What is business insurance?
Business insurance helps Ontario companies manage financial risks caused by unexpected events like property damage, lawsuits, or cyber incidents. Whether you operate in downtown Toronto or a small community in Northern Ontario, the right coverage protects your business, so you can stay focused on growth.
At Westland, we’ve been helping Ontario businesses protect what matters most for more than 40 years. Our advisors understand local regulations, regional risks, and industry-specific challenges, and we’ll tailor a policy to your operations.
What does business insurance cover?
From property loss to liability claims, Westland’s business insurance helps Ontario companies stay secure and confident in a changing environment.
View claims examples
Commercial property
Protect your workspace, equipment, and inventory from insured risks like fire, theft, or water damage. Whether you own a storefront, lease an office, or manage multiple facilities, we’ll help make sure your property is protected.
General liability
If your business activities cause injury or property damage to others, liability insurance helps cover legal costs, settlements, and judgments. It’s an essential safeguard for any Ontario business.
Business interruption
When an insured event forces you to close temporarily, this coverage helps replace lost income and pay ongoing expenses, so your operations can bounce back quickly.
Commercial auto
From company cars in the GTA to delivery vans across the province, commercial auto insurance covers vehicle damage, liability, and accident benefits for your business fleet
Professional liability
Also known as errors and omissions (E&O) insurance, this protects professionals if a client claims your advice or services caused financial loss. It’s key for consultants, real estate agents, accountants, and other Ontario service providers.
Cyber insurance
Cyber incidents are among the fastest-growing business risks in Ontario. This coverage helps protect against ransomware, phishing, and data breaches, and includes proactive monitoring and prevention tools.
Why choose Westland for business insurance in Ontario
Operating a business in Ontario means navigating a fast-paced, competitive environment, and the right insurance partner makes all the difference. Here’s why businesses across the province choose Westland.
Local expertise with national reach
From Toronto to Ottawa to Thunder Bay, our advisors know the Ontario market inside and out, backed by the strength of a national brokerage.
Simple, stress-free experience
We make it easy to get coverage that fits your business, with digital tools and local advisors ready to help at every step.
Tailored coverage, competitive pricing
We work with Canada’s leading insurers to deliver protection that fits your needs, your business, and your budget.
Industry-specific understanding
Whether you’re in tech, retail, construction, or professional services, our advisors understand the risks your industry faces in Ontario’s economy.
Proactive risk management
Our advisors identify risks and recommend practical steps to keep your business resilient in a changing environment.
Responsive claims support
If the unexpected happens, your dedicated broker will handle the process and advocate for you, helping your business recover faster.
Rooted in the community
We’re proud to be part of communities across Ontario, supporting local projects that strengthen the places where we live and work.
All your coverage in one place
From property and liability to cyber, auto, and specialty protection, we’ll build a complete insurance plan that grows with your business.
Protecting Ontario businesses since 1980
For more than four decades, we’ve helped Ontario businesses thrive by combining personalized service with trusted insurance expertise.
How business insurance supports you when it matters most
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Property damage
A fire damages your downtown Toronto office.
Business insurance helps pay for repairs and replacement costs.
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Liability claim
A customer is injured while visiting your Ottawa retail store.
Your coverage helps pay for legal fees and settlements.
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Business interruption
A severe storm knocks out power to your Mississauga facility.
Business interruption insurance replaces lost income while you recover.
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Liability claim
A delivery van is involved in an accident on Highway 17.
Commercial auto coverage helps with repairs and third-party liability.
Explore our commercial insurance products and industries of expertise in Ontario
Frequently asked business insurance questions
While business insurance covers many common risks, not everything is included. Normal wear and tear, intentional acts, and gradual deterioration are excluded. Certain risks, such as flooding or earthquakes, often require add-on coverage. Your advisor can help ensure your policy fits Ontario’s conditions and your industry’s exposures.
Yes. Even small businesses face major risks, from customer injuries to data breaches. A single claim could threaten your financial stability. Business insurance helps Ontario entrepreneurs protect their assets, revenue, and reputation.
If something happens, document the damage, notify your Westland advisor, and we’ll guide you through the next steps. We’ll liaise with the insurer, keep you informed, and help ensure your claim is resolved as smoothly as possible.
The cost varies by industry, location, size, and risk factors. Businesses in urban areas like Toronto may have higher premiums than those in smaller communities due to property values and exposure. Westland works with multiple insurers to find the best coverage at a competitive rate.
Certain coverages are mandatory. If you own or operate vehicles, you must carry commercial auto insurance under Ontario law. Workers’ compensation through the WSIB is also required for most employers. Other types of business insurance, such as general liability or property, may be required by contracts or landlords.
Not always. Home insurance provides limited protection for business property and liability. If you run a home-based business, you’ll likely need an endorsement or separate commercial policy to stay fully covered.
Most standard business policies offer limited cyber protection. Westland’s standalone cyber insurance provides comprehensive coverage for data breaches, ransomware, phishing, and privacy-related claims, along with proactive monitoring to help prevent attacks.
News and insights
Buy business insurance in Ontario with confidence
No matter the size of your business or industry you’re in, our advisors have the expert knowledge to help you build the perfect policy to get the coverage you need. Connect with us today to get coverage that goes further.
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