Starting a business as a contractor is not an easy undertaking, and you should prepare well. It does not matter whether you are a start-up, a large or small business owner. You have to protect your business from potential liabilities. You need to carry valid contractors insurance and licensing. Most clients you will come across and intend to work with will want to know if they are dealing with a reputed contractor.
Professionalism, experience, good reputation, and competence are some of the things many clients look at when hiring a contractor. However, as a reputed contractor, you should ensure you are insured to offer relevant services. With a valid contractor insurance certification, you will stand out above your competitors in your locality.
Many business owners out there focus on having projects at hand completed as stipulated and successfully. However, as a contractor, keep in mind that you and your team face dangerous risks every day. If you can offer top-quality contractor services in California, you need the right insurance coverage.
You need to protect yourself and your team against accidents, work-related injuries, and in the event of an error. In this light, here is an excellent California contractor insurance guide 101. Have a look:
Know Who Needs Contractor Insurance
If you offer contractor services, you need to hire experts in the field. It does not matter the project you are pursuing, but the expert you hire should be insured. Contractors who should carry contractor insurance include:
Construction Workers
HVAC Contractors
Plumber
Electricians
Carpenters
Landscapers And
Painters
The best California contractor insurance provider you choose if in need should cover every trade from welding to air conditioning.
Different Types of Contractor Insurance in California
As a reputed contractor, know the different types of contractor insurance offered in California. Some of the insurance policies to opt for as a general contractor include:
- Contractor General Liability Insurance
It is a unique type of contractor insurance for professionals and small business owners. For a reputed contractor, you can pick a particular type of contractor cover. General contractor liability insurance will protect you against bodily injury, product liability, and personal injury. An independent contractor liability will cover losses that result from the action of a contractor.
- Professional Liability Insurance
This liability insurance will cover any legal fees if someone raises a claim and payout if a contractor is genuinely liable.
- Commercial Automobile insurance
Contractors use their means of transport to work, while others use trucks at their workplace. It is an excellent insurance to have as it covers any damage incurred, and works as a personal auto cover.
- Builder’s Risk Insurance
A builder’s risk insurance covers a building during construction or repair projects.
- Worker’s Compensation Insurance
As a contractor, if you have employees, you need a worker’s compensation insurance to cover you in the event of an emergency at the workstation.
Need to be Licensed and Bonded
You may not need a contractor general liability insurance to operate, but you need to be legally bonded and licensed. You don’t want to be personally responsible for any damage or incidents that occur while working.
Know the Cost of Contractor Insurance
Contractor insurance will protect you against financial loss due to damages or accidents that occur. With the many benefits of this cover, don’t worry much about the cost of the coverage. You need to compare the price from one insurance provider to another. Go for an insurance provider with budget-friendly rates, better premiums, and liability limit.
Contractor insurance is a top requirement if you become a successful contractor in California. With this coverage, you will not only be your own boss but also get some peace of mind. You will run your business knowing that you are protected against claims, can protect your workers, pay for legal expenses, and boost your business reputation in the region. Do your business a big favor today by getting the best contractor insurance.