The Canadian Wood Council (CWC) and Woodsure, a division of Axis Insurance Managers Inc., have launched a new partnership that will bring together WoodWorks and Woodsure programs to further advocate for and support the increased adoption of wood construction in Canada.
The partnership has been structured to empower architects, builders, and developers to choose wood and to have confidence in doing so, as any new technology comes with a learning curve that impacts adoption. This is particularly true of the use of advanced wood construction and its integration into building codes, as well as insurance policies. The partners will work to enhance the acceptance, safety, and growth of mass timber construction and advocate for it as a sustainable building material.
“Supporting the mass timber industry with specialized insurance products is crucial for accelerating the adoption of wood construction,” said Connie Rowley, Senior Vice President with Woodsure, in a statement.
“By offering tailored insurance solutions, insurers can provide the necessary capacity and confidence for developers to invest in mass timber projects. This support not only mitigates financial risks, but also fosters innovation and sustainability in construction. Enhanced insurance products can address concerns related to fire safety, structural integrity, and long-term reliability, thereby reassuring stakeholders and encouraging broader acceptance of this eco-friendly building material. Consequently, this leads to a more sustainable construction industry and helps in reducing the carbon footprint.”
