We are a trusted deck builder in Toronto, Richmond Hill, Markham, and other nearby areas.
When you hire someone to build a deck, safety and trust matter just as much as how the finished deck will look. Nobody wants to deal with headaches if something goes wrong on site. The best way to protect yourself? Confirm your deck builder has valid WSIB and liability insurance.
It doesn’t take long to check insurance, but it’s easy to skip or not know what to look for. We all want our projects to go smoothly, so knowing what proof to ask for—and how to spot red flags—can save a lot of hassle later.
Key Takeaways
- WSIB and liability insurance protect both homeowners and workers.
- Always ask for proof and double-check it’s current and accurate.
- Be wary of missing, expired, or vague paperwork.
What Is WSIB and Why Does It Matter?
WSIB stands for the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board. It’s there to protect workers and homeowners during construction. If something goes wrong, the right coverage can save everyone a lot of stress and money.
WSIB Coverage Explained
WSIB provides workplace insurance for Ontario businesses. It covers employees if they get injured while working. Deck building isn’t exactly risk-free—sharp tools, heights, and heavy materials are all part of the job.
If your builder has WSIB, their workers get medical costs and lost wages covered if there’s an accident. This isn’t just for big companies—even small crews need it if they have workers. Some deck builders work solo, but if anyone else is helping, WSIB should apply.
A builder should be able to show proof of WSIB coverage. Ask for a valid Clearance Certificate from WSIB. That means their coverage is current and you’re not taking on risk for injuries on your property.
Benefits of Hiring a WSIB-Compliant Deck Builder
When you hire a builder with WSIB coverage, you avoid the risk of being responsible if someone gets hurt during your project. Without WSIB, a homeowner might be seen as the “employer” and could end up responsible for injury claims. Nobody wants that.
A few real benefits of hiring a WSIB-compliant builder:
- No surprise bills for injury claims
- Fewer project interruptions from accidents
- Proof of professional standards and responsibility
It also shows the builder cares about safety—not just for their crew, but for your home too. Always ask to see the WSIB Clearance Certificate before you sign anything. It’s quick, free, and confirms you’re working with a pro.
Understanding Liability Insurance for Deck Builders
When you hire someone to build your deck, you want to know they’re covered if something goes wrong. It’s smart to check what insurance your contractor has and what could happen if their coverage falls short.
Types of Liability Insurance in Ontario
Deck builders in Ontario usually carry commercial general liability insurance. This covers property damage or injuries that happen because of the work. For example, if someone trips over a tool left out and gets hurt, liability insurance covers medical bills or legal costs.
Some builders might also have contractor’s liability insurance or errors and omissions insurance. These help if a mistake leads to expensive repairs or legal claims. As a homeowner, it’s best to ask for proof of insurance before work starts. Check for the policy number, insurer, and coverage amount to make sure you’re protected.
Risks of Insufficient Insurance Coverage
Without proper insurance, you could face some pretty big risks. If an accident happens and the builder doesn’t have enough coverage, you might be stuck with the costs—medical bills, repairs, you name it.
Even top-notch builders have accidents sometimes. A lack of insurance can also mean the builder isn’t following proper industry standards. That puts your deck—and your peace of mind—at risk. Good insurance is a sign you’re dealing with a professional who actually cares about your project.
How to Confirm WSIB Coverage
You want to make sure your deck builder is covered by WSIB. This protects you from being liable if a worker gets hurt. There are two main ways to check if coverage is active and valid.
Asking Contractors for a WSIB Clearance Certificate
Just ask the contractor for a WSIB Clearance Certificate. It’s an official document that proves the contractor is registered and in good standing.
Reputable deck builders in Ontario should provide this certificate before any work starts. If they hesitate or don’t have a valid certificate, that’s a red flag.
Check that the certificate is addressed to your project and shows current dates. Don’t just glance—actually read it. If something looks weird, call WSIB to double-check.
Checking WSIB Status Online
WSIB has an online service to confirm a contractor’s coverage. You just need their business name or WSIB account number. The Clearance Certificate Validation tool is right on the WSIB Ontario website.
Here’s how:
- Go to wsib.ca
- Find the “Clearance Certificate” section
- Enter the contractor’s info
- Review the results for coverage status and expiry date
It only takes a few minutes and helps you avoid guesswork. No need to feel awkward—this info is for customers. It’s worth the effort for peace of mind before you sign anything.
Step-by-Step: Verifying Liability Insurance
Figuring out if a deck builder’s liability insurance is real and current protects you if things go sideways. You need to check what the insurance actually covers so you’re not left on the hook.
Requesting Proof of Insurance
Always ask the contractor for a Certificate of Insurance before work begins. This should come directly from their insurance company—not something printed at home. It lists the insured business name, insurance company, policy number, and policy dates.
Make sure the certificate is current and not expired. Watch for the expiry date—an out-of-date policy is useless. If you’re unsure, call the insurance company listed on the certificate to confirm. Most providers are happy to verify policy details.
Check if the builder carries enough coverage for your project. For most Ontario deck builds, $2 million in liability insurance is standard. If a contractor won’t show proof or gets annoyed that you’re asking, that’s a warning sign.
Understanding What the Certificate Covers
Once you have the insurance certificate, read the details. Check for the type of liability covered. The certificate should say “Commercial General Liability,” which protects you if there’s property damage or injury caused by the builder’s work.
Look for exclusions—things the policy doesn’t cover. Common exclusions might include faulty materials or poor workmanship. You don’t want to find out about a gap in coverage after something happens.
The certificate should list your name and property address as the certificate holder. That makes the coverage specific to your project. If anything’s confusing, ask the builder or their insurance broker for a plain-English explanation. Honest contractors will help you feel confident about your protection.
What to Watch Out For When Reviewing Documents
Be careful when checking WSIB and insurance documents from deck builders. Some contractors might show fake or expired papers, so take your time and know what to look for.
Red Flags and Common Scams
Watch out for warning signs that documents aren’t legit. If a builder rushes you or says, “Just trust me,” that’s not a good sign. Real pros won’t get upset if you want to double-check their certificates.
A few red flags:
- Altered logos or weird fonts
- Misspelled company names or addresses
- No contact details for the insurance company or WSIB
- Dates that look changed or handwritten
Another trick is showing a certificate that looks fine but is for another business. Always make sure the name on the paperwork matches the company you’re hiring. If something feels off, call WSIB or the insurance company to check if the certificate is real.
How to Identify an Up-to-Date Certificate
To be sure you’re looking at a current certificate, check for an expiry date in the future. WSIB clearance certificates show a start and end date. Insurance documents should clearly list coverage periods.
Look for:
- A recent issue date
- A clear expiry or renewal date
- A valid policy number
- Your contractor’s business name—not someone else’s
If you’re unsure it’s up to date, visit the WSIB website and search the clearance number. For insurance, call the company and give them the policy number. This quick step helps you avoid nasty surprises.
Additional Tips for Choosing Insured Ontario Deck Builders
When picking a deck builder, don’t just look at the insurance paperwork. You want to feel good about the company’s reputation and make sure others were happy with their work and compliance.
Importance of Checking Company Reputation
Check the company’s reputation before you sign anything. A solid reputation usually means they do quality work and keep up with insurance.
Start with online reviews—Google, HomeStars, the Better Business Bureau. Real stories from real people help you spot problems early.
See how long the builder’s been in business. Companies with some history are more likely to have steady WSIB and insurance coverage. Professional memberships or awards can also show a commitment to high standards.
If you see a pattern of complaints about poor work, missed deadlines, or lack of insurance, keep looking.
Asking for References Who Can Confirm Compliance
It’s totally normal to want proof before trusting someone with your deck. Ask for references from customers who had work done recently. When you talk to them, ask:
- Was the builder covered by WSIB and liability insurance during the job?
- Did the company provide proof of insurance before starting?
- Were there any accidents or injuries, and how did the builder handle it?
Listen for hesitation or vague answers. Happy references usually answer confidently and might even give extra tips. If something doesn’t add up, or they won’t give references, that’s a warning sign.
Collecting this info takes a little effort but really helps you avoid surprises. You want the peace of mind that comes from hiring a reliable, fully insured pro.
Frequently Asked Questions
Verifying WSIB and liability insurance is a crucial step in hiring a deck builder in Ontario. Here are some of the most common questions we get about insurance and WSIB coverage.
What steps should I take to verify a deck builder’s WSIB clearance certificate in Ontario?
Always ask your builder for a copy of their WSIB clearance certificate. This is issued by the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board and shows active coverage.
Once you have the certificate, check that the company name and number match the builder’s info. You can also call WSIB directly to confirm.
Can I check online whether my deck builder has valid WSIB coverage?
Yes, you can use WSIB’s online clearance check tool. Just search for the business using their legal name or WSIB number.
The online tool is quick and gives you the most current info.
What’s the scoop on whether WSIB coverage is compulsory for all deck builders in Ontario?
Most deck builders with employees must have WSIB coverage by law. If it’s a sole proprietor with no workers, coverage might not be required, but it’s always smart to ask.
Be cautious if a builder skips this step, especially for bigger or riskier projects.
Where do I find information on a contractor’s liability insurance for deck construction?
Just ask the deck builder for a certificate of insurance. That paper should list the coverage amount and the insured company’s name—pretty straightforward.
If anything looks odd or you’re not sure, it’s totally fine to call the insurance provider. Just double-check the policy’s active and covers deck work. It’s your house, after all.
How can I confirm if my contractor’s WSIB status is up to snuff for a decking job?
You can call WSIB at 1-800-387-0750 with the builder’s number, or just use their online clearance check. Glance at the expiration date on the certificate, too—no one wants a policy that lapses halfway through the job.
If you haven’t worked with the builder before, it’s worth the extra minute to check. Better safe than sorry, right?
What does it mean if a deck builder isn’t eligible for a WSIB clearance certificate?
If a builder can’t provide a WSIB clearance certificate, maybe they’re not registered or just aren’t paying into the system. Sometimes, it’s just that they don’t need coverage—like if they have no employees.
Honestly, I’d feel better sticking with builders who can show valid WSIB clearance. It’s a sign they’re following the rules, and it gives us a bit more security.