Commercial insurance customized
to the size
of your business.
Commercial insurance is a specialized category of coverage designed to protect Canadian businesses from financial losses resulting from property damage, liability claims, and operational interruptions. Whether you own a small family business or a large company, having the right coverage is a must to protect yourself, your employees, your Directors and Officers, and even your volunteers.
Operating a business in Ontario comes with a unique share of risks; however, commercial insurance acts as a vital safety net. Without this protection, the legal fees and settlement costs from a single lawsuit could be enough to drive a company out of business.
At McLean & Dickey, our commercial insurance experts provide customized solutions tailored to the specific size and industry of your operations. Serving Orillia, Barrie, Midland, and surrounding areas in Ontario since 1922, we act as your advocate by working with a broad range of top-name insurers. Our team offers a complimentary assessment of your business to design a comprehensive plan that ensures you have the right coverage to keep your business secure.
Our commercial insurance experts will get you the right coverage to keep your business secure and protected.
CONNECT WITH ONE OF OUR COMMERCIAL BROKERS TODAY.
Insurance made for your business
What Types of Commercial Insurance Does Your Business Need?
Operating a business in Ontario involves a unique share of risks, but the right coverage ensures you are well protected in the event of a claim. Here are the foundational pillars of a comprehensive business insurance plan.
Commercial General Liability (CGL)
CGL is your primary defence against third-party claims. It protects your business against claims for bodily injury, property damage to another party, and advertising liability arising from your operations, products, or occurring on your premises. This coverage handles both your legal defence costs and any required compensation settlements depending on limits.
Commercial Property Insurance
Whether you own your building or rent a workspace, property insurance covers the loss or damage of your physical assets due to unforeseen events like fire, theft, or vandalism.
- Buildings & Betterments: Coverage for the structure or leasehold improvements.
- Contents & Equipment: Protection for your tools, computers, and office furniture.
- Inventory & Cargo:< Coverage for stock held on-site or property in transit.
Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions)
Cyber Liability Insurance
In today’s digital landscape, every business is a target. Cyber insurance provides a financial safety net against data breaches, compromised email accounts, or stolen hardware. Beyond covering the technical recovery, it helps manage the reputational damage and loss of customer trust that follows a security failure.
Commercial Auto Insurance
Business Interruption Insurance
Is Commercial Insurance Mandatory in Ontario?
While commercial insurance is not always a legal requirement for every business type, it is almost always a contractual or professional necessity in Ontario. You will likely find that insurance is mandatory in the following scenarios:
Lease Requirements
Most commercial landlords in areas like Orillia and Barrie require tenants to carry a minimum of $1M to $2M in liability coverage to protect the physical property.
Contractual Obligations
Clients and government entities often require a valid Certificate of Insurance (COI) before you can begin work, submit a bid, or sign a service agreement.
Professional Standards
Certain regulated industries, such as healthcare, legal, and skilled trades, require specific liability limits to maintain a valid license and stay in good standing with their governing bodies.
What Affects the Cost of Your Premiums?
Insurance is not one-size-fits-all, and several key factors influence the cost of your policy. According to a 2024 report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), 62% of small business owners consider insurance costs to be a significant expense, with many seeing a 10% increase in the last year.
Your specific premium is calculated based on:
Industry Risk
High-risk sectors like construction or manufacturing naturally pay more than office-based consulting services.
Annual Revenue & Size
Higher revenue often suggests a larger customer base and greater liability exposure.
Claims History
A clean record can lead to lower rates, while frequent claims signal a higher risk to insurers.
Location
Businesses in high-traffic urban areas like Barrie may see different rates than those in more rural parts of Muskoka due to varying risks of theft or accidents.
Relax. We’ll find you the best insurance coverage so you’re protected.
Work With a Licensed Local Broker
Don’t navigate the complexities of insurance alone. As an independent broker, we work for you, not the insurance company. Our goal is to provide unbiased advice and ensure there are no gaps in your coverage that would leave you unprotected.
Ready to protect your business? Connect with one of our commercial brokers today for a quote.
Commercial Insurance Sales Team
Stephanie o'halloran
Account Executive & Executive Assistant to the Principle Broker
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you navigate your coverage with clarity, we’ve answered the most common questions our neighbours in Orillia, Barrie, and Muskoka ask about protecting their businesses.
What is the difference between Commercial General Liability (CGL) and Professional Liability?
While both protect against lawsuits, they cover different types of “mistakes.”
CGL covers physical mishaps, such as a customer slipping on a wet floor or your equipment damaging a client’s property.
Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions) covers financial losses caused by the advice or services you provide, such as a missed deadline or a technical error in a consultant’s report.
Do I need commercial insurance if I run a business from my home?
Yes. Most standard homeowner policies specifically exclude business-related claims. If a client is injured during a meeting at your home, or if your professional equipment is stolen, your personal policy likely won’t provide protection. We can help you add a home-based business endorsement or a standalone policy to ensure you aren’t left unprotected.
Is commercial insurance legally mandatory in Ontario?
Technically, only Commercial Auto Insurance is legally mandated by the province for business vehicles. However, insurance is a “must” for most operations because landlords, banks, and clients will require proof of coverage before signing leases or contracts.
How much does commercial insurance cost?
There is no “one-size-fits-all” price, as coverage is tailored to your specific risks. Your premium is influenced by your industry, annual revenue, claims history, and location. As independent brokers, we shop the market to find you the most comprehensive price among top-name insurers.
What is "Business Interruption" insurance, and do I really need it?
If a fire or flood forces you to close for repairs, your property insurance pays for the physical damage. Business Interruption insurance pays for your lost peace of mind by replacing lost income and covering fixed costs like rent and payroll while you are unable to operate. It is often the difference between a business reopening or staying closed for good.
Why should I use a broker instead of buying directly online?
When you buy directly from an insurance company, you do the work. When you work with McLean & Dickey, we work for you. We provide unbiased advice, shop for the best coverage options, advocate for you during the claims process, and ensure there are no gaps in your coverage that could leave your assets vulnerable.
More information about business insurance.
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Protecting Your Expertise: Why Professional Liability (E&O) Insurance is Essential for Service Businesses
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Beyond the Policy: The Broker as a Risk Management Partner
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Is Your Business on the Road to Risk? How to Navigate Commercial Auto Insurance for Your Fleet
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