Commercial General Liability (CGL) Insurance for Ontario Small Businesses
Protect your small business from third-party claims, lawsuits, and unexpected liabilities. Affordable CGL insurance tailored for Ontario entrepreneurs — starting from $400/year.
What Is CGL Insurance?
Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance is a foundational business insurance policy that protects Ontario businesses from financial losses caused by third-party claims of bodily injury, property damage, and personal or advertising injury. It is the most widely purchased form of commercial liability insurance in Canada.
In Ontario, CGL insurance typically costs between $400 and $2,000 per year for small businesses. The policy covers legal defense costs, medical expenses, and court-ordered settlements — even if the claim against your business is groundless. Most commercial leases and client contracts require a minimum of $2 million in CGL coverage.
CGL insurance is essential for any business that interacts with the public, operates from a physical location, or provides services at a client's premises. Without it, a single slip-and-fall incident or property damage claim could result in tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket expenses.
CGL Coverage Tailored for Small Businesses
We specialize in protecting Ontario's small business community with affordable, comprehensive liability coverage.
Retail Stores
Protection for shops, boutiques, and retail operations against customer claims.
Restaurants & Cafés
Coverage for food service businesses including dine-in, takeout, and catering operations.
Home-Based Businesses
Liability protection for entrepreneurs operating from their residence.
Cleaning Service Providers
Coverage for property damage and injury claims during cleaning operations.
Service-Based Businesses
Protection for consultants, contractors, and professional service providers.
CGL Coverage at a Glance
Understanding what each component of your CGL policy covers helps you make informed decisions about your business protection.
| Coverage Type | What It Covers | Example Scenario |
|---|---|---|
| Bodily Injury | Medical costs & legal fees for third-party injuries | Customer slips on wet floor in your store |
| Property Damage | Damage your operations cause to others' property | Contractor accidentally damages client's wall |
| Products Liability | Injury/damage from products you sell or distribute | Customer harmed by a defective product you sold |
| Completed Operations | Claims after your work is finished and delivered | Plumbing repair leaks weeks after completion |
| Personal & Advertising Injury | Libel, slander, false advertising claims | Competitor sues over your advertising claims |
| Legal Defense | Lawyer fees, court costs, and settlements | Defending a groundless lawsuit costs $50,000+ |
What CGL Insurance Covers in Detail
Third-Party Bodily Injury
Covers medical expenses and legal costs if a customer, visitor, or member of the public is injured on your premises or as a result of your business operations. This is the most common type of CGL claim in Ontario.
Property Damage
Protects you when your business operations accidentally damage someone else's property, whether at your location or at a client's site. For example, if a cleaning company damages a client's hardwood floors.
Legal Defense Costs
Covers the cost of hiring lawyers and court fees to defend your business against covered liability claims, even if the claim is groundless. Legal defense alone can cost $20,000–$100,000 or more.
Product Liability
Covers claims arising from products your business manufactures, sells, or distributes that cause injury or property damage. Essential for retail stores, food producers, and distributors.
Completed Operations
Provides coverage for claims that arise after your work or service has been completed and delivered to the client. Critical for contractors, tradespeople, and service providers.
Why Your Small Business Needs CGL Insurance
Slip-and-Fall Protection
If a customer slips, trips, or falls on your premises, CGL insurance covers their medical costs and any legal claims against your business.
Customer Injury Protection
Whether a customer is injured by your product or during a service call, CGL provides the financial safety net your business needs.
Contract Requirement Compliance
Many landlords, clients, and government contracts require proof of CGL insurance before you can sign a lease or win a bid.
Protection from Lawsuits
Even a single lawsuit can bankrupt a small business. CGL insurance covers legal defense and settlement costs to keep your business running.
Don't wait until a claim happens. Protect your business today.
Get a Free CGL QuoteCGL Insurance — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions Ontario small business owners ask about Commercial General Liability insurance.
Why Choose Terry Lau for Your CGL Insurance
Small Business Focus
We understand the unique risks Ontario small businesses face and tailor coverage accordingly.
Competitive Premiums
Access to multiple insurers means we find you the best coverage at the best price.
Multiple Insurers
We shop the market across trusted Canadian insurance carriers to get you options.
Personalized Support
Work directly with a licensed broker who knows your business — not a call centre.
Fast Turnaround
Get quotes quickly so you can meet contract deadlines and protect your business without delays.
Serving Small Businesses Across Ontario
We provide CGL insurance quotes for small businesses throughout Ontario, including:
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