Frustration at Aviva Canada’s new auto policy changes

Aviva Canada has recently changed the way it approaches auto renewal policies – but the change has left some drivers upset. One driver, Scott Ramsay of Calgary, said that in his 10 years as a policyholder with Aviva Canada, he has never received tickets or convictions that would potentially raise his premiums. He did have one insurance claim for hail, but nothing too significant. But Ramsay and his wife were shocked after Aviva Canada sent them a lengthy letter and a renewal application a few weeks before their policy was to be renewed. According to Ramsay, the letter’s language did not rub him the right way. “Just the way it was worded, it kind of ticked me off. You can apply for renewal and we may give you the opportunity to renew,” he told Global News. The letter also stated that if he was approved, he would have to pay the full premium – due at renewal. Aviva Canada has done away with accepting payments in installments. “There will be many people who can’t afford to pay that — 12 months upfront,” Ramsay commented. “So they will walk away.” Global News reported on several other customers of Aviva Canada who had received the same letter. Some did not read the letter carefully, or respond in time, and their insurance coverage was subsequently cancelled.