What insurance do contractors and trades need in Ontario?
Ontario contractors and trades typically need commercial general liability (CGL) as the foundation, tools and equipment coverage, and commercial auto for work vehicles. Most general contractors, property managers, and clients won't let you on site until you carry CGL (often $2M or $5M) and name them as additional insured. Depending on the trade, you may also need installation/builder's risk coverage and, for employees, WSIB.
Why is CGL the coverage that lets you work?
Commercial general liability covers third-party injury and property damage arising from your work, and it's the coverage almost every client, general contractor, and property manager requires before you set foot on a job. They'll usually ask for a specific limit ($2M or $5M) and to be added as an "additional insured." No certificate, no work. It's less a nice-to-have than a ticket to the job.
What else do trades usually need?
Beyond CGL: tools and equipment coverage (theft from a vehicle or job site is common), commercial auto for the work truck or van, installation / builder's risk for materials and work in progress on larger jobs, and WSIB if you have employees. Some trades with design or advice exposure also need professional liability. The right stack depends on your trade and the size of your jobs.
How do I get a certificate of insurance fast for a job?
Once your policy is in place, a certificate of insurance (COI) naming the client or GC as additional insured can usually be issued the same day. The key is having the coverage set up correctly first, with the right limits and wording, so we can turn certificates around quickly when a job comes up. A broker who handles trades knows exactly what the certificate needs to say.
FAQ
How much CGL do contractors need? Commonly $2M, with $5M required on bigger commercial jobs, driven by the client's contract. Are my tools covered if stolen from my truck? Only with tools/equipment coverage, which is separate from CGL and worth having. Do I need WSIB and insurance? They're different: WSIB covers workplace injury for employees; CGL covers third-party claims. Most trades need both.