In Canada’s dynamic construction landscape, specialty trade contractors play a vital role in shaping infrastructure—from excavation and concrete work to HVAC and glazing. These professionals face unique risks that demand more than just standard insurance. That’s where SWG Specialty steps in, offering customized commercial insurance solutions designed specifically for high-hazard trades.
The Role of Specialty Contractors in Construction
While general contractors oversee and coordinate entire construction projects, specialty contractors focus on specific tasks that require specialized skills or licensure. These include:
- Excavation
- Concrete
- Steel and Iron
- Glazing
- Insulation
- Flooring
- Drywall
- Masonry
- Carpentry
- HVAC
- Demolition
- Elevator Installation
- And more
Each trade comes with its own set of risks—ranging from equipment breakdowns to liability for on-site accidents—making specialized insurance coverage essential.
What Is Specialty Contractors Insurance?
Specialty contractors’ insurance is a broad classification of commercial insurance tailored to the needs of trade-specific contractors. At its core is Commercial General Liability (CGL) insurance, but CGL alone often isn’t enough.
That’s why SWG Specialty offers bundled insurance solutions that may include:
- Commercial Auto or Fleet Insurance
- Commercial Property Insurance
- Installation & Tools Floater
- Construction Equipment Insurance
- Pollution Liability Insurance
SWG Specialty’s Comprehensive Coverage Solutions
SWG Specialty empowers brokers to protect their clients with flexible, scalable, and clearly written insurance products.
Our offerings include:
- Property Insurance
- Builders’ Risk & Wrap-Up Liability
- Equipment Breakdown
- Commercial General Liability
- Umbrella & Excess Liability
- Inland Marine
We also customize coverage limits and deductibles to suit both annual operations and specific construction projects.
Why It Matters: The Canadian Construction Landscape
The Canadian construction industry is a cornerstone of the national economy. In fact, over 1.5 million Canadians are employed in construction (1). Also, the industry generated $184 billion in revenue in 2022 and continues to grow (1). Specialty trade contractors make up a significant portion of this workforce, contributing to both residential and commercial infrastructure. Despite growth, the sector faces challenges such as labor shortages, rising material costs, and project delays—all of which increase risk exposure for contractors.
Partnering with Experts in High-Hazard Insurance
At SWG Specialty, our knowledgeable underwriters are experts in high-risk industries. We understand the nuances of each trade and work closely with brokers to deliver tailored insurance solutions that protect what matters most.
Get a Quote Today
Whether you’re a broker looking to support your clients or a contractor seeking better protection, SWG Specialty is here to help. Reach out to our team today for a customized quote and discover how we can help safeguard businesses.
Source:
1: Made in CA – Construction Industry Statistics in Canada for 2025
