Why Use an Insurance Broker?

In Canada, there are three main options available when deciding how to purchase insurance: directly from an insurance company; from an agent who represents a specific insurance company; or through an insurance broker who can offer a choice of coverage from various insurance companies.

When deciding on your preferred option, there are several advantages to using brokerages that you should consider.

There is a larger selection.

When you deal directly with an insurance company, you are limited to the products and rates that they offer. In contrast, when you choose a brokerage, such as Robert J. Morris Insurance & Consulting Ltd., you have access to the products and rates of all the companies that we work with. We offer products from numerous insurance companies, giving you access to a larger range of options, including those that can accommodate more difficult situations or complex risks.

We do the work for you.

Don’t waste time comparison shopping; our brokerage has the in-depth product and industry knowledge to give you advice on the products that fit your needs best. Choosing Robert J. Morris Insurance & Consulting Ltd. will give you access to the best rates and the right solutions. Once a broker has properly assessed your individual insurance needs, we do the shopping for you and advocate on your behalf. The alternative to using a brokerage would involve contacting several insurance companies and comparing their terms and rates on your own. A broker saves you the time and hassle of having to do that. We search through the market to see what is out there, and find you the right coverage at a competitive price.

Comparing rates between insurance companies is only a partial evaluation. We believe that financial strength of the insurer is as important as all the wordings of various coverages. Having the cheapest rates without considering the nature and definition of the benefits is less than half the task of an equitable evaluation. Our team will ensure that you know what you are receiving, and that it meets your needs.

We are always on your side.

Robert J. Morris Insurance & Consulting Ltd. is a fully independent brokerage. Unlike some brokers, we are neither partially nor fully owned by an insurance company. While we do receive commission from the insurance companies we work with, our commission rates are always disclosed for public review. This means there are no hidden arrangements that could influence the recommendations we make to you. Instead, when you need a policy or make a claim, we always have your best interests in mind. Our team at Robert J. Morris Insurance & Consulting Ltd. will help you understand the claims process, speak to the insurance companies on your behalf, and will help you understand your rights and responsibilities.

You’ll receive expert advice.

Our brokers are ethical, experienced, and knowledgeable about the insurance products we offer. Brokers deal with a wide range of products and are qualified to recommend products from a broader portfolio than a direct insurance agent. If any of your needs change (E.g.: if you change your address, wish to increase your coverage, and/or buy a new car or home), we will ensure you are covered in an efficient and appropriate manner. Furthermore, we are licensed through the Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO), and are therefore required to meet the RIBO requirements for ethical conduct, professional competence, and insurance related financial obligations. What does this mean for you? It means that everything we do is transparent and in accordance with Ontario standards.

What makes us unique?

As a small-town, family-owned business, Robert J. Morris Insurance & Consulting Ltd. offers many additional benefits to the ones listed above:

Being close to the customer allows for more personalized support, and our brokerage aims for just that. Small businesses offer greater opportunities to meet with customers one-on-one more frequently. When you work with us, you will know who you are dealing with. This structure will let us to get to know you more effectively, which will allow us to more easily personalize your coverage.
Our smaller structure helps us offer faster and more personalized support. The nature of small businesses consists of fewer employees, and thus fewer layers of management. This equates to quicker decision making, more flexibility, and a family atmosphere. Our team is close to the business decisions, leading to a strong understanding of how the organization functions, and a shared commitment to client satisfaction and company success.

Take All Comers Rule

In 2022 the Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) issued an interpretation and approach guideline for the automobile insurance industry. The Take All Comers Rule requires brokers to provide quotes based on an understanding of the customer’s needs and auto insurance markets available. If an insurer declines to provide a quote, the customer will be notified. Brokers will report instances when quote requests must be abandoned or dissuaded because of insurer policy or procedure.

For more information on the Take All Comers Rule, please visit FSRA’s webpage here.