As the pace of contracting business picks up, you're probably mentally preparing yourself for the risks faced in your line of work. We’ll let you in on the ultimate secret weapon that will keep you safe in a world full of the unexpected: contractor insurance. This blog will explain how this essential tool isn't just a safety measure but a game-changer for your business success.
What Is Contractor Insurance?
Before delving into the details of what specific insurance your contracting business needs, it's important that you understand what is and isn't covered by a commercial general liability policy, commonly known as contractor insurance.
What's covered: Property damage, bodily injury, product mishaps, and accidental advertising injuries would all be protected by the commercial general liability insurance policy.
What's not covered: Worker's compensation, commercial auto, builder's risk, and damage to tools and equipment will each require separate policies for coverage.
You may be asking, “Are contractors required to have insurance?" Typically, yes - but even if it's not legally required, you may find yourself in a pickle without it.
Overall, you'll want to make sure you have comprehensive contractor insurance coverage. The main three types of contractor insurance coverage are: commercial general liability, workers' compensation, and surety bonds.
Types of Contractors' Insurance
With so many contractor insurance options out there, it can get confusing and sometimes overwhelming. Take a look at the list below to get a better sense of what works best for your contracting business.
Cyber Liability Insurance: Safeguards your business against cyber threats and data breaches.
Commercial Auto: Covers vehicles used for business purposes - because even your trusty work van needs protection.
Errors and Omissions/Professional Liability Insurance: Shields you from claims of professional negligence or errors in your work.
Workers’ Compensation: Provides coverage for employees injured on the job, because safety comes first.
Commercial Property Insurance: Guards your physical assets, ensuring your tools and equipment are covered in case of damage or theft.
Surety Bonds: Surety bonds are like a safety net for project owners. They guarantee that if a contractor doesn't finish a job or pay their bills, the surety company steps in to make things right. For contractors, having surety bonds shows that you’re trustworthy and can help you land more jobs.
What Kind of Contractors Insurance Do I Need?
Now that you understand what types of insurance are available, it’s time to check out which policy types work best for your specific contracting business. Every contractor faces unique risks during their day-to-day operations, whether it's physical hazards, property damage, or liability concerns.
Zinc has extensive resources that zoom in on the policy types we discussed in this post, and can help guide you in choosing the best policy for your business. Want to walk through your options with a rep? Reach out to our team of experts here.
Tips on Choosing a Contractors Insurance Policy
Now that you're in the know on how contractor insurance works, it's time to make informed decisions about your insurance coverage. Here are some tips that can help you along the way:
Read up on different policies: Educate yourself on the different policies available to find the perfect fit for your business. You can visit Zinc's blog page to learn more.
Customize your coverage: There's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to insurance. Make sure your policy is tailored to your specific needs.
Implement a safety program: Not only does it keep your team safe, but it can also help lower your insurance premiums and save you money!
In a nutshell, contractor insurance isn't just a safety net; it's your business's lifeline. Don't leave your livelihood to chance. Team up with a trusted professional to secure high-quality coverage that suits your business needs. Don't wait until disaster strikes and protect your business today.
Request a Contractors Insurance Quote
Your contracting business deserves top-notch protection. At Zinc, we're here to offer expert advice and tailor-made contractor insurance solutions. We've got you covered across all types of contracting businesses, so don't hesitate to get in touch.
