What types of insurance do general contractors need?

These policies cover the most common general contractor risks.

General liability insurance

Insurance for contractors that covers common risks, such as a client tripping over a toolbox. Bundle with property insurance for savings in a business owner’s policy.

BEST FOR

  • Slip-and-fall accidents

  • Damaged customer property

  • Libel or slander lawsuits

Workers’ compensation insurance

Workers’ compensation insurance is required in almost every state for general contracting businesses that have employees. It can cover medical bills for work-related injuries.

BEST FOR

  • Employee medical expenses

  • Missed wages

  • Employee injury lawsuits

Commercial auto insurance

This policy covers third-party injuries and property damage caused by a general contractor’s vehicle, as well as repairs to vehicles damaged by weather or vandalism.

BEST FOR

  • Physical damage and collision coverage

  • Injuries caused to another person

  • Vandalism and theft

Contractor’s tools and equipment insurance

This policy helps pay for repair or replacement of an independent contractor’s saws, nail guns, hammers, and other tools if they are lost, stolen, or damaged.

BEST FOR

  • Equipment less than five years old

  • Mobile equipment

  • Small tools

Professional liability insurance

This policy, also called errors and omissions, can cover legal fees when a general contractor is sued over a mistake, such as failing to recognize a hazard at a construction site.

    BEST FOR

  • Accusations of negligence

  • Failure to complete a project

  • Failure to use correct materials

Builder’s risk insurance

Builder’s risk insurance can pay for damage done to a structure still under construction. It can cover costs resulting from fire, vandalism, weather, or on-site tool or equipment theft.

    BEST FOR

  • Building construction

  • Building renovation

  • Worksite theft and vandalism

How much does insurance cost for general contractors?

  • Several factors will have an impact on insurance costs, including:

  • General contracting services offered

  • Business equipment and property

  • Revenue

  • Location

  • Number of employees

Why do general contractors need business insurance?

As a construction manager, you oversee projects from start to finish. If something goes wrong, you’re often the one held accountable. General contractor insurance helps pay for lawsuits and losses resulting from crew injuries, property damage, stolen equipment, and more.