Ontario Contractors Insurance Options

To run a contracting business in Ontario, there are certain kinds of insurance that you are legally required to have. But above and beyond your legal obligations, you have more control over your insurance than you might think. Some of the coverage types that you can take out with Insurance Hero include:

• Property Insurance
• Commercial General Liability Insurance
• Commercial Auto Insurance 

… And even within these categories, you may also have a say over the type of coverage you have as well as the amount. 

As a company, we understand that no two businesses are the same. That’s why we pride ourselves on offering tailored business insurance policies to contractors that are designed with the needs of construction professionals in mind. 

Contact us or request a free quote today!

Construction Insurance: What Ontario Contractors and Homeowners Should Know

Construction insurance, also known as builders risk insurance, is a policy that provides coverage during the building phase of a project. For Ontario-based contractors and homeowners alike, this insurance option is useful to have because of its ability to protect you, your business, and your property in a worst-case scenario. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of taking out construction insurance, there are some facts that you should know:

1. Many Lenders Will Require Construction Insurance

In theory, there’s no law on the books that will force you to take out builders risk insurance for your new build or your renovation. But if the project is being partially or fully funded by loans, your lender could make the release of funds dependent on whether you have adequate construction insurance. For this reason, taking out construction insurance early can make it easier to fund your building projects. 

2. Your Belongings Likely Won’t Be Covered Under Your Construction Insurance Policy

The harsh reality of having your construction site vandalized or hit by lightning is that your belongings may be damaged in the aftermath. If you’re looking at a new build, you probably don’t have to worry about keeping your furniture safe from would-be robbers. But if you’re renovating a pre-existing house, you may need to take out a different insurance policy to cover the items that you store within your home.

3. You Can’t Assume That General Liability Coverage Is Included

Construction sites can be incredibly dangerous for bystanders. It’s all too easy for curious local kids to be injured on-site or for a neighbour to trip while trying to sidestep the construction equipment in and around your property. However, as risky as all of this is, construction insurance will typically cover damage from natural disasters or theft – but it won’t necessarily extend to third-party personal injuries.

To find out more about construction insurance and how you can use it for your next project, contact Insurance Hero for advice.

Who needs independent contractor insurance in Ontario?

Anyone who either currently works on a full-time or part-time basis as an independent contractor — or anyone who has plans to start doing so in the near future.

Why? 

Because when you work as an employee, you can often rely on your company’s insurance policy to give you the coverage you need. However, when you’re working in a self-employed or independent capacity, the buck stops with you. Independent contractor insurance can help you protect your business and your livelihood.

How Much Does Contractor Insurance Cost in Ontario?

There are multiple factors that could influence the cost of your insurance. These would include:

• The value of your equipment or your vehicle
• Your insurance claim history
• The types of projects that you typically work on

At Insurance Hero, we’re committed to helping Ontario-based contractors get the insurance they need at the most affordable rates possible. Our award-winning team of brokers will go over the specific details of your situation in order to help you get the best insurance possible.

What are the contractor insurance requirements in Ontario?

Commercial general liability is the main insurance type that contractors are required to have in Ontario. If your crew makes a mistake that damages a neighbour’s property or a third party is injured while on your worksite, this coverage option can help with legal fees and judgment costs.

However, besides these insurance must-haves, it also makes sense to insure things like your work vehicle and your equipment. That way even if your tools are stolen or your commute ends in an accident, you can be sure that you have the insurance you need.

Are Subcontractors Covered Under Contractors Insurance?

Yes! But there’s one condition — you’ll have to make sure your subcontractors are endorsed under your policy.

When you’re running a construction project, sometimes outside help is needed. And in many cases, when you’re overseeing subcontractors and other non-employee workers, it’s simpler and easier to cover everyone under a single policy.

Covering a subcontractor under your contractors insurance can be done. It’s just a matter of paperwork.

When do I need construction insurance in Ontario?

For the duration of your project. 

If loans are needed to fund the project, your financial backers will likely require you to take out construction insurance before the work has even begun. And simply because it’s not unusual for construction and renovation projects to go sideways in a hurry, taking out insurance can be a key part of your risk management strategy.

At Insurance Hero, we offer our clients a selection of specialty insurance options. Contact us to discuss how we can help you find the right policy for any upcoming construction projects you might have in the pipeline.

What is not covered in contractor’s insurance in Ontario?

Contractors in Ontario typically carry several types of insurance policies to protect themselves, their clients, and their employees. While coverage can vary depending on the policy and the insurance company, some standard exclusions are typically not covered by contractor’s insurance in Ontario, including:

1. Intentional acts,
2. Faulty workmanship,
3. Pollution,
4. Employee injuries, and
5. Vehicle accidents.

Is contractor insurance mandatory for all types of contractors?

Contractor insurance is not compulsory by law in Ontario for all contractors. However, some contractors may be required to carry certain types of insurance by clients, employers, or regulatory bodies.

For example, if a contractor is working on a government-funded project, they may be required to carry specific types of insurance as a condition of the contract.

Similarly, if a contractor is hired by a client who requires proof of insurance before work can begin, the contractor may need to obtain coverage to secure the job.

That being said, even if insurance is not mandatory, it is highly recommended contractors carry insurance coverage to protect themselves from potential liabilities and financial losses. Without insurance, a contractor could be held personally liable for damages or injuries resulting from their work, which could be financially devastating.

Find The Best Contractors Insurance

Whether you’re an enterprise-level construction company or a sole proprietorship, every construction project comes with a unique risk profile. As such, it’s not enough for you to just check “Get contractors insurance” off of your to-do list. You need a contractors insurance policy that’s been put together with your business in mind.

Here at Insurance Hero, our insurance plans for Ontario-based contractors are designed to give you the coverage you need and deserve. 

Are you ready to insure your business? We can come to your rescue! Go ahead and request your free contractors insurance quote today.