@Colin16 Hi Colin, you will find it difficult to obtain hosting insurance anywhere in North America! I am not based in that part of the world and things are very much easier for us here in Australia with 5 companies actively in the field but, as well as compiling a list of insurers in this country I am also interested in doing so for other countries as well for the benefit of hosts. Towergate have entered the market in the UK, and there are two other companies that I am aware of that are issuing product disclosure statements to handle hosting platforms. I will post further details as I can get them!
All hosts should check with their regular insurer as to whether they have any coverage if they are hosting short term rental agreements. Most insurers will cancel household policies if they become aware of a hosting platform being used in their insured space. As you have found out Colin this will generally be the response, but many hosts seem to be oblivious of this, or just simply bury their heads in the sand!
At present there is not a lot of options In North America to obtain hosting insurance. I am aware of a company called Square One Insurance who are based in Vancouver on the west coast and are operating as far east as Ontario where you are. A quick scroll of their online site does list Toronto as just in their coverage area!
To this point they are not covering Quebec, or anything further East. Below is a link to them. I would love to think I could suggest something else, but I can't!
https://www.squareoneinsurance.ca/
I was informed of another company last week but unfortunately have lost track of it. When I can access it again I will post.
I wish you luck Colin, I am afraid you are going to have to do a bit of 'leg work' but, please keep the forum informed and.......don't depend on the host protection scheme!...cheers.....Rob