Did you know that 15% of the population has a criminal record?
While everyone is equal before the law, insurance companies can discriminate against those with a criminal record.
What happens if you don’t tell your insurer that you or someone in your household has a criminal record? This is an important question that we want to make you aware of.
Assurances Multi-Risques would like to remind you of the importance of disclosing everything to your insurance broker or insurer. Regardless of your criminal record, our sole desire is to help you find the right insurance for your home.
Substandard insurance
It should be noted that there are many situations that can make your insurance application more difficult. In fact, you may have difficulty obtaining home insurance for a variety of reasons.
We invite you to visit our section on substandard insurance. You will see that we work to provide assistance for many difficult insurance cases.
Insurance and criminal records: why declare everything?
It is essential to declare everything to your insurer so that you are protected in the event of a claim. If an unfortunate incident occurs and you have not told your insurer everything, it could cost you dearly!
We often receive calls from people struggling with insurance issues after obtaining a criminal record. Many of them wonder about the impact this may have on their home insurance.
Among the frequently asked questions, we can find one that looks like this:
“My insurer learns that someone living under our roof has a criminal record when I call to make a claim. Will the insurer agree to compensate me?”
Failure to disclose a criminal record and increased risk
It is important to understand that your failure to report the incident constitutes misconduct, as it increases the risk. According to
For example, suppose your new spouse has a criminal record. Your home insurer could refuse to compensate you. Your insurer may invoke the nullity of your home insurance contract ab initio and reimburse you for the premiums you have paid. It is therefore very important to declare this in order to reduce the risk of losing your home.
Do insurance companies have access to criminal records?
No, they do not have direct access to your criminal record. It is important to keep your insurer informed of any changes to your criminal record or that of anyone living with you.
We also advise you to take the initiative and obtain a court record from your local courthouse. You will need it, and it will save you time with your insurer.
Home insurance and criminal records: what are the consequences?
If you have a criminal record, it may affect your ability to obtain home insurance and increase the cost of your premium.
Because a criminal record is considered an aggravating risk factor, insurers will react differently. Generally speaking, there are factors that are given greater consideration:
- The type of offense committed and the seriousness of the crime
- Whether or not there is a history of recidivism in the criminal record
Contact an independent insurance broker!
The moral of the story? Take the initiative and contact an insurance broker who specializes in substandard insurance and managing clients with criminal records.
Don’t wait for your agent or broker to ask you the question. Better safe than sorry! Being honest about your criminal history will help you.
In addition, your transparency will allow you to take advantage of home insurance that matches your reality and your needs.