What happens if work is done by an uninsured worker?

If work is done by an uninsured worker in Ottawa, you as the homeowner could be held personally liable for any injuries that occur on your property, potentially facing thousands in medical costs, legal fees, and compensation claims.

When a contractor or worker doesn't carry proper insurance in Ontario, several serious risks transfer directly to you:

WSIB Coverage Issues
In Ontario, if a worker is injured and their employer doesn't have WSIB coverage, the homeowner can become responsible for the worker's medical expenses and compensation. This is particularly critical in Ottawa where construction injuries are common due to our harsh winters and older housing stock. You can verify WSIB coverage by requesting a Clearance Certificate from any contractor - this shows they're in good standing and their workers are covered.

Liability Insurance Gaps
Without the contractor's liability insurance, any property damage, injuries to third parties, or accidents become your responsibility. If a worker falls off scaffolding in Kanata and injures a neighbor, or damages your Barrhaven home's structure, you could face claims in the tens of thousands. Ontario law doesn't protect homeowners who hire uninsured contractors.

Legal and Financial Consequences
The Ontario Construction Act and provincial regulations make property owners jointly responsible when proper insurance isn't in place. This means if an uninsured worker is seriously injured while renovating your Orleans home, you could face lawsuits, Workers' Compensation Board claims, and even criminal charges if safety violations are involved.

How to Protect Yourself in Ottawa
Before any work begins, demand to see current certificates for both WSIB coverage and general liability insurance (minimum $2 million is standard in Ottawa). Call the insurance company directly to verify coverage is active - don't just accept a photocopy. For electrical work, ensure the contractor has ESA licensing which includes insurance requirements. For gas work, TSSA certification includes insurance verification.

Red Flags to Watch For
Be suspicious of contractors who offer significantly lower prices but can't provide insurance proof, claim they're "covered under someone else's policy," or suggest you can "save money" by skipping insurance. These are common tactics used by unlicensed operators throughout Ottawa-Gatineau.

Official Resources
Verify WSIB clearance at wsib.ca/clearances or call 1-800-387-0750. For ESA-licensed electrical contractors (who must carry insurance), check licensing.esasafe.com. Report uninsured contractors to the City of Ottawa Building Code Services at 613-580-2424.

The few hundred dollars you might save hiring an uninsured worker could cost you tens of thousands if something goes wrong. In Ottawa's competitive construction market, legitimate contractors with proper insurance are readily available - there's no reason to take this risk.