Insurance Solutions Tailored To The Construction Industry
Construction insurance helps protect your job site, building materials, contractor’s tools and equipment, and liability exposure while work is underway so your project can stay on track if something goes wrong. In Ontario, this often includes builder’s risk (course of construction), commercial general liability (CGL), and tools and equipment coverage, depending on your trade and contract requirements. With 100+ years serving Ontario and local offices in Oshawa, Port Perry, and Coboconk, PetleyHare helps you compare options across multiple insurers and align coverage to your project stage, timeline, and contract requirements.
Who this is for
- Contractors and trades who need construction company insurance for jobs, tenders, or subcontracting work
- Builders and homeowners who need construction insurance for new home builds or major renovations
- Anyone responsible for an insured construction project, including off-site materials and on-site risks
Our Construction Insurance Process at PetleyHare
- Tell us your project type, stage, and site details (new build or renovation insurance)
- We match coverage to your risk and contract needs, including contractor build coverage options
- You get proof of insurance (certificate) when it’s needed for a contract, permit, or lender request
Core Coverage Options & Add-Ons
Builder’s Risk Insurance
Also called course of construction insurance, this foundational coverage includes protection for materials, scaffolding, off-site storage, and the physical build itself. Builder's risk insurance for contractors ensures you're protected until the last nail is in place. This coverage pairs with commercial general liability (CGL) to provide full protection during construction.
Contractor’s Equipment & Liability
If you’re managing multiple jobs, we can structure contractor build coverage that scales with your schedule and crews. Cover your tools, machinery, and mobile equipment from damage, loss, or theft. Liability coverage helps you protect your construction project against injury or property damage that could happen on-site. This is essential for companies managing multiple teams or large-scale builds.
Temporary & Site-Specific Solutions
Need temporary construction insurance in Ontario? We offer frame-stage insurance and building-site insurance designed for short-duration or partial builds. Already insured? Update your current policy to include your next project.
Wrap-Up Liability for Large Projects
For projects involving multiple contractors, subcontractors, and owners, wrap-up liability (owner-controlled insurance program, or OCIP) covers everyone on-site under a single policy. We'll help you structure wrap-up coverage when contract value, project complexity, or lender requirements call for it.
Installation Floater Coverage
When you're transporting materials or storing them off-site before installation, an installation floater protects those materials in transit, at temporary storage, and during installation. This is common for HVAC, electrical, flooring, and custom millwork projects.
Why Construction Insurance Matters in Ontario
A construction site is a high-risk environment. From theft, storm damage, equipment breakdowns, and physical damage, there’s a lot that can go wrong and fast. In Ontario, where wind and weather events can be unpredictable, it’s critical to be prepared with coverage that helps protect your business and investment at every stage.
Construction insurance that Ontario contractors can rely on provides peace of mind. An Ontario builder’s risk policy protects your site during all stages of the build. If you experience an issue, start a claim with our team, and we’ll help guide you every step of the way.
Want local advice? Reach out to our Coboconk office, Oshawa office, or Port Perry location today.
Commercial Insurance Requirements for Ontario Projects
Many builds and renovations have liability coverage requirements written into contracts, permits, or lender conditions. You may also be asked for a certificate of insurance before work begins, especially when you’re working with a general contractor, developer, or property owner.
Most construction contracts and tenders also specify minimum liability limits (often $2M or more), but what you need depends on your trade, project size, and who you’re working for. We’ll help you confirm what’s required and set up coverage that fits your project stage and scope.
Seasonal Risks in Durham Region and Across Ontario
Ontario weather can create sudden losses that slow work down, especially during active builds and renovations. We’ll help you plan coverage for:
- Freeze–thaw cycles that can damage exposed materials and increase water intrusion risk
- Lake-effect snow and winter storms that delay timelines and increase site hazards
- Spring flooding and heavy rain that can affect foundations, basements, and stored materials
If your project is seasonal or staged, we can structure building site insurance and timelines so you’re covered when your exposure is highest.
Who Needs This Coverage?
Construction insurance isn’t just for large companies. It’s ideal for:
- General contractors coordinating subcontractors and working on residential or commercial builds
- Developers managing multiple building projects
- Custom home builders starting from the ground up
- Trade contractors - electricians, plumbers, HVAC, bricklayers, roofers, landscapers, and other specialized trades
- Homeowners undertaking major renovations or additions
If you’re hiring subcontractors or bidding work, construction company insurance can help you meet contract requirements and reduce gaps between projects.
Whether you need construction insurance for new home builds or custom home construction insurance, Ontario residents can trust that we’ve got you covered with the right insurance. Rest assured that your insured construction project is safeguarded at every stage.
Local Benefits & Our Offices
Serving Durham Region and Communities Across Ontario
Oshawa (Office)
Coboconk (Office)
Port Perry (Office)
Whitby
Bowmanville
Kawartha Lakes
Pickering
Cobourg
Courtice
Newcastle
Brooklin
Uxbridge
Ajax
Bundle Your Insurance Coverage for Complete Protection
Construction insurance works even better when it's part of a complete insurance solution. At PetleyHare, we can help you build a package that protects every aspect of your project—from the foundation to the final walkthrough, including contractor build coverage where your contract requires it.
You can combine builder’s risk insurance with:
- Contractor general liability insurance coverage for on-site accidents or third-party damage
- Commercial auto insurance for trucks and equipment used on the job
- Equipment breakdown coverage for tools and machinery
- Wrap-up liability for larger projects involving multiple contractors or subcontractors
Whether you need project insurance for a full commercial build or renovation insurance for a home update, bundling your coverage keeps things simple and cost-effective.
Not sure what’s right for your situation? Our brokers are here to walk you through your options and build a plan that fits your needs.
Make a Claim With A Simple & Supportive Process
At PetleyHare, our claims process is fast, clear, and supportive. Here’s how it works:
Claim Steps
Step 1: Notify your broker right away
Step 2: A member of our team will walk you through the process
Step 3: An adjuster will assess the situation
Step 4: We’ll Keep You Updated Until The Claim is Resolved
Need coverage in place first? Start with a quote and we’ll help you set up the right protection for your project stage.
Why Choose Construction Insurance from PetleyHare?
Ontario's construction industry is growing fast, and with that growth comes the need for better, more specific insurance coverage. Rated 4.6 stars by 215+ Google reviewers, and recognized with the IBAO Large Brokerage Award 2024. That’s why PetleyHare offers tailored construction insurance designed for contractors, custom home builders, and homeowners tackling renovations.
We’ve heard from clients across the province who are frustrated with generic policies that don’t match the realities of job site risks. Our local brokers in Oshawa and Port Perry are here to change that. We work with top insurers to deliver flexible, project-ready protection that reflects today’s construction needs.
Whether you’re managing a full-scale new build or overseeing a simple renovation, our construction insurance ensures you have the right protection in place. If you're already insured and planning a new project, you can update your current policy quickly online.
What Clients Are Saying About Our Construction Insurance in Ontario
See what our customers have to say about our savings, customer service, and transparency.
Get a Quote Today from Trusted Insurance Brokers
Protect your site, your timeline, and your investment with construction insurance that works for you. At PetleyHare, we offer personalized service, access to Canada’s top insurers, and a team that cares about your project’s success.
Get started with a free, no-obligation quote for construction insurance and risk management today.
FAQs About Construction Business Insurance
What Is Construction Insurance?
It protects your job site, materials, tools, and liability exposure during a construction project. It’s essential for builds and renovations of all sizes. This type of construction company insurance also supports risk management planning and contract compliance.
How Does Builder’s Risk Insurance Differ From General Liability?
Builder’s risk protects the structure and materials from damage. General liability covers injuries and third-party property damage.
Can I Update My Coverage as My Project Grows?
Absolutely. You can adjust limits and add coverages (e.g., equipment or liability) as your project scope changes.
When Should I Start the Insurance for Construction Projects?
It is a beneficial idea to take out the builder’s risk policy before the foundation is poured. While it is still possible to obtain insurance once the construction has started, starting early often makes it easier to get full protection and a smoother approval from insurers.
Does It Cover Theft or Vandalism on Site?
Yes. Most builder’s-risk policies include theft and vandalism coverage, though limits may vary. It’s important to secure the site and confirm details with your broker.
Can Homeowners Get Coverage During Renovations?
Yes. We offer home renovation insurance coverage. Ontario clients can rely on—even while living in the home.
Do I Need Builder's Risk Insurance for a Renovation?
For major renovations, additions, second-story builds, structural work, or projects where the home will be unoccupied, yes. Standard home insurance often excludes coverage during active construction. Builder’s risk (also called course of construction) covers damage to materials and the work-in-progress. For smaller cosmetic renovations, your existing home insurance may be enough. We’ll help you determine which applies to your project.
What’s Not Covered Under Construction Insurance?
Most policies exclude faulty workmanship, normal wear and tear, employee theft, and contractual penalties. Your broker can recommend add-ons for specific risks.
Looking for related coverage? You may also want to review our Contractors Insurance, Commercial Property Insurance, Business Insurance, and Liability Insurance pages.
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