Contractor and construction
Get contractors insurance coverage customized to your exact requirements, according to the specific risks you face in Ontario. Electricians, plumbers, painters, general contractors, roofers and more.
Built for the way you work
Whether you're a general contractor, electrician, plumber, carpenter, renovator, or another skilled trade, you know that every job comes with its own set of challenges. You're responsible for the work, the tools, the job site and sometimes, things don't go exactly according to plan.
Contractor insurance is designed to protect your Ontario business from the risks that come with getting the job done. Coverage can include commercial general liability, tools and equipment, contractors' equipment, vehicles, and other protections tailored to your trade and operations.
A mistake, an accident, or damage to a client's property can quickly become an expensive problem. The right insurance helps protect your business, your reputation, and the work you've built. The Right Coverage for the Job.
No two contractors are exactly alike. Your insurance should reflect the work you actually do, the jobs you take on, and the equipment you rely on.
You bring the skills. We'll help make sure your insurance is built for the job.
What does contractor insurance cover?
Whether you’re a general contractor, subcontractor or tradesperson, policies generally include the following types of coverage:
Third party injury or damage
Covers your business if someone is injured or their property is damaged because of your operations. From a customer slipping on your floor to accidentally damaging someone else’s property.
Business contents
Furniture, computers, supplies and more are typically covered even for home-based businesses.
Medical expenses
Helps cover reasonable medical expenses when someone is accidentally injured on your premises or because of your operations. It can provide a quick solution for minor injuries without necessarily turning into a larger liability claim.
Commercial Auto
Insurance for your company cars. It also covers business use of personal vehicles. Fleet policies are available for companies with five or more vehicles.
Personal injury
Protects your business against certain non-physical injuries, such as libel, slander, or wrongful eviction. Because sometimes words can cause just as much trouble as a wet floor.
Tools & equipment
Protection for hand tools, small power tools and equipment like ladders, safety gear and more. Larger equipment as well.
Tenant legal liability
If you rent your business space and accidentally damage it, this coverage can help pay for the damage. Think of it as protection for those unfortunate “we may have broken the building” moments.
Business interruption
Replaces lost revenues if damage from a fire, storm or other insured events prevents the business from running.
Other options to consider
Builders risk coverage
For new builds and major renovations, this covers buildings under construction and materials.
Cyber insurance
If you store customer information, this protects your business against data breaches and hacks.
Installation floater
Protects lumber and other building materials during transport and while awaiting installation.
Pollution liability
Protection If your works exposes clients to asbestos or mold or causes environmental issues.
No matter the job, we’ve got you
We have coverage for all kinds of contractors and tradespeople. We’ve listed some of them below:
Carpenters
Bricklayers
Drywall contractors
Basement contractors
Electricians & plumbers
Handyman
General contractor
Heating & cooling
Landscaping
Painting and more
Frequently asked questions about contractor insurance
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Yes! Whether you're a general contractor, renovator, electrician, plumber, or another skilled tradesperson, insurance helps protect your business from unexpected accidents, property damage, lawsuits, and other costly surprises. Many clients, builders, and project owners also require proof of insurance before work begins.
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Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance can help protect your business if your work causes bodily injury or property damage to someone else. For example, if a customer trips over your equipment or you accidentally damage a client's property, your policy may help cover eligible legal expenses, settlements, or damages, subject to its terms and limits.
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Generally, the cost of correcting your own faulty workmanship is not covered by standard CGL insurance. However, if defective work causes resulting property damage, there may be coverage depending on the circumstances and policy wording. It's important to discuss your specific trade and the work you perform with your broker.
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Tools and equipment coverage can protect the items you rely on to get the job done, such as power tools, hand tools, compressors, and other equipment. Depending on the policy, coverage may apply to theft, accidental damage, or loss. Your broker can help determine whether your equipment is covered at your shop, in your vehicle, or at a job site.
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Not automatically. Tools stolen from a vehicle may require specific tools and equipment coverage, and certain policies have conditions regarding overnight storage, vehicle security, and unattended equipment. Be sure to discuss how and where you store your tools so your coverage matches your day-to-day operations. Stolen business related tools from a vehicle would not be covered by the vehicle insurance.
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In many cases, yes. Even if you're working for a general contractor or another business, you may still be responsible for accidents, damage, or claims arising from your own operations. A general contractor's insurance policy should not be assumed to cover your business. You may also be required to provide a Certificate of Insurance before starting a project.
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A Certificate of Insurance is a document that summarizes key details of your insurance policy, such as the insurer, coverage types, and liability limits. Clients, contractors, and property owners often request one as proof that you carry insurance. A certificate is not the policy itself and does not change the coverage provided by your policy.
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