Contractors Insurance
Anacortes, Mount Vernon

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 North Cascade Insurance 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 contractor liability insurance?

  Contractor liability insurance (also called general liability ) covers accidents or property damage that happen on the job. It’s the foundation of protection for general contractors, remodelers, and specialty trades.

• How do I get a construction insurance quote?

  Getting started is easy! Call us or request a quote online. We’ll walk you through your options and help you find coverage that keeps your business protected and moving forward

• Can you help small contractors or one-person businesses?

  Absolutely. We work with independent contractors and small construction companies to find policies that match their size, budget, and project needs.

• What does construction insurance cover?

  Construction insurance helps protect your business from everyday risks (like property damage, jobsite injuries, or project delays) so you can focus on building, not worrying about what might go wrong.

• Do you help with local requirements and certificates of insurance?

  Yes. We make sure your insurance meets city and project requirements and provide quick, accurate certificates so you can start work without delay.

• Why do contractors need insurance?

  Most projects require proof of insurance before work can begin. The right policy protects you from lawsuits, accidents, and unexpected costs, keeping your business compliant and your clients confident in your professionalism.

• What is builders risk insurance, and when do I need it?

  Builders risk insurance protects buildings and materials while they’re under construction. It’s essential if you’re building, remodeling, or adding to a structure, especially when local permits or lenders require proof of coverage.

• What types of projects do you insure?

  We insure everything from home remodels and roofing jobs to large commercial or public works projects. If you build it, we can help protect it.

• How much does construction insurance cost?

  The cost depends on your trade, crew size, equipment, and project type. We’ll help you compare options and find affordable coverage that fits your budget without cutting corners on protection.

• What makes North Cascade Insurance different?

  We don’t just sell policies — we help you solve problems. Our local agents know the construction industry, understand city permitting requirements, and work quickly to make sure you have the right coverage when you need it

• Who needs construction insurance?

  If you're in a construction business you should always have commercial insurance. Many businesses are required by their clients to carry specific coverages before they can work for them. Businesses involved in construction work often specialize in trades like:

  • Excavation
  • Home Improvement
  • Land Clearing
  • Remodeling
  • Home Building
  • Asphalt Laying
  • Welding
  • Fence & Deck Building
  • Concrete Laying
  • Stone & Granite Work
  • Roofing
• Not sure which of these coverages is right for your construction firm?

  Our staff provides accurate and timely delivery of certificates of insurance. We also provide assistance and reviews of certificates and risk transfers. With our understanding of the design and administration of wrap-ups, we can help contractors navigate the construction defect litigation landscape. Our tailored risk management solutions enable contractors to respond to market fluctuations and better predict future costs.