When it comes to protecting your business, having the right insurance coverages is essential for contractors in industries like janitorial, HVAC, landscaping, and plumbing. Here’s a breakdown of the key types of coverage you should consider:

General Liability Insurance
This coverage is crucial for any contractor, as it protects against third-party claims for bodily injury, property damage, and personal injury. For example, if a client or bystander gets injured on a job site, or if you accidentally damage someone’s property while performing services, general liability insurance helps cover legal fees, medical expenses, and any settlements or judgments.

Workers’ Compensation Insurance
If you have employees, workers’ compensation insurance is legally required in most states. It covers medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs for employees injured while working. This protection also shields your business from lawsuits related to workplace injuries.

Commercial Auto Insurance
Contractors often rely on vehicles to transport tools, equipment, and materials. Commercial auto insurance covers your business-owned vehicles in case of an accident, theft, or damage. It also provides liability coverage if your vehicle causes injury or property damage to others.

Professional Liability Insurance (Errors & Omissions)
This coverage is particularly important for contractors offering professional advice or services, such as HVAC system design or plumbing consultation. It protects your business from claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in your work that lead to financial loss for a client.

Tools & Equipment Coverage
Contractors often rely on expensive tools and equipment to do their jobs. Tools and equipment insurance covers the repair or replacement of lost, stolen, or damaged tools. Whether you’re working in landscaping, plumbing, or HVAC, this coverage ensures that your tools are protected.

Property Insurance
If you own a physical location or store equipment at a business site, property insurance can protect your building and contents from risks like fire, theft, or vandalism. For contractors working from a central office or warehouse, this coverage is vital to avoid losing valuable assets.

Bonding (Contractor Bonds)
Certain types of work or projects, such as public contracts, may require a contractor’s bond. Being bonded provides assurance to clients that you will fulfill your contractual obligations. If you fail to do so, the bond helps compensate your clients.

Pollution Liability Insurance
For contractors in industries like landscaping, plumbing, or HVAC, pollution liability insurance covers environmental damage caused by your operations. If you accidentally spill hazardous substances or improperly dispose of waste, this coverage can help protect you from costly cleanup and legal claims.
 
Each of these coverages plays a critical role in safeguarding your business from unexpected risks and ensuring you can continue providing quality services without the worry of financial setbacks. Let us help you tailor a comprehensive insurance package that meets the unique needs of your contracting business.

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​Resources section for Safety, Audits

Links to pages for different types of contractors:  Carpenters, Janitorial, Landscaping, Plumbing, Electrical, HVAC

The Department of Labor's Occupational Safety and Health Administration has many resources to keep you and your staff healthy and on the job. Click on the logo for the "Tip of the Week", to learn how to report workplace injuries and illnesses, understand the inspection process or to order job safety posters. 

Our partners at Builders Mutual Insurance Company have more than 3 decades of experience in the construction industry. Take a look at their blog posts to learn more about employee culture, growing your business and even equipment reviews.