Shopping for insurance: how to choose the right insurer

Choosing your insurer is based on careful consideration. Take the time to shop around before you sign—after all, your insurer will be protecting your most precious assets! Each insurance company has its own unique values and offers its own range of products. What’s more, the commitment to policyholders often varies from one company to another. Whether you’re looking for an insurer that’s involved in your community or you’re simply searching for the most competitive prices, your personal needs and expectations should guide your decision.

But how do you make the best choice? Here’s a list of recommendations to help you find the insurer that’s right for you!

Why take the time to choose the right insurer?

It’s simple: when you put your trust in an insurer to protect your home, car, recreational vehicle, or business, you want to be sure you’re in good hands. Here are some reasons why it makes sense to take the time to choose the right insurance company.

Because each insurer has its own expertise, values, and mission: To choose your insurer, you first need to identify what matters to you. For example, do you want to do business with a mutual insurance company whose cooperative model promotes a caring approach and community involvement? Do you want to choose an insurer that introduces eco-friendly initiatives? Maybe you’re just looking for a local company that will give you fast, hassle-free service? These questions will help you draw up a list of insurers who share your values.
To get the coverage you need: Your insurance must be tailored to your specific needs. Your insurer must not only provide you with coverage in the event of a loss, but also the additional coverage needed to deal with any special situations you may face. Starting the process of renewing your policy sooner rather than later will enable you to compare offers from different insurers. Think about it and get started early!
To develop an insurer-insured relationship of trust: An insurance policy is issued for a fixed term. If you wish to cancel your policy during the term, a penalty calculated according to a cancellation table may apply. You should also be aware that the more distant the expiry date of your policy, the higher the penalty may be. So feel free to ask your insurer any questions before signing your contract!
To get the best value: Insurance premiums vary among insurers. It’s important to compare the coverage offered to get the best deal for you, at the best price.

Where can you find information on potential insurers?

When looking for the ideal insurer, consult a variety of sources to get the most complete picture of the options available to you. Here are some resources to consider when making your decision:

Insurer’s website: Explore the products and services offered and learn more about the company’s mission.
Client feedback: Google reviews and client testimonials can be surprising barometers of overall policyholder satisfaction.
Social networks: The insurer’s presence, activity, and commitment on social networks can be good indicators of its involvement and relationship with its community.
External publications: News articles or publications can reveal the reputation and expertise of the company you’re considering.
Your friends and family: Feel free to ask the people around you for recommendations based on their own experience.

Criteria to assess when choosing your insurer

When choosing an insurer, it’s essential to assess a number of criteria so that you can be satisfied you’ve made the best possible decision. Here are a few points to bear in mind to guide your thinking:

Products and discounts: Although insurers usually offer similar coverage, some may vary from one company to another and thus better suit your needs. For example, some insurers offer more generous coverage for specific items, such as your bike or video games. Always compare the coverage available and find out about discounts depending on your situation.
Buying process: Getting a quote and buying insurance should be hassle-free. A convenient Client Space where you can find your documents, an intuitive mobile app, and simplified claims processing make all the difference when it comes to protecting what matters to you.
Client service: Good client service is essential. The accessibility of damage insurance representatives at the time of the quote, the availability of claims adjusters at the time of a claim, and the attention of various specialists throughout your contract are the basis of a professional and trustworthy client experience.
Advice and expertise: The quality of advice provided by the insurer, whether through blog posts, social media posts, or direct interactions, can attest to its commitment to its policyholders and its expertise in the field.
Accessibility and convenience: Make sure the insurer has a local or regional presence for easy access to its services. Check whether its damage insurance representatives can be reached by a direct phone line, email, instant messaging, a contact form, or other means of communication.
Reputation: An insurer’s size, pool of policyholders, and market experience are the basis of its credibility.

Québec’s favourite insurer!

Did you know that most insurers use certain tools to measure client satisfaction? According to a SOM survey conducted from September 11 to 25, 2023, among Québec adults with car or home insurance issued by a damage insurer licensed to operate in Québec, Promutuel Insurance is the most recommended consumer insurer!

Our mutuals, which have been present and committed to their 639,000 insured members, their 2,200 employees, and their communities for over 170 years, stand out for their caring approach, tailored insurance solutions, and clear, personalized advice. We do our utmost to earn the trust and satisfaction of our insured members, and that’s certainly why they recommend us so much!

Just like them, you deserve the peace of mind of knowing you’re well protected. Request a quote online or contact one of our damage insurance representatives today.