Should I ask my contractor for proof of insurance before hiring?

Absolutely yes - asking for proof of insurance is one of the most critical steps when hiring any contractor in Ottawa, and legitimate contractors will provide it without hesitation.

In Ontario, contractors should carry both general liability insurance (minimum $2 million is standard) and WSIB coverage. This protects you from being held liable if someone gets injured on your property or if property damage occurs during the work.

What Insurance Documents to Request

Ask for a current Certificate of Insurance that shows general liability coverage of at least $2 million. The certificate should list you as an "additional insured" for the duration of your project. For electrical contractors in Ottawa, they may also need errors and omissions insurance due to ESA requirements.

You'll also want to verify WSIB coverage through Ontario's WSIB Clearance Certificate system at wsib.ca/clearances. Enter the contractor's business name or account number to confirm they're in good standing. This is crucial because if a contractor doesn't have WSIB coverage and someone gets hurt, you as the homeowner could be held responsible for medical costs and compensation.

Red Flags to Watch For

Be extremely wary of any contractor who says they "don't need insurance" for small jobs, claims their insurance is "being renewed," or offers to reduce the price if you waive the insurance requirement. These are classic signs of either an uninsured contractor or a scam artist.

Some contractors may show you a certificate that looks legitimate but is expired or from a cancelled policy. Always call the insurance company directly to verify the policy is active and covers the dates of your project.

Ottawa-Specific Considerations

The City of Ottawa Building Code Services (613-580-2424) requires proof of insurance for most permit applications. When your contractor pulls permits through ottawa.ca/building, they'll need to provide insurance documentation as part of the process.

For specialized trades, additional coverage may be required. ESA-licensed electrical contractors can be verified at esasafe.com/contractor-locator, and TSSA-certified gas technicians at tssa.org - both databases will show if their credentials are current.

Protecting Yourself Further

Don't just ask for insurance - ask for recent references and actually call them. Check with the Better Business Bureau and search online reviews. A contractor with proper insurance who's been in business for years in Ottawa will have a track record you can verify.

Remember that legitimate contractors understand that insurance verification is standard practice. If someone gets defensive or evasive about providing proof of insurance, that's your cue to keep looking for someone else.