WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) comes up constantly in renovation contract discussions, but many homeowners don’t understand what it actually means for them. Here’s the practical explanation.
What WSIB Is
WSIB is Ontario’s no-fault workers’ compensation insurance system. When a worker is injured on a job site, WSIB compensates them — regardless of who was at fault. In exchange, covered workers can’t sue their employer or the property owner for workplace injuries.
Why This Matters for Homeowners
If a contractor does work at your home without WSIB coverage and a worker is injured, you — the property owner — may be held liable for the injury costs under Ontario law. WSIB clearance removes this risk entirely.
How to Verify WSIB Coverage
Request a WSIB Clearance Certificate directly from the contractor. The certificate shows:
- The company is registered with WSIB
- Their account is in good standing (premiums are paid)
- Coverage is current as of the certificate date
Don’t accept verbal assurances. Request the certificate and verify it at wsib.ca if needed. The certificate takes 5 minutes to generate and any legitimate contractor can produce one instantly.
Who Needs It
Any contractor doing construction work at your home. Subcontractors doing work for your GC should also carry their own WSIB — your GC should provide subcontractor clearance certificates as well.
What Happens Without It
The worst case: a worker is seriously injured and your homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover the liability because the contractor was unregistered. You could face significant personal liability.
Has anyone had a WSIB-related issue on a renovation? Share the experience below — this is important knowledge for the whole community.