WSIB clearance certificates: when homeowners and contractors need them in Ontario

On a construction job in Ontario, the person who hires a contractor can end up paying that contractor's unpaid WSIB premiums, and starting construction work without a valid clearance can be an offence. The rule that catches people is not the one for homeowners; it is the one for contractors who bring in subcontractors.

What a clearance certificate is

A clearance certificate from WSIB confirms that a contractor or subcontractor is registered with WSIB and has a clearance for the work. It is valid for up to 90 calendar days, depending on the date it was issued, and can be renewed. Ask for a current one at the start and check it again on longer jobs.

Homeowners hiring for their own home

WSIB says that if a contractor or subcontractor is hired to do home repairs or renovations by a home's resident, occupant or a member of their family, a clearance certificate is not required. The exemption applies to that home renovation work. For other construction work on a home, a clearance is required.

Contractors hiring subcontractors

The homeowner exemption covers only the contractor the homeowner hires directly. WSIB says any contractor retaining a subcontractor for home renovation work must obtain a clearance certificate for that subcontractor. A renovator who hires an electrician, a tiler and a drywall crew needs a clearance for each.

What happens without one

For work where a clearance is required, the person who hired the contractor may be liable for the contractor's payment obligations to WSIB, up to the value of the labour portion of the contract. WSIB also says that construction work done without a valid clearance number is an offence by both the contractor and the person or company who hired them, with a maximum fine of $100,000.

Independent operators

Many small trades work as independent operators. In construction, WSIB coverage is compulsory for most businesses and independent operators; ask for the clearance rather than accepting a statement that someone is 'self-employed'.

Prevention Checklist

• Homeowners: confirm the job is home renovation work for your own residence; then a clearance is not required for the contractor you hire.
• Contractors: get a clearance certificate for every subcontractor before they start.
• Check the clearance is current; it lasts up to 90 days.
• Keep clearances with the job file.
• For other construction work on a home, ask for a clearance before work starts.

References

1. WSIB. Questions and answers: Clearances, Web page, Homeowner exemption; subcontractors; fines; validity. Accessed 2026-11-01.
2. WSIB. Operational Policy Manual: Clearance Certificate in Construction, Web page, Construction clearances. Accessed 2026-11-01.

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