, the exact wording of any endorsements, and whether the landlord is listed as an additional insured; keep a copy for your records.

What if my insurer refuses to add the landlord as additional insured?

If an insurer refuses, ask for a written explanation, provide it to the landlord, and try to negotiate an alternative such as a certificate showing adequate liability limits; if dispute continues, consider contacting the Landlord and Tenant Board.^[3]

How-To

1. Call your insurer and request a certificate of insurance and an additional insured endorsement; ask for the policy number and exact endorsement wording.
2. Get the certificate in writing and send a copy to your landlord by email so there is a dated record of delivery.
3. Save all documents and correspondence in a folder (digital and/or paper) including the certificate, endorsement, and any insurer replies.
4. If you disagree with a landlords request and cannot resolve it, contact the Landlord and Tenant Board for guidance and consider filing an application if needed.

Help and Support / Resources

• Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)  Tribunals Ontario
• Residential Tenancies Act, 2006  Ontario e-Laws
• Landlord and Tenant Board  Forms and Guides

1. [1] Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)  Tribunals Ontario
2. [2] Residential Tenancies Act, 2006  Ontario e-Laws
3. [3] Landlord and Tenant Board  Forms and Guides