



Contractor Insurance Policies
Choose a policy
Click a policy below to see what it covers, who needs it, what affects pricing, and common contractor pitfalls.
Core policies (most contractors start here)
- General Liability (GL) →
Covers many third-party injury and property damage claims tied to your operations, plus common jobsite requirements. - Workers’ Compensation (WC) →
Often driven by payroll, class codes, audits, and subcontractor handling. Requirements vary by contract, project, and carrier. - Commercial Auto →
For company vehicles and common hired and non-owned exposures that show up when crews drive for work.
Common add-ons (based on contracts, vehicles, tools, and job types)
- Ghost Policy (WC) →
Often requested in certain situations. Must be handled carefully with clear disclosures and licensed guidance where applicable - Contractor Bonds →
Bid, performance, and payment bonds for certain project types and owners. - Tools and Equipment (Inland Marine) →
Designed for tools and equipment that move between jobsites or live in vehicles and trailers. - Umbrella / Excess →
Higher liability limits above underlying policies, commonly driven by contract requirements. - Builder’s Risk →
Project-based property coverage during construction or renovation. - Professional Liability (E&O) →
Relevant for design-build, consulting, drawings/specs exposure, and professional services style claims.
What contractors typically need by trade
Your trade and job mix drive underwriting, pricing, and which policies get requested in bid packets.
Start here:
- Roofing contractors: GL + WC + Auto are common starting points, then tools/equipment and umbrella based on heights, tear-offs, hot work, and subs usage.
Trade hub → - General contractors: Often driven by risk transfer and subcontractor compliance workflows. GL + WC + Auto are common, plus umbrella and bonds depending on projects.
Trade hub → - Plumbing contractors: Water damage exposure, service vs new build, and vehicle and tools needs commonly shape the stack.
Trade hub →
If you want us to recommend the stack, use the quote flow:
Compliance and certificates (COIs and endorsements)
Many “insurance problems” are paperwork and endorsement problems. We help you request the right items the right way.
Common compliance topics:
- Certificate of Insurance (COI) →
- Additional Insured endorsement →
- Primary and Noncontributory →
- Waiver of Subrogation →
Fast lane routing:
- Existing client and need documents: Request a COI →
- Shopping coverage or new to us: Get a Quote →
Fast quote checklist (what helps us move quickly)
Complete inputs reduce underwriting delays and COI revisions.
Have this ready when possible:
- Trade and job types (service vs new build, residential vs commercial
- State (California or Texas) and nearest metr
- Revenue range and payroll rang
- Subcontractor usage (yes/no and rough percent
- Claims in the last 3–5 years (yes/no and short details
- Vehicles and drivers (if quoting auto)
- Any bid packet requirements or endorsement wording (upload if you have it)
FAQs
In brief: Straight answers to common policy questions contractors ask before requesting a quote.
Which policies do most contractors start with?
Many start with General Liability, Workers’ Compensation, and Commercial Auto, then add tools/equipment, umbrella, bonds, or builder’s risk based on contracts and operations.
Is Workers’ Comp required if I have no employees?
Requirements vary by contract, project, and carrier. Some GCs and owners require proof regardless. Use Get a Quote and we will confirm options based on your setup.
Is a COI the same as an endorsement?
No. A COI is proof of coverage at a point in time. Items like Additional Insured, Primary and Noncontributory, and Waiver of Subrogation are typically endorsements when available and approved.
What affects pricing the most across policies?
Trade, job types, payroll, revenue, subcontractor use, claims history, vehicles, and contract-driven limits are common drivers.
What is an umbrella policy and when do contractors need it?
Umbrella (or excess) increases liability limits above underlying policies and is often requested in contracts. Underlying limit requirements and eligibility are carrier-driven.
Do you help with bonds?
Yes. Bonds are common for certain public and private projects. The bond type and underwriting documentation depend on what the project requires.
Can you turn COIs and endorsements quickly?
We prioritize speed when we have complete certificate holder details and exact wording. Endorsement approval timing depends on carrier rules and the request language.
Do you guarantee approval or the lowest price?
No. Underwriting and pricing are carrier-driven. We focus on fit, clarity, and helping you meet compliance requirements.
Not sure which policy you need?
