Dealing with a licensed agent or registered broker ensures that the agent or broker has the necessary training and resources to provide you with the insurance services you require. You may wish to check with the insurance regulator in your province or territory to ensure that your agent or broker is licensed or registered to conduct business in that jurisdiction. Additionally, the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada maintains a list of provincial and territorial insurance regulators on its page on federal oversight bodies and other regulators.
Before you purchase insurance, the following are some questions you should ask an insurance broker or agent:
- Are you licensed or registered with the insurance regulator in your province or territory?
- Have you been in business for a long period of time?
- Are you a member of a professional association such as the Insurance Brokers Association of Canada or Advocis (the Canadian Association of Financial Advisors)?
- What credentials and training do you possess?
- What services do you offer following the sale of the policy?
- Are you able to provide references from previous clients?
Tip
Never pay an agent or broker a fee. This is not a common occurrence and may be a scam. Generally, licensed insurance agents and brokers are compensated by the insurance company and do not charge fees.