Business Details
27 Years
experience
Trusted Insurance Brokers in Kelowna & Trail, BC
Working Ventures Insurance has served British Columbia residents for over 25 years, specializing in tailored insurance solutions for union members, retirees, and organized groups. Our unionized brokers deliver same-day service on most policies, leveraging relationships with competitive insurers to meet diverse client needs. Rebranding the Trail office in 2024 expanded our offerings while maintaining community-focused service.Our team holds advanced designations like CAIB and CIP, ensuring expert guidance across home, auto, commercial, and specialty insurance. We prioritize transparency, offering group discounts and personalized support through local offices and remote consultations.
Services
Home Insurance
Auto Insurance
Boat Insurance
RV Insurance
Travel Insurance
Cyber Insurance
Commercial Insurance
Details
- Year established: 1999
Highlights and features
- Over 25 years of BC insurance expertise with unionized brokers
- Exclusive group discounts for union members and retirees
- Same-day service available on most insurance policies
- Brokers with CAIB, CIP, and Risk Management certifications
- Local offices in Kelowna and Trail with remote support options
What people say
Experienced brokers
Quick service
Competitive rates
Personalized solutions
Reliable claims support
Services
Home Insurance
We provide comprehensive home insurance for primary residences, condos, rentals, and mobile homes. Coverage includes protection against fire, theft, and liability claims. Our policies offer replacement cost options and specialized protection for vacant properties. Brokers help customize coverage limits to match individual needs while ensuring compliance with mortgage requirements.
Auto Insurance
Our auto insurance includes ICBC-compliant liability coverage with optional private extensions. Services cover cars, motorcycles, ATVs, and snowmobiles with agreed-value protection. We offer discounts for safe drivers and club members while providing 24/7 claims support. Brokers assist with policy changes, renewals, and joint ownership documentation.
Boat Insurance
Specialized boat insurance protects watercraft up to $500,000 with agreed-value policies. Coverage includes liability protection up to $1.5 million as required by the Marine Liability Act. We insure powerboats, sailboats, and trailers with optional coverage for onboard equipment. Brokers provide risk assessments and claims guidance for seasonal storage or transit.
RV Insurance
Our RV insurance covers motorhomes and travel trailers with guaranteed replacement cost for units under 10 years. Policies include emergency roadside assistance and coverage for personal belongings. We offer flexible terms for seasonal use and specialized protection for awnings and attached equipment. Brokers help determine appropriate liability limits for storage or travel scenarios.
Travel Insurance
We provide travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Policies include emergency medical evacuation and baggage delay reimbursements. Our brokers assist with international coverage requirements and coordinate care monitoring services. Special rates apply for extended family trips and multi-destination itineraries within Canada and abroad.
People
Nicole Lychak-Smith
Branch Manager
With 19 years of insurance experience across BC and Saskatchewan, Nicole leads the Kelowna office. She holds the CAIB designation and specializes in property & casualty insurance. Her expertise spans auto, home, and commercial policies, with a focus on management and client relations.
Michelle Hobal
Insurance Broker
Michelle brings 33 years of industry experience, starting with Manitoba Public Insurance. She transitioned to brokerage in 2004 and earned her Level 2 license. Her strengths include policy customization and client education, particularly in home and auto insurance solutions.
Alexandre Martuscello
Insurance Broker
Alexandre combines technical expertise with client-focused service. He specializes in risk management and holds the CAIB designation. His practice emphasizes commercial insurance solutions while maintaining a growing portfolio of personal clients in the Okanagan region.
Kelsa Yamaoka
Insurance Broker
Kelsa offers sociology-informed risk assessment with a Bachelors degree from UBC and Insurance Institute certifications. She focuses on personalized service for home and auto policies, currently pursuing her CIP designation to expand commercial insurance capabilities.
Mandi Sommer
Insurance Broker
Mandi achieved CAIB designation within her first year at WVI and continues professional development. She specializes in home insurance with a focus on seasonal properties, leveraging local market knowledge to serve Okanagan residents effectively.
Questions
How do I renew my ICBC insurance through WVI?
Renew online, by email, or visit our Trail office. Email renewals require policy details and payment information. Monthly payment plans available for 6-12 month terms.
What insurance discounts are available?
Union members and retirees receive exclusive group discounts. Safe drivers qualify for reduced rates on auto and motorcycle policies. Multi-policy bundling offers additional savings.
Does WVI insure specialty vehicles?
Yes, we cover ATVs, snowmobiles, and motorcycles with liability and collision protection. Trail office brokers specialize in recreational vehicle insurance with agreed-value options.
Can I get insurance for a vacation rental property?
We offer Airbnb/vacation rental insurance for property owners. Policies cover liability risks and damage protection beyond standard home insurance limits.
What cyber insurance coverage do you provide?
Our cyber insurance protects against ransomware, identity theft, and cyber attacks. Coverage includes data breach response, business interruption compensation, and legal liability protection for digital assets.
