Are cottages and secondary residences more expensive to insure?

Yes, because they are unoccupied part of the year. Resort areas like the Laurentians, Eastern Townships, and Charlevoix have premiums increased by 20% to 40%.

Home insurance by city in Quebec: 2026 prices

Q: Which city in Quebec has the cheapest home insurance?

Cities in Centre-du-Québec and Chaudière-Appalaches, such as Drummondville, Victoriaville, or Lévis, generally have the lowest premiums ($800 to $1,200/year for a single-family home).

Q: Why does home insurance cost more in flood zones?

Properties in flood zones present a higher risk of loss. Insurers increase premiums by 20% to 50%. Some even refuse to cover the highest risk properties.

Q: Is home insurance mandatory in Quebec?

No, home insurance is not legally mandatory for homeowners. However, the mortgage lender will require it. For tenants, the landlord may require it in the lease.

Q: Does my coverage protect my belongings during a move?

Generally yes, but with certain limits. You must notify your insurer of your change of address before the move, as the new city may affect your premium.

Q: How does my city's claims history affect my premium?

Insurers compile claims statistics by postal code. After the floods of 2017 and 2019 in Outaouais, premiums in certain areas of Gatineau increased by 15% to 30%.

Q: Do I need different insurance for a condo rather than a house?

Yes. Condo insurance covers your rental improvements and personal belongings. The structure is covered by the syndicate. The cost is generally 30% to 50% lower than house insurance.

Q: What should I do if no insurer wants to cover my property?

A broker can access the market of specialized insurers. As a last resort, the isolated residences insurance plan or the Groupement des assureurs automobiles may offer basic coverage.

Q: How often should I review my coverage after a move?

Immediately after a move, then an annual review is recommended by the AMF, especially if you have made renovations or if new risks have emerged.

Q: Is earthquake insurance necessary in Quebec?

Quebec has several active seismic zones, including Charlevoix-Kamouraska. Earthquake insurance is an optional endorsement recommended if you live in these areas.

HOME INSURANCE BY CITY

Compare home insurance in your city in Quebec

Premiums range from 800 $ to 2 200 $ depending on your city. Find the best price with a certified AMF insurance broker who understands the risks in your neighborhood.

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Why does the price of home insurance vary by city?

Home insurance in Quebec is not a uniform product. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC), the average annual premium ranges between 900 $ and 2 200 $, but this amount fluctuates significantly based on your location. Residents of waterfront areas like Gatineau pay on average 20% to 40% more than those in Lévis or Drummondville. The AMF strongly recommends working with a certified broker to tailor your coverage to the realities of your municipality.

🌊 Flood zones and waterways

The MELCCFP identifies over 300 flood zones in Quebec. Waterfront cities like Gatineau, Trois-Rivières, and Shawinigan face increased risks of sewer backup, raising premiums by 20% to 50%.

🔒 Local crime rates

Crime statistics by municipality influence theft/vandalism premiums. Urban districts of Montreal show higher rates than suburbs like Blainville or Saint-Bruno.

🏚️ Age of the housing stock

Cities with aging housing stock (old plumbing, roofing, heating oil) like certain areas of Sherbrooke or Saguenay lead to higher premiums. The CMHC estimates that 35% of Quebec homes are over 40 years old.

🚒 Proximity to emergency services

Distance from a fire station and the presence of a fire hydrant directly influence rates. Residents of rural municipalities often pay more than those in Laval or Longueuil.

How much does home insurance cost by region in Quebec?

Premiums vary not only by property type (house, condo, tenant), but also by administrative region. Here are the observed ranges for a single-family home with standard coverage:

Region	Estimated annual premium	Main risk	Covered cities
Montreal	$1,200 – $1,800	Theft, water damage, density	Montreal, Westmount, Dorval, Mont-Royal
Montérégie	$1,000 – $1,600	Flooding (Richelieu), ice storms	Longueuil, Brossard, Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu
Capitale-Nationale	$900 – $1,400	Frost, ice storms, landslides	Saint-Augustin, L’Ancienne-Lorette
Outaouais	$1,100 – $1,700	Flooding (Ottawa River)	Gatineau
Laurentides	$1,000 – $1,500	Seasonal residences, remoteness	Blainville, Saint-Jérôme, Mont-Tremblant
Lanaudière	$950 – $1,400	Urban/rural mix	Repentigny, Joliette, Mascouche
Estrie	$850 – $1,300	Winter conditions, old buildings	Sherbrooke, Granby, Magog
Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean	$800 – $1,200	Remoteness, winter conditions	Saguenay, Alma
Mauricie	$850 – $1,300	Flooding (Saint-Maurice River)	Trois-Rivières, Shawinigan
Bas-Saint-Laurent / Côte-Nord	$800 – $1,400	Coastal erosion, remoteness	Rimouski, Baie-Comeau, Sept-Îles
Centre-du-Québec	$800 – $1,200	Moderate risk, agricultural area	Drummondville, Victoriaville

Source: ranges observed by the Assur360 broker network, 2025-2026. Actual premiums vary based on property type, reconstruction value, chosen deductible, and your claims history.

What specific risks should you look out for depending on your city?

🌊 Flooding and sewer backup

Spring flooding affects thousands of Quebec households every year. Cities most at risk include Gatineau (Ottawa River), Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac (historic seawall), Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu (Richelieu River basin) and Trois-Rivières (confluence of the Saint-Maurice River). The Water Damage and Sewer Backup Protection Endorsement is highly recommended. Since 2020, several insurers have tightened their criteria for properties in flood zones according to the MELCCFP’s mapping.

🧊 Winter and icy conditions

Ice storms, such as the one in 1998, which caused more than $1.6 billion in insured damages in Quebec according to IBC, remain a major risk. Cities in Montérégie, Estrie and Laurentides are particularly vulnerable. Frozen pipe breaks, ice build-up on roofs and prolonged power outages are common causes of claims.

🏔️ Coastal erosion and ground movement

Residents of the Bas-Saint-Laurent, Côte-Nord and Gaspésie regions are facing coastal erosion that threatens properties along the St. Lawrence. The clay soils of the St. Lawrence Valley can also cause landslides. Earthquakes Canada would like to remind you that the Charlevoix–Kamouraska seismic zone is one of the most active in the eastern part of the continent.

💡 Expert advice — How to reduce your premium in your city

Certified alarm system — discount of 5% to 15%
Increase the deductible — savings of 10% to 25%
Bundle auto + home — discount of 5% to 15% (auto quote)
Backflow preventer + sump pump — reduction in water damage
Maintain a good claims-free record — loyalty discount
Compare with an insurance broker from our partner firms — competition among 9+ insurers

Why does a local broker make a difference?

Unlike direct insurers who apply uniform pricing grids, a home insurance broker certified by the AMF has in-depth knowledge of the realities of your city.

🔍

Knowledge of local risks

Your broker knows if your street is in a flood zone, if your neighborhood has a history of burglaries, or if your building requires specific protections.

💰

Access to multiple insurers

A broker compares offers from dozens of insurers to find the best coverage/price ratio tailored to the specifics of your city.

🛡️

Support in claims

In the event of a claim, your local broker supports you and defends your interests with the insurer — a concrete advantage in stressful situations.

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The brokers from our AMF-certified partner firms serve over 400 cities across Quebec. Compare in 2 minutes.

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Frequently asked questions — Home insurance by city

Which city in Quebec has the cheapest home insurance?

The cities of Centre-du-Québec and Chaudière-Appalaches, such as Drummondville, Victoriaville, or Lévis, generally have the lowest premiums ($800 to $1,200/year for a single-family home). These regions present a moderate risk of flooding, a low crime rate, and good access to emergency services.

Why does home insurance cost more in flood zones?

Properties in flood zones according to MELCCFP mapping present a much higher risk of claims. Insurers increase premiums by 20% to 50% to compensate for this risk. Some insurers even refuse to cover the highest-risk properties, which is why it’s important to work with an insurance broker who knows the available options.

Is home insurance mandatory in Quebec?

Home insurance is not legally mandatory in Quebec for homeowners. However, your mortgage lender will require it as a condition of the loan. For tenants, the landlord may require it in the lease for liability coverage. The AMF strongly recommends that all residents obtain adequate home insurance.

Does my coverage protect my belongings during a move between two cities?

In general, your policy covers your belongings in transit during a move in Quebec, but with certain limits. You must notify your insurer before the move, as the new city may change your premium due to different risks. A broker can advise you on the transition.

How does my city’s claims history affect my premium?

Insurers compile claims statistics by postal code. If your area has a high claims history, premiums are adjusted accordingly. For example, after the floods of 2017 and 2019 in Outaouais, premiums in certain areas of Gatineau increased by 15% to 30%.

Do I need different insurance for a condo rather than a house?

Yes. Condo insurance covers your rental improvements, personal belongings, and liability, while the structure is covered by the syndicate’s insurance. The cost is generally 30% to 50% lower than house insurance. Check our condo insurance page.

Are cottages and second homes more expensive to insure?

Yes, second homes and cottages are often more expensive to insure because they are unoccupied part of the year, increasing the risk of undetected damage (pipe breaks, theft). Resort areas like Laurentides, Estrie, and Charlevoix have premiums increased by 20% to 40%.

What should I do if no insurer wants to cover my property in a high-risk area?

If your property is declined by standard insurers, a broker can access the specialized insurers market. As a last resort, the isolated residences insurance plan or the Groupement des assureurs automobiles (home section) may offer basic coverage. Contact an AMF broker to explore all options.

How often should I review my coverage after a move?

You should review your coverage immediately after a move. Then, an annual review is recommended by the AMF, especially if you have made renovations, if the real estate value in your neighborhood has changed, or if new risks have emerged (e.g., new flood zone mapping).

Is earthquake insurance necessary in Quebec?

Quebec has several active seismic zones, including Charlevoix–Kamouraska and the west of the St. Lawrence. Earthquake insurance is an optional endorsement that can be added to your policy. It is particularly recommended if you live in these areas. Check our earthquake insurance page for more information.

Find your city in our directory

We serve over 400 cities and municipalities across Quebec. Click on your city to get details about local risks and recommended coverages.

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City	Administrative Region
Acton Vale	Montérégie
Alma	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Amos	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Amqui	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Baie-Comeau	Côte-Nord
Baie-D’Urfé	Montréal
Baie-Saint-Paul	Capitale-Nationale
Barkmere	Laurentides
Beaconsfield	Montréal
Beauceville	Chaudière-Appalaches
Beauharnois	Montérégie
Beaupré	Capitale-Nationale
Bécancour	Centre-du-Québec
Bedford	Estrie
Belleterre	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Beloeil	Montérégie
Berthierville	Lanaudière
Blainville	Laurentides
Boisbriand	Laurentides
Bois-des-Filion	Laurentides
Bonaventure	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Boucherville	Montérégie
Bromont	Estrie
Brossard	Montérégie
Brownsburg-Chatham	Laurentides
Candiac	Montérégie
Cap-Chat	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Cap-Santé	Capitale-Nationale
Carignan	Montérégie
Carleton-sur-Mer	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Causapscal	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Chambly	Montérégie
Chandler	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Chapais	Nord-du-Québec
Charlemagne	Lanaudière
Châteauguay	Montérégie
Château-Richer	Capitale-Nationale
Chibougamau	Nord-du-Québec
Clermont	Capitale-Nationale
Coaticook	Estrie
Contrecœur	Montérégie
Cookshire-Eaton	Estrie
Coteau-du-Lac	Montérégie
Côte-Saint-Luc	Montréal
Cowansville	Estrie
Danville	Estrie
Daveluyville	Centre-du-Québec
Dégelis	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Delson	Montérégie
Desbiens	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Deux-Montagnes	Laurentides
Disraeli	Chaudière-Appalaches
Dolbeau-Mistassini	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Dollard-Des Ormeaux	Montréal
Do“`html nnacona	Capitale-Nationale
Dorval	Montréal
Drummondville	Centre-du-Québec
Dunham	Estrie
Duparquet	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
East Angus	Estrie
Estérel	Laurentides
Farnham	Estrie
Fermont	Côte-Nord
Forestville	Côte-Nord
Fossambault-sur-le-Lac	Capitale-Nationale
Gaspé	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Gatineau	Outaouais
Gracefield	Outaouais
Granby	Estrie
Grande-Rivière	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Hampstead	Montréal
Hudson	Montérégie
Huntingdon	Montérégie
Joliette	Lanaudière
Kingsey Falls	Centre-du-Québec
Kirkland	Montréal
L’Ancienne-Lorette	Capitale-Nationale
L’Assomption	Lanaudière
L’Épiphanie	Lanaudière
L’Île-Cadieux	Montérégie
L’Île-Dorval	Montréal
L’Île-Perrot	Montérégie
Lac-Brome	Estrie
Lac-Delage	Capitale-Nationale
Lachute	Laurentides
Lac-Mégantic	Estrie
Lac-Saint-Joseph	Capitale-Nationale
Lac-Sergent	Capitale-Nationale
La Malbaie	Capitale-Nationale
La Pocatière	Bas-Saint-Laurent
La Prairie	Montérégie
La Sarre	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
La Tuque	Mauricie
Laval	Laval
Lavaltrie	Lanaudière
Lebel-sur-Quévillon	Nord-du-Québec
Léry	Montérégie
Lévis	Chaudière-Appalaches
Longueuil	Montérégie
Lorraine	Laurentides
Louiseville	Mauricie
Macamic	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Magog	Estrie
Malartic	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Maniwaki	Outaouais
Marieville	Montérégie
Mascouche	Lanaudière
Matagami	Nord-du-Québec
Matane	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Mercier	Montérégie
Métabetchouan–Lac-à-la-Croix	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Métis-sur-Mer	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Mirabel	Laurentides
Mont-Joli	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Mont-Laurier	Laurentides
Montmagny	Chaudière-Appalaches
Montréal	Montréal
Montréal-Est	Montréal
Montréal-Ouest	Montréal
Mont-Royal	Montréal
Mont-Saint-Hilaire	Montérégie
Mont-Tremblant	Laurentides
Murdochville	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Neuville	Capitale-Nationale
New Richmond	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Nicolet	Centre-du-Québec
Normandin	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Notre-Dame-de-l’Île-Perrot	Montérégie
Notre-Dame-des-Prairies	Lanaudière
Otterburn Park	Montérégie
Paspébiac	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Percé	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Pincourt	Montérégie
Plessisville	Centre-du-Québec
Pohénégamook	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Pointe-Claire	Montréal
Pont-Rouge	Capitale-Nationale
Port-Cartier	Côte-Nord
Portneuf	Capitale-Nationale
Prévost	Laurentides
Princeville	Centre-du-Québec
Québec	Capitale-Nationale
Repentigny	Lanaudière
Richelieu	Montérégie
Richmond	Estrie
Rigaud	Montérégie
Rimouski	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Rivière-du-Loup	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Rivière-Rouge	Laurentides
Roberval	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Rosemère	Laurentides
Rouyn-Noranda	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Saguenay	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Saint-Amable	Montérégie
Saint-Antonin	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures	Capitale-Nationale
Saint-Basile	Capitale-Nationale
Saint-Basile-le-Grand	Montérégie
Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville	Montérégie
Saint-Césaire	Montérégie
Saint-Charles-Borromée	Lanaudière
Saint-Colomban	Laurentides
Saint-Constant	Montérégie
Sainte-Adèle	Laurentides
Sainte-Agathe-des-Monts	Laurentides
Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré	Capitale-Nationale
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue	Montréal “““html al
Sainte-Anne-des-Monts	Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine
Sainte-Anne-des-Plaines	Laurentides
Sainte-Brigitte-de-Laval	Capitale-Nationale
Sainte-Catherine	Montérégie
Sainte-Catherine-de-la-Jacques-Cartier	Capitale-Nationale
Sainte-Julie	Montérégie
Sainte-Marguerite-du-Lac-Masson	Laurentides
Sainte-Marie	Chaudière-Appalaches
Sainte-Marthe-sur-le-Lac	Laurentides
Sainte-Thérèse	Laurentides
Saint-Eustache	Laurentides
Saint-Félicien	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Saint-Gabriel	Lanaudière
Saint-Georges	Chaudière-Appalaches
Saint-Honoré	Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean
Saint-Hyacinthe	Montérégie
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu	Montérégie
Saint-Jérôme	Laurentides
Saint-Joseph-de-Beauce	Chaudière-Appalaches
Saint-Joseph-de-Sorel	Montérégie
Saint-Lambert	Montérégie
Saint-Lazare	Montérégie
Saint-Lin–Laurentides	Lanaudière
Saint-Marc-des-Carrières	Capitale-Nationale
Saint-Ours	Montérégie
Saint-Pamphile	Chaudière-Appalaches
Saint-Pascal	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Saint-Philippe	Montérégie
Saint-Pie	Montérégie
Saint-Raymond	Capitale-Nationale
Saint-Rémi	Montérégie
Saint-Sauveur	Laurentides
Saint-Tite	Mauricie
Salaberry-de-Valleyfield	Montérégie
Schefferville	Côte-Nord
Scotstown	Estrie
Senneterre	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Sept-Îles	Côte-Nord
Shannon	Capitale-Nationale
Shawinigan	Mauricie
Sherbrooke	Estrie
Sorel-Tracy	Montérégie
Stanstead	Estrie
Sutton	Estrie
Témiscaming	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Témiscouata-sur-le-Lac	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Terrebonne	Lanaudière
Thetford Mines	Chaudière-Appalaches
Thurso	Outaouais
Trois-Pistoles	Bas-Saint-Laurent
Trois-Rivières	Mauricie
Valcourt	“““html style=”padding:8px”>Estrie
Val-d’Or	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Val-des-Sources	Estrie
Varennes	Montérégie
Vaudreuil-Dorion	Montérégie
Victoriaville	Centre-du-Québec
Ville-Marie	Abitibi-Témiscamingue
Warwick	Centre-du-Québec
Waterloo	Estrie
Waterville	Estrie
Westmount	Montréal
Windsor	Estrie