How do I get a WSIB clearance letter for my contractor?

As a homeowner in Ottawa, you don't get the WSIB clearance letter - your contractor must provide it to you before starting work. This is a critical protection document that proves your contractor has valid workers' compensation coverage.

What Your Contractor Must Provide

Your contractor should give you a current WSIB Clearance Certificate that shows they're in good standing with their workers' compensation payments. This certificate protects you from liability if a worker gets injured on your property. Without it, you could be held responsible for workplace injuries and associated costs.

How to Verify WSIB Status in Ontario

You can independently verify your contractor's WSIB status by visiting wsib.ca and using their clearance verification tool. You'll need your contractor's WSIB account number, which should be clearly displayed on any legitimate clearance certificate they provide.

The clearance certificate will show the contractor's business name, account number, and confirmation that their account is in good standing. Make sure the business name matches exactly what's on your contract and that the certificate hasn't expired.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be extremely cautious of contractors who say they don't need WSIB coverage or claim they're covered under someone else's policy. Independent contractors and businesses with employees are required to have WSIB coverage in Ontario. If a contractor can't provide current clearance, don't hire them.

Some contractors may try to show you fake certificates or expired documents. Always verify the certificate number directly with WSIB rather than just accepting what they show you.

When WSIB Coverage Isn't Required

The only contractors who don't need WSIB are sole proprietors with no employees working completely alone. However, even in these cases, many choose to carry coverage for their own protection. If your contractor falls into this category, ensure they have adequate liability insurance instead.

Protecting Yourself During the Hiring Process

Request WSIB clearance along with proof of liability insurance before signing any contract. For larger projects in Ottawa, also verify their business registration and any required trade licenses through ESA (for electrical work) or TSSA (for gas work).

Store copies of all clearance certificates and insurance documents with your contract. If the project extends beyond the certificate's expiry date, request updated clearance before work continues.

Additional Ottawa Resources

For questions about contractor verification or if you suspect WSIB fraud, contact WSIB directly at 1-800-387-0750. The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) can also provide guidance on contractor requirements for permitted work.

Remember: legitimate contractors will readily provide current WSIB clearance and understand it's a standard requirement. Any hesitation or excuses about providing this documentation should be considered a major red flag when hiring contractors in Ottawa.