A deeper look at our target segments: Construction

October 16, 2025
Commercial Lines

 

Explore how we support construction businesses with tailored coverage, specialized bundles, and underwriting insights that align with their evolving needs.

We support construction and installation businesses known for their craftsmanship, discipline, and a strong safety culture.

Preferred appetite - at a glance:

Business category Examples

Landscape & Exterior Solutions

  • Landscaping & tree work (pruning and removal)
  • Fences, decks, patios and gazebos
  • Masonry, paving, concrete, tile and terrazzo
  • Irrigation & drainage systems
  • Swimming pool installation and services
  • Lawn sprinkler installation
  • Metal doors and windows
  • Sign installation
  • Antenna installation (TV/satellite)
  • Glazier operations
  • Metal doors/windows/awnings/siding

Mechanical Contractors

  • Heating & A/C
  • Refrigeration
  • Sheet metal ductwork
  • Solar energy contractors
  • Residential water softening/treatment
  • Residential and commercial electricians
  • Underground cable/fibre optic installation 

Finishing Trades

  • Drywall/plastering
  • Insulation
  • Interior & exterior painting
  • Flooring & blinds, interior decorating/staging
  • Framing, trimming, carpentry 

General Construction

  • Residential, commercial new builds
  • Residential, commercial renovations/additions 

 

General underwriting considerations

Specialized coverage

  • Equipment Breakdown – Contractors Plus*  Protects against unexpected mechanical or electrical failures, including scheduled contractors’ equipment. By ensuring equipment is properly insured, contractors can avoid coverage gaps.
  • Contractors Extended Bundles* – It includes common coverage specific to contractors, such as unscheduled tools and contractors’ equipment, but also some added benefits:
    • Contractor's Loss of Income – Provides protection for lost earnings due to direct physical damage to contractors’ tools or equipment at a job site by an insured peril. If the damage interrupts business operations, this coverage helps recover income lost during the downtime.
    • Rental Reimbursement Expenses – Helps cover costs of renting replacement tools or equipment.

*Subject to terms and conditions

Client-specific exposures:

With increasing digitization for all industries, we can’t forget about contractors. Cyber risks are increasing, and Gore offers Cyber coverage for first- and third-party exposures, including expense coverage and advisory services.

More contractors are looking at professional services, ensuring the client is insured properly for all operations is important. Gore has Contractors E&O coverage with limits up to $100,000 for select contracting classes.

Submission quality:

Clearly outlining the scope of operations, percentage of work subcontracted and confirmation that subcontractors provide certificates of insurance, supports a smoother underwriting review. An example of the type of businesses serviced also helps.

Real-world example: Why we wrote this account

  • Client profile: Residential and Commercial HVAC Installation
  • Established: 2000
  • Annual revenue: $2M
  • Risk highlights:
    • Long-standing business, claims-free history
    • Excellent reviews and reputation
    • Multiline policy, Fleet policy placed as well
    • Growth potential with the account

What’s the latest?

Rating updates to Ontario and BC Personal Property

Personal Lines

February 19, 2026

We’re updating Personal Property premiums in Ontario and BC to support rating precision — changes take effect February 20 for new business and May 6 for renewals.

Claims trends shaping 2026: What brokers should be watching

Corporate

February 19, 2026

Claims trends across auto, property, and fraud continue to evolve, driven by rising verification needs, more complex investigations, and increasing identity‑related risks. We outline where claims are shifting and how you can take action with your clients moving forward.