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Canadian Province Availability & COI Norms (Excluding Quebec)

Introduction

This one-screen reference summarizes where Summit places commercial coverage in Canada (excluding Quebec) and the most common Certificate of Insurance (COI) expectations we see for Commercial General Liability (CGL): typical limits, and frequently requested clauses such as Additional Insured, Primary & Non‑Contributory, and Waiver of Subrogation. Always verify against the exact contract, permit, or lease language.

Provinces and Territories We Serve (Quebec Excluded)

Summit currently supports risks domiciled in all Canadian provinces and territories listed below, except Quebec (QC).

Province/Territory Abbrev Availability
Alberta AB Available
British Columbia BC Available
Manitoba MB Available
New Brunswick NB Available
Newfoundland and Labrador NL Available
Nova Scotia NS Available
Northwest Territories NT Available
Nunavut NU Available
Ontario ON Available
Prince Edward Island PE Available
Saskatchewan SK Available
Yukon YT Available

Note: Summit does not place coverage for risks domiciled in Quebec (QC).

Typical CGL Limits Requested on COIs

  • Most common range: CA$2,000,000 to CA$5,000,000 per occurrence, depending on municipality, venue, or contract risk profile.

  • Higher limits (often CA$5,000,000) are frequently required for: road-use/encroachment permits, large events, tenancy in major facilities, shared micromobility/e‑bike operations, and contracts with public entities.

  • Aggregate limit: commonly equal to or higher than the per‑occurrence limit; completed operations may be required for contractors and product businesses.

  • Meeting higher requirements: excess/umbrella liability is commonly used to reach total required limits.

  • For foundational coverage concepts, see Summit’s overview of Commercial General Liability (CGL).

Common COI Wording and What It Means

  • Additional Insured (AI): The counterparty (e.g., municipality, landlord, venue, client) is added as AI with respect to your operations, as required by written contract or permit. This must be reflected by a policy endorsement (blanket AI or scheduled AI), not just typed on the certificate. See CGL basics.

  • Primary and Non‑Contributory (PNC): Your policy responds first to covered claims involving the AI, without seeking contribution from the AI’s policy. Typically provided by endorsement; wording must align with the contract.

  • Waiver of Subrogation: Your insurer waives its right to seek recovery from the AI for covered losses arising from your insured operations, usually “where required by written contract.” Implemented via endorsement.

  • Severability of Interests/Cross Liability: Commonly included in Canadian CGL wordings; clarifies that coverage applies separately to each insured/AI, subject to the policy limits.

  • 30 Days’ Notice of Cancellation/Material Change: Often requested. Actual notice provisions and enforceability are governed by policy terms and applicable insurance statutes; endorsements may be required to satisfy strict wording.

  • Certificates vs. Endorsements: A COI is evidence of coverage; it does not alter coverage. Contractual requirements must be satisfied by the policy wording and endorsements issued by the insurer.

Quick Compliance Checklist (what to send your broker)

  • Counterparty’s exact insurance clause and any exhibits/schedules.

  • Legal name and address of all entities to be added as Additional Insureds.

  • Required limits, effective dates, and any event/permit numbers.

  • Required clauses: AI, PNC, Waiver of Subrogation, completed operations, notice provisions, jurisdiction‑specific language.

  • Deadline for COI delivery and any portal upload instructions.

Micromobility and E‑Bike Notes

  • Retailers, service providers, delivery fleets, and shared micromobility operators are frequently asked for CA$5,000,000 CGL, plus AI/PNC and Waiver of Subrogation in favour of municipalities, landlords, and program partners.

  • Consider pairing CGL with Product Liability for components/batteries and completed operations, and with Commercial Property/BI if you maintain inventory or a service facility.

Related Summit resources

Important Notes

  • Scope: Canada excluding Quebec. Provincial/municipal rules and counterparties’ contracts control; this page summarizes common market norms only.

  • Date: Guidance current as of November 13, 2025. Requirements change—confirm the latest language with your counterparty and insurer.