If you're a homeowner or a renter, you may need WorkSafeBC coverage when you hire people to work in or around your home, or if you are the prime contractor in the construction of your own home. It depends on what they're doing, how long they work for you, and whether the individual is your worker or if you have hired an independent business to do the work.
Can I purchase voluntary coverage?
You may need coverage when you hire someone who provides care before or after school, such as a babysitter or part-time nanny.
Less than 15 hours a week No, but you can purchase voluntary coverage.
15 or more hours a week Yes, apply for coverage.
You may need coverage for an individual who provides ongoing home services, such as a gardener, chef, housekeeper, home health worker, or full-time nanny.
Less than 8 hours a week No, but you can purchase voluntary coverage.
8 or more hours a week Yes, apply for coverage.
You may need coverage for individuals who provide one-time home services, such as cleaning gutters, painting, and renovation.
Less than 24 hours* No, but you can purchase voluntary coverage.
24 or more hours* Yes, apply for coverage.
* Note: Calculate the total hours worked to complete the job, regardless of how many workers there are. For example, if three workers work nine hours each, the job will take 27 hours to complete, and the homeowner would be required to register with WorkSafeBC.
Before you hire an independent business, you should always make sure that business is registered with us and making payments as required. If it is not, you could be held responsible for its premiums. You can check the registration and payment status of a business if you get a clearance letter from us.
If you are acting as the prime contractor in the construction of your own home you are subject to the health and safety provisions of the Workers Compensation Act and also may be required to register with WorkSafeBC. Learn about rights and responsibilities for workplace health and safety.
Be sure to get a clearance letter for each contractor to make sure they're in good standing with WorkSafeBC; otherwise you could be held jointly liable for any unpaid WorkSafeBC insurance premiums if the contractor you hire does not pay their premiums during the period they worked for you. Learn about responsibilities for contractors and subcontractors.