Contractors and tradespeople in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia typically need several types of coverage. Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance is essential for covering third-party injuries and property damage on job sites. Tools and equipment insurance protects your gear from theft or damage. If your work involves design, consulting, or any advisory component, professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance is also recommended. For certain projects, clients or general contractors may also require builder's risk insurance or proof of additional coverage before work can begin. 

Not automatically. Your contractor insurance policy generally covers your own business operations. It is strongly recommended that all subcontractors carry their own insurance and provide proof of coverage before starting work. Hiring uninsured subcontractors creates financial risk for your business. 

Yes, if your policy includes completed operations coverage. Completed operations coverage protects contractors against claims that arise after a job is finished, for example if a structural issue or defect is discovered weeks or months after your work was done. This is an important coverage for any contractor or tradesperson operating in Canada and is typically included as part of a CGL policy. 

Not under commercial auto insurance. A commercial auto policy covers the vehicle itself but does not cover tools or equipment stored inside it. To cover tools and equipment stolen from your truck, stored on a job site, or damaged while in transit, you need a separate tools and equipment insurance policy. This is one of the most common coverage gaps for contractors in Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. 

A standard commercial general liability policy covers property damage and bodily injury caused by your work, but claims specifically related to professional errors, faulty workmanship, or failure to meet a project standard typically require professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance. If your work involves any design, layout, consulting, or advisory element, this additional coverage is worth considering. 

Yes, in most cases. A certificate of insurance is a document that proves you carry active insurance coverage. Most general contractors, property owners, and project managers in Canada require all tradespeople and subcontractors to provide a certificate of insurance before allowing them on site. Having your own coverage and being able to produce a certificate quickly is often a basic requirement to win contracts and begin work.