Do you have liability insurance?

Do You Have Liability Insurance? Why It Matters for Concrete Cutting Projects Introduction When you hire a concrete cutting contractor, confirming they carry comprehensive liability insurance is one of the smartest steps you can take. Whether you’re a property owner, general contractor, or facility manager in Canada or the U.S., knowing your concrete cutting partner is fully insured protects you from unexpected costs, liability claims, and project delays. Why Liability Insurance Is Crucial in Concrete Cutting Concrete cutting involves high-risk activities—heavy machinery operation, dust and noise control, and work at heights or in confined spaces. Even the most experienced crews can face accidents or property damage. Liability insurance for concrete cutting ensures that: • Third-party bodily injuries are covered if a passerby or on-site worker is hurt. • Property damage (to adjacent structures, landscaping, or neighbouring equipment) is compensated. • Legal defense costs and settlements are paid should a claim arise. Key Coverage Types for Concrete Cutting Contractors 1. Commercial General Liability (CGL) – Covers bodily injury and property damage – Protects against third-party lawsuits 2. Excess/Umbrella Liability – Offers additional limits above primary policies – Ideal for large or complex projects 3. Equipment and Tools Insurance – Covers repair or replacement of saws, drills, and support gear – Minimizes downtime and out-of-pocket expenses 4. Automobile Liability – Essential if trucks or trailers transport heavy cutting machinery 5. Workers’ Compensation (WSIB in Ontario) – Covers on-site injuries to your crew – Ensures compliance with provincial (Canada) or state (U.S.) regulations Understanding WSIB and Cross-Border Considerations In Ontario, WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage is mandatory for most construction and concrete cutting contractors. WSIB protects workers and shields property owners and general contractors from “open worksite” liability. In other Canadian provinces or U.S. states, similar workers’ compensation programs apply—confirm your contractor’s coverage meets local requirements. Questions to Ask Your Concrete Cutting Contractor 1. Can you provide a current Certificate of Liability Insurance? 2. What are your policy limits for general liability and umbrella coverage? 3. Are tools, equipment, and vehicles insured? 4. Do you carry WSIB or the equivalent state/provincial workers’ compensation coverage? 5. Will you name us as an additional insured on the policy? Benefits of Hiring an Insured Concrete Cutting Contractor • Risk Transfer: Insurance transfers financial risk from you to the insurer if something goes wrong. • Regulatory Compliance: Proper coverage helps you meet municipal, provincial, or state regulations. • Peace of Mind: You can focus on project milestones knowing liability and workers’ compensation claims are handled. • Professionalism: Insured contractors demonstrate commitment to safety, quality, and accountability. Real-World Example A manufacturing plant hired an uninsured subcontractor for wall sawing. During the cut, debris damaged critical machinery worth $30,000. The plant manager discovered no insurance existed and had to absorb repair costs and face a production shutdown. By contrast, a fully insured concrete cutting firm would have resolved the claim through its liability policy—saving the facility time, money, and reputational risk. Practical Steps to Verify Insurance 1. Request an up-to-date Certificate of Insurance (COI) before work begins. 2. Confirm effective dates, policy limits, and covered operations (e.g., wall sawing, coring, trenching). 3. Verify the contractor carries WSIB or equivalent workers’ compensation. 4. Ask your legal or risk-management team to review endorsements and exclusions. Conclusion Don’t compromise on safety, compliance, or financial protection. Before any concrete cutting project, ask “Do you have liability insurance?” and request WSIB or corresponding workers’ compensation proof. A knowledgeable, insured contractor not only reduces your exposure to costly claims but also ensures the project moves forward smoothly and professionally. Ready to discuss your next concrete cutting project? Contact us today for proof of insurance, WSIB coverage detail, and a free, no-obligation quote. Trust DRM ( @Diamond Rope Machines Inc)—your insured, experienced partner in concrete cutting.