Contractors Insurance
Berlin, Elizabeth, Greensburg, Johnstown, McKees Rocks, Pittsburgh

What is contractor liability insurance?

Contractor liability insurance, also called contractor insurance or craftsmanship insurance, is a specialized liability insurance that covers the daily risks contractors face.

Contractor business insurance is a combination of different policies designed to protect you from financial risk or loss, such as someone getting hurt on a job site, theft of tools or equipment, or an auto accident.

Who needs contractor liability insurance?

If you’re a contractor or subcontractor that deals in repairing, creating, or installing things in homes and businesses, it could be the end of your business and livelihood if something goes wrong and you don’t have the proper insurance coverage. It’s strongly recommended that all contractors maintain an active contractor liability insurance policy.

Do I qualify for contractor insurance?

Contractors are typically focused on one or two parts of a project, such as plumbing or carpentry. These contractors provide services that require specific liability needs, as each trade has unique risk factors and the potential for accidents.

If the description above fits you, chances are good you qualify for liability insurance!

Examples of artisan contractors:

• Drywall contractors
• Paving contractors
• Framing contractors
• Carpenters
• Electricians
• HVAC
• Landscapers
• Plumbers
• Roofers
• Painters
• Masonry workers
• And others

What types of business insurance policies should a contractor have?

Every insurance policy is different and should be tailored to your specific needs, but—in general—you want to ensure you’re protecting your employees, tools, equipment, autos, and business with the following coverages:

• General Liability
• Commercial Auto
• Commercial Umbrella
• Builders Risk
• Inland Marine
• Workers Compensation

Is business insurance required for contractors?

Contractor liability insurance requirements vary by state. Some states or municipalities require general liability insurance for craftsmen to get a business license. Landlords may also require general liability insurance if you lease their space. Specific levels of coverage may also be required depending on the state where your business is located or the type of customer you’re serving.

Beyond basic requirements, you can benefit from having liability insurance. As an insured, specialized contractor, you’re more likely to receive additional contracts and business. Many general contractors and customers won’t offer you work unless you have proof of liability insurance.

How do I get liability insurance?

Contact your Dott-Leavitt Insurance Services insurance advisor to determine what your needs are. They will give you more details about specific coverages and deductibles and help you tailor an insurance plan that's right for you and your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is artisan liability insurance?

  Artisan liability insurance—also known as artisan contractor insurance or craftsmanship insurance—is a type of coverage made specifically for skilled tradespeople like electricians, plumbers, and carpenters. If you work with your hands, tools, and materials to build or repair things, this kind of insurance is designed to protect you.

  It helps cover common risks that come with the job, such as:

  • Someone getting hurt on the job site

  • Accidental damage to property

  • Theft or loss of your tools and equipment

  • Car accidents while driving for work

• Who needs artisan liability insurance?

  If you work with your hands to build, repair, or install things—either in homes or businesses—artisan liability insurance might be right for you.

  This type of insurance is meant for people in skilled trades. You might not call yourself an “artisan,” but if your work focuses on one or two parts of a construction or repair project (like plumbing, carpentry, or electrical work), you probably fit the description.

  Here are some examples of professionals who typically need this coverage:

  • Electricians

  • Plumbers

  • Carpenters and framers

  • Painters

  • Roofers

  • HVAC technicians

  • Drywall installers

  • Masons and concrete workers

  • Landscapers

  • Pavers and excavators

  Even if you’re a subcontractor or a small independent contractor, if you provide hands-on work with tools, materials, or heavy equipment, artisan liability insurance is a smart (and often necessary) way to protect your livelihood.

• Is business insurance required for artisan contractors?

  Artisan liability insurance requirements vary by state. Some states or municipalities require general liability insurance for craftsmen to get a business license. Landlords may also require general liability insurance if you lease their space. Specific levels of coverage may also be required depending on the state where your business is located or the type of customer you’re serving.

• What types of business insurance policies should an artisan contractor have?

  Every insurance policy is different and should be tailored to your specific needs, but—in general—you want to ensure you’re protecting your employees, tools, equipment, autos, and business with the following coverages:

  • General Liability
  • Commercial Auto
  • Commercial Umbrella
  • Builders Risk
  • Inland Marine
  • Workers Compensation
• How do I get artisan liability insurance?

  Contact your Leavitt Select Insurance Services insurance advisor to determine what your needs are. They will give you more details about specific coverages and deductibles and help you tailor an insurance plan that's right for you and your business.