Contractors live and die by certificates of insurance. A missing additional-insured endorsement or a lapsed workers’ comp policy can cost you a job, and a misclassified policy can leave you without coverage on the one claim that matters.
We insure general contractors, remodelers, roofers, and specialty trades — from a one-truck handyman operation to growing crews with multiple vehicles and subcontractors. Our goal is a program that matches the work you actually do and the contracts you actually sign.
A remodeling contractor’s employee leaves a supply line loose under a kitchen sink. Overnight it floods the client’s first floor. General liability responds to the water damage claim; the contractor’s workers’ comp covers the employee who slipped while cleaning up; and the certificate on file kept the GC relationship intact.
Where we see it locally
On the Florida Gulf Coast, post-storm rebuilding, new construction, and remodeling keep contractors busy — and GCs strict about certificates. In Kentucky and across the other states we serve, residential remodeling, HVAC, and electrical work make up much of our contractor book. Trade-specific guides: general contractors, painters, plumbers, electricians.
What keeps contractors & trades owners up at night
Jobsite injuries to others
A homeowner trips over materials, or a passer-by is hit by falling debris.
Damage to client property
Water damage from a plumbing connection, a scorched wall from an electrical fault, paint overspray on a neighbor’s car.
Completed-operations claims
A deck you built two years ago fails, or a leak traces back to your installation.
Crew injuries
Falls, cuts, and strains are common in the trades — and workers’ comp is often required with even one employee in construction.
Vehicle accidents
Work trucks, vans, and trailers on the road every day.
Tool and equipment theft
Trailers and truck boxes are prime targets.
A typical contractors & trades insurance program
Every business is different — this is a starting point we tailor to your operations, contracts, and state.
General Liability
Required by most GCs, property managers, and permit offices — with additional insured, waiver of subrogation, and primary & non-contributory wording when contracts call for it.
How it worksWorkers’ Compensation
Covers your crew and keeps you compliant; collect certificates from subs to avoid audit surprises.
How it worksCommercial Auto
For trucks and vans titled to the business or used for work, plus hired & non-owned auto.
How it worksTools & Equipment (Inland Marine)
Tools, equipment, and materials at job sites and in transit.
How it worksCommercial Umbrella
Higher limits for bigger contracts without raising every primary limit.
How it worksSurety Bonds
License and permit bonds, plus bid, performance, and payment bonds for bigger jobs.
How it worksBuilders Risk
Project coverage for new construction and renovations while the building goes up.
How it worksHard-to-Place & E&S
Roofing, new ventures, and contractors with prior claims or cancellations.
How it worksHave this handy for a fast quote
- Description of work and percentage of residential vs. commercial
- Annual revenue and payroll by trade
- Subcontractor costs and whether subs carry their own insurance
- Vehicles (VINs) and drivers
- Tool and equipment values
- Current policies and five years of loss history
Contractors & Trades insurance questions
What insurance do contractors need to get licensed?
Requirements vary by state, county, and trade. Many licensing boards and permit offices require proof of general liability and workers’ comp (or a valid exemption). Some also require license or permit bonds, which we can write. Tell us where you work and we will check current requirements.
How fast can I get a certificate of insurance?
Once a policy is bound, we can usually issue standard certificates the same business day. Additional insured endorsements may need carrier approval depending on the policy.
Do I need workers’ comp if I only use subcontractors?
If your subcontractors do not carry their own comp, their workers may be counted as yours at audit — and in some states you are responsible as the statutory employer. Always collect current certificates.
Can you insure roofers?
Yes. Roofing contractors are in our appetite. Roofing is a harder class for many standard carriers, so we shop standard, specialty, and surplus-lines markets for roofers’ general liability, workers’ comp, commercial auto, and equipment.
Do you write contractor bonds?
Yes. We write license and permit bonds, bid bonds, and performance and payment bonds for contractors. See our surety bonds guide or request them on the commercial quote form along with your other coverage.
We cover your assets
Insurance for contractors & trades, without the runaround
Tell us about your business once. We shop multiple carriers, explain the trade-offs in plain English, and handle certificates, audits, and renewals after you bind.
Educational only — not a policy, quote, or coverage guarantee. Coverage, eligibility, and carrier availability vary by state, class of business, and underwriting. Policy language controls. Talk with a licensed Asshield agent about your situation.