Contractors Insurance
Customized Contractors Insurance to Protect Your Trade & Livelihood
Building Safely
Contractors insurance is a specialized form of coverage designed to protect construction professionals and their businesses from the unique risks they face on the job. This insurance typically includes general liability to cover accidents and injuries on the worksite, property damage, and sometimes professional liability. It's essential for contractors to consider the scope of their projects, the types of risks involved, and the value of the equipment and materials they use. Adequate coverage ensures that in the event of unforeseen incidents, contractors won't face financial ruin. It's also crucial to check that your policy meets any legal requirements or client specifications for the jobs you undertake.
Essential Insurance for Building and Construction
We're here to help contractors navigate the complexities of finding the right insurance coverage. Our team can guide you through assessing your specific needs, ensuring you have comprehensive protection for the risks you face. For example, if an accident occurs on the construction site leading to injury or property damage, having the right policy in place can be the difference between a minor setback and a major financial loss. We can also help identify potential discounts for safety training or long-term contracts, making your insurance more affordable. When discussing your needs with us, it’s important to ask about the extent of coverage, any exclusions, and how claims are processed to ensure you're fully informed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is contractors insurance, and why is it essential?
Contractors insurance is a suite of policies that protect independent tradespeople and contracting businesses from liability, injury claims, and property damage. Whether you’re working with power tools or on rooftops, this insurance protects against job-related risks that could otherwise disrupt your operations or lead to lawsuits.
What types of contractors need insurance coverage?
Nearly all contractors benefit from tailored insurance, including:
- Electrical contractors insurance
- Plumbing contactor insurance
- HVAC contractors insurance
- Tile contactor insurance
- Flooring contractor insurance
- Painting contactor insurance
From sole proprietors to mid-sized crews, coverage needs vary based on trade, scope, and project size.
What does a typical contractor's insurance policy include?
Contractors insurance usually includes:
- General liability insurance for bodily injury or property damage
- Workers compensation insurance to cover employee injury
- Commercial auto insurance for business vehicles
- Commercial property insurance for owned tools and workspaces
- Optional: bonded and insured contractor endorsements or inland marine coverage for equipment in transit
All coverage is designed to help protect your business and meet contractor insurance requirements.
How much does contractor insurance cost?
The contractor insurance cost can vary widely. Factors that influence the contractors insurance cost include:
Business size and revenue
- Type of trade and risk exposure
- Claims history and number of employees
For example, the general contractor insurance cost may range from $1,200 to $2,500 per year for basic liability, while an insurance for electrical contractors package might differ based on licensing and scope of work. Dorsey & Associates helps calculate accurate contractor insurance prices using your specific trade and risk profile.
Are independent or self-employed contractors eligible for coverage?
Absolutely. Whether you’re seeking self contractor insurance or independent contractor insurance coverage, solo operators can—and should—get insured. Even one incident on a job site could result in major legal or medical costs. Having proper protection, like a certificate of insurance for contractors, also makes you more credible to clients and general contractors.
Is a certificate of insurance required for every job?
In most cases, yes. A certificate of insurance (COI) verifies that you meet contractual requirements and carry active coverage. Clients, vendors, and municipalities often ask for this before work begins. At Dorsey & Associates, we issue COIs quickly so you can stay compliant and keep projects moving.
Does this coverage extend to employees and vehicles?
Yes. With workers comp and commercial auto insurance, your policy extends to job site injuries, work trucks, and transport of tools or materials. These coverages are vital whether you’re managing a team or hauling gear between sites.
How do I know which policy is right for my trade?
We help match contractors with the right protection. Whether you’re looking for business insurance for electrical contractors or a policy tailored to HVAC, plumbing, or general construction, Dorsey & Associates ensures your coverage aligns with your tools, risks, and project type.
