Are painting contractors in New Brunswick required to carry WSIB-equivalent WorkSafeNB coverage for subcontractors they bring onto a job site?

Yes, painting contractors in New Brunswick are required to carry WorkSafeNB coverage for their employees, but the rules around subcontractors are more complex and depend on the specific working relationship.

Primary Contractor Requirements

Painting contractors with employees must carry WorkSafeNB coverage — this is mandatory under the Workers' Compensation Act. Any painting business that hires employees (even part-time or seasonal workers) must register with WorkSafeNB and maintain coverage. This includes apprentice painters, helpers, and crew members working under the contractor's direction.

For subcontractors, the requirements depend on their classification. If a painting contractor hires another painter as a true independent subcontractor (with their own business registration, tools, and operating independently), that subcontractor is responsible for their own WorkSafeNB coverage. However, if the relationship looks more like an employment arrangement — where the "subcontractor" works exclusively for one contractor, uses the contractor's tools, follows detailed direction, and doesn't operate as an independent business — WorkSafeNB may classify them as an employee requiring coverage under the primary contractor's account.

Homeowner Protection

As a homeowner hiring a painting contractor, you should verify that they carry both WorkSafeNB coverage and general liability insurance. While WorkSafeNB coverage protects workers injured on your property, liability insurance protects you from property damage claims. A legitimate painting contractor should readily provide proof of both coverages.

For residential projects, some sole proprietor painters operate without employees and may not be required to carry WorkSafeNB coverage for themselves — but they should still carry liability insurance. However, the moment they bring anyone else onto your job site (helper, apprentice, subcontractor), the WorkSafeNB requirements become more complex.

Practical Advice

Before hiring any painting contractor in New Brunswick, ask for:

• Proof of current WorkSafeNB coverage (if they have employees)


• General liability insurance certificate


• Clear explanation of who will be working on your project and their coverage status

Red flags include contractors who are vague about coverage, claim they don't need it, or ask you to pay cash to avoid "paperwork." Legitimate contractors understand these requirements and maintain proper coverage to protect both their workers and their clients.

For exterior painting projects involving ladders, scaffolding, or multi-storey work, proper coverage becomes even more critical due to the increased risk of workplace injuries. Never compromise on insurance verification for elevated work.

If you're unsure about a contractor's coverage status or have questions about WorkSafeNB requirements, contact WorkSafeNB directly at 1-800-222-9775. They can verify a contractor's coverage status and explain the requirements for your specific project.

Need help finding properly insured painting contractors? New Brunswick Painting can match you with local professionals who understand and maintain the required coverage for residential projects.