PERSONAL MORTGAGE INSURANCE VS BANK MORTGAGE INSURANCE

Introduction to the concept

A mortgage is the single largest debt most Canadians will ever assume. Most consumers will take the time to shop around for good interest rates and terms that suit their needs, but not everyone bothers to do the same for the accompanying mortgage insurance. Many simply accept the coverage that is offered by their lender without investigating other options. That is a pity, because in many cases you can obtain better coverage for a lower price from an independent financial advisor.

What is mortgage insurance for?

Mortgage insurance is about protecting your loved ones. If something should happen to you (or your partner), mortgage insurance will pay off your debt. It is a simple concept, but the details in each contract can vary significantly.

What kind of coverage does the bank offer?

If you purchase mortgage insurance from your bank or credit union, you are purchasing creditor’s group insurance.

You are a certificate holder. You do not own the policy. The bank may make changes to the coverage without your consent, and coverage will terminate as soon as the mortgage is paid off. You have no control on the benefit.

The premium you pay remains the same, but the coverage decreases along with the balance of your mortgage. You are paying a level amount for decreasing coverage.

You are not able to name your own beneficiary. If something should happen to you, the bank receives the insurance proceeds directly.

If you decide to change banks at a later date, you will have to reapply for insurance coverage – you will pay rates based on your age at that time, and if your health has changed, you may be declined.

Underwriting is started at the time of claim, not when the application is submitted. You may be declined when you need it the most

In most cases, creditors group is based on “blended rates,” meaning that smokers and non-smokers pay the same amount for the same coverage. If you live a healthy lifestyle, you will pay the same amount as someone who is overweight and smokes a pack a day.