WSIB Insurance for Contractors in Ontario

What is WSIB?

WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) is Ontario's workplace insurance provider. WSIB provides no-fault insurance for workers who get injured on the job, covering medical costs and lost wages during recovery.

For contractors and construction businesses, WSIB coverage protects both workers and homeowners in case of workplace injuries.

Is WSIB Required for Contractors in Ontario?

WSIB coverage is mandatory for most construction businesses in Ontario, including:

• General contractors with employees
• Subcontractors working on construction sites
• Sole proprietors in the construction industry (mandatory coverage)

However, WSIB requirements vary based on business structure:

Sole Proprietors

Construction sole proprietors (one-person businesses) are required to have WSIB coverage in Ontario. This is different from most other industries where sole proprietor coverage is optional.

Businesses With Employees

Any construction business with employees must have WSIB coverage for those workers. This includes full-time, part-time, and temporary workers.

Incorporated Businesses

Construction corporations must have WSIB coverage for employees. Executive officers (like company owners working on jobs) can opt out of personal coverage but must cover all workers.

What to Ask Your Contractor

Before hiring a contractor for a renovation project, ask:

1. Do you have WSIB coverage?

The contractor should be able to provide their WSIB account number and clearance certificate. A clearance certificate confirms they have no outstanding WSIB payments.

2. Are your subcontractors covered?

If the contractor hires subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, drywall), those trades should also have WSIB coverage. The general contractor is responsible for ensuring their subs are covered.

3. Can I see proof of coverage?

Request a WSIB clearance certificate before work begins. This document confirms the contractor is in good standing with WSIB.

Other Important Insurance

Beyond WSIB, contractors should also carry:

General Liability Insurance

Protects against property damage or injuries to third parties (you, your family, neighbors). For example, if the contractor damages your flooring or a tool falls and breaks your window, liability insurance covers repairs.

Most contractors carry $2-5 million in liability coverage.

Commercial Auto Insurance

If the contractor uses a vehicle for work (hauling materials, transporting tools), they need commercial auto insurance. Personal auto policies don't cover business use.

What Happens Without WSIB Coverage?

If you hire a contractor without WSIB coverage and their worker gets injured on your property:

• You may be personally liable for medical costs and lost wages
• The injured worker can sue you directly
• Your homeowner's insurance may not cover workplace injuries
• You could face significant financial liability

Always verify WSIB coverage before hiring a contractor.

How to Verify WSIB Coverage

You can verify a contractor's WSIB status:

• Request a clearance certificate: The contractor can provide this document showing they're in good standing
• Check WSIB's public register: Search for businesses with WSIB accounts
• Ask for their WSIB account number: You can call WSIB to confirm coverage

Questions to Ask Before Hiring

When vetting contractors for your renovation project, ask:

• Do you have WSIB coverage? Can you provide a clearance certificate?
• Do you carry general liability insurance? How much?
• Are all your subcontractors insured and have WSIB coverage?
• Can I see proof of insurance before work starts?

Learn more about what to look for when hiring a general contractor.

Working With Insured Contractors

At Elite Carpenter Home Renovation, we maintain proper WSIB coverage and general liability insurance for all our projects. We can provide proof of coverage and clearance certificates upon request.

We also ensure all subcontractors (electricians, plumbers, HVAC) carry their own WSIB and liability insurance, protecting you throughout the project.