Two contractors in cold-weather gear fishing a line into a sewer

Insurance Support for Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association

kase
Feb 5 2024

In 2022 and 2023, 99.9% of drinking water tested in Ontario met the province’s strict cleanliness standards—a number this high doesn’t happen by accident. Rather, it’s a testament to the hard work of watermain and sewer contractors. 

The need to keep this number high as the province continues to grow will create more opportunities for these contractors. With opportunity comes reward, but also increased competition as the field becomes increasingly saturated. As such, building a vast network of connections within the sector is the key to staying ahead. 

This is where the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association comes in.

How the OSWCA Supports Contractors

Every year, tonnes of wastewater is discharged from homes, commercial spaces, and institutions and into the city’s sewer infrastructure. This is why it’s important to have contractors who promote safe wastewater management practices and become champions of environmentally sustainable practices.

This is exactly what the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association (OSWCA) does. This independent association advocates for the delivery of clean drinking water and environmentally responsible wastewater treatment. They believe this is possible through education and the adoption of ethical, eco-friendly practices. 

The OSWCA also champions Ontario’s sewer and watermain construction industry by encouraging professionalism, good governance, fiscal responsibility, and sound infrastructure investments that will withstand the test of time. 

Since its inception in 1971, the OSWCA has represented over 750 companies across the province, including contractors, manufacturers, distributors, and consulting engineers. The organization performs over $1 billion of capital projects annually to ensure clean water and proper wastewater system management are available for all Ontarians.

The Benefits of Becoming an OSWCA Member 

The OSWCA offers numerous programs and events for its members, all designed to boost the sewer and watermain construction and the individuals that work within this sector.

Among its programs, the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association provides avenues for its members to connect with veteran contractors and other important contacts to help them foster positive working relationships within the industry. The association also helps members build connections with politicians at all levels of the government.

Being an OSWCA member means having a “voice” when it comes to addressing issues within the industry. It also means being aware of the policies, regulations, and legislative decisions that impact Ontario’s water system management; the association encourages its members to stay informed of relevant news and regulatory changes within the sector.

A contractor surrounded by tools laying and installing a sewer pipe in the ground

Image Source: Canva 

Furthermore, the OSWCA offers resources to improve support for environmental protection and promote safe workplace practices, ensuring that all of its contractors adhere to occupational health and safety procedures while at work. These resources include documents explaining potential hazards and why protective measures are needed.

Lastly, the OSWCA aims to lower instances of theft by disseminating information to its members. It recommends risk management and equipment theft prevention measures and encourages members to talk to its theft prevention consultant for assistance. 

While this association provides valuable insight and resources regarding Ontario’s sewer and watermain industry, it cannot protect its members against financial losses—especially those arising from unfortunate circumstances.

Working in the sewer and watermain construction industry is filled with risks and challenges, which is why it’s crucial to safeguard your assets and finances against accidents that lead to injury, property damage, high medical costs, and lengthy legal battles.

This is where KASE Insurance can help!

Customizable Insurance Support for OSWCA Members

Sewer and watermain contractors are always at risk. 

From slips in focus due to working long hours to handling heavy equipment and getting into auto accidents going to and from a job site, all kinds of unfortunate events can lead to financial losses and bankruptcy if you’re not careful.

That said, having reliable insurance plans can help protect you, your employees, and your business from financial strain. This is why KASE Insurance offers the following insurance support to members of the OSWCA:

Commercial General Liability Insurance 

Commercial general liability insurance (CGL) protects you from numerous liabilities that could result in legal actions or claims such as: 

  • Employee injuries
  • Third-party injuries
  • Advertising or product liability claims
  • Third-party property damage

KASE Insurance understands that each business is different, which is why the exact coverage will depend on what your business requires. 

Contractors Insurance 

This is another type of business liability insurance that protects both independent contractors and businesses against third-party injuries and property damage. 

Contractors insurance also includes additional coverage depending on a business’s specific needs and risks, such as protection against reputational harm and coverage even after a project has been completed.

 Exposed watermains in a dirt pit that are part of a system under construction

Image Source: Canva 

Builder’s Risk Insurance 

Builder’s risk insurance covers losses during a construction or renovation project, such as cosmetic damages or irreparable damages to the watermain infrastructure.

It also covers tools and equipment used during construction and can be customized to include coverage during renovation work. Just like most insurance bundles, the exact coverage you need will depend on the risks and hazards of your business. 

Surety Bonds 

Sewer and watermain projects are often large in scale, involving multiple stakeholders, public safety, and millions of dollars. As such, those issuing the projects (often governments) will want assurances that the work will be completed on time and up to standard. 

Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association members looking to get involved with these projects will likely need surety bonds, which act as a legal guarantee that everyone will fulfill their responsibilities as per the contract’s stipulations. 

As a contractor, becoming bonded boosts your credibility and will give you a leg up when looking to win bids for these high-value jobs. 

Why Go With KASE Insurance? 

KASE Insurance is proud to support members of the Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association with comprehensive insurance bundles that help them manage risks, protect their finances, and get ahead. 

We want to be your resource for everything related to insurance, always aiming for thorough insurance education and assistance at every step of your application process. You won’t have to worry about unnecessary riders and hidden costs with us. 

We invite OSWCA members to contact us today for a free estimate, or reach out to our experienced insurance brokers with any further questions! 

The comments are closed.