# ON-06 — WSIB expanded compulsory coverage in construction

**Flag: Current** — Verified against the live source. Safe to cite.

**WSIB expanded compulsory coverage in construction.** People who own or run a construction business, with or without employees, must have coverage and must register, with exceptions. Reaches independent operators, sole proprietors, some partners and some executive officers. **Independent operator test — all four:** performs or manages Class G construction work; has no employees; works as a contractor or subcontractor for more than one person over an 18-month period; and reports as self-employed to a government agency such as CRA. **Home-renovation exemption:** not required where the business only repairs or renovates private residences and is hired and paid directly by the homeowner or resident — employees must still be covered, the exemption is not retroactive, and WSIB must be contacted within 10 business days. Insurable earnings for independent operators: 100% of contract value for labour only, 60% where labour plus major materials and labour is not separately verifiable, 33.3% for labour plus heavy construction equipment

## Sources

- Expanded compulsory coverage (primary): https://www.wsib.ca/en/businesses/registration-and-coverage/expanded-compulsory-coverage-construction-industry
- Independent operators (primary): https://www.wsib.ca/en/independent-operators-construction

Jurisdiction: ON · Verified 2026-08-27 · Review: legislative