You’re hosting a school tour on your farm. Everything’s going smoothly, until a curious child slips near a pasture gate or a visitor gets too close to a startled animal. Incidents like these are rare, but they can happen in a heartbeat. And when they do, Liability Insurance can make the difference between a resolved accident and a costly lawsuit.
For Ontario farmers and ranchers, liability coverage is critical for operations, finances, and peace of mind.
What Is Farm Liability Insurance?
It helps protect you if someone is injured on your property or if their property is damaged as a result of your farming activities. It helps cover legal expenses, medical costs, and any damages awarded in a lawsuit.
This coverage is designed for the unique risks of agricultural life — whether it’s livestock, machinery, or Mother Nature herself causing the issue. It’s protection for your way of life and the people who interact with it.
Key Coverages for Farmers and Ranchers in Ontario
✅ Third-Party Injuries and Property Damage
Covers bodily injuries or property damage to individuals who are not employees, including visitors, delivery drivers, and contractors.
✅ Legal Defense Costs
If you’re sued for negligence, this insurance helps cover legal fees and associated court costs.
✅ Medical Payments
Covers certain medical expenses for injuries that occur on your property, even if you aren’t legally at fault.
✅ Livestock-Related Incidents
It helps protect you if your animals escape or injure someone on your property or a neighbouring one.
✅ Farm Machinery Accidents
Includes coverage for accidents involving farm vehicles or equipment — especially if used on public roads.
✅ Pollution or Pesticide Events
Some policies include limited coverage for pollution-related issues or pesticide drift that causes harm or damage.
✅ Agritourism and Public Access
Whether you run hayrides, maple tours, or allow visitors to interact with animals, liability coverage helps protect you from the unexpected.
Optional Liability Add-Ons
You can customize your policy with additional protection for:
Farmers’ markets – Cover accidents that occur during sales events.
Construction activities – If you’re building new barns or repairing outbuildings yourself.
Animal shows or 4-H events – Extend your protection when taking livestock off-site.
Agritourism events – Coverage for seasonal attractions or educational experiences on your farm.
Coverage That Goes Where You Go
Some policies extend liability protection beyond the farm. This can include:
- Legal liability from personal actions — anywhere in the world
- Use or occupancy of the property, including your home
- Damage to rented properties, like outbuildings or seasonal residences
This broad approach ensures you’re covered for both your business operations and your day-to-day risks.
What About Accidents on the Farm?
Farming is physically demanding work. If you’re injured and can’t work — or worse — farm accident insurance can help protect your family and your business.
Farm Accident Coverage May Include:
Liability insurance for farms and ranches is about safeguarding your future, income, and community. With visitors, animals, machinery, and unpredictable weather all in the mix, a single incident could have serious consequences. But with the right coverage, you can focus on your work, knowing you’re backed by protection that understands farm life.
Talk to a Grenville Mutual Broker or Agent to find out how farm liability coverage can be tailored to fit your land, your risks, and your operations.
