The Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA) was launched over 80 years ago from a desire to become the bridge for national and regional associations to address issues affecting general contractors.
Since 1939, the OGCA’s objective was to protect and advance the interests and safety of general contractors in Ontario. Its members include small, medium, and large firms that represent both union and open-shop contractors. These individuals also account for 70% of all of Ontario’s Industrial, Commercial and Institution (ICI) projects and the majority of all Alternative Finance Projects (AFPs).
Keep reading to learn more about OGCA’s work and how KASE Insurance serves as a reliable partner for its members.
OGCA: A Support System for Contractors
As the construction industry in Canada is booming (with no plans of slowing down soon), the future is bright for general contractors in Ontario. However, an industry that seemingly grows by the day also becomes a highly competitive market.
But if you’re a member of the OGCA, you already have the assistance you need to be successful in your chosen career. As a long-standing and trusted voice for general contractors, the OGCA has strong industry alliances and a network of professionals ready to lend a helping hand.
Some of these alliances include:
- Canadian Construction Association (CCA)
- Construction and Design Alliance of Ontario
- Construction Industry Task Force (CITF)
- Consulting Engineers of Ontario (CEO)
- Ontario Association of Architects (OAA)
KASE Insurance: A Reliable Partner for Contractors
As a general contractor, you face a lot of risks while on the job. This may include the loss of your tools and equipment, third-party injuries, or property damage at the site you’re working on. But don’t worry—you have another partner ready to assist you in case you find yourself facing any of these risks.
KASE Insurance is proud to serve members of the Ontario General Contractors Association. Together with the OGCA, we are dedicated to raising the interests of contractors and the safety of workers in the area. With KASE, you get award-winning service and the best insurance packages.
Types of Insurance Support for OGCA Members
Contractors usually need several types of insurance to protect themselves from legal claims or potential financial losses. It is important to note that specific insurance policies may vary depending on the type of work a contractor performs, the size of their business, and the laws in their province or jurisdiction.
Some common types of insurance for general contractors include:
1. General Liability Insurance
This insurance covers costs related to third-party bodily injury or property damage. For example, if a visitor on a construction site gets injured or if the contractor damages someone's property, general liability insurance can help cover the cost of medical expenses, legal fees, or settlement payments.
2. Workers' Compensation Insurance
This policy provides benefits to employees who get injured while on the job. For instance, if a worker is injured while operating heavy equipment, workers' compensation insurance can help cover their medical expenses and lost wages while they’re recovering in the hospital. In some provinces, workers' compensation insurance is mandatory for all employers. In other cases, it is only required if the employer has a certain number of employees.
3. Commercial Auto Insurance
This insurance type covers vehicles owned or operated by the contractor or their employer, including trucks and vans used to transport equipment and materials. If a contractor's vehicle happens to get involved in an accident, then commercial auto insurance can help cover the cost of vehicle repairs.
4. Umbrella Liability Insurance
This policy provides additional liability coverage on top of the limits of the contractor's other insurance policies. For example, if the contractor's general liability insurance policy has a coverage limit of $1 million, but the cost of a claim exceeds that amount, then umbrella liability insurance can help cover the additional costs.
5. Tools and Equipment Insurance
This policy covers the contractor's equipment and materials in case of theft, vandalism, or if it gets damaged while on the move from one job site to another. For example, if a contractor's tools need to be left overnight at a project site and they get stolen or damaged, then tools and equipment insurance can help cover the cost of replacements or repairs.
6. Professional Liability Insurance (Errors and Omissions Insurance)
This insurance protects the contractor against claims arising from oversights or errors made while working. If a contractor makes a mistake in the construction of a building that results in structural damage, professional liability insurance can help cover the cost of repairs.
Why Partner With KASE Insurance?
It's important for general contractors to have insurance coverage that’s tailor-fit to their needs. As members of the OGCA, contractors will be expected to work on large, complex projects. Having an insurance policy in place protects them from financial losses or legal claims. In addition, many clients will ask contractors to carry certain types of insurance, such as general liability or workers' compensation, before they agree to work with them.
This is where KASE Insurance steps in. We are one of the most trusted commercial insurance brokerages in Ontario with years of experience under our belt. Our clients hail from various industries, such as tech, media, manufacturing, health, and construction. When it comes to customizable insurance bundles, utmost transparency, and all-around high-quality service, KASE Insurance has got your back.
Get Only the Best Coverage at KASE Insurance
As a proud partner to many members of the Ontario General Contractors Association, KASE Insurance is dedicated to finding only the best insurance solutions for you. This means no unnecessary add-ons or other expenses that don’t need to be in your insurance policy.
We also offer comprehensive explanations for each insurance type you purchase to ensure you thoroughly understand your policy’s coverage, such as what’s included and what its limitations are.
If you are a member of the OGCA looking for more support for you and your business, we look forward to partnering with you. Feel free to message us anytime if you want someone to take care of all your insurance needs, get you the best industry rates, and ensure your security as you contribute to Canada’s booming construction market.