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Commercial General Liability Insurance in Ontario


Protect your business against lawsuits, injury claims, and property damage. Accidents happen—and when they do, they can lead to costly legal claims. Commercial general liability (CGL) insurance helps Ontario businesses cover third-party injury, property damage, and legal expenses. At Regal Insurance, we compare policies from Canada’s leading insurers to find coverage tailored to your operation, so you can focus on running your business with confidence.

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Compare Commercial General Liability Insurance Quotes in Ontario

Regal Insurance is your trusted Ontario broker for commercial liability coverage. As an independent brokerage, we work for you—not the insurance companies. Our brokers compare rates across Canada’s top providers to ensure your business is protected against unexpected claims and lawsuits.

With Regal, you can:

– Compare competitive liability insurance quotes from leading insurers
Customize coverage for your business size, industry, and risk profile
– Protect against slip-and-fall injuries, property damage, and legal costs
– Access fast, no-pressure quotes online, by phone, or in person

Reach out today for your free commercial general liability insurance quote.

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Why Ontario Businesses Trust Regal Insurance Brokers

Commercial insurance doesn’t need to be confusing. At Regal Insurance, we simplify the process by comparing quotes from top Canadian providers to find the right protection for your business property, assets, and operations.

As an independent brokerage, we work for you, not the insurance companies. Our licensed Ontario brokers understand local regulations, industry risks, and what matters most to business owners like you.

From small startups to multi-location operations, we proudly support businesses across Ontario—including Kitchener, London, Mount Brydges, Cambridge, and Oakville.

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Connect with our brokers for customized insurance solutions that outdo big providers. Specializing in Ontario commercial insurance, we compare Canada’s top insurers to ensure you receive the right coverage at the best possible price.

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    What Does Commercial General Liability Insurance Cover in Ontario?

    Commercial general liability (CGL) insurance is the backbone of business protection. It shields your company if you’re found legally responsible for third-party injuries, property damage, or personal injury claims. From a customer slipping on your floor to damage caused by your work at a client’s site, CGL provides financial protection against lawsuits, settlements, and defense costs—so one accident doesn’t put your entire business at risk.

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    Standard Commercial Liability Coverage

    Bodily Injury Coverage

    Covers medical expenses, legal fees, and settlement costs if someone is injured on your premises or as a result of your operations—for example, a client tripping over equipment in your office or a contractor’s worksite hazard injuring a passerby.

    Property Damage Coverage

    Pays for the repair or replacement of a third party’s property if your business activities cause damage, such as a contractor accidentally breaking a client’s window or a technician spilling water on a customer’s computer.

    Legal Defense Costs

    Provides coverage for lawyer fees, court expenses, and judgments associated with covered claims. Even if a lawsuit is groundless, your defense costs can be significant—CGL ensures you’re not paying them out of pocket.

    Tenant’s Liability

    Covers damage caused to a rented commercial space, such as fire, smoke, or water damage. This protection is especially important for businesses leasing offices, storefronts, or warehouses.

    Optional icon

    Optional Commercial General Liability Coverage Add-Ons

    Product Liability Coverage

    Protects against lawsuits related to products you manufacture, sell, or distribute. If a defective product causes injury or damage, this coverage helps cover legal and settlement costs.

    Completed Operations Coverage

    Extends protection after work is finished. For example, if a contractor’s completed project later causes damage or injury, this coverage responds to claims even after the job is done.

    Non-Owned Auto Liability

    Protects your business if employees use their personal vehicles for company purposes—like deliveries, errands, or client visits—and cause an accident.

    Umbrella Liability Coverage

    Adds an extra layer of protection by increasing your liability limits beyond the standard policy. This is critical for businesses with higher risk exposure or contractual requirements.

    How to Save Money on Commercial General Liability Insurance in Ontario

    Protecting your business doesn’t have to mean overspending. Regal Insurance helps Ontario businesses secure the right liability coverage at the best possible price through proven strategies:

    Bundle Policies

    Save money by combining general liability with other essential business coverages like commercial property, auto, or cyber liability. Bundling not only simplifies your insurance management but also unlocks significant multi-policy discounts.

    Risk Management Practices

    The safer your business, the lower your premiums. Implementing workplace safety protocols, staff training, signage, fire prevention systems, and regular maintenance reduces the likelihood of claims—and insurers reward businesses that proactively manage risk.

    Choose the Right Coverage Limits

    More coverage isn’t always better if it doesn’t match your actual risk. Our brokers help you align your liability limits with industry standards, client contracts, and your business’s exposure—ensuring you’re properly protected without overpaying.

    Maintain a Clean Claims History

    Insurance companies look closely at your track record. Preventing avoidable accidents, documenting safety practices, and handling small issues before they become claims all contribute to lower long-term premiums. A clean history makes your business a preferred risk for insurers.

    Reassess as Your Business Evolves

    Your operations, assets, and risk profile change over time. Reviewing your policy annually ensures you’re not overpaying for outdated or excessive coverage.

    Want more insights on how to reduce insurance costs for your business? Visit our Help Centre to explore practical guides on policy optimization, risk management, and commercial insurance best practices.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What does commercial general liability insurance cover?

    Commercial general liability (CGL) insurance protects your business from third-party claims that can lead to costly lawsuits. This includes coverage for:

    • Bodily Injury: Pays medical costs and damages if someone is injured due to your operations or on your premises
    • Property Damage: Covers repair or replacement if your business activities damage a third party’s property
    • Personal & Advertising Injury: Protects against claims like slander, libel, or copyright infringement
    • Tenant’s Legal Liability: Covers accidental damage you cause to spaces you rent or lease
    • Legal Defense Costs: Pays for lawyers, court fees, and settlements associated with covered claims

    It’s important to note that CGL doesn’t cover professional errors, employee injuries, or intentional acts — those require different types of policies.

    Is commercial general liability insurance required by law in Ontario?

    No. CGL insurance is not legally mandated in Ontario. However, many landlords, lenders, contractors, and clients require proof of liability coverage before working with your business. Even when not contractually required, carrying this insurance is considered essential because a single liability claim could cost thousands — or even millions — of dollars.

    Who needs commercial general liability insurance?

    Any business that interacts with customers, clients, suppliers, or the public should carry CGL insurance. This includes:

    • Retailers and Restaurants: Protect against slip-and-fall accidents or customer injury
    • Contractors and Trades: Coverage for accidents or damage that occur on job sites
    • Service Providers: Consultants, agencies, or professionals who host clients in offices
    • Event Organizers: Liability protection for gatherings, expos, or conferences

    Whether your operation is small or large, if others visit your premises — or you visit theirs — CGL coverage is crucial.”

    How much does commercial general liability insurance cost in Ontario?

    Premiums depend on the size of your business, industry risk level, annual revenue, and claims history. Small businesses may pay just a few hundred dollars per year for basic coverage, while larger companies or those in high-risk trades can expect to pay several thousand.

    What factors affect my commercial general liability premium?

    Several factors determine how much you’ll pay for CGL insurance:

    • Industry Risk Level: Construction firms generally pay more than office-based businesses
    • Business Size and Revenue: Higher revenue often means higher exposure, which increases premiums
    • Claims History: A record of lawsuits or frequent claims will raise costs
    • Coverage Limits and Deductibles: More coverage means higher premiums, while higher deductibles lower them
    • Location: Businesses in areas with higher claims frequency may face increased rates
    • Risk Management Practices: Demonstrating strong safety protocols or staff training can reduce premiums
    Can I reduce the cost of my commercial general liability insurance?

    Yes. Ontario businesses can lower their premiums by taking proactive steps:

    • Increase Your Deductible: A higher deductible reduces monthly premiums, though it raises your out-of-pocket risk
    • Bundle Policies: Combining CGL with property, auto, or cyber liability coverage often unlocks discounts
    • Mitigate Risk: Implementing safety training, clear signage, and compliance protocols helps prevent accidents
    • Review Coverage Annually: Adjust limits and endorsements to reflect your current operations
    • Maintain a Clean Claims History: Fewer claims help you qualify for better rates over time

    Working with an experienced broker ensures you’re not overpaying for outdated or unnecessary coverage.

    What’s the difference between commercial general liability and professional liability insurance?

    CGL protects against claims of physical injury, property damage, or advertising-related injury caused by your operations. Professional liability (also called errors & omissions insurance) protects against financial losses due to mistakes, negligence, or bad advice.

    For example, if a customer slips and falls in your store, CGL responds. If a consultant provides incorrect advice that leads to client losses, professional liability applies. Many businesses carry both for full protection.

    Does CGL insurance cover products I sell or install?

    Yes — if you include product liability coverage in your policy. This protects your business if a product you manufacture, distribute, or install causes injury or damage. Without this endorsement, you may not be covered for claims related to faulty or defective goods.

    Does CGL cover employees or workplace injuries?

    No. Employee injuries are generally covered under Ontario’s Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) program. If you want additional protection for employee-related risks, you may need separate employer liability or workers’ compensation coverage.

    What coverage limits should my business carry?

    Most Ontario businesses carry between $2–5 million in liability coverage. The right limit depends on your industry, client contracts, and exposure to public risk. For example, contractors working with municipalities may be required to carry higher limits than small retailers. A broker can help assess the appropriate level for your business.

    Can I bundle CGL insurance with other policies?

    Yes. Many insurers offer packaged solutions that combine CGL with:

    • Commercial Property Insurance: Protects your building and contents
    • Commercial Auto Insurance: Covers business vehicles
    • Cyber Liability Insurance: Protects against digital risks like data breaches
    • Business Interruption Insurance: Replaces income if operations are forced to close due to a covered peril

    Bundling simplifies management and usually reduces overall costs.

    Can I talk to a real person if I have questions about my policy?

    Absolutely. Regal Insurance offers personalized service through our brokers, available via phone, email, or in-person consultations

    Stay Informed with Expert Insurance Insights

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