How do I verify that a basement contractor in the Moncton area holds valid WorkSafeNB coverage before allowing them to start work in my home?

Before any contractor starts work in your Moncton home, request their WorkSafeNB certificate of coverage and verify it directly with WorkSafeNB — this protects you from liability if someone gets injured on your property.

WorkSafeNB coverage is mandatory for all contractors in New Brunswick, but some operate without it, leaving homeowners exposed to serious financial liability. If an uninsured worker gets hurt during your basement renovation, you could be held responsible for medical costs, lost wages, and compensation claims that can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.

How to verify WorkSafeNB coverage properly:

Ask every contractor for their current WorkSafeNB certificate of coverage before they provide a quote. This certificate shows their account number, coverage dates, and premium payment status. Don't accept excuses like "it's in the truck" or "I'll bring it next time" — legitimate contractors carry this documentation.

Call WorkSafeNB directly at 1-800-222-9775 to verify the certificate is genuine and current. Provide the contractor's business name and account number from their certificate. WorkSafeNB will confirm whether coverage is active and premiums are paid up to date. This phone call takes 2-3 minutes and could save you from devastating financial exposure.

Red flags that indicate potential WorkSafeNB issues:

Contractors who work alone and claim they don't need coverage are often wrong — if they hire any subcontractors or helpers during your project, coverage becomes mandatory. Be especially cautious of contractors who quote significantly below others, as skipping WorkSafeNB premiums is one way unethical contractors undercut legitimate businesses.

Cash-only contractors who avoid paperwork often skip WorkSafeNB registration entirely. Contractors who seem evasive about insurance documentation or pressure you to start immediately without proper verification are major red flags.

Additional verification steps for Moncton contractors:

Beyond WorkSafeNB, verify general liability insurance (minimum $2 million recommended for basement work) and ask for recent references from Moncton-area homeowners. Check that they're registered for HST if the project exceeds $30,000. For electrical or plumbing work, confirm their trade licenses are current with the appropriate regulatory bodies.

Protect yourself with proper contracts:

Even with verified WorkSafeNB coverage, include a clause in your contract requiring the contractor to maintain coverage throughout the project and provide updated certificates if work extends beyond the current coverage period. This ensures protection doesn't lapse mid-project.

Remember that legitimate basement contractors in the Moncton area expect these verification requests and will provide documentation promptly. Those who resist or make excuses are telling you everything you need to know about their business practices.

Need help finding properly insured basement contractors in the Moncton area? New Brunswick Basements can match you with verified local renovators who carry full WorkSafeNB coverage and insurance.