Choosing the right group benefits plan is one of the most important decisions a construction business owner can make. Get it right, and you’ll attract and keep top talent, control costs, and stay ahead of industry regulations. Get it wrong, and you risk high turnover, wasted money, and a frustrated workforce.

Construction companies in Ontario have unique needs. Site workers and office staff require different levels of coverage. Budgets are tight. And with so many options—union plans, association plans, and private insurance—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

I’m Steffen deGraaf, founder of AEC Benefits, and for nearly 20 years, I’ve helped Ontario construction businesses build cost-effective, tax-smart benefits plans that keep employees happy and businesses competitive.

This guide cuts through the noise. Step by step, I’ll show you exactly how to choose a group benefits plan that works for your business, your employees, and your bottom line.

Why Group Benefits Matter in Construction

Attracting and retaining skilled workers in the Ontario construction industry is tougher than ever. Wages alone aren’t enough. Employees want stability, security and real value beyond their paycheque. That’s where group benefits come in.

A good benefits plan shows your team you care about their well-being—not just on the job site but in their daily lives. It helps you compete with union packages, association plans and larger companies that use benefits as a hiring tool. When employees are secure with health, dental and income protection, they are far less likely to jump ship for the next offer.

For business owners, the right plan isn’t just an expense—it’s a business tool. It reduces turnover, lowers hiring costs and boosts morale. A healthy and financially secure team works harder, stays longer and takes fewer sick days. Plus, with tax advantages and customizable options, you can build a plan that gives you maximum value without breaking the bank.

Choosing the right benefits plan isn’t just about checking a box. It’s about protecting your workforce, growing your business and staying competitive in a tough industry.

Cost vs. ROI: Why Group Benefits Add Up in Construction

Some construction business owners see group benefits as an expense. But the truth is, the right plan doesn’t cost money—it makes money by reducing turnover and increasing productivity and site efficiency.

Think about the cost of replacing a skilled worker. Recruitment, training and downtime can add up to thousands of dollars per week per lost employee. Now, compare that to the cost of providing benefits. A well-structured plan keeps workers loyal because they see real value in staying with your business. They’re not just working for a paycheque—they’re building a future with healthcare, dental and income protection backing them up.

When employees feel secure, they work harder and show up more consistently. An employee with access to physiotherapy, prescription drugs and vision care is far less likely to take sick days or struggle through an injury. Healthy workers mean fewer delays, better project timelines and stronger overall performance.

Two construction companies: One pays basic wages with no benefits. The other invests in a customized benefits plan that covers health, dental and wellness support. Over time, the second company keeps its best workers, attracts top talent and runs projects smoothly. The end result? A stronger, more stable business with higher profits and lower workforce costs.

Investing in group benefits isn’t about spending—it’s about return on investment in your people, your projects and your long-term success.

What to Look for in a Group Benefits Plan for Construction

Not all group benefits plans are built for the realities of construction. Long hours, physical demands and job site risks mean your team needs coverage that actually fits their needs—not a generic, one-size-fits-all solution.

A good plan should start with health and dental coverage. Construction workers rely on their physical health to be on the job, so access to prescription drugs, physiotherapy and vision care is key. Regular dental checkups, cleanings and emergency dental work keep employees healthy and focused, not dealing with painful (and expensive) untreated issues.

Disability coverage is a must. Injuries happen, and without the right protection, your employees could be without income—and you could be short-staffed. A good plan should have short-term and long-term disability insurance so injured workers can recover without financial stress while you keep your business running.

Beyond the basics, wellness benefits set a good plan apart. Construction is tough, physically and mentally. Coverage for chiropractors, massage therapy and mental health support through an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) helps workers be their best and reduce burnout and absenteeism.

The right plan isn’t just about offering coverage—it’s about building a benefits package that attracts, retains and protects the skilled tradespeople who keep your business moving forward.

Comparing Group Benefits Providers: What to Look For

Picking the right group benefits provider isn’t just about choosing a big insurance company—it’s about finding a partner that gets Ontario’s construction industry and delivers value. Here’s what to look for when comparing providers:

Claims Processing Speed is Key

In construction, time is money. When employees need to file claims, delays cause frustration and financial stress. A provider with quick, hassle-free claims means workers get the support they need without waiting. Look for insurers with digital claim systems and published turnaround times to avoid administrative headaches.

Flexibility Over One-Size-Fits-All

Most standard group benefits plans aren’t designed for the realities of construction. You need a provider that offers customized plans—for site workers and office staff—without forcing you into rigid, pre-packaged options. Independent benefits brokers, like AEC Benefits, can access multiple insurers to create a plan that actually fits your workforce.

Industry Experience You Can Count On

Construction is unique. A provider with construction industry experience knows the importance of disability coverage, job-site wellness and coverage for work-related needs like prescription safety glasses and orthotics.

Comparing providers isn’t just about price—it’s about choosing one that delivers coverage, fast claims and flexibility so your benefits plan works as hard as your team.

No Disruptions: Rolling Out Your Benefits Plan

Launching a group benefits plan shouldn’t slow down your business. A smooth rollout keeps your team informed, engaged and ready to use their new benefits.

Start by choosing the right enrollment process. Digital sign-ups make it easy, and in-person meetings ensure they understand their options. Having a broker who rolls up their sleeves to help with the transition will make it smooth sailing.

Next, communicate clearly. Explain how the new benefits program works with provincial health care plans, what’s covered, how to use dental benefits and other services. Highlight flexible options that cover employees and their families so they get the financial support they need.

Finally, offer ongoing support. Help employees understand their premiums, including dental premiums and how the employer contributes to their employee benefits. A planned rollout = smooth transition = happy employees and increased productivity.

Get Expert Guidance & a Free Group Benefits Checklist

Choosing the right benefits plan for your construction company is a big deal—but you don’t have to do it alone. At AEC Benefits, we specialize in custom employee benefits solutions for Ontario’s construction industry. We’ll help you navigate premiums, coverage options and provider comparisons so you get the best value for your business and staff.

Want to be informed? Download our free Group Benefits Cheat Sheet—a simple tool to help you evaluate plans, compare providers and choose the best fit for your team.

Let’s build a benefits plan that works for you. Get in touch today!