Market update: home insurance is getting harder in parts of Ontario
Doorvia Research · August 19, 2026
Water damage, older plumbing and wiring, and flood exposure now drive premiums and eligibility more than fire risk.
Home insurance in Ontario has shifted. Water damage - from storms, sewer backup and interior plumbing failures - is now the dominant claim category, and insurers price and underwrite accordingly.
That has practical consequences for buyers. Galvanised or lead supply lines, knob-and-tube wiring, aluminium wiring, 60-amp service, an oil tank or an aging roof can all limit which insurers will quote a property, or push premiums well above normal.
Get an insurance quote before your financing condition expires, not after. On older homes especially, an unavailable or unaffordable policy can derail a closing, since lenders require coverage to fund a mortgage.
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