How do I check if a contractor has liability insurance?

In Ottawa, you should request a current Certificate of Insurance directly from the contractor showing general liability coverage of at least $2 million - this is standard for most residential projects in Ontario.

Getting the Certificate of Insurance

Ask your contractor to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) from their insurance broker. This document should show:

• General liability coverage (minimum $2 million recommended)


• Current policy dates (not expired)


• The insurance company's name and contact information


• Coverage details including property damage and bodily injury

The certificate should be issued directly by their insurance broker or company - never accept a photocopy of a policy document or something that looks homemade.

Verifying the Insurance is Real

Once you have the certificate, call the insurance company directly using the phone number on the document (don't use a number the contractor gives you separately). Ask to verify:

• The policy is active and in good standing


• Coverage amounts match what's on the certificate


• The contractor's business name matches exactly


• Policy hasn't been cancelled

This verification call takes 5 minutes but can save you thousands if something goes wrong during your project.

What Coverage Amounts You Need

For most Ottawa residential projects:

• General liability: $2 million minimum


• Property damage: Should be included in general liability


• Completed operations: Covers issues after the job is done


• Products liability: If they're supplying materials

Larger projects (additions, major renovations over $50,000) may warrant higher coverage amounts.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be cautious if a contractor:

• Says they're covered under someone else's policy


• Can't provide a certificate within 24-48 hours


• Offers to get insurance "after you hire them"


• Shows you an expired certificate


• Gets defensive about providing proof of insurance

WSIB Coverage Too

In Ontario, also verify WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage. Request a WSIB Clearance Certificate from wsib.ca/clearances or ask the contractor to provide one. This protects you if a worker is injured on your property.

Why This Matters in Ottawa

Without proper insurance verification, you could be liable for:

• Injuries to workers on your property


• Damage to neighboring properties


• Damage to your own home during construction


• Legal costs if someone gets hurt

The City of Ottawa doesn't verify contractor insurance when issuing building permits - that's your responsibility as the homeowner.

Contact the contractor's insurance company directly to verify coverage before signing any contract or allowing work to begin on your Ottawa property.