The Best Home Insurance Quotes in Markham 

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How much does home insurance cost in Markham in 2026?

The estimated average home insurance premium in Markham is $1,881 per year as of Q2 2026, which is around $157 per month, according to the latest  Rates.ca Home Insuramap data. By contrast, Ontario's estimated average premium is $2,235 per year.

 

Key numbers: Markham home insurance

  • In Ontario, Markham ranks in the 11th spot out of 176 for annual home insurance premiums – from cheapest to most expensive.
  • Newmarket is the least expensive city in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), with an average premium of $1,709 per year.
  • Orono is the most expensive city in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), with an average premium of $2,451 per year.
  • Homeowners with L6E postal codes pay the lowest premiums in Markham, averaging at $1,588 per year, or around $132 per month.
  • Homeowners with L6C postal codes pay the highest premiums in Markham, averaging at $2,075 per year, or around $173 per month.

As of June 2026

 

How Rates.ca finds the average home insurance premium

Rates.ca’s Home Insuramap is an interactive online map, which allows Ontario residents to see how their home, condo or tenant insurance rates compare to other parts of their city or province. 

The estimated premiums for each Forward Sortation Area (FSA) are based on the average of the lowest three quoted premiums, with maximum available coverage for water protection. The premiums were acquired using a profile of a 40-year-old homeowner, who has been insured for at least 10 years and lives in a 2,500 sq ft detached house, built 40 years ago, with brick veneer, wood frame construction, natural gas heat, a 10-year-old roof and replacement cost of $500,000.  

The city averages were calculated using the FSA premiums from the Insuramap data for each city. However, instead of equal weighting for each FSA within the city, we looked at the number of actual quotes from Rates.ca’s websites in Q4 2025 and used those as weights.  

The Ontario average was taken using the average premium for each city weighted by the number of quotes in each city from Rates.ca’s websites in Q4 2025. 

Why your profile matters: Even though your location is a major factor in determining your rate, it’s not the only factor. Other factors, such as the age of your roof, the materials used in your home’s construction, the number of claims you’ve filed and so on can all have a major impact on your premium.

Markham vs. the GTA: average home insurance rates (2026)

RankCityAverage premiumDifference vs. Markham
1Newmarket$1,709 ($142/month)9.14% lower
2Whitchurch-Stouffville$1,810 ($151/month)3.77% lower
3Burlington$1,851 ($154/month)1.59% lower
3Aurora$1,851 ($154/month)1.59% lower
5Vaughan$1,870 ($156/month)0.58% lower
6Richmond Hill$1,873 ($156/month)0.43% lower
7Markham$1,881 ($157/month)0% no change
8East Gwillimbury$1,910 ($159/month)1.54% higher
9Courtice$1,926 ($161/month)2.39% higher
10Ajax$1,974 ($165/month)4.94% higher
11Oakville$2,019 ($168/month)7.34% higher
12King City$2,025 ($169/month)7.66% higher
13Uxbridge$2,042 ($170/month)8.56% higher
14Milton$2,044 ($170/month)8.67% higher
15Caledon$2,063 ($172/month)9.68% higher
16Mississauga$2,064 ($172/month)9.73% higher
17Georgina$2,095 ($175/month)11.38% higher
18Whitby$2,096 ($175/month)11.43% higher
19Oshawa$2,121 ($177/month)12.76% higher
19Scarborough$2,121 ($177/month)12.76% higher
21Brampton$2,140 ($178/month)13.77% higher
22Pickering$2,142 ($179/month)13.88% higher
23Port Perry$2,155 ($180/month)14.57% higher
24Sunderland$2,181 ($182/month)15.95% higher
25Halton Hills$2,184 ($182/month)16.11% higher
26North York$2,200 ($183/month)16.96% higher
27Bowmanville$2,204 ($184/month)17.17% higher
28East York$2,258 ($188/month)20.04% higher
29Etobicoke$2,290 ($191/month)21.74% higher
30Toronto$2,296 ($191/month)22.06% higher
31Newcastle$2,354 ($196/month)25.15% higher
32Orono$2,451 ($204/month)30.3% higher

Estimated 2026 average premium in Ontario: $2,235

(Updated: June 2026)

How did we get these numbers? Check out our Home Insuramap methodology.

What risks do homeowners face in Markham?

Living in Markham comes with its own set of challenges for homeowners, thanks to the city’s mix of suburban neighborhoods, urban growth, and proximity to natural areas. Here are some common risks to keep in mind:

  • Unpredictable weather: Markham experiences a variety of weather conditions, from heavy snow and ice storms in the winter to intense summer rainfalls. These weather patterns can lead to issues like roof damage, frozen pipes, or even basement flooding. If your home is in a low-lying area, consider installing a sump pump and maintaining it regularly. 
  • Water damage risks: The freeze-thaw cycles common in Markham winters can cause pipes to burst or cracks to form in your home’s foundation. Additionally, clogged gutters or poorly maintained roofs can lead to leaks during spring rains. Regular upkeep, like cleaning your gutters and inspecting your roof, can go a long way in preventing costly repairs. 
  • Property crime: While Markham is known for being a safe and family-friendly city, property theft and break-ins can still happen, especially in areas with older homes or high turnover. Installing a reliable home security system can help protect your property.

Markham home insurance: average rates by postal code (2026)

Postal CodeAverage premium
L6E$1,588 ($132/month)
L3R$1,768 ($147/month)
L3S$1,817 ($151/month)
L6G$1,852 ($154/month)
L6B$1,859 ($155/month)
L3P$1,952 ($163/month)
L3T$1,998 ($167/month)
L6C$2,075 ($173/month)

Estimated 2026 average premium in Markham: $1,881

(Updated: June 2026)

Home Insuramap

The estimated average home insurance premium in Ontario is $2,235 per year as of Q2 2026, which is around $185 per month, according to the latest Rates.ca Home Insuramap data.

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What’s a forward sortation area (FSA)? It’s the first three characters of your postal code, designating a specific geographical area for mail delivery. Insurers use FSAs to group and assess area-specific risks. For instance, if your FSA is associated with too many fire-related claims, then your FSA would be flagged as risky in that category (your premium could also go up as a result).

See our Home Insuramap methodology.

Recent home insurance quotes in Markham

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Home insurance quotes are compared from Apollo Insurance, CAA, Economical Insurance, Pembridge, Square One Insurance, and SGI

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Choosing the right home insurance policy in Markham

While owning a home in Markham—or anywhere in Ontario—doesn’t legally require home insurance, most mortgage lenders will insist on coverage before approving your loan. Even if you’ve paid off your mortgage, having a home insurance policy is a smart way to protect one of your most valuable assets.

But how do you decide on the right policy? And what coverage options are available for your home? Let’s break it down to help you understand the key features of home insurance policies:


Types of home insurance in Markham

Home insurance typically falls into three main categories, each of which can be tailored to suit your specific needs:

  • Named perils: This basic policy covers your home against specific risks listed in the policy, such as fire or wind damage. It’s the most affordable option but offers limited protection. While it may not be ideal for a primary residence, it can work well for vacant properties or secondary homes.
  • Broad form: Often referred to as a ‘standard’ policy, this type of coverage protects your home against all risks, with more limited coverage for certain personal belongings.
  • Comprehensive: This is the most extensive type of coverage, protecting both your home and its contents against all risks. Known as an ‘all perils’ policy, it’s often recommended by insurers. However, some add-ons or endorsements may need to be purchased separately for full protection.

Who is covered

  • Spouse and relatives: Your policy should cover your spouse and anyone related to either them or you, provided they reside in your home.
  • Dependents: Home insurance should protect any dependents under the age of 21 who are students. They may be living in your primary home or temporarily away from it (e.g., college dormitory).

What is covered

  • Property and dwelling: This includes protection for the structure of your home and other buildings on your property, such as a garage or shed, against risks like fire, theft, or water damage. Some policies may require additional coverage for secondary buildings, so it’s worth confirming with your provider.
  • Contents and personal belongings: This covers your personal items, including furniture, clothing, and electronics, from risks like theft or vandalism. High-value items like jewelry or artwork may require extra coverage, as they are typically excluded from standard policies unless specifically added.

Standard home insurance coverage in Markham

When it comes to home insurance in Markham, whether you opt for a named perils, broad form, or comprehensive policy, there are several essential coverages you can expect to find.

Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage

If an insured event or evacuation forces you to temporarily leave your home in Markham, Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage can help cover the costs of temporary accommodations. For instance, if your home is damaged and you need to stay in a hotel, ALE will cover expenses like lodging and meals, up to a specified limit.

Here are some of the specific categories that ALE covers:

  • Out-of-pocket expenses: If forced to temporarily move out, your insurance could cover expenses like accommodation, food, moving, laundry, transit, pet boarding and storage.
  • Fair rental value: If you’re renting out a part of your home (such as a room or a basement) and your tenant is forced to move out due to a covered incident, your insurance could cover the loss of your rental income.
  • Prohibited access: If your home becomes inaccessible due to an unexpected incident, such as a government-mandated evacuation order or a threat to your life, your insurance could cover you.

Liability coverage

  • Personal liability:Protects you if someone is injured or their property is damaged on your property. Coverage typically starts at $100,000, but it’s recommended to have at least $100,000, with some policies offering up to $5,000,000.
  • Voluntary medical payments: Covers medical expenses if someone is accidentally injured on your property or if you unintentionally injure someone. Coverage in Ontario usually ranges from $1,000 to $10,000, with no deductible.
  • Voluntary property damage: Provides coverage for accidental damage you or a minor in your care cause to someone else’s property. Coverage limits often range from $500 to $6,000.

Commonly covered perils

  • Fire: Covers the cost of repairing, rebuilding, or replacing your home and belongings, regardless of the fire’s origin.
  • Smoke: Covers damage caused by smoke from malfunctioning appliances, excluding fireplaces.
  • Lightning or electrical current: Covers damage to appliances, electronics, and wiring caused by lightning or power surges.
  • Explosion: Covers damage caused by explosions.
  • Riot: Provides coverage for property damage resulting from riots in your area.
  • Theft and vandalism: Protects against stolen belongings or damage caused by theft or vandalism.
  • Transportation: Covers personal belongings temporarily away from home, such as items in storage or under repair.
  • Water damage: Covers damage caused by indoor plumbing, heating, or cooling systems. Note that sewer backup and overland flooding are often excluded unless added to your policy.
  • Hail and wind: Covers damage from hail, strong winds, flying debris, and falling trees or branches.
  • Aircraft or vehicle impact: Covers damage caused by vehicles or aircraft hitting your property.
  • Window breakage: Covers broken windows in occupied homes. Additional vacant home insurance may be required for homes left vacant for over a month.
  • Falling objects: Covers damage from falling objects, such as space debris, though landslides or snow slides may be excluded. Confirm policy details with your insurer.

Add-ons to home insurance coverage in Markham

Beyond the standard components of a Markham home insurance policy, additional coverages are available to provide extra protection for your home and belongings.

Below are some of the most common home insurance add-ons, also known as riders, that you can include in your policy:

  • Overland water: Covers damage caused by water overflow from nearby rivers, lakes, or melting snow—important for areas in Markham with natural water features.
  • Sewer back-up: Protects your home from damage due to backed-up sewers during heavy rainfall or spring thaw.
  • Earthquake: Covers damage caused by earthquakes. While rare in Markham, this add-on offers peace of mind.
  • Mass evacuation: Covers expenses if a government-ordered evacuation forces you to leave your home due to events like wildfires or flooding.
  • Identity theft: Covers costs to replace documents, like passports, in case of identity theft.
  • Lock replacement: Covers the cost of replacing your home’s locks.
  • Personal valuables: Increases coverage for high-value items like jewelry, collectibles, or fine art.
  • Home sharing: Adds liability and property coverage if you rent out your home.
  • Personal umbrella: Provides extra liability coverage beyond standard policy limits, useful in cases of costly lawsuits.

What is not covered under your Markham home insurance

While home insurance in Markham protects against many risks, some exclusions apply. Certain risks can be covered with add-ons, while others are uninsurable. Here are key exclusions:

  • Absence from the home: Damage occurring while the home is vacant for a long time is usually not covered.
  • Alterations: Damage caused during renovations is only covered if approved by your insurer in advance. Routine fixes like painting are usually excluded.
  • Bylaw enforcement: Costs related to adhering to local by-laws are generally not covered.
  • Damage from renters: Damage caused by renters isn’t covered unless you have landlord-specific insurance.
  • Mold: Mold is considered preventable and isn’t covered by insurance. Homeowners are responsible for addressing water issues that could lead to mold.
  • Pest infestations: Damage caused by pests, such as mice or termites, isn’t covered. Regular maintenance is the homeowner's responsibility.
  • Volatile substances: Damage caused by storing over one gallon of flammable materials like gasoline may not be covered.
  • Purposeful damage: Intentional damage to your property isn’t covered and may be considered fraud.
  • Intentional injuries to guests: Liability coverage excludes injuries you intentionally cause to others.
  • Existing damage: Damage that occurred before the policy started isn’t covered.

Factors that affect your Markham home insurance premium

When determining your home insurance premium in Markham, insurers evaluate several key factors. Here, we outline some of the most common elements that could impact your rates.

 

Flood risk

 

Homes in Markham located near creeks, rivers, or areas prone to flooding may face higher insurance premiums. Even if flooding hasn’t occurred recently, the increase in extreme weather events has made insurers more cautious. Adding flood protection to your policy, such as overland water or sewer backup coverage, can provide better peace of mind. Be sure to review your policy to understand what flood-related risks are covered.

Replacement cost

 

The cost to fully rebuild your Markham home, including its size, materials, construction quality, and contents, plays a significant role in determining your premium. Larger homes with high-end finishes and valuable belongings are generally more expensive to insure.

Property location

 

The location of your property in Markham can influence your insurance costs. Homes in neighborhoods with higher crime rates or frequent break-ins often come with higher premiums.

Property age

 

Older homes in Markham may have outdated plumbing, electrical systems, or heating, which can increase risks like water damage or fire. Homes built before the 1950s often feature older 60-amp electrical systems, which are less reliable than modern 100-amp systems, leading to higher premiums.

Proximity to fire halls and hydrants

 

The farther your home is from a fire hall or hydrant, the more likely it is to burn down completely, should it catch fire. This issue mainly afflicts homes in rural areas, which are sparsely populated. Oshawa is a relatively densely populated place, so this issue should be non-existent here.

Basement

 

Homes in Markham with basements are more susceptible to water damage from internal leaks or external flooding. This increased risk often results in higher insurance premiums.

Heating system

 

The type of heating system in your home can affect your premium. High-risk systems, such as wood-burning stoves, may increase costs, while safer options like forced air heating or hot-water radiators could help lower your rates.

Roof age

 

The age and material of your roof in Markham are important factors. Older roofs or those made from less durable materials may increase your insurance costs due to the higher likelihood of damage.

Renovations

 

Renovations that increase your home’s value, such as adding a pool or upgrading to a luxury kitchen, may raise your premium. However, safety-focused improvements, like updated wiring or plumbing, could help reduce your rates.

Pets

 

Owning pets, particularly certain dog breeds considered high-risk, can increase your insurance premium in Markham. Some insurers may even decline coverage for specific breeds.

Smoking

 

Non-smokers in Markham may qualify for discounts, as insurers view homes owned by non-smokers as less likely to experience fire-related damages caused by cigarettes.

Security systems

 

Installing security systems or alarms to monitor for burglary, fire, or water damage can reassure insurers and may help lower premiums for Markham homeowners.

Claims history

 

Your claims history can impact your premium. A history of frequent or large claims may result in higher rates, as it signals a greater likelihood of future claims.

Credit score

 

With your consent, insurers in Markham may review your credit score to determine eligibility for discounts. While a poor score won’t increase your rates, a strong credit history could help you qualify for lower premiums.

How to get the cheapest home insurance in Markham

Saving money on home insurance in Markham doesn’t have to be a challenge. By following a few smart strategies, you can reduce your premiums while keeping your home well-protected. Here are some tips to help you find affordable coverage and feel secure in your choice.

  1. Increase deductibles: A higher deductible means you’ll pay more out-of-pocket if you make a claim, but it also lowers your monthly or yearly premiums. If you’re comfortable handling smaller expenses yourself, this is a simple way to save on your policy.
  2. Install alarms: Making your home safe, and less of a risk for damage or theft, can also save you money on your Markham home insurance rates. Your home insurance provider assesses your rates based on risk. Reduced risk means fewer claims and therefore lower rates. 
  3. Upgrade electrical and plumbing systems: If your home is a bit older, then it may have outdated plumbing and electrical systems. To reduce the risk of flooding and fire and to lower your premiums, consider upgrading them if you have the means.
  4. Install severe weather and flood protections: Make sure your home has enough sump pumps, your basement walls are reinforced, and your roof has been repaired in the last 10 years. All of these can reduce the risk of weather-related damage, especially water damage, and lower your premiums as a result.
  5. Ask for discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts that aren’t always advertised. Whether it’s for being claims-free, bundling policies, or being part of certain organizations, it’s worth asking your provider about all the savings you might qualify for.
  6. Bundle up: Combining your home insurance with other policies, like auto or life insurance, can lead to significant savings. Many providers in Markham offer loyalty discounts for bundling, making it a cost-effective and convenient option.
  7. Comparison shop: Shopping around is one of the easiest ways to find affordable home insurance. Use online tools or work with a broker to compare rates from multiple providers in Markham. A little research can go a long way in finding the best deal.

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Frequently asked questions about home insurance in Markham

Got more questions about Markham home insurance? We got you covered.

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Can I get coverage for a rental property or vacation home in Markham?

Yes, most insurance providers offer policies tailored for rental properties or secondary homes in Markham. These policies often differ from standard home insurance and may include additional liability coverage to protect against risks involving tenants or guests.

Does home insurance in Markham cover flooding or water damage?

Standard home insurance policies in Markham generally do not include coverage for overland flooding or sewer backup. However, you can purchase additional endorsements to protect against these risks. Considering Markham’s weather patterns, adding water damage coverage is a worthwhile investment.

What should I do if I need to file a claim in Markham?

Follow these steps to ensure a smooth claims process:

Document the damage thoroughly:

  • Take clear, high-quality photos or videos of all affected areas, capturing the extent of the damage from multiple angles.
  • If possible, include timestamps on your documentation for added accuracy.
  • Keep any damaged items as evidence until your insurance provider advises otherwise.

Contact your insurance provider immediately:

  • Notify your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process.
  • Be ready to provide your policy number and a detailed account of the incident, including the date, time, and cause of the damage.

Gather and submit supporting documents:

  • Compile all necessary paperwork, such as receipts for damaged items, repair estimates, or proof of ownership.
  • If temporary repairs are needed to prevent further damage, keep receipts for any expenses incurred, as these may be reimbursable.

Work closely with the claims adjuster:

  • An adjuster will be assigned to assess the damage and determine the payout.
  • Be available to answer their questions and provide additional information if requested.
  • Accompany the adjuster during their inspection, if possible, to ensure all damages are noted.

Follow up and stay organized:

  • Keep a record of all communications with your insurer, including dates, times, and the names of representatives you speak with.
  • Regularly check on the status of your claim to ensure it’s progressing as expected.

By staying proactive and organized, you can help ensure a smoother and more efficient claims process for your Markham property.

Can I switch home insurance providers mid-policy in Markham?

Yes, you can switch providers at any time, but be aware of potential cancellation fees or penalties. To avoid extra costs, it’s best to align the switch with your policy renewal date. Make sure to provide your new insurer with all relevant details about your Markham property.

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Disclaimer

*More than 50% of Rates.ca users in Ontario who obtained a home insurance quote from January to December 2025 saw savings ranging from $150 to $650, with an average savings of $366.43. The average savings amount represents the difference between the users’ average lowest quoted premium and the average of the second and third lowest quoted premiums generated by Rates.ca.