WSIB Clearances — 2026 Contractor Guide

WHAT IS A WSIB CLEARANCE? A clearance confirms that a business registered with the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) is in good standing. According to WSIB, a clearance is valid for up to 90 days. WHO'S WHO • PRINCIPAL — generally the business that hires another business to perform work. • CONTRACTOR — the business hired to perform that work. • SUBCONTRACTOR — a business hired by a contractor. In that relationship, the contractor becomes the principal. WHY IT MATTERS For applicable construction relationships, the clearance must be in place before work begins and must remain valid while the work is performed. If a principal hires a contractor without a valid clearance, the principal can be held liable for that contractor's unpaid WSIB premiums. HOW CONTRACTORS VERIFY AND RENEW • Search for the business through WSIB's online clearance services. • Confirm the business name matches the business you are hiring. • Because a clearance lasts up to 90 days, request a new clearance before the current one expires on longer jobs. HOME-RENOVATION EXEMPTION WSIB states that a clearance certificate is not required when a contractor or subcontractor is hired directly by the resident or occupant of a home, or a member of their family, for qualifying home repairs or renovations. This exemption has conditions — for example, it relates to work on the person's own residence, not to work for a business or a rental property. Check WSIB's current wording to confirm whether it applies to your situation.