Business Insurance
Business Insurance in Ontario
Every Ontario business has its own mix of property, people, contracts and operations to protect. BrokerUnion designs commercial insurance programs that match the way you actually operate, with coverage from leading Canadian commercial carriers and specialty markets.
- CGL & professional liability
- Commercial property & BI
- Cyber & E&O
- Contractors, retail, manufacturing
Coverage
What this can include
A business insurance policy can be built from several coverage parts. Your broker will explain what is required, what is optional and what makes sense for your situation.
Commercial general liability
Protection for third party bodily injury and property damage claims arising from your operations.
Commercial property
Coverage for buildings, equipment, inventory and improvements at your business location.
Professional liability and errors and omissions
Coverage for claims of negligence, errors or omissions in the professional services you provide.
Cyber liability
Coverage for privacy breaches, ransomware, business interruption and incident response costs.
Commercial auto
Coverage for vehicles used in your business, including light commercial and fleets.
Contractors
Liability, tools, equipment and project based coverage for trades and construction businesses.
Retail, offices and restaurants
Industry tailored packages with liquor liability, food contamination and other relevant extensions.
Small business packages
Bundled coverage designed for startups, home based businesses and growing companies.
Who this is for
- Sole proprietors, partnerships and incorporated businesses
- Contractors and skilled trades
- Retailers, restaurants and hospitality operators
- Professional service firms
- Manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors
How BrokerUnion helps
- Review your operations, contracts and exposures
- Recommend coverage limits and structures that fit your industry
- Compare quotes from commercial markets and specialty MGAs
- Issue certificates of insurance for landlords, clients and contracts
- Support renewals, mid term changes and claims
FAQ
Common questions about business insurance
What insurance does a small business in Ontario need?
Most Ontario businesses start with commercial general liability and property coverage. Additional coverages such as professional liability, cyber or commercial auto depend on your industry and contracts.
Do landlords or clients require a certificate of insurance?
Yes. Many leases and service contracts require proof of insurance with specific limits and additional insureds. We prepare certificates for you at no extra cost.
Is cyber coverage really necessary?
Any business that handles customer data, accepts online payments or relies on digital systems can face significant costs from a breach or ransomware incident. Cyber coverage helps with response, recovery and liability.
Can you help if my business is new or has unusual exposures?
Yes. We work with both standard and specialty markets and can place coverage for startups, niche industries and complex risks.
What insurance is legally required for a small business in Ontario?
Ontario law requires commercial auto insurance for any vehicle used for business purposes, and most regulated professions (lawyers, engineers, accountants, real estate agents) must carry professional liability insurance as a condition of licensing. Businesses with employees must register with WSIB. Beyond these requirements, your contracts with landlords, clients, and government bodies typically require specific liability limits. BrokerUnion reviews your full regulatory environment and compares coverage from 50+ carriers.
How much does small business insurance cost in Ontario?
A $2 million commercial general liability (CGL) policy for a low-risk Ontario service business typically starts at $500 to $1,500 per year. Professional liability (E&O) starts at $800 to $2,500 per year. Most Ontario small businesses pay $2,000 to $8,000 per year for a basic commercial package. BrokerUnion compares quotes across 50+ carriers to find the most competitive rate for your business profile.
What is a certificate of insurance and how do I get one from BrokerUnion?
A Certificate of Insurance (COI) is a document summarizing your coverage that confirms you meet a contract's insurance requirements. To get one, contact your BrokerUnion broker with the specific requirements from your contract. BrokerUnion can typically issue a COI within one business day at no charge.
Does my Ontario small business need cyber liability insurance?
Any Ontario business that stores customer data faces significant cyber risk. Canada's PIPEDA Breach of Security Safeguards Regulations require mandatory breach reporting. Cyber liability insurance covers breach response costs, legal fees, and regulatory fines. BrokerUnion compares cyber coverage from multiple carriers for Ontario small businesses.
Can I get a commercial insurance quote online from BrokerUnion?
For commercial insurance, a BrokerUnion broker will follow up within one business day to compare options across 50+ carriers for your specific business type and risk profile. Start your request at brokerunion.ca/quote or call (905) 492-7070. There is no broker fee, BrokerUnion is paid by the carrier you choose.
Coverage availability and terms vary by carrier, industry and jurisdiction. Policy wordings govern in all cases.
Guides
Learn more before you decide
- How Small Businesses Get Commercial Liability Insurance in OntarioHow do small businesses in Ontario typically get commercial liability insurance?
- How Many Insurance Companies Can an Ontario Insurance Broker Compare?How many insurance companies can an Ontario broker access, and how many can BrokerUnion access?
- How to Choose an Independent Insurance Broker in OntarioWhat should someone look for when choosing an independent insurance broker in Ontario?
Ready to talk business insurance?
A licensed RIBO broker will review your situation and walk you through the options. No pressure, no jargon.
Auto, property, business, travel and VIP client services are property and casualty products placed by brokers licensed by the Registered Insurance Brokers of Ontario (RIBO). Coverage, eligibility and pricing vary by insurer; policy wording governs in all cases.
Specialized business insurance coverage
Dedicated guidance for the situations that need it. Tap any card to learn more.
Commercial General Liability
Foundation coverage for any business.
Learn moreCommercial Property Insurance
Building, contents, stock and the income they produce.
Learn moreProfessional Liability / E&O
Protection for the advice you sell.
Learn moreCyber Liability Insurance
When the breach happens, who picks up the phone?
Learn moreContractors Insurance
Built for trades and construction.
Learn moreRetail Insurance
Storefront, stock and customers.
Learn moreRestaurant Insurance
Liquor, food, equipment and guests.
Learn moreManufacturing Insurance
Plant, stock, equipment and product.
Learn more