Top 50 Tenant Insurance & Liability Questions in Ontario

Tenant Insurance & Liability Ontario published June 26, 2025 Flag of Ontario
Is tenant insurance required by law in Ontario?
No, Ontario law does not require tenant insurance, but landlords can include it as a lease condition.
Can my landlord require tenant insurance?
Yes, a landlord can require tenant insurance as part of your lease agreement.
What does tenant insurance cover?
It covers your personal belongings, liability if you damage the property, and sometimes living expenses if you can't stay in your unit.
Who pays for tenant insurance?
The tenant is responsible for purchasing and paying for tenant insurance.
What happens if I don't get tenant insurance when required?
Your landlord can treat it as a lease violation and may apply to evict you if you don't comply.
Can my landlord evict me for not having insurance?
If insurance is a lease term and you refuse, your landlord may file an L2 Application to Evict. Learn more.
What does liability mean in tenant insurance?
Liability coverage protects you if you unintentionally cause damage to property or harm others at your rental.
Does tenant insurance replace my landlord’s insurance?
No, landlord insurance covers the building, while tenant insurance covers your belongings and personal liability.
Do I need tenant insurance if I have nothing valuable?
Yes, liability coverage is important even if your belongings have little value.
Does tenant insurance cover roommates?
Only if they are listed on the policy; roommates usually need separate insurance.
Does tenant insurance cover water damage?
It may cover accidental water damage; check your policy for details.
Who is liable if my guest is injured in my unit?
Tenant liability insurance can help cover injury claims if you are found responsible.
How much does tenant insurance cost?
Average cost in Ontario is $20–$30 per month, but can vary.
Can I be held responsible for accidental fire damage?
Yes. Tenant liability insurance can cover damage you unintentionally cause.
Will tenant insurance cover my bicycle if it's stolen?
Most policies cover theft, including bikes, but check policy details for limits.
Am I covered if my car is broken into at my rental?
Tenant insurance covers items stolen from your car, but not the car itself.
Can my landlord ask for proof of tenant insurance?
Yes. If required under your lease, your landlord can ask for proof of insurance.
Does tenant insurance cover damage by pets?
Most policies don't cover damages caused by pets. Check your policy.
If the building floods, does tenant insurance help?
Tenant insurance may cover your belongings; consult your policy for flood coverage.
If a neighbour causes a fire, am I covered?
Your contents and living expenses may be covered, but not the neighbour’s liability.
If the landlord’s negligence causes damage, do I claim on my insurance?
You can claim; your insurer may pursue the landlord for reimbursement.
Can my landlord include their name as an interested party?
Yes, landlords often request to be added as an “additional interest” to be notified if your coverage lapses.
Does tenant insurance cover a move to a new apartment?
Only if the policy is updated with your new address; contact your insurer before moving.
Is tenant insurance needed for student housing?
It is not legally required, but is recommended and sometimes required by landlords.
Who regulates tenant insurance in Ontario?
Insurance providers are regulated by the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA).
If I sublet, who should have insurance?
Both you and your subtenant should have insurance for your belongings and liability.
What official form is used if my landlord applies for eviction over a lease breach?
Landlords may use the L2: Application to End a Tenancy and Evict a Tenant form. See official L2 Form.
Can the Landlord and Tenant Board help with insurance disputes?
The Landlord and Tenant Board deals with lease enforcement, not insurance claim disputes.
Is tenant insurance transferrable to a new rental unit?
Policies are address-specific. Update your insurer if you move.
Does tenant insurance cover natural disasters?
It may, depending on your policy. Check for earthquake or flood coverage.
Can my landlord add an insurance requirement after the lease starts?
No, changes require your agreement; terms can only change with mutual consent or on renewal.
What happens if my belongings are damaged by a leak?
Tenant insurance can cover losses minus the deductible; claim through your insurer.
Will my premium go up if I file a claim?
Filing a claim may increase your insurance premiums in the future.
Who is responsible if a fire damages both my items and the building?
Your insurance covers your property and liability; landlord’s insurance covers the building.
Will tenant insurance cover accidental injury to others?
Yes, personal liability helps with legal and medical costs if you’re found liable.
How do I prove I have tenant insurance?
You can provide a Certificate of Insurance or your policy summary to your landlord.
Can tenant insurance be cancelled by my landlord?
No, only you or your insurer can cancel your policy.
Does tenant insurance cover shared/common areas?
Usually only if you’re found liable for damage or injury in those areas.
What is the minimum liability coverage recommended?
Most policies recommend at least $1 million in liability coverage.
Does tenant insurance cover business equipment?
Personal policies may have limited coverage; ask about business add-ons if you work from home.
Am I covered if I accidentally damage a neighbour’s unit?
Yes, liability coverage may help pay for damages you cause to other units.
Does tenant insurance cover theft by visitors?
Theft by visitors may not be covered; review your specific policy terms.
Can I claim on tenant insurance if I lose something outside the home?
Some policies provide off-premises coverage; check with your insurer.
Will tenant insurance cover hotel stays if my unit is uninhabitable?
Yes, if you have additional living expenses coverage and the loss is insured.
Does tenant insurance have a deductible?
Yes, there’s usually a deductible you pay before coverage applies.
Where can I read the Ontario Residential Tenancies Act?
The full Act is available at ontario.ca.
If I disagree with an eviction over insurance, what can I do?
Attend your LTB hearing and present your case. Forms and info here.
How do I contact the Landlord and Tenant Board?
Visit the LTB website or call 1-888-332-3234.
Where do I go if I have a complaint about an insurance company?
Contact the FSRA for insurance complaints in Ontario.

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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