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Drywall work is mostly subcontract work, so your insurance gets checked before you ever pick up a screw gun. GCs and builders want a certificate with the right limits, additional-insured wording and proof of workers' comp. Asshield™ builds programs for drywall hangers, tapers and finishers and compares several companies so the policy fits how you actually work.
A drywall crew on a new subdivision home in Nicholasville cuts into a wall and nicks a water line the plumber ran days earlier. Water damages the subfloor and fresh insulation. The builder tenders the claim to the drywall sub's general liability policy, and because the sub carried the additional-insured endorsement the builder's contract required, the claim moved without a fight over coverage.
Where we see it locally
Central Kentucky's new subdivisions around Lexington, Georgetown and Nicholasville keep drywall crews busy, along with commercial build-outs and remodels of older homes. On the Gulf Coast, storm repair and condo renovations drive a lot of hang-and-finish work.
Drywall contractors in Kentucky
There's no statewide drywall license in Kentucky; permits and registrations are local. Workers' comp is required with one employee or more. Kentucky's up-the-ladder rule means the GC above you, and you as to your own subs, can be on the hook for uninsured workers, so expect GCs to ask for your comp certificate every time.
Drywall contractors in Florida
Florida construction employers with one or more employees generally must carry workers' comp, and some owner-operators use a construction exemption through the state. GCs will verify either your coverage or your exemption before you start.
More: Contractors hub · Painters · General contractors · Workers' comp
Risks drywall contractors face
Falls from stilts, benches and scaffolds
, plus back and shoulder strains from hanging board
Damage to other trades' work
Plumbing, wiring, HVAC and finished floors
Workers' comp audits
Drywall is classified by payroll and class code, and uninsured subs can be added to your payroll at audit
Contract requirements
Additional-insured, primary and non-contributory, and waiver-of-subrogation wording
Completed operations
Cracked seams or nail pops that turn into a damage claim later
A typical drywall program
Every business is different. This is a starting point we tailor to your work, contracts and state.
General liability
How it worksWorkers' compensation
How it worksCommercial auto
How it worksTools & equipment
Inland marine
How it worksCommercial umbrella for larger GC contracts
How it worksHave this handy
Annual revenue and payroll, number of employees, residential vs. commercial and new construction vs. remodel, use of subs (and whether they carry insurance), vehicles, tool values, sample contract insurance requirements, and loss history.
Drywall contractors insurance questions
What do GCs usually require from drywall subs?
Typically general liability with additional-insured wording, workers' comp (or a valid exemption where allowed) and sometimes commercial auto and umbrella limits. Send us the contract and we'll match it.
What's a workers' comp audit?
After the policy year, the carrier checks your actual payroll and subcontractor costs. Uninsured subs can be counted as your employees, which raises the final premium.
Does GL cover my own drywall lift and tools?
No. Use inland marine or equipment coverage.
Can you add a builder as additional insured on short notice?
Often, depending on the policy. Some endorsements need carrier approval, so send the request as early as you can.
We cover your assets
Compare drywall contractors insurance with an independent agency
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.