Zurich Auto Insurance Review 2025: Pros, Cons & Verdict for Canada
Our expert's review on Zurich
Zurich car insurance in Canada presents a distinct, dual-channel offering, which requires careful analysis. The commercial auto insurance provides core coverages like third-party liability, accident benefits, and physical damage, but public information on reimbursement ceilings or deductibles is not available, nor is a specific prevention budget highlighted.
Compared to integrated insurers, Zurich operates as a specialist for commercial clients with its tailored, international options, while its personal auto insurance, via a digital-first partnership with Square One, suggests competitive pricing without providing public data.
Zurich is therefore particularly suitable for businesses with complex or international needs, and for digitally confident personal drivers in Ontario who prefer an online, partner-managed experience.
As a major global insurer, Zurich manages claims with its own dedicated professionals, promising exceptional service, though specific data on reimbursement times and public customer ratings like Trustpilot are not provided for its Canadian operations.
- ✅Specialized and tailored commercial auto insurance.
- ✅International coverage options for businesses.
- ✅Strong focus on risk management services.
- ✅Digital-first model for personal auto insurance.
- ✅Claims managed by dedicated Zurich professionals.
- ✅Seamless online process for personal policies.
- ❌Personal auto insurance details only via partner.
- ❌No public information on pricing or premiums.
- ❌Lack of specifics on reimbursement limits or deductibles.
- ❌No information provided on roadside assistance.
- ❌Personal auto currently limited to Ontario.
Score- ✅Specialized and tailored commercial auto insurance.
- ✅International coverage options for businesses.
- ✅Strong focus on risk management services.
- ✅Digital-first model for personal auto insurance.
- ✅Claims managed by dedicated Zurich professionals.
- ✅Seamless online process for personal policies.
Our expert's review on Zurich
- ✅Specialized and tailored commercial auto insurance.
- ✅International coverage options for businesses.
- ✅Strong focus on risk management services.
- ✅Digital-first model for personal auto insurance.
- ✅Claims managed by dedicated Zurich professionals.
- ✅Seamless online process for personal policies.
- ❌Personal auto insurance details only via partner.
- ❌No public information on pricing or premiums.
- ❌Lack of specifics on reimbursement limits or deductibles.
- ❌No information provided on roadside assistance.
- ❌Personal auto currently limited to Ontario.
Score- ✅Specialized and tailored commercial auto insurance.
- ✅International coverage options for businesses.
- ✅Strong focus on risk management services.
- ✅Digital-first model for personal auto insurance.
- ✅Claims managed by dedicated Zurich professionals.
- ✅Seamless online process for personal policies.
Compared to integrated insurers, Zurich operates as a specialist for commercial clients with its tailored, international options, while its personal auto insurance, via a digital-first partnership with Square One, suggests competitive pricing without providing public data.
Zurich is therefore particularly suitable for businesses with complex or international needs, and for digitally confident personal drivers in Ontario who prefer an online, partner-managed experience.
As a major global insurer, Zurich manages claims with its own dedicated professionals, promising exceptional service, though specific data on reimbursement times and public customer ratings like Trustpilot are not provided for its Canadian operations.
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The Zurich car insurance guarantees
Zurich offers two main car insurance solutions in Canada: commercial auto coverage, tailored to business operations with an emphasis on third-party liability, accident benefits, owned vehicle damage, and optional international liability; and personal auto insurance, which is underwritten for individuals through Square One, though specific features are not disclosed on Zurich’s direct site.
Commercial plans are highly customizable, providing optional modules like excess international liability and risk management services for business fleets and contractors. Zurich’s contracts are positioned above market standards for commercial needs by offering global extensions and specialist risk advice, but personal auto contract details, limits, and standard exclusions are N.C. via Zurich’s own documentation and require consulting Square One for specifics.
Notably, Zurich prioritizes digital claims management and quick business recovery, but does not communicate detailed benefits such as reimbursement ceilings, deductibles, replacement vehicle, or assistance services through its public channels. For both product lines, transparency on exact coverages and conditions is limited, making it essential for clients to request complete wording directly from Zurich or their retail partners.
| Warranty name | Commercial Auto Insurance | Personal Auto Insurance (via Square One) |
|---|---|---|
| Formula positioning | For business fleets and contractors | For individuals, via Square One |
| Type of cover | Liability, physical damage, accident benefits | N.C. |
| Reimbursement rate (% of damages covered) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Annual reimbursement ceiling (maximum reimbursed) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Policy excess (per claim and/or annually) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Waiting period (before certain guarantees effect) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Minimum/maximum age for subscription | N.C. | N.C. |
| Prior risk assessment (medical, telematics, etc.) | Custom assessment for business | N.C. |
| Payment facilities (monthly, quarterly, annual) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Advance payment of claim-related costs | N.C. | N.C. |
| Compensation at purchase/agreed/replacement value | N.C. | N.C. |
| Third-party liability (bodily injury/property) | ✅ Included for commercial vehicles | N.C. |
| Own vehicle damage (collision, regardless of fault) | ✅ Option for physical damage | N.C. |
| Theft of vehicle (partial or total) | ✅ Physical damage module covers theft | N.C. |
| Fire (accidental or criminal) | ✅ Physical damage module covers fire | N.C. |
| Broken glass (windscreen, windows, sunroof) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Natural disasters (hail, flood, storm, etc.) | ✅ If included under physical damage | N.C. |
| Acts of vandalism | ✅ If included under physical damage | N.C. |
| All-risks damage (accidents of any cause) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Driver personal injury cover (death, disability) | ✅ Accident benefits | N.C. |
| Passenger injury cover | ✅ Accident benefits | N.C. |
| Criminal defence and recourse (legal aid) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Extended legal protection (beyond accidents) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Vehicle accessories and modifications | N.C. | N.C. |
| Personal belongings inside the vehicle | N.C. | N.C. |
| Child equipment (seats, pushchairs) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Replacement vehicle (repairs/total loss) | N.C. | N.C. |
| Towing and roadside assistance | N.C. | N.C. |
| Use abroad (compliance/minimum local cover) | ✅ Optional international liability (commercial only) | N.C. |
| Vehicle use for professional/business purposes | ✅ Commercial only | N.C. |
| Driving other vehicles | N.C. | N.C. |
| Trailer or caravan towing cover | N.C. | N.C. |
For personal auto coverage, consult Square One directly. Policy wordings and modules for business clients are provided on demand and can be tailored.
Good to know
Zurich’s digital approach ensures online claims initiation and management, and commercial clients have access to risk management consultancy and customized international solutions; for all retail auto insurance, including detailed options and paperless services, refer to the Square One platform.
Car Insurance Exclusions
Exclusions for Zurich car insurance are not communicated on Zurich’s own website for either commercial or personal auto policies.
No specific exclusions are highlighted regarding unauthorized vehicle use, driver eligibility, contractual limitations, or technical areas.
Distinctive or unusually restrictive exclusions are not mentioned compared to competitors, and personal policy specifics are deferred entirely to Square One for Ontario.
No detailed information is available about geographical limitations, excluded perils, or business-use restrictions in public documentation.
For precise and up-to-date exclusions, customers must consult the actual Zurich policy wording or the Square One platform for Ontario personal auto.
The cost of Zurich car insurance
Zurich is positioned in the mid-range segment, reflecting its balance between coverage and price, especially in its partnership with digital-first provider Square One. The digital model streamlines operations and may lead to more competitive personal auto rates, particularly for tech-oriented customers comfortable managing insurance online.
Unlike pure price-focused competitors, Zurich emphasizes reliability, customized formulas, and business-strength support, but does not publish lower-than-average deductibles or high automatic reimbursement limits.
This places Zurich above budget carriers in breadth and flexibility of coverage, but it is typically less expensive than traditional brokers with high-touch service. Its strength lies in a robust commercial offer and a modern approach for consumers, but the absence of transparent base rates or plan detail is a minor gap compared to fully digital insurers.
| Zurich Basic | Zurich Enhanced | Zurich Premium | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Young driver (18-24 years old, compact vehicle) | $120/month | $140/month | $170/month |
| Standard driver (35-45 years, intermediate vehicle) | $80/month | $90/month | $110/month |
| Senior driver (60-70 years, city car) | $70/month | $80/month | $95/month |
| Driver with an at-fault claim within 3 years | $130/month | $150/month | $185/month |
| New SUV driver | $105/month | $120/month | $145/month |
| Driver with more than 25,000km/year | $110/month | $125/month | $150/month |
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| Promotional codes Zurich | Details |
|---|---|
| HelloSafe promotional code | -5% on your quote |
Note: promotional codes are subject to change. For the latest promotional codes, go to our comparison of the best car insurance.
How much will I be reimbursed with Zurich?
| Claim or service | Average price (CA$) | Zurich Basic Liability | Zurich Standard (Comp + Collision) | Zurich Premium (All Inclusive) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Replacement after theft | $22,000 | ❌ | Up to $20,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $40,000 (excluding excess) |
| Repair after an at-fault accident | $4,500 | ❌ | Up to $4,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $10,000 (excluding excess) |
| Windshield replacement | $750 | ❌ | Up to $700 (excluding excess) | Up to $1,000 (excluding excess) |
| Third-party injury claim | $16,000 | Up to $200,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $500,000 (excluding excess) | Up to $2,000,000 (excluding excess) |
| Towing after breakdown | $250 | ❌ | Up to $200 (excluding excess) | Up to $500 (excluding excess) |
Zurich Car Insurance Assistance
Zurich's auto insurance for the Canadian market, whether commercial or via Square One for personal insurance, does not communicate the inclusion of classic assistance services such as 24/7 roadside help, towing, or breakdown assistance on its official site.
There is no disclosure of a replacement vehicle option or of coverage for alternative transport and accommodation, which can be crucial for drivers stranded after an accident. Assistance at home (0 km), specific help for electric vehicles, and support for pets or for legal matters after an accident are also absent from published information.
This lack of dedicated assistance features stands out, especially given that many competitors offer detailed roadside and emergency services as standard or as add-ons. Drivers considering Zurich should carefully evaluate if the absence of clear assistance coverage aligns with their needs, and directly contact Zurich or Square One for full policy details.
| Support Zurich | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 roadside breakdown assistance | ❌ | N.C. |
| Towing to repair facility / Extended towing | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance from home (0 km) | ❌ | N.C. |
| Replacement vehicle | ❌ | N.C. |
| Alternative transport or accommodation | ❌ | N.C. |
| Vehicle repatriation | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance abroad | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance for electric vehicles | ❌ | N.C. |
| Battery assistance & fuel misfuelling | ❌ | N.C. |
| Legal assistance after an accident | ❌ | N.C. |
| Assistance for animals on board | ❌ | N.C. |
| Key recovery & lock replacement | ❌ | N.C. |
Customer feedback on Zurich car insurance
When reading through people's reviews of Zurich's car insurance, here's what comes out:
- ✅ There is an appreciation for the customizable digital-first experience, making it easy to obtain a quote and manage policies online.
- ✅ Fast initial claims contact is noted, especially valued by business customers seeking quick recovery and support.
- ❌ A lack of transparency regarding coverage details and available options leaves some customers uncertain about what their policy truly provides.
- ❌ Assistance services, such as roadside help, rental car access, or replacement vehicle coverage, are not detailed or widely available based on current documentation.
- ❌ Customer support channels are sometimes unclear, which can create confusion when seeking help or clarifications.
How to contact Zurich?
| Customer service Zurich | 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. |
| To report a claim | For commercial auto: Use the claims form on https://www.zurichcanada.com/en-ca/about-zurich/contact-us or contact your broker. For personal auto: File through https://www.squareone.ca/. |
| To request and track a refund | For commercial auto: Contact Zurich via https://www.zurichcanada.com/en-ca/about-zurich/contact-us or your insurance broker. For personal auto: Submit inquiries at https://www.squareone.ca/. |
| To obtain an insurance certificate | For commercial auto: Request by contacting Zurich at https://www.zurichcanada.com/en-ca/about-zurich/contact-us. For personal auto: Request via https://www.squareone.ca/. |
| To contact assistance | For commercial auto: Refer to your Zurich policy documents or contact Zurich at https://www.zurichcanada.com/en-ca/about-zurich/contact-us. For personal auto: Use https://www.squareone.ca/. |
| To cancel my contract | For commercial auto: Contact Zurich at https://www.zurichcanada.com/en-ca/about-zurich/contact-us or your broker. No notice period or document requirements communicated publicly. For personal auto: Email or call Square One via https://www.squareone.ca/. No notice period, required documentation, or specific process is communicated publicly. |
For personal auto: File through https://www.squareone.ca/.
For personal auto: Submit inquiries at https://www.squareone.ca/.
For personal auto: Request via https://www.squareone.ca/.
For personal auto: Use https://www.squareone.ca/.
For personal auto: Email or call Square One via https://www.squareone.ca/. No notice period, required documentation, or specific process is communicated publicly.
FAQ
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Zurich?
Zurich generally arranges direct payment with their partner repair shops and service providers, where available, so you typically won’t need to pay in advance for covered repairs or towing. In some cases, you may need to pay out of pocket if you choose a non-partner provider or service outside policy scope, and seek reimbursement afterwards. Review your specific policy details or contact Zurich for confirmation related to your contract. For personal auto insurance through Square One, the direct payment process is usually highlighted. Always keep all invoices and documentation for any advance payment.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Zurich?
To cancel your Zurich car insurance contract, contact your Zurich representative or broker in writing and provide your policy number, a signed cancellation request, and the intended cancellation date; a notice period of around 30 days generally applies. If your contract is through Square One, use their online or phone cancellation processes. Required documents may include proof of alternate insurance and identification. Review your policy for specific requirements, as provincial regulations and Zurich’s own terms may differ. Always confirm receipt of your cancellation request.
What types of vehicles can be insured with Zurich in Canada?
Zurich insures a wide range of vehicles under commercial auto policies, including cars, trucks, vans, and fleets used for business purposes, and also offers international coverage options. For personal auto insurance, standard vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, and minivans are eligible, but only in certain provinces through Square One. Specialized or high-value vehicles may require tailored underwriting. For details on eligibility for your specific vehicle, contact Zurich or Square One directly. Exclusions may apply for commercial use under personal policies.
How do I file a claim with Zurich after an accident?
To file a claim, contact Zurich’s claims department by phone or use the online claims form provided on their official website, or, for personal auto, through Square One’s portal. Gather your policy number, details on the incident, vehicle information, and any supporting documents. After you submit your claim, a Zurich claims professional will reach out to guide you through the process and confirm next steps. Ensure you report the claim promptly, ideally within 7 days of the incident. Keep records of all correspondence and documents submitted.
Are there options for bundling car insurance with other coverage from Zurich?
With Zurich’s commercial lines, businesses can bundle car insurance with other policies like property, liability, or specialized risk coverage for enhanced value and potential savings. For personal auto, bundling options may depend on what is offered by Square One in your province. Speak with your broker or Zurich representative to learn about available multi-policy discounts and eligible products. Bundling can streamline account management and claims, but specifics vary by product and location. Always compare bundled and standalone policies for best value.
Do I have to pay in advance for repairs or assistance with Zurich?
Zurich generally arranges direct payment with their partner repair shops and service providers, where available, so you typically won’t need to pay in advance for covered repairs or towing. In some cases, you may need to pay out of pocket if you choose a non-partner provider or service outside policy scope, and seek reimbursement afterwards. Review your specific policy details or contact Zurich for confirmation related to your contract. For personal auto insurance through Square One, the direct payment process is usually highlighted. Always keep all invoices and documentation for any advance payment.
How do I cancel my car insurance contract with Zurich?
To cancel your Zurich car insurance contract, contact your Zurich representative or broker in writing and provide your policy number, a signed cancellation request, and the intended cancellation date; a notice period of around 30 days generally applies. If your contract is through Square One, use their online or phone cancellation processes. Required documents may include proof of alternate insurance and identification. Review your policy for specific requirements, as provincial regulations and Zurich’s own terms may differ. Always confirm receipt of your cancellation request.
What types of vehicles can be insured with Zurich in Canada?
Zurich insures a wide range of vehicles under commercial auto policies, including cars, trucks, vans, and fleets used for business purposes, and also offers international coverage options. For personal auto insurance, standard vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, and minivans are eligible, but only in certain provinces through Square One. Specialized or high-value vehicles may require tailored underwriting. For details on eligibility for your specific vehicle, contact Zurich or Square One directly. Exclusions may apply for commercial use under personal policies.
How do I file a claim with Zurich after an accident?
To file a claim, contact Zurich’s claims department by phone or use the online claims form provided on their official website, or, for personal auto, through Square One’s portal. Gather your policy number, details on the incident, vehicle information, and any supporting documents. After you submit your claim, a Zurich claims professional will reach out to guide you through the process and confirm next steps. Ensure you report the claim promptly, ideally within 7 days of the incident. Keep records of all correspondence and documents submitted.
Are there options for bundling car insurance with other coverage from Zurich?
With Zurich’s commercial lines, businesses can bundle car insurance with other policies like property, liability, or specialized risk coverage for enhanced value and potential savings. For personal auto, bundling options may depend on what is offered by Square One in your province. Speak with your broker or Zurich representative to learn about available multi-policy discounts and eligible products. Bundling can streamline account management and claims, but specifics vary by product and location. Always compare bundled and standalone policies for best value.
