Company Information

Wawanesa U.S. Operations

Our U.S. Company is headquartered in San Diego, California. The company is licensed to offer insurance in California and Oregon. The U.S. operation is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company of Canada, a leading insurance carrier in Canada.

Company History

The Company was established as a farmers' mutual insurance carrier in 1896 in Wawanesa, Manitoba under the laws of Canada and was subsequently incorporated by an Act of Parliament on May 1, 1929. The United States Branch was established under the laws of California on May 23, 1974. Initial funds were realized from a contribution of the Canadian parent corporation, The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, Winnipeg, Manitoba. The first policy was written in the United States in April 1975.

Learn more about Wawanesa's history.

Operating Philosophy

Wawanesa offers preferred Personal Lines Auto, Homeowners, Condo, and Renters insurance directly to the consumer. Wawanesa maintains advertising and expense levels well below industry averages. These costs savings are passed on to consumers in the form of lower insurance rates.

Insurance Products

Wawanesa insurance products include Auto, Homeowners, Condo and Renters Insurance. All policies are offered direct to consumers. Based on direct premiums written, our U.S. company ranks among the top 20 auto insurers in California.

Financial Ratings

Ratings are provided by independent organizations as a measure of a company's financial strength and solvency.

Wawanesa General's parent company, The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company, continues to be rated by A.M. Best Company with a financial strength rating of A (Excellent).

The financial strength rating of The Wawanesa Mutual Insurance Company is based on its longstanding superior capitalization, above average balance sheet liquidity, profitable operating performance, strong broker relations, prominent market position and geographic diversification.

Wawanesa Insurance's wholly owned subsidiary companies and individual ratings include:

Property/Casualty subsidiary Wawanesa General Insurance Company (San Diego, CA), rated with a financial strength rating of C++ (Marginal), and currently under review with positive outlook by AM Best.

Life/Health subsidiary The Wawanesa Life Insurance Company (Winnipeg, MB), rated with a financial strength rating of A (Excellent).