Should I get my Ottawa driveway contractor's WSIB number?

Yes, absolutely — and you should verify it's current before any work begins. In Ontario, all contractors working on residential projects must carry WSIB (Workplace Safety and Insurance Board) coverage, and homeowners who hire contractors without valid WSIB can be held personally liable for workplace injuries.

Request the WSIB clearance certificate upfront when getting quotes. A legitimate paving contractor will provide their WSIB account number and clearance certificate without hesitation — it's standard practice. The clearance certificate shows their account is in good standing with no outstanding premiums. Don't just take their word for it or accept a photocopy of an old certificate.

Verify the WSIB coverage independently by calling WSIB at 1-800-387-0750 or checking online. You'll need the contractor's business name and WSIB account number. Confirm the coverage is current and includes the dates when your driveway work will be performed. WSIB coverage can lapse if contractors fall behind on premiums, leaving you exposed even if they had valid coverage when you hired them.

The liability risk is significant in Ottawa driveway work. Paving involves heavy equipment (excavators, dump trucks, rollers), hot asphalt at 150+ degrees Celsius, and substantial physical labour. Injuries can range from burns and cuts to serious equipment accidents. If a worker is injured on your property and the contractor lacks WSIB coverage, you could face personal injury claims, medical costs, and lost wage compensation that can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars.

Ottawa's extreme climate adds complexity to driveway projects that increases injury risk. Working in cold conditions makes equipment harder to operate safely, hot asphalt creates steam and visibility issues in cool weather, and the short paving season (May through October) creates pressure to work in marginal conditions. Proper WSIB coverage protects both workers and homeowners when things go wrong.

Also verify general liability insurance while you're at it. Ask for a certificate of insurance showing minimum $2 million general liability coverage. This protects you if the contractor damages your home, neighbouring property, or municipal infrastructure during the work.

Red flags to avoid: Contractors who claim they don't need WSIB because they're "independent" or "subcontractors," those who offer cash discounts to avoid paperwork, or anyone who says WSIB verification will delay the project. Legitimate contractors carry proper coverage and documentation as standard business practice.

Need help finding properly insured driveway contractors? Ottawa Driveways can match you with local paving professionals who carry full WSIB and liability coverage.