Running a business in Ontario comes with opportunities, but it also comes with risks. Whether you own a construction company in Brampton, a retail store in Mississauga, or a professional services firm anywhere in Ontario, you face potential liabilities every day. That’s where Commercial General Liability Insurance (CGL) steps in.

CGL is one of the most important policies for protecting your company from lawsuits, property damage claims, and bodily injury claims. Without it, even a minor accident could cost thousands—or even millions—in legal fees and settlements.

As a business owner, having the right coverage isn’t just about protecting assets; it’s also about credibility. Many landlords, clients, and contractors in Ontario require proof of liability coverage before signing contracts. Working with an experienced Mississauga insurance broker or Brampton insurance broker ensures you get tailored coverage that fits your business risks.

This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about CGL, including coverage details, liability types, Per Occurrence vs. Claims Made policies, comparisons with Professional Liability, and answers to the most common questions Ontario businesses ask.

What is Commercial General Liability Insurance (CGL)?

Commercial General Liability Insurance—commonly known as CGL—is designed to protect businesses against claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal/advertising injury caused to third parties.

Standard Coverage Under CGL:

• Bodily Injury – Covers medical costs, legal fees, and settlements if someone is injured on your business premises or because of your operations.
• Property Damage – Protects if you accidentally damage someone else’s property. For example, a contractor breaking a client’s window during a renovation.
• Personal & Advertising Injury – Protects against claims like slander, libel, or copyright infringement in your advertisements.
• Tenant’s Legal Liability – If you lease commercial space and accidentally cause damage (like fire or flood), CGL covers the repair costs.

CGL does not cover professional mistakes (that falls under E&O/Professional Liability) or employee injuries (covered by WSIB/Workers’ Compensation).

Underlying Liability Types Explained

CGL covers several underlying liability types that every Ontario business should understand:

1. Premises Liability
   • Applies to injuries or damages that occur on your property. Example: A customer slips on a wet floor in your store.
2. Products Liability
   • Protects manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers if a product you sell causes harm. Example: A defective appliance causing fire damage.
3. Completed Operations Liability
   • Covers claims arising after work is completed. Example: A contractor installs faulty wiring that causes damage weeks later.
4. Personal & Advertising Injury Liability
   • Protects against non-physical damages such as libel, slander, or advertising disputes.

By working with an Ontario insurance broker, businesses can ensure they have proper coverage for all these liability categories.

Per Occurrence vs. Claims Made Policy

Understanding how your CGL policy is structured is crucial.

Per Occurrence Policy

• Covers claims that occur during the policy period, regardless of when the claim is filed.
• Example: A customer injury in 2023 is covered even if they sue in 2025, as long as the incident happened while the policy was active.
• Most Commercial General Liability policies in Ontario are written on a Per Occurrence

Claims Made Policy

• Covers claims only if both the incident and the claim occur during the policy period.
• Often used for Professional Liability/E&O insurance, not CGL.
• Less common for contractors and general businesses in Ontario.

Key takeaway: Businesses in Mississauga, Brampton, and across Ontario should confirm with their insurance broker whether their liability coverage is Per Occurrence or Claims Made to avoid coverage gaps.

Who Needs Commercial General Liability Insurance?

Every business in Ontario needs CGL coverage, including:

• Contractors & Construction Trades – Electricians, plumbers, general contractors, roofers. Many clients will not hire you without proof of contractor’s insurance.
• Retailers & Wholesalers – Protects against customer injuries and product liability claims.
• Manufacturers – Covers defective products and completed operations.
• Professional Services Firms – Even if you already have E&O insurance, you still need CGL to protect against bodily injury/property damage claims.
• Commercial Tenants – Landlords in Mississauga and Brampton often require proof of CGL before leasing.

In short: if you run a business that interacts with clients, customers, or the public, you need CGL insurance.

CGL vs. E&O (Professional Liability)

Many Ontario businesses confuse Commercial General Liability with Errors & Omissions (E&O) Insurance, also called Professional Liability Insurance. Here’s the difference:

• CGL: Covers third-party bodily injury, property damage, and advertising liability. Example: A contractor damages a client’s property.
• E&O/Professional Liability: Covers financial losses caused by professional mistakes, negligence, or missed deadlines. Example: An accountant makes a filing error that costs their client money.

Why Both Are Important:

• A contractor might need CGL to cover accidents on-site, and E&O to cover design errors.
• A consultant might need Professional Liability for advice errors, and CGL for injuries at their office.

Your Ontario insurance broker will advise whether you need one or both policies.

Role of Insurance Brokers in Ontario

Choosing the right policy can be complex, especially for contractors and small businesses. That’s why many businesses rely on a Mississauga insurance broker or Brampton insurance broker.

Benefits of Working with a Broker:

• Access to multiple insurance companies (not just one).
• Tailored advice for your industry risks.
• Help with claims and policy explanations.
• Ensure you’re not overpaying or underinsured.

An Ontario insurance broker acts as your advocate—not the insurance company’s—making sure you get the best CGL coverage available.