There’s this one winter morning where I step outside bundled up to the nines, thinking, “I got this!” On the way to my car, with a key and a coffee in one hand, I suddenly slip and do the most epic banana-peel-style fall you can imagine.
Coffee flies, keys skid away, and there I am, lying flat on my back, questioning my life choices. If there’s one good thing that came out of it, though, it’s that it got me thinking about the importance of good insurance.
So, if you ever find yourself on a slippery slope, quite literally or metaphorically, here are the best insurance companies in Ottawa. Trust me, you need to know this—because you never know when life will throw you a snow-covered curveball.
How much does insurance cost in Ottawa?
In Ottawa, insurance costs can vary widely depending on the type of coverage you need. On average, you might pay around $1,200 to $2,000 annually for car insurance, $500 to $1,500 for home insurance, and $40 to $70 per month for health insurance.Prices can vary based on factors like your personal circumstances, coverage choices, and provider, so it’s always best to compare quotes for the most accurate pricing.
Tanner Insurance

Address: 200-2435 Holly Ln.
Phone: +1 613 232 5704
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8 AM to 5 PM
For many years, Tanner Insurance has been a cornerstone in offering both personal and business insurance services.
From our conversations with their team, we observed their genuine commitment to understanding their clients’ needs before diving into any policy details.
Whether it’s car, home, business, or niche coverage like boats and antique automobiles, we found Tanner’s range of offerings impressively comprehensive. We also noted how they make their clients feel valued, which was also echoed by their clients.
Something else we were really happy with is their user-friendly quoting process.
Tanner Insurance provides two convenient options: an online quoting tool for a quick and instant idea of pricing or submitting your details directly to an insurance broker for a more customized quote.
We even had a chance to try both methods and were pleased with how straightforward and efficient they were. However, like anywhere, a few clients did mention facing delays in communication.
Also, be prepared that their thorough, tailored approach might come at a slightly higher cost.
Prompt response and seamless process
“Just want to send out a big thank you to Tanner insurance, I have been a loyal customer of theirs and they continue to deliver excellent customer service….
Needed to get a few quotes and was responded to immediately.Once our decision was made on the car the response back with the policy details from Tanner was quick and easy . I want to send a big thanks to Victoria and Connor for making this a smooth experience…Connor thank you for stepping up to the plate and hitting it out of the park….”
-Dan Carre, Google Review
Swift resolution and reassuring experience
“I cannot thank Jean Ly enough for helping me with my needs. I was initially worried about contacting my insurance broker due to previous experiences with different companies but after speaking with Jean my concerns were put at ease. Although my concerns were complicated, Jean was able to help me deal with them within only a day of talking to him. I am still in shock from how positive and quickly my situation was resolved and I hope Jean gets the recognition he deserves. That experience alone will have me remaining with them for the foreseeable future. Highest recommendation, 5/5 easily!”
-Jesse Hewitt, Google Review
Ken McCafferty Desjardins Insurance Agent

Address: 2285 St. Laurent Blvd Unit D-3
Phone: +1 613 737 5095
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 5 PM
Ken McCafferty’s is a place we recently checked out and were quite impressed with. When we dropped by, the staff’s friendliness and professionalism stood out, making us feel both welcomed and confident in their knowledge and expertise.
We were glad to know that the office prides itself on its 97 years of combined insurance experience. We also learnt that Ken is a decorated agent, with recognition like the Golden Triangle Qualifier and Millionaire Club Qualifier under his belt.
This place has a variety of insurance options available. From auto and home insurance to business coverage and life insurance, they seem to have pretty much everything you’d need.
They even offered us their living benefits and vehicle loans, which adds a nice touch of convenience. Given the great service, expect the high pricing, which some clients mentioned as well.
Anyhow, the Desjardins Insurance mobile app is another feature we were happy about, since it allows users to file claims and manage their insurance policies easily.
What’s more, they do offer after-hours appointments, which can be convenient for those with 9-to-5 jobs.
Personalised and attentive service
“I have been a client of Ken’s for over 25 years. While I was concerned with the transition from State Farm Insurance initially Ken and his staff have made the transition seamlessly. I recently interacted with Alexandra and she was excellent. It is nice to pick up the phone and have the person on the other end recognize you and understand your needs without having to explain who you are etc. Old school service in a modern setting. Competitive rates. No problem recommending them for all of your insurance needs. Ken’s a good down to earth guy no B.S.”
-Kevin Lambert, Google Review
Helpful and understanding staff
“Great service today with Megha – thank you for your help 🙂 I called to update my policy and see how I could potentially save some money and she was so kind, understanding and helpful. I’ve used this company for 5 years and I’ve only had good experiences – highly recommend.”
-Lauren Plante, Google Review
Halpenny Insurance Brokers Ltd.

Address: 1550a Laperriere Ave #104
Phone: +1 613 722 7626
Business Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
- Friday – 8:30 AM to 12 PM
Halpenny Insurance Brokers Ltd. is the largest independent insurance broker in Ottawa and Eastern Ontario, and they offer a pretty extensive range of services.
From personal insurance like auto, home, and even boat insurance to a full spectrum of commercial insurance options, all of which they manage to discuss with us.
Now, their commercial insurance options include anything from aviation and aerospace to cannabis, construction, and technology. They even cater to niche markets like health care and life sciences, so they genuinely have broad expertise.
Their benefits and retirement plans are also worth noting, providing solid security for you and your employees.
Their customer service is great as well, especially since it’s what their clients can’t stop raving about. We were happy too with how seamless the process was and how friendly and knowledgeable the brokers are.
On the downside, their rates are on the higher side. But considering the level of service and the comprehensive coverage options, most of us think it’s a fair trade-off.
We were even more impressed to find out that they have solid financial backing, which is definitely reassuring.
Incredibly knowledgeable and caring
“We had an amazing experience working with Chris Bjornestad. He is incredibly knowledgeable and truly has our best interest at heart. Chris took the time to understand our needs and provided us with the best options available. His professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care made the entire process smooth and stress-free. We highly recommend Chris to anyone looking for a trustworthy and dedicated insurance advisor.”
-Jeremias Braun, Google Review
Reliable and prompt service
“I’ve been working with Jeff Donnelly for all my insurance needs. He’s helped with all business requirements and responds promptly. I’ll continue working with Jeff for the foreseeable future.”
-Chris Wright, Google Review
Smith Petrie Carr & Scott Insurance Brokers Ltd.

Address: 359 Kent St #600
Phone: +1 613 237 2871
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
So, we recently came in contact with Smith Petrie Carr & Scott Insurance, which is now Acera Insurance. They’ve been around since 1969 and were recently rebranded under Acera, and I have to say, they have a seriously robust lineup of insurance options.
One thing we immediately appreciate is their wide array of insurance services. Whether it’s auto, home, commercial, or life insurance, they seem to have you covered on all fronts.
It’s not just the basics either since they offer specialised services like collector car insurance and equine insurance.
We also heard from their other clients that their transition to Acera hasn’t just been a name change; the services and support remain great.
Another thing we commend them for is how knowledgeable their team is. With over forty insurance professionals on board, their expertise is clearly a huge asset.
From the start to finish of our visit, we felt genuinely cared for, and the team took the time to understand our needs. But, of course, with this great service, they come at a higher rate.
Outstanding support and dedication
“Wendy went above and beyond when it came to helping us out with our insurance. From last minute phone calls, to walking us through each and every step & ensuring we got the best rate in town. If anyone needs home or automobile insurance, I would highly advise them to reach out to Wendy at Smith Petrie Carr & Scott Insurance Brokers. Thanks for all your hard work and efforts Wendy!”
-Matthew Rossi, Google Review
Exceptional problem-solving and efficiency
“I deal with Arnulfo from here and he is truly fantastic. He brokers drone insurance for me, and when I needed to switch insurance companies because I was not getting what I needed, Arnulfo quickly found a new company and worked out all the concerns before I even had to address them. It took no time at all. This way, I did not miss a single flight and was able to continue conducting my business. His forethought and care he gives his clients creates a smooth business transaction resulting in no worry or concern from the clients part. I trust him fully, enjoy working with him, and appreciate his patience and readiness. You’re in good hands with Arnulfo and Smith Petrie Carr and Scott Insurance.”
-Danny Nash, Google Review
McDougall Insurance & Financial

Address: 854 Bank St Suite 200 B
Phone: +1 613 733 3312
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 8:30 to 4:30 PM
Distinctly known for their comprehensive insurance options, McDougall Insurance & Financial covers everything from auto and home to niche markets like recreational and business insurance.
They shared with us their long history, with the experience stretching over 75 years. Not just that, but with over 30 insurance companies under their wing, they literally cover most, if not all, bases—pretty impressive.
Another thing we appreciate is how their brokers make things easy for their clients, from the quotes and policies to signing and payments.
Many people we surveyed were all praises, stating how the whole process felt seamless, alleviating much of the usual stress that comes with insurance dealings.
However, the high rates made us raise our eyebrows, but what you get in return seems to outweigh this concern substantially.
Moreover, it’s heartwarming to see their commitment to community involvement. McDougall Insurance supports several charities, such as the United Way, Cystic Fibrosis Canada, and The Relay for Life, highlighting their dedication to giving back.
Stress-free and helpful experience
“Candace and Cindy were so helpful in finding me the best insurance rate possible. I am so happy with their service. I was stressing dealing with insurance company’s, I’m so glad a friend referred me to this company. They took the stress away and make the process painless :). Thank you ladies so very much”
-Ashley Simser, Google Review
Reliable and efficient service
“I’m so happy to have found Cindy at McDougall Insurance. I’ve jump around from broker to broker trying to find someone reliable, efficient and easy to work with. Cindy and her team stays on top of my commercial liability and vehicle insurance so I can focus on my business. I highly recommend switching to McDougall!”
-Johnny Rooney, Google Review