Start with the work the contractor actually performs
General contractors, electricians, plumbers, landscapers and renovation firms can share a jobsite while presenting very different risks. Trade, project type, maximum contract value, excavation, hot work, heights, design responsibility and use of subcontractors all influence the insurance review.
Describe every service clearly. An insurer that accepts interior finishing may not automatically accept structural work, roofing or fuel-system installation.
Build the program from several coverage areas
A contractor’s program may include:
- Commercial general liability for covered injury or property-damage allegations
- Commercial property for tools, equipment, stock and office contents
- Contractors’ equipment or an installation floater for property away from the main premises
- Commercial auto insurance for business-owned vehicles
- Builder’s risk for a specific project under construction
- Professional liability when design, consulting or other professional responsibility is involved
The policy name does not confirm that every project, tool or contractual obligation is covered.
Protect tools while they move
List owned, leased and borrowed equipment, including the maximum value at one jobsite and in any vehicle. Ask how theft, unattended vehicles, employee tools, rented equipment and equipment breakdown are treated. Serial numbers, photographs and purchase records can help document ownership after a loss.
Review subcontractors and contracts
Keep written subcontractor agreements and obtain current evidence of insurance. Confirm who is responsible for materials, temporary works, site security and damage to the project. Customer contracts may require additional insured status, a waiver of subrogation or limits that need insurer approval.
A certificate of insurance summarizes coverage; it does not amend the policy or make every contract term insured.
Safety responsibilities remain separate
Ontario’s Construction Projects Regulation establishes requirements for work that falls within its scope. Insurance does not replace occupational health and safety, licensing, permitting or training obligations. Document inspections, incident reporting, driver controls and completion of corrective work.
Prepare a useful contractor submission
Bring revenue and payroll by trade, project types and values, operating radius, employee and subcontractor counts, tool and vehicle schedules, largest jobs, contracts and loss history. Contact Westoak before adding a trade, entering a much larger contract or working in a new territory.