Question 1

Does general liability pay to fix my own faulty work?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. General liability is designed for injury or damage to others, not as a warranty for your workmanship. Many policies exclude the cost to repair or redo your own work, though resulting damage to other property may be treated differently depending on policy wording.

Question 2

Will my personal auto policy cover my work truck?

Accepted Answer

Not automatically. Many personal auto policies limit or exclude business use, business-owned vehicles, or vehicles driven by employees. If a vehicle is used for your business, it's worth reviewing whether commercial auto is needed.

Question 3

Do I need workers' compensation if I only use subcontractors?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your state and how your subs are set up. In many states, uninsured subcontractors can be treated as your employees at audit. Collecting certificates from subs is important either way.

Question 4

Is a certificate of insurance the same as being covered?

Accepted Answer

No. A certificate is evidence that a policy exists. It does not add, extend, or change coverage. Requirements like additional insured status must be added to the policy by endorsement, subject to carrier approval.

Question 5

Is a contractor bond the same as insurance?

Accepted Answer

No. A surety bond guarantees your obligation to a third party, such as a licensing board or project owner. If the surety pays a claim, you are generally expected to repay it. Bonds do not replace liability insurance.

Question 6

Does an umbrella policy sit on top of everything I have?

Accepted Answer

No. An umbrella or excess policy only provides additional limits over the specific underlying policies it lists, and coverage depends on its own terms.

Question 7

Does requesting a quote mean I'm covered?

Accepted Answer

No. A quote request starts the review process. Coverage is not in force until a policy is bound and confirmed in writing.

Question 8

What information should I have ready?

Accepted Answer

Your trade and work description, annual revenue, payroll, subcontractor costs, number of vehicles, current carrier and renewal date, and any contract insurance requirements. 'Not sure' is fine for anything you don't know yet.

Contractor insurance questions, answered plainly

Ready to review your coverage?