Square One Car Insurance Review 2025: Is It Worth It?
Our expert's review on Square One
I've analyzed the Square One car insurance contract, and it stands out for its highly flexible, digital-first approach. It doesn't offer rigid formulas; instead, you build a personalized policy with liability limits typically up to $2 million and customizable deductibles, starting from $300 for comprehensive. While it lacks a formal prevention budget, it incentivizes safety with discounts for anti-theft devices and winter tires.
Positioned against traditional insurers, Square One competes as a modern, online-centric provider, offering competitive pricing by giving customers direct control over their coverage.
This makes it particularly suitable for digitally savvy drivers, new license holders, and budget-conscious individuals seeking tailored protection.
In terms of reliability, Square One holds an exceptional 4.8/5 rating from over 71,000 verified reviews. Claims are managed online with a dedicated adjuster, and straightforward total loss payouts are typically processed within 2 to 3 weeks.
- ✅Fully customizable coverage and deductibles
- ✅Excellent digital-first online experience
- ✅Competitive pricing for online customers
- ✅Outstanding customer rating (4.8/5 from 71,971 reviews)
- ✅Numerous discounts (multi-vehicle, retiree, new driver)
- ✅24/7 online claims submission and tracking
- ✅New vehicle depreciation waiver available
- ❌No in-person service option
- ❌Finance fee on monthly payments
- ❌Two months' premium required upfront
- ❌Roadside assistance is a paid extra
- ❌Cancellation fee in Ontario
Score- ✅Fully customizable coverage and deductibles
- ✅Excellent digital-first online experience
- ✅Competitive pricing for online customers
- ✅Outstanding customer rating (4.8/5 from 71,971 reviews)
- ✅Numerous discounts (multi-vehicle, retiree, new driver)
- ✅24/7 online claims submission and tracking
- ✅New vehicle depreciation waiver available
Our expert's review on Square One
- ✅Fully customizable coverage and deductibles
- ✅Excellent digital-first online experience
- ✅Competitive pricing for online customers
- ✅Outstanding customer rating (4.8/5 from 71,971 reviews)
- ✅Numerous discounts (multi-vehicle, retiree, new driver)
- ✅24/7 online claims submission and tracking
- ✅New vehicle depreciation waiver available
- ❌No in-person service option
- ❌Finance fee on monthly payments
- ❌Two months' premium required upfront
- ❌Roadside assistance is a paid extra
- ❌Cancellation fee in Ontario
Score- ✅Fully customizable coverage and deductibles
- ✅Excellent digital-first online experience
- ✅Competitive pricing for online customers
- ✅Outstanding customer rating (4.8/5 from 71,971 reviews)
- ✅Numerous discounts (multi-vehicle, retiree, new driver)
- ✅24/7 online claims submission and tracking
- ✅New vehicle depreciation waiver available
Positioned against traditional insurers, Square One competes as a modern, online-centric provider, offering competitive pricing by giving customers direct control over their coverage.
This makes it particularly suitable for digitally savvy drivers, new license holders, and budget-conscious individuals seeking tailored protection.
In terms of reliability, Square One holds an exceptional 4.8/5 rating from over 71,000 verified reviews. Claims are managed online with a dedicated adjuster, and straightforward total loss payouts are typically processed within 2 to 3 weeks.
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The Square One Car Insurance Guarantees
Square One offers a modular car insurance solution in Ontario and Quebec, enabling drivers to build policies from the ground up with all provincial mandatory coverages plus a full suite of optional add-ons. Core components include third-party liability, accident benefits, and DCPD, with optional collision, comprehensive, all perils, loss of use, and roadside assistance.
Deductibles, coverage limits, and add-ons such as waiver of depreciation or rental vehicle are fully customizable, allowing precise alignment with personal needs. The advantages of Square One’s approach are transparent pricing, extensive digital self-service, and highly flexible plan configuration, consistently exceeding local standards for customization and online management. The main limitation is the absence of in-person service, which may not fit all preferences.
| Warranty name | Square One Modular Plan |
|---|---|
| Formula positioning | Modular, customized by client; mandatory and optional coverages |
| Type of cover | Mandatory provincial cover plus optional: collision, comprehensive, all perils |
| Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | Up to policy limit; typically 100% for covered events |
| Annual reimbursement ceiling (maximum amount reimbursed per year) | Variable, as per selected policy and province |
| Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | Standard: $500 collision, $300 comp; customizable |
| Waiting period (before certain guarantees take effect) | NC |
| Minimum/maximum age for subscription | NC |
| Prior risk assessment (medical questionnaire, telematics, driving history) | Driving record required |
| Payment facilities (monthly, quarterly, annual payments) | Monthly or annual; monthly fee applies |
| Advance payment of claim-related costs | NC |
| Compensation at purchase value/agreed value/replacement value | Waiver of depreciation available for new cars via endorsement |
| Third-party liability (bodily injury and property damage to others) | ✅ $200,000–$2M+; customizable |
| Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | ✅ Optional; required for lease/financing |
| Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | ✅ Optional (comprehensive/all perils) |
| Fire (accidental or criminal) | ✅ Optional (comprehensive/all perils/spec. perils) |
| Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | ✅ Comprehensive; $300 default deductible |
| Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | ✅ Comprehensive/all perils |
| Acts of vandalism | ✅ Comprehensive |
| All-risks damage (accidents of any cause, including at-fault) | ✅ All perils |
| Driver personal injury cover (death, disability, medical expenses) | ✅ Included via Accident Benefits (provincial limits) |
| Passenger injury cover | ✅ Included via Accident Benefits (provincial limits) |
| Criminal defence and recourse (basic legal aid after an accident) | ✅ Legal costs included in third-party liability |
| Extended legal protection (for disputes beyond accidents, e.g. purchase, repairs) | ❌ Not included |
| Vehicle accessories and modifications (including electric vehicle batteries and cables) | ❌ Unless specifically endorsed |
| Personal belongings inside the vehicle (excluding cash and documents) | ❌ Not standard; home insurance may apply |
| Child equipment (seats, pushchairs) | ❌ Not standard |
| Replacement vehicle (during repairs or after total loss) | ✅ Optional Loss of Use endorsement |
| Towing and roadside assistance (including out-of-charge recovery for EVs) | ✅ Optional; coverage and limits per endorsement |
| Use abroad (compliance with minimum local cover; optional full cover abroad) | ❌ Not standard |
| Vehicle use for professional/business purposes (where applicable) | ❌ Excluded unless specifically endorsed |
| Driving other vehicles (third-party only or comprehensive, depending on the insurer) | ✅ Optional Damage to Non-Owned Vehicle |
| Trailer or caravan towing cover | ❌ Not standard |
*NC = Not communicated. Optional benefits must be selected and shown on your policy for coverage to apply.*
Good to Know
Square One provides a seamless digital experience, including online quoting, policy management, and claim submission, with 24/7 access. Customers benefit from quick policy issuance, transparent pricing, and a broad range of discounts.
Coverage is not available for all vehicle types or all provinces, and monthly payment plans require a small finance fee.
Square One Car Insurance Exclusions
Square One car insurance excludes claims resulting from mechanical breakdowns, normal wear and tear, rust, corrosion, freezing, or manufacturer defects, which is standard but strictly enforced. Damage occurring during illegal use, criminal activity, racing, or while using the vehicle for commercial purposes (unless the appropriate endorsement is added) is not covered. Coverage is also denied when the vehicle is operated by an unlicensed or impaired driver or while transporting hazardous materials.
Losses occurring during non-personal professional use, such as by valet, mechanic, or car salesperson, are specifically excluded, highlighting Square One’s attention to clear boundaries between personal and professional risk. While most exclusions mirror Canadian market practice, Square One’s modular digital platform allows customers to manage and understand these boundaries directly online, offering transparency but no notable deviation from industry norms.
| Exclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Exclusions linked to the use of the vehicle | Commercial use (unless endorsed)Illegal use, criminal activity, or racingCarrying hazardous materialsProfessional use (e.g., valet, mechanic, car salesperson) |
| Exclusions linked to the driver | Use by unlicensed or impaired driver |
| Technical exclusions | Mechanical breakdownWear and tear, rust, corrosion, freezingManufacturer defect |
| Geographical exclusions | N.C. |
| Contractual exclusions | Damage caused by war, nuclear incidents, or terrorismDamage to property owned by or in the care of the insured unless covered |
| Coverage-specific exclusions | Loss of use: only if underlying claim is coveredWaiver of depreciation: age/mileage restrictions apply |
| Other notable exclusions | N.C. for ride-sharing without endorsement, personal effects in the vehicle, and vandalism by household members |
The cost of Square One car insurance
Square One is positioned as a competitive and digitally focused car insurer, delivering streamlined online quoting, policy management, and claims—features that help it consistently offer lower premiums, especially attractive to self-directed drivers in Ontario and Quebec.
By enabling customers to tailor coverage, deductibles, and endorsements, Square One allows significant price flexibility; higher reimbursements and lower deductibles are available but will elevate costs in line with most established competitors.
Base modules and standard exclusions are market standard, while an a la carte approach can lead to cost-effective protection for those with straightforward needs, though complex coverage (e.g., commercial use, some special endorsements) may be less easily accommodated or require extra steps.
Square One’s strength lies in digital convenience and price transparency, but limited in-person support may not appeal to those needing more hands-on advice or brokered services.
For most drivers, Square One is a highly competitive and accessible choice, particularly where digital service and premium control are priorities.
| Custom Plan: Base | Custom Plan: Standard | Custom Plan: Enhanced | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young driver (18-24, compact vehicle) | $103/month | $121/month | $144/month |
| Standard driver (35-45, intermediate) | $74/month | $88/month | $104/month |
| Senior driver (60-70, city car) | $61/month | $72/month | $87/month |
| Driver with at-fault claim (3 years) | $129/month | $154/month | $182/month |
| New SUV driver | $90/month | $107/month | $129/month |
| Driver with >25,000km/year | $117/month | $136/month | $159/month |
To get the best value, compare customized Square One quotes with alternative insurers based on your coverage needs and driving profile:
Compare the best car insurance plans for free!Start comparingSquare One car insurance discount codes
| Promotional codes Square One | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
How Much Will I Be Reimbursed with Square One?
| Claim or service | Average price (CA$) | Square One basic (mandatory only) | Square One with collision+comprehensive | Square One with all options (replacement, loss of use, roadside) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement after theft | $28,000 | ❌ | Up to actual cash value (excluding excess) | Up to purchase price (excluding excess, with depreciation waiver) |
| Repair after at-fault accident | $4,500 | ❌ | Up to $4,500 (excluding excess) | Up to $4,500 (excluding excess) |
| Windshield replacement | $800 | ❌ | Up to $800 (excluding excess) | Up to $800 (excluding excess) |
| Emergency towing | $180 | ❌ | ❌ | Up to $180 (excluding excess, with roadside option) |
| Vandalism repair | $2,000 | ❌ | Up to $2,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $2,000 (excluding excess) |
Square One Car Insurance Assistance
Square One’s car insurance offers optional roadside assistance that covers towing, battery boosts, and similar services, but this must be specifically selected as an add-on and comes with predefined limits. Replacement vehicle coverage is available via the loss of use endorsement, ensuring mobility after a covered claim, though this does not extend to general breakdowns or non-accident immobilizations. Assistance from home is included if you choose the roadside assistance option, a practical benefit for those experiencing issues in their driveway. However, there is no explicit provision for alternative accommodation, vehicle repatriation, assistance abroad, or electric vehicle-specific support, which could be limiting for some policyholders. Legal assistance, help for animals on board, and key recovery services are also not included or clearly communicated.
| Support Square One | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ✅ | Optional add-on. Covers towing, battery boost, flat tires. Limits apply. |
| Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ✅ | Provided if roadside assistance is selected. Predefined cost limits. |
| Assistance from home (0 km) | ✅ | Roadside assistance add-on applies at home. Service cap varies. |
| Replacement vehicle | ✅ | Loss of use option pays for rental after a covered claim. Not for breakdowns. |
| Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | N.C. |
| Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance abroad | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | N.C. |
| Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ✅ | Battery boost covered if roadside assistance chosen. Misfuelling: N.C. |
| Legal assistance after an accident | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | N.C. |
| Key recovery & lock replacement | ❌ | N.C. |
Covers towing, battery boost, flat tires.
Limits apply.
Predefined cost limits.
Service cap varies.
Not for breakdowns.
Misfuelling: N.C.
Customer Feedback on Square One Car Insurance
| Review site | Rating and number of reviews |
|---|---|
| Trustpilot | 4.8 out of 5 (71,971 reviews) |
- Pros:
- ✅ The online quoting and policy management system is consistently described as easy to use and efficient.
- ✅ Customer service is often praised as friendly, responsive, and clear in their communications.
- ✅ The customizable coverage options allow users to tailor their insurance and are viewed as a major advantage.
- ✅ The pricing is found to be competitive, particularly for customers comfortable with digital interactions.
- ✅ Many policyholders mention transparent processes and fast claims handling for standard cases.
- Cons:
- ❌ A number of customers raise concerns about the lack of in-person service or face-to-face broker support.
- ❌ Occasional delays are reported in more complex or high-value claim scenarios.
- ❌ Some users felt that very specific coverage questions could require further clarification at policy sign-up, particularly for unique vehicle needs.
How to Contact Square One?
| Customer service Square One | Contact information |
|---|---|
| To obtain a quote or take out a policy online | You can use the HelloSafe car insurance comparison tool, choose the option that suits you best and click to obtain a quote. Direct online quote: https://www.squareone.ca/car Phone: 1.855.331.6933 Email: info@squareone.ca |
| To report a claim | Submit and track your claim online by logging in to your account at https://www.squareone.ca/car or by phone at 1.855.331.6933 (available 24/7 for emergencies). Documentation may be uploaded securely through the online portal or provided by email as instructed by your adjuster. Email: claims@squareone.ca |
| To request and track a refund | Call 1.855.331.6933 or email info@squareone.ca; refunds are automatically processed to your original payment method if due (typically within a few business days after cancellation or premium adjustment). No additional forms are required unless specifically requested. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | Log in to your account at https://www.squareone.ca/car to download your certificate digitally. You may also request a certificate by phone at 1.855.331.6933 or email info@squareone.ca. Certificates can be sent by email or mail upon request. |
| To contact assistance | For policy questions, assistance with coverage, or further support, call 1.855.331.6933, email info@squareone.ca, use the web chat at https://www.squareone.ca/contact, or write to Square One Insurance Services, P.O. Box 20066, RPO Fairview, Vancouver, BC V5Z 0C1. |
| To cancel my contract | Cancel by phone at 1.855.331.6933, by email at info@squareone.ca, or online through your account. No documents are required other than your request; cancellation is effective on the specified date with a pro-rated refund. In Ontario, a $50 minimum retained premium applies; not applicable in Quebec. |
Direct online quote: https://www.squareone.ca/car
Phone: 1.855.331.6933
Email: info@squareone.ca
Email: claims@squareone.ca
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Square One?
If you use a repair shop or towing provider approved by Square One, payment is typically made directly by the insurer; otherwise, for non-network providers, you may need to pay up front and submit receipts for eligible reimbursement according to your policy.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Square One?
You can cancel your Square One car insurance online or by calling 1.855.331.6933, with a notice period of around 30 days; no special documents are required, and any eligible refund is processed to your original payment method, less any minimum retained premium.
What types of coverages can I customize with Square One car insurance?
Square One lets you fully personalize your car insurance by selecting from mandatory options like liability, DCPD, and accident benefits, as well as optional modules such as collision, comprehensive, all perils, loss of use, depreciation waiver, and roadside assistance, adapting coverage limits and deductibles.
How do I file and track a claim with Square One?
Claims can be filed online through your Square One account or by speaking to a claims advisor. A dedicated adjuster manages your file, and you can track claim status, provide documentation, and ask questions fully online. Most simple claims are settled within two to three weeks.
Are there discounts available with Square One car insurance?
Yes, Square One offers discounts for bundling home and auto policies, insuring multiple vehicles, installing anti-theft devices, maintaining a clean driving record, completing driver training, using winter tires, and for retirees or new full license holders, with qualifying discounts automatically applied to your premiums.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Square One?
If you use a repair shop or towing provider approved by Square One, payment is typically made directly by the insurer; otherwise, for non-network providers, you may need to pay up front and submit receipts for eligible reimbursement according to your policy.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Square One?
You can cancel your Square One car insurance online or by calling 1.855.331.6933, with a notice period of around 30 days; no special documents are required, and any eligible refund is processed to your original payment method, less any minimum retained premium.
What types of coverages can I customize with Square One car insurance?
Square One lets you fully personalize your car insurance by selecting from mandatory options like liability, DCPD, and accident benefits, as well as optional modules such as collision, comprehensive, all perils, loss of use, depreciation waiver, and roadside assistance, adapting coverage limits and deductibles.
How do I file and track a claim with Square One?
Claims can be filed online through your Square One account or by speaking to a claims advisor. A dedicated adjuster manages your file, and you can track claim status, provide documentation, and ask questions fully online. Most simple claims are settled within two to three weeks.
Are there discounts available with Square One car insurance?
Yes, Square One offers discounts for bundling home and auto policies, insuring multiple vehicles, installing anti-theft devices, maintaining a clean driving record, completing driver training, using winter tires, and for retirees or new full license holders, with qualifying discounts automatically applied to your premiums.
