Yukon Contractor Secures Hard-to-Find Liability Coverage

Jake Tremblay operates a specialized heavy equipment contracting business in the Yukon, providing excavation and land clearing services for mining and construction projects. For two years, he had been unable to find adequate commercial general liability coverage through direct insurers, who considered his work too high-risk.

Northern Shield Insurance connected Jake with specialty markets and surplus lines insurers that specifically underwrite northern and resource-sector contractors. After a detailed risk assessment and documentation of Jake's safety protocols and training certifications, a comprehensive policy was placed.

The policy included $5 million in commercial general liability, $2 million in professional liability, and equipment coverage for his fleet of excavators and loaders valued at $1.2 million. The annual premium of $18,500 was competitive given the risk profile and far less than the lost revenue from contracts Jake had been turning down due to lack of insurance.

Within three months of securing coverage, Jake won a $450,000 contract that required proof of insurance, delivering an immediate return on the broker relationship.

This case highlights the critical role brokers play in underserved markets where direct insurance options are limited.